Cisco WS-C3850-48PW-S | Catalyst 3850 48-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch, 715W, Modular Uplinks

Q: Does the WS-C3850-48PW-S include network uplink modules?
A: No, the switch ships with a modular network module slot but does not include an uplink module by default. You can add optional modules such as C3850-NM-4-1G (4x 1G SFP), C3850-NM-2-10G (4x 1G SFP / 2x 10G SFP+), or C3850-NM-4-10G (4x 10G SFP+) to provide additional uplink connectivity.

Q: What is the difference between the WS-C3850-48PW-S and WS-C3850-48P-S?
A: Both models feature 48 PoE+ ports with the same 715W power supply and IP Base software. The 'PW' variant includes the same hardware specifications; differences are typically minimal and relate to regional availability or minor configuration variations. Both support the same modular uplinks and stacking capabilities.

Q: Can I upgrade from IP Base to IP Services software on this switch?
A: Yes, the WS-C3850-48PW-S can be upgraded from IP Base to IP Services via a software license upgrade (C3850-48-L-E). IP Services unlocks advanced Layer 3 routing features including full IPv4 and IPv6 routing, advanced multicast, and enhanced security capabilities.

Q: How many access points can this switch manage with the built-in wireless controller?
A: The integrated wireless controller supports up to 100 access points and 2,000 wireless clients per switch or stack. The switch includes 5 AP licenses; additional licenses can be purchased separately to scale up to the 100 AP maximum.

Q: What is StackPower and how does it work on the Catalyst 3850?
A: StackPower allows switches in a stack to share power supplies as a common pool, providing redundancy without requiring external RPS units. It operates in power-sharing mode (distributing power dynamically across the stack) or redundant mode (reserving one supply for failover). This technology requires StackPower cables sold separately.