Cisco offers a range of modular uplink and network modules for the Catalyst C9300 and C9300X switch platforms, enabling customers to tailor link speed, density, and media type to evolving network needs. These modules make the C9300 and C9300X systems more adaptable, allowing upgrades in uplink performance without replacing the entire switch chassis.
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Our FAQ answers 6 common questions about Cisco Catalyst 9300 switch modules.
Q1. What are the key differences between standard modules (e.g. C9300-NM-8X, NM-4G, or NM-4M), and the C9300X-NM series?
Uplink speed, density, and fabric role are key differentiators. Modules like NM-8X (8×10G) serve smaller uplink needs, NM-4G / 4M offer intermediate options, while C9300X-capable modules (like 4C or 8Y) support 40/100G uplinks for high throughput aggregation roles.
Q2. Can I reuse older SFP or QSFP optics with these modules?
Yes, many Cisco optics are backward-compatible, but each module has a supported transceiver list. Cisco advises checking the hardware compatibility matrix, since unsupported optics may be blocked or run without advanced monitoring features. Our team would be happy to verify compatibility for you, before making a purchase.
Q3. Can module upgrades affect system throughput or latency?
Adding a higher-speed module (e.g. 100G) increases uplink capacity, but the switch’s ASIC and backplane ultimately determine maximum throughput. Modules do not reduce baseline forwarding performance, but exceeding the chassis limits will cap available bandwidth.
Q4. What are the differences between NM-8X, NM-4G, and NM-4M – and their best use cases?
| Module | Uplink Ports | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| C9300-NM-8X | 8×10G SFP+ | High-density 10G uplink to access fabric or aggregation |
| C9300-NM-4G / C9300-NM-4M | 4×10G (G-type) / mixed media | Moderate uplink environments needing flexibility or variation |
| C9300X-NM modules (e.g. NM-4C, NM-8Y) | 40/100G QSFP/rates | High-performance aggregation or spine connections |
Answer: Choose NM-8X for broad 10G uplink coverage; NM-4G/4M for targeted flexibility; and X-series modules (4C / 8Y) when your fabric requires 40/100G uplink capacity.
Q5. Do uplink modules have firmware or software dependencies?
Yes. Cisco requires that uplink modules run on supported IOS-XE versions. Unsupported combinations may result in modules not being recognised, limited functionality, or lack of monitoring. Cisco recommends reviewing release notes before deployment.
Q6. What upgrade path do these modules enable?
A deployment can begin with lower-capacity modules (e.g. 8×10G), and later swap in higher-speed modules (40/100G) as uplink demands increase. This modular approach supports network growth while preserving the investment in the base switch.
