HPE
HPE Aruba Networking CX 8100 48x10G SFP+ 4x40/100G QSFP28 BF Airflow 3F 2AC PSU Switch Bdl
Best high-performance switch for modern data center and campus network scaling.
The HPE Aruba Networking CX 8100 Switch Series is designed for modern campus core and aggregation, as well as dynamic top-of-rack data center environments. It offers a flexible and innovative approach to meet application, security, and scalability demands. This series is built on the HPE Aruba Networking CX Switch Operating System (AOS-CX), which automates and simplifies network tasks, supports programmability with REST APIs and Python scripts, and provides enhanced fault tolerance. With industry-leading line rate ports, it offers 1/10GbE (SFP/SFP+) and 40/100GbE (QSFP+/QSFP28) connectivity in a compact 1U form factor. It features high performance with 1.76 Tbps of bi-directional switching and 1,309 Mpps of forwarding.
$23512.70
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
310
/ 2256
#310 in Hubs & Switches
Price vs Category Average
+263%
Above average
Ports
4811044010028
/ ports of /GbE (SFP/SFP+), ports of /GbE (QSFP+/QSFP)
Who it's for
- Network architects planning for high-bandwidth growth
- IT managers prioritizing maximum uptime for critical infrastructure
- System administrators seeking streamlined, automated network management
Who should skip it
- Small businesses with limited IT capital budgets
- Generalists lacking advanced networking configuration experience
- Facilities without specialized data center cooling infrastructure
Performance breakdown
Switching Capacity
Delivers massive 1.76 Tbps throughput for demanding data center environments.
Automation Capability
AOS-CX simplifies complex network management through robust API and script support.
Redundancy and Reliability
Dual power supplies and VSX technology ensure near-zero downtime for operations.
Port Density
Compact 1U form factor packs 52 high-speed ports for efficient scaling.
Network Visibility
NAE provides intelligent, real-time insights into network health and performance.
Deployment Flexibility
Reversible airflow options adapt seamlessly to diverse rack and cooling configurations.
Key Specs
Ports
48 ports of 1/10GbE (SFP/SFP+), 4 ports of 40/100GbE (QSFP+/QSFP28)
CPU
Quad Core Arm® Cortex™ A72 @ 1.8 GHz
Memory and flash
16 GB RAM, 32 GB Flash/storage
Packet buffer
32 MB
Throughput
1,309 Mpps
Switching capacity
1.76 Tbps
Management features
RJ-45 serial and USB-C console, RJ-45 Ethernet port, USB Type-A
Power supply
Bundles include 2 power supplies (2 x JL712A in R9W87A, R9W89A, R9W91A, and R9W93A)
Features
- High performance 1.76 Tbps of bi-directional switching and 1,309 Mpps of forwarding
- Supports two airflow modes (front-to-back, and back-to-front)
- Advanced Layer 2/3 feature set including BGP, OSPF, VRF, VXLAN, EVPN, IPv6
- High availability with HPE Aruba Networking Virtual Switching Extension (VSX) redundancy
- Redundant power supplies and fans
- AOS-CX automation and programmability using built-in REST APIs and Python scripts
- Intelligent monitoring and visibility with HPE Aruba Networking CX Networks Analytics Engine (NAE)
- Modular cloud-native architecture simplifying data center network management
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the HPE Aruba Networking CX 8100 switch for its exceptional reliability and robust performance in demanding network environments. Users frequently highlight its consistent uptime and stable operation, which are critical for enterprise infrastructure. While representing a substantial investment, the switch is often seen as delivering strong value for money due to its advanced features, scalability, and long term operational stability. Its dependable nature and efficient management capabilities make it a preferred choice for organizations seeking high performance and peace of mind.
Know before you buy
This switch is designed for modern campus core and aggregation environments, as well as dynamic top-of-rack data center deployments. Its high-performance architecture makes it ideal for networks requiring high-speed connectivity and advanced automation.
Yes, the CX 8100 includes redundant power supplies and fans to ensure continuous operation. It also supports HPE Aruba Networking Virtual Switching Extension (VSX), which provides high availability by allowing two switches to act as a single logical unit.
Absolutely. The switch runs on the AOS-CX operating system, which is built for programmability. You can automate tasks and manage configurations using built-in REST APIs and Python scripts.
No, the HPE Aruba Networking CX 8100 does not support PoE. It is designed primarily for high-speed data switching rather than powering peripheral devices like cameras or access points.
The switch supports two airflow modes: front-to-back and back-to-front. This flexibility allows you to align the switch's cooling with your specific data center or server room rack design.
The NAE provides intelligent monitoring and visibility by analyzing network health in real-time. It helps you proactively identify and troubleshoot issues before they impact your network performance.
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