Cisco WS-C3850-12S-S Switch – 12-Port SFP Gigabit

What It Is

The Cisco Catalyst WS-C3850-12S-S is a fixed-configuration enterprise access switch from the Catalyst 3850 series, equipped with 12 Gigabit Ethernet SFP ports. It runs the IP Base feature set, providing a foundation for Layer 2 and basic Layer 3 switching in campus and branch networks. This model is designed for fiber uplinks and server connectivity in medium-to-large enterprise environments.

Technical Details

• Ports: 12 x Gigabit Ethernet SFP (Small Form-Factor Pluggable) ports
• Feature Set: IP Base (WS-C3850-12S-S)
• Series: Cisco Catalyst 3850
• Form Factor: Fixed-configuration, 1RU rack-mountable
• Switching Capacity: Unified access platform with integrated wired and wireless capabilities (per series architecture)
• Management: Supports Cisco IOS XE software, CLI, and network management protocols
• Model Variant: WS-C3850-12S-S (distinct from WS-C3850-12S-E which runs IP Services)

Configuration & Options

• Adjacent Models: WS-C3850-12S-E (same 12-port SFP hardware, IP Services feature set) available for higher Layer 3 requirements
• Transceivers: SFP optics supported via the 12 GE SFP ports (fiber types per SFP standard)
• Software Licensing: IP Base is pre-installed; upgrade path to IP Services available via separate license (WS-C3850-12S-E)
• Stacking: Supported via optional stacking modules (not included by default)
• Power Supply: Standard AC power supply included; redundant power supply option available separately

Operating Conditions

This switch is intended for deployment in enterprise wiring closets, data center access layers, and branch office environments where fiber-based Gigabit connectivity is required. It operates under standard indoor environmental conditions (temperature and humidity ranges typical for enterprise networking equipment). The IP Base feature set supports VLANs, static routing, and basic QoS, making it suitable for access-layer aggregation and edge distribution.