Cisco WS-C3650-48PS-S | Catalyst 3650 48-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch, 390W, 4x 1G SFP

Q: What is the difference between the WS-C3650-48PS-S and WS-C3650-48PS-L?
A: The WS-C3650-48PS-S includes the IP Base software license, which provides advanced Layer 3 routing protocols (OSPF, EIGRP, BGP) and enhanced security features. The WS-C3650-48PS-L includes the LAN Base license with basic Layer 2 switching and static routing only. Both models have identical hardware with 48 PoE+ ports and 390W PoE budget.

Q: Can the PoE budget be increased beyond 390W?
A: Yes, the PoE budget can be increased by adding a second 640W or 1025W power supply, or by replacing the default 640W supply with a single 1025W unit. With dual power supplies or a 1025W supply, the switch can deliver higher total PoE capacity to support more powered devices simultaneously.

Q: Does this switch support wireless controller functionality?
A: Yes, the Catalyst 3650 Series has embedded wireless controller capabilities and can manage up to 50 access points per switch (or per stack). Additional AP licenses can be purchased if more than the default limit is required, making it ideal for converged wired-wireless campus deployments.

Q: Is StackWise-160 stacking included or optional?
A: StackWise-160 stacking is optional and requires the separate purchase of the C3650-STACK-KIT stacking module and compatible StackWise cables. Once installed, up to 9 switches can be stacked with 160 Gbps of stack bandwidth for redundancy and simplified management.

Q: What is the end-of-life status for this product?
A: The Cisco Catalyst 3650 Series reached end-of-sale status, with last day of support scheduled for October 31, 2026. Cisco recommends the Catalyst 9300L Series (such as the C9300L-48P-4G-A) as the replacement platform with similar functionality and enhanced performance.