Arista DCS-7280DR3AK-54-FLX-F | 7280R3A 54-Port 400G Switch, 21.6 Tbps, Large Routes

Q: What is the difference between the FLX and standard models?
A: The FLX license provides advanced routing capabilities including support for over 256K routes (up to 5M with FlexRoute), advanced MPLS LER/LSR functions, EVPN, VXLAN, and Segment Routing. Without FLX, routing scale is more limited. The FLX license is essential for internet peering, large-scale data center fabrics, and service provider networks.

Q: Does this switch support encryption?
A: Yes, the DCS-7280DR3AK-54-FLX-F includes hardware-based line-rate AES-256-GCM MACsec encryption on all 54 ports. It supports standards-based IEEE 802.1AE MACsec as well as Arista TunnelSec for IPsec and VXLANsec, providing comprehensive layer 2, layer 3, and overlay encryption without performance penalty.

Q: What port speed and breakout options are available?
A: Each QSFP-DD port natively supports 400GbE, and can be configured for 2x 200G, 4x 100G, 4x 50G, 8x 50G, or 8x 25G via breakout cables. The platform also supports 40GbE QSFP+ transceivers, providing maximum flexibility for data center migrations and hybrid speed deployments.

Q: Is this switch suitable for AI/ML workloads?
A: Yes, the 7280R3A Series is designed for high-performance leaf and spine architectures supporting AI and ML workloads. Its 24GB deep buffer, virtual output queue (VOQ) architecture, and ultra-low latency forwarding ensure deterministic performance for east-west traffic patterns common in AI training and inference clusters.

Q: What licensing model does Arista use for the 7280R3A Series?
A: Arista uses a Group 5 feature license model. The FLX license is included with this SKU and enables advanced routing and MPLS features. Additional licenses may be required for CloudVision integration, depending on deployment requirements. Basic Layer 2/3 functionality and EOS management features are included.