CISCO Network Module C3850-NM-4-1G

CISCO C3850-NM-4-1G – Cisco Catalyst 3850 4 x 1GE Network Module

The Cisco C3850-NM-4-1G Catalyst 3850 Series Switch Module is a high-performance networking solution with reliable connectivity and advanced features. With its four 1GB SFP ports, this module provides fast and secure data transfer across multiple devices. The Cisco C3850-NM-4-1G switch module supports wire-speed forwarding at up to 70 million packets per second (MPPs) for Layer 2 and Layer 3 traffic. This module can be an aggregation point for access switches in corporate networks where scalability and reliability are essential requirements. The C3850-NM-4-1G module is supported only on the 12-port and 24-port SFP+ models. This module has four 1 G SFP module slots. Any combination of standard SFP modules are supported. SFP+ modules are not supported. If you insert an SFP+ module in the 1 G network module, the SFP+ module does not operate, and the switch logs an error message.

Cisco C3850-NM-4-1G Key Features

1. Gigabit Ethernet Ports: Adds four Gigabit Ethernet ports to expand network connectivity. It provides 4 ports of 1 Gbps SFP (small form factor pluggable) ports.
2. Hot-swappable: Enables simple installation and removal without affecting network operations, increasing maintenance efficiency. This feature is particularly useful for large networks that require constant uptime and minimal disruption during maintenance or upgrades.
3. Performance Meets Efficiency: The 7200 RPM rotational speed combined with a 128MB cache ensures quick read/write operations, which is vital for streaming, backups, and simultaneous file access. Moreover, its advanced power management capabilities help reduce operational costs—an important factor for businesses running multiple drive
4. Installing: Setting up the C3850-NM-4-1G is easy. You can either power off the switch before installation or use the hot-swapping feature if supported. Just slide the module into the designated slot and make sure it’s firmly in place. Once installed, the Catalyst 3850 switch will automatically detect it and activate the ports.
5. Compatibility: This module works seamlessly with all Cisco Catalyst 3850 Series models (like WS-C3850-24T, WS-C3850-48P, and others), supports Cisco IOS XE Software for centralized control and advanced security, and is compatible with a wide range of 1G SFP transceivers — both from Cisco and third-party brands — giving you lots of flexibility in how you deploy it.
6. Flexibility: Provides flexibility in network design and deployment, allowing enterprises to respond to changing connection requirements depending on the deployment scenario. The 4-1G version serves perfectly for moderate bandwidth environments and can be easily upgraded in the future.
7. Scalability: Increases the capabilities of Cisco Catalyst 3850 Series switches, enabling enterprises to scale their networks as needed.
8. Environmental / operating conditions for the 3850 (with modules) are as per the series spec: typically –5 °C to +45 °C for most environments, with altitude limits etc.
9. Plug-and-Play Integration: This network module is natively supported by the Cisco IOS software running on Catalyst 3850 switches. As such, integration is seamless, requiring little to no configuration, making it highly efficient for IT departments to deploy
10. Seamless Integration: Works smoothly with existing Cisco Catalyst 3850 Series switch infrastructures, ensuring compatibility and simplicity of deployment.
11. Reliability: Designed to meet Cisco’s high-quality requirements, assuring dependability and performance in challenging network environments.
12. Enhanced Connectivity: Offers efficient Gigabit Ethernet connectivity for a variety of devices and applications, meeting a wide range of network requirements.
13. MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures) is given in the datasheet as 7,052,100 hours.
14. Security: Integrates with Cisco’s network security and policy features through the 3850 switch.
15. Cisco network device: Provides modular uplink options, allowing you to choose different network module types.

Use Cases / Advantages

• If you need more fiber (or copper SFP) based 1G uplinks (or connections) from a Catalyst 3850, this module gives you 4 more SFP‑based ports.
• Useful in mixed media environments: perhaps some uplinks are fiber, some are copper. With SFP ports, you can choose the type of SFP to use.
• Helps with flexible uplink options: swap in different SFPs depending on distance or media type.
• Allows better port utilization if the fixed ports in the switch are all used; this gives extra port capacity.

Limitations / Things to Watch Out For

• The module only gives 1 Gbps per port. If you need higher speeds (10 Gbps), you’d need a different module (e.g. C3850‑NM‑4‑10G) or fixed 10G ports.
• The module is only useful if your network switches / wiring / fiber support the type of SFPs you plan to use. For example, older fiber or bad connectors may limit performance.
• Transceiver compatibility: using third‑party or incompatible SFPs may lead to warnings in IOS, or even lack of recognition, depending on firmware.
• Power, cooling, and slot compatibility: make sure your switch model supports this module (some 3850 variants don’t).