Cisco WS-C3650-48PQ-E | Catalyst 3650 48-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch, 640W, 4x 10G SFP+

Q: What is the difference between the WS-C3650-48PQ-E and WS-C3650-48PQ-S?
A: The WS-C3650-48PQ-E includes the IP Services license, which supports advanced Layer 3 routing protocols (BGP, IS-IS, PIM multicast) and additional security features. The -S model includes IP Base licensing with more limited routing capabilities. Both have identical hardware specifications with 48 PoE+ ports, 640W power supply, and 4x 10G SFP+ uplinks.

Q: Does this switch support wireless controller functionality?
A: Yes, the Catalyst 3650 series can function as an embedded wireless controller when running IP Base or IP Services licensing. It supports up to 50 access points and 1,000 wireless clients per switch or stack, providing converged wired-wireless management on a single platform.

Q: Is stacking supported on this model?
A: Yes, stacking is optional via the Cisco StackWise-160 technology. You can stack up to 9 switches with 160 Gbps of stack bandwidth using the C3650-STACK-KIT module (sold separately). The switch operates standalone out of the box without stacking modules.

Q: What is the available PoE power for connected devices?
A: The switch includes a 640W AC power supply and provides 390W of available PoE+ power for connected devices. Each port supports up to 30W per port under IEEE 802.3at PoE+ standards, suitable for IP phones, wireless access points, and IP cameras.

Q: What is the replacement model for the Catalyst 3650 series?
A: The Cisco Catalyst 9300L-48P-4X-A is the recommended replacement for the WS-C3650-48PQ-E. The Catalyst 3650 series reached end-of-life status with last day of support on October 31, 2026. The 9300L offers similar port density with newer ASIC technology and enhanced security features.