1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the Cisco Catalyst 9500 Series C9500-48Y4C-A Network Advantage Switch. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the device to ensure proper functionality and safety.
2. Safety Information
Always observe the following safety precautions:
- Ensure proper grounding of the equipment.
- Do not operate the switch in wet or damp conditions.
- Disconnect power before performing any maintenance.
- Only qualified personnel should install and service this equipment.
3. Product Overview and Components
The Cisco Catalyst 9500 Series C9500-48Y4C-A is a high-performance 48-port network switch designed for enterprise-level networking. It features 48 SFP28 ports and 4 QSFP28 ports for high-density 25-Gigabit and 100-Gigabit Ethernet deployments.

Figure 1: Front panel of the Cisco Catalyst 9500 Series C9500-48Y4C-A Switch. This image displays the 48 SFP28 ports for network connectivity and the 4 QSFP28 uplink ports located on the right side. The switch also features console and USB ports on the left.
3.1 Front Panel Features
- 48 x SFP28 Ports: For 25 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity.
- 4 x QSFP28 Ports: For 100 Gigabit Ethernet uplinks.
- Console Port: RJ45 for out-of-band management.
- USB Ports: For software upgrades and configuration backup.
- LED Indicators: System status, port status, and power.
3.2 Rear Panel Features
The rear panel typically includes power supply bays, fan modules, and grounding points. Specific configurations may vary.
4. Setup and Installation
4.1 Unpacking and Inspection
- Carefully remove the switch from its packaging.
- Inspect the switch for any signs of physical damage. If damage is found, contact your vendor immediately.
- Verify that all components listed in the packing list are present.
4.2 Rack Mounting
The switch is designed for standard 19-inch rack mounting.
- Attach the provided rack-mount brackets to the sides of the switch using the supplied screws.
- Secure the switch into the rack using appropriate rack screws.
- Ensure adequate airflow around the switch for proper cooling.
4.3 Connecting Power
- Connect the power cord(s) to the power supply module(s) at the rear of the switch.
- Plug the other end of the power cord(s) into a grounded AC power outlet.
- The system status LED should illuminate, indicating power is supplied.
4.4 Initial Configuration Access
- Connect a console cable (RJ45 to DB9) from your management workstation to the console port on the switch.
- Configure your terminal emulation software (e.g., PuTTY, Tera Term) with the following settings: 9600 baud, 8 data bits, no parity, 1 stop bit, no flow control.
- Power on the switch. The boot sequence will display on your terminal.
- Follow the on-screen prompts for initial setup, including setting passwords and basic network parameters.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Basic Network Connectivity
Connect network devices (servers, workstations, other switches) to the SFP28 ports using appropriate transceivers and fiber optic cables. Use the QSFP28 ports for high-speed uplinks to core network devices.
5.2 Command Line Interface (CLI)
The Cisco Catalyst 9500 Series switches are managed primarily through the Cisco IOS XE Command Line Interface (CLI). Refer to the Cisco IOS XE documentation for detailed command references.
- User EXEC Mode: Limited commands, primarily for monitoring.
- Privileged EXEC Mode: Full monitoring and basic configuration commands. Access with
enablecommand. - Global Configuration Mode: For system-wide configuration changes. Access with
configure terminalcommand. - Interface Configuration Mode: For configuring specific ports.
5.3 Web-Based Management (GUI)
Some configurations can be performed via a web-based graphical user interface (GUI). Access the GUI by entering the switch's IP address into a web browser. Ensure the switch has an IP address configured and HTTP/HTTPS services are enabled.
6. Maintenance
6.1 Regular Inspections
- Periodically check LED indicators for any fault conditions.
- Ensure all cables are securely connected.
- Verify proper airflow and ensure vents are not obstructed.
6.2 Cleaning
Keep the switch and its environment clean and dust-free. Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior. Do not use liquid cleaners directly on the device.
6.3 Software Updates
Regularly check the Cisco website for the latest software updates and security patches. Follow Cisco's recommended procedures for software upgrades to ensure system stability and security.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Switch not powering on | No power, faulty power cord, faulty power supply | Check power connections, test power outlet, replace power cord/supply |
| Port LED not lit | Cable issue, incorrect transceiver, port disabled | Verify cable connection, ensure correct transceiver, check port status in CLI |
| Cannot access CLI via console | Incorrect console settings, faulty cable | Verify terminal emulation settings, try a different console cable |
| Network connectivity issues | Incorrect VLAN configuration, IP address conflict, spanning tree issues | Review network configuration, check IP assignments, verify spanning tree protocol status |
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Cisco |
| Model Number | C9500-48Y4C-A |
| Number of Ports | 48 |
| Interface Type | RJ45, SFP28 |
| Item Weight | 21.96 Pounds |
| Upper Temperature Rating | 40 Degrees Celsius |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop (Note: Typically rack-mounted, "Desktop" might refer to management station compatibility) |
| Manufacturer | CISCO SYSTEMS - ENTERPRISE |
| Date First Available | August 1, 2022 |
9. Support and Warranty
For technical support, documentation, and software downloads, please visit the official Cisco support website. Information regarding warranty coverage for renewed products can typically be found through your vendor or on the Cisco website for specific product lines.
Cisco Support Website: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/index.html





