Cisco is redefining data center architecture with new smart switches, integrating services directly into the network.
Cisco is launching the N9300 Smart Switches, which combine networking and security services in a single solution. The switches use AMD Pensando DPUs and Cisco Silicon One to simplify the architecture of AI data centers and make them more efficient. The first version of the Cisco N9300 Smart Switch is expected in spring 2025, with the top-of-rack model to follow in summer 2025.
Integrated network and security services
Cisco has announced the N9300 series of Smart Switches. These switches combine network infrastructure with integrated security services and use AMD Pensando DPUs and Cisco Silicon One technology. This design should make AI data centers more efficient by performing tasks such as data processing and security directly within the network structure.
The first application of this technology is Cisco Hypershield, which brings security and networking functionality together in a single solution. This reduces the complexity of data center security and allows security policies to be applied automatically. The switches can support segmentation, IPSec encryption, telemetry and DDoS protection.
AI workloads
AI workloads require increasing computing power, bandwidth and security measures. Traditional data center architectures grow in complexity as new services require hardware upgrades. Cisco’s new switches offer an alternative approach: network and security services are handled directly within the switch, without additional hardware.
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The N9300 Smart Switches have two processing engines: a network processor for stable data transfer and an engine for network services such as security. Traffic is intelligently distributed between these engines, which should increase efficiency and scalability. This can lower operational costs and reduce power consumption.
The first version of the Cisco N9300 Smart Switch, with 24 ports of 100G, is expected in spring 2025. A top-of-rack model with 48 ports of 25G, two 100G ports and six 400G ports will follow in summer 2025.