HP 2530 vs Cisco 2960- Which Layer 2 access Switch is better?

If you’re new to basic switch technology, allow me to introduce the Aruba 2530 from HP and the Cisco 2960. These series are well known for their performance even without advanced layer networking.

Hp and Cisco have a long standing history in the manufacture of efficient network switch solutions. Both the Aruba 2530 and Cisco 2960 are well known networking Switching solutions with a range of features. In fact, together with the Cisco Catalyst series, the Aruba is of HP’s most hyped up series.

In this comparison review, we will take a closer look at what both series have to offer, and compare specific models as we try to establish which of these series hosts better Layer 2 access switch models. Take a look at HP 2530 vs. Cisco 2960 for more.

What are the differences between the HP 2530 and the Cisco 2960?

HP 2530 vs Cisco 2960- How these two compare

Both the Aruba 2530 collection and the Cisco 2960 collection are Layer 2 access switches designed for the same Layer 2 functionality for small to midsized enterprises.

Management

Perhaps the most unique thing about the Aruba Series is the fact that it incorporates cloud-based management onto the models. This is a simple and effective managing strategy for your switches. It offers a cost effective way to manage your switches. The 2960 collection features smart managing tools too including the Cisco Network assistant, which is a window based software that simplifies administration for all the users on the network.

Series size

When it comes to variety, the Cisco 2960 Collection takes the cake. The series not only features a sizeable number of individual models, but this collection is the basis upon which many other 2960 generation of switches are founded. The Aruba 2530 only features 12 members on this collection. This is not a problem, and in no way affects performance: but it is nice to have a wide selecting to choose from.

HP 2530 vs Cisco 2960- A comparison review

HP 2530

The Aruba 2530 series of Switches by HP (Hewlett-Packard) are a fully managed collection of switches which offer users Layer 2 network capabilities with a wide variety of features and benefits. This series is designed as a budget friendly and reliable line of secure access connectivity devices for branch office, enterprise class small to midsized businesses.

Features

This series of devices is quite easy to deploy, use and manage, considering all the features set up to ensure these operation efficiencies. The collection is modeled with a great exterior design that not only looks good but also saves on energy consumption. Many energy consumption features are integrated into the Aruba 2530 design. For instance, the functional fanless design on these models with variable speed on fan models ensures a decrease in amount of power consumed.

Configuration and management on the Aruba 2530 is quite simple. Various features including the cloud based management platform in combination with other management features allow for .

Apart from showing high resiliency and availability, the devices on this collection feature flexibility. They allow for integration into different network operations thanks to the many benefits accorded to the line. For instance, A 2530 switch will save you power with the energy efficiency design, while producing minimal noise. This makes deployment even in low noise environments possible. Moreover, these models come in a compact design to reduce space requirements.

HP Aruba 2530-48G

HP J9775A#ABA HP 2530-48G Switch

• This is a fully managed layer 2 switch with 48 10/100/1000 ports and 4 GbE SFP slots
• 48 RJ-45 auto sensing 10/100/1000 ports 4 fixed Gigabit Ethernet SFP ports

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The HP Aruba 2530-48G Switch is a fully managed switch from Hewlett-Packard equipped with a

This model features 48 ports available over Gigabit Ethernet, or 10/100/1000 connectivity. Moreover, the model features additional 4 GbE SFP slots for expansion and scalability purposes. These are designed as autosensing Ethernet ports.

Designed for small to midsized businesses, this switch has all the right features to support all the switching needs that come with this class of operations. Features including ACLs for security and management purposes, EEE(Energy efficient Ethernet) are supported on this model. In fact, the HP Aruba 2530-48G, is one of 12 members of this series that includes IPv4 and IPv6 host support. These often allow more advanced features on to networks.

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Cisco 2960

Cisco’s 2960 is a popular collection of intelligent devices designed for entry level enterprise, mid market and branch offices. The collection features a wide variety  of capabilities which allow for operational excellence on this collection. The are many benefits that come with this Fixed configuration line of standalone gadgets.

Features

First off, Cisco 2960 devices are available in Fast Ethernet and Giga Ethernet connectivity options. The gadgets include various intergraded intelligence features, many of which benefit security and management of your device. These devices are Layer 2 edge switches and offer an enhanced network experience that is highly sustainable. Intelligence features are available at the network edge. This is especially beneficial or improved computational power in addition to bandwidth intensive application.

Notably, the devices are available in two Cisco IOS feature sets: LAN Base and LAN Lite. Mainly, LAN Lite designs are enabled with Fast Ethernet, Power over Ethernet and GbE connectivity: allowing enhanced troubleshooting power for problem solving. Unfortunately, compared to LAN Base, LAN Lite offers less functionality and scalability. Across the board, models on this collection feature flexibility with the various connectivity ports and uplinks. The intelligence services available including Advanced Quality of Service are responsible for the ease in configurations on the 2960 models.

Users can expect enhanced security features from each of the devices on this collection. Various contingency tools are set up to improve redundancy on your network. The result is great network security with superior manageability.

Speaking of security, the systems set in place for the 2960 models ensure protected information remains safe, no authorized users can access the network: all while maintaining the network operations uninterrupted.

WS-C2960X-48LPS

Cisco Catalyst WS-C2960X-48LPS-L 48 Port Ethernet Switch with 370 Watt PoE,Black

• Memory storage capacity: 512.0
• LAN Lite models have reduced functionality and scalability for small deployments with basic requirements.

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The Cisco Catalyst WS-C2960X-48LPS features 48 POE ports as well as 5 expansion slots.   This switch delivers a bandwidth performance of 108 GB alongside a forwarding rate of 107.1 Mpps. It holds a power budget of perpetual POE and 740W. The switch is designed for easy operation and it offers management by Web-UI, Bluetooth access, USB console access, a command line interface or a network protocol (SNMP).

Additionally, the WS-C2960X-48LPS iincludes a range of protocols designed to help users with little or no experience configure their network. It features a built in power supply but offers expansion capacity for power redundancy.  The model supports energy Efficiency Ethernet and EnergyWise technology which enhance power consumption rates.  Security features on this model mitigate threats by limiting network access and taking up security measures including the use of a comprehensive 802.1x, devise classifier and sensor, Cisco’s threat defense, private VLANs, multidomain authentication and access control lists.

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Now lets compare the HP Aruba 2530-48G Switch to the Cisco WS-C2960X-48LPS

Conclusion

Cisco and Hp have a long standing history with good technology; this is still the case with their Switch series. The Aruba 2530 and the Cisco 2950 are quite similar, even though some features differ. Ether of these devices makes a great solution to your small business networking problem.