Cisco 2960 vs. Cisco 3750 – Which of these is better?

Are you interested in the Cisco Catalyst collection but don’t know where to begin? Well, we take a closer look at arguably two of the most popular series within this collection, the Cisco 2960 vs. Cisco 3750. Enjoy.

The Cisco Catalyst collection is loaded with many product lines: some of which are older generation devices but still work great. For instance, the 2960 and 3750 have been replaced by many o ther new generation series. However, these upgrades rely on the foundational technologies used on older generation models.

Take a look as we review both these oldies, but goodies and help you decide which one is a better choice. Below, you will find an elaborate review for either collection highlighting some of their greatest features and capabilities. Since this is a comparison review, an included comparison should help users differentiate both product lines. Here is Cisco 2960 vs. Cisco 3750 for more.

What are the differences between the Cisco 2960 and the Cisco 3750?

	Cisco 2960	Cisco 3750 (Winner)
Stacking	No	Stackwise+ 64G
DRAM/Flash	128/64 MB with USB	256/238 MB with USB
Uplinks	1 GE, 10 GE	1GE, 10 GE, modular
Private VLANs	No	Yes
Layer 3 support	Limited	Extensive
	Check Price	Check Price

Cisco 2960 vs. Cisco 3750- Comparing the two

Layering

If you are interested in a switch with superior routing features, the 3750 would be better suited than the 2960. This model supports extensive layer 2 and 3 features, as opposed to the 2960 which only offers DHCP, IMGP and MLD snooping. The layer 3 switch offers FlexLinks, L2P2, LACP, Private VLANs, Jumbo frames, STP controls, policy routing, NSF awareness and other tools for optimal output. Ultimately, the 3750 switch offers better bandwidth expansion than the 2960.

Management tools

Both models support configuration rollback and diff, as well as AutoQos VOIP, SNMP, RADIUS and TACACS+ authentication.. However, the 3750 offers an embedded events manager and superior tracking support. It also offers access to a wider authentication framework by supporting multiple configuration tools. Users can interact with their 3750 configuration through over air Bluetooth, USB console,  SNMP protocol and a web-UI . The 2960 offers a very limited scope with only a web-UI, RJ45 console and USB option accessible for additional control interfaces. This makes the 3750 more convenient than the 2960 for multidevice access.

Stacking

The right stacking technology can promote true stacking which combines multiple switches into a single unit. This facilitates longer consistent output with failsafe measures implemented in case some of the  switches stop functioning. The 2960 offers no stacking support, unlike the 3750 which features StackWise+ 64G. Its stacking bandwidth and forwarding rate are also more impressive than those offered by the 2960, suggesting better output and performance.

Type of switch

The Cisco 3750 multilayer switch offers 1GE , 10 GE uplinks as well as an upgradeable IOS. It compares very well to the 2960 which only offers fixed 1GE, 10 GE uplinks. This model is better suited for optimized output with some room for expandability. That said, both options feature Cisco’s interactive UI and are very easy to use.

Cisco 2960 vs. Cisco 3750- A comparison review

Cisco 2960

Offering a wide selection of intelligent Ethernet Switches, the 2960 collection is developed for enterprise network operations. Specifically, this series is designed for entry level enterprises, mid marker ant branch office application. Many features and tools are dedicated to deliver top tier performance as needed in your space.

Features

Developed as part of the popular Cisco Catalyst collection, this series of devices is dedicated to operational excellence. These Layer 2 access switches are capable of improving reliability in network operations. Several features on this series are specifically set in place to maximize network uptime. These redundancy features help improve connectivity within 2960 switch based networks. Apart from improving availability, there are many other benefits associated Cisco 2960 switching solutions.

For instance, management on these models is structured to allow easy use, but extensive authority. In fact, various management told put in place allow users to easily to control the network, or even perform maintenance on the network quite easily.

There are provisions for intelligence services on this collection. With these services at the network edge, users access improved network control with bandwidth optimization.

Security features integrated on these devices serves to d the following: to protect the information shared within the network, to restrict access and to maintain uninterrupted functioning within the network.

WS-C2960-24LT-L

The Cisco catalyst 2960 24 port switch combines multiple options to meet diverse needs. It features 8 POE ports alongside 2 gigabit ports This device offers a forwarding bandwidth of 16 Gbps with a 6.5 forwarding rate. Using autonegotiation and other automatic configuration tools this device offers  seamless integration with other switches This switch supports fast Ethernet connection across POE ports, and offers backwards compatibility with other switches for maximum value. You can even manage up to 16 switches with a single IP address for added convenience.

It  is quite easy to use as well, featuring protocols and wizards such as a Smart Install, ARP, DHCP, UDLD, MDIX, VTP and other additional perks for enhanced operation. It also features advanced intelligence systems that offer troubleshooting, notification and configuration alerts for easier use.  The switch is designed for efficient operation, providing power monitoring tools such as POE MIB to optimize consumption levels.

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Cisco 3750

The Cisco 3750 is a premier collection of Switches all of which are engineered to deliver enterprise class performance. These gadgets feature industry leading features with technologies, all of which are tailored for midsized organizations and offices.

Features

Technically speaking, this collection can be described as a series of Stackable Managed Switches with multilayer functionality. Many tools and features work in combination to deliver high performance with easy use. In fact, Cisco includes various proprietary technologies within this collection for maximum performance over enterprise class networks.

Using the Cisco StackWise technology, users can introduce stackability and resiliency within their operations. This trademarked technology allows for stacking of up to 9 of these devices onto one logical unit. With this, users can access 468 Ethernet ports on . Single IP management over stacking allows for superior management features on these devices.

Moreover, the Cisco Stacking architecture delivers great connectivity that allows control across the network without any service interruptions.  The devices within this collection are tailored to meet various connectivity requirements. Coupled with different deployment scenarios and ease of use, Cisco’s 3750 devices will meet access, aggregation, or even small network requirements. In fact, they are a perfect foundational device for users looking for optimal functionality within high density deployment scenarios.

Some of the key features and benefits on this collection are geared towards providing easy set up, configuration and management. Various advanced features including the integrated superior QoS and ensure various intelligence services are available within the network.

Cisco WS-C3750-24FS

The Cisco WS-C3750-24FS switch features 24 POE ports and 4 uplink options. This model offers a bandwidth performance of 32 Gbps and a forwarding rate of 38.7Mpps. It is designed to be backwards compatible with other switches in the series, ensuring a seamless integration experience during stacking.

Using various technologies, this model is capable of stacking, with multiple switches manageable through a single interface. Moreover, it is an easy to use device, with various protocols and features designed to simplify the switch. It can be customized in detail or through a template, depending on the user’s interest in configuring their set up.

The model also features various protocols and configuration tools to help reduce complexity in the network.  These switch features including EnergyWise and StackWise technology help improve the efficiency of operation. Energy Efficient Ethernet protocol to enhance consumption optimization levels. It supports jumbo frames, optimizing output for high demand applications.

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Now, lets compare the WS-C2960-24LT-L

	2960	3750
Bandwidth performance	16 Gbps	32 Gbps
Number of ports	24	24
Integrated security	√	√
Optimized power consumption	√	√
	Check Price	Check Price

Conclusion

The 2960 offers impressive security and very simplified operations. It is a great standalone choice for small scale use. However, it lacks the extensive bouquet of protocols and features designed to improve the 3750’s performance, security and ease of use. The switch offers more connectivity options as well, making it our standout pick.