Dell EMC S4048-ON Ethernet Switch
Best reliable switch for demanding data center networks.
The Dell Networking S4048-ON is a high-density 1U switch designed for software-defined data centers. It supports ONIE for flexible network operating system installation, reducing vendor lock-in. This switch is ideal for high-performance computing and enterprise environments requiring agility and efficiency. It features a compact design, low latency, and a 12MB packet buffer, ensuring robust performance for demanding workloads. The unit includes redundant, hot-swappable power supplies and rear-to-front airflow for reliable operation.
$349.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.2
/ 5
Category Rank
1116
/ 1261
#1116 in Computer Power Supplies
Price vs Category Average
-62%
Below average
Ports
4810640
/ x GbE SFP+, x GbE QSFP+
Who it's for
- Network architects seeking vendor independence and software-defined networking solutions
- Data center operators needing high-speed, low-latency network infrastructure
- IT managers optimizing budget for growing data center network capacity
Who should skip it
- Organizations lacking in-house expertise for open networking deployments
- IT teams preferring a single vendor for comprehensive hardware and software support
- Network engineers unfamiliar with open networking principles and diverse NOS platforms
Key Specs
Ports
48 x 10GbE SFP+, 6 x 40GbE QSFP+
Management
1 x RJ45 console, 1 x Micro-USB 2.0
Form Factor
1U Rackmount
Weight
8.4 kg
Dimensions
43.5 x 43.4 x 43.5 cm
Power Capacity
460 Watt
Switching Capacity
1.44 Tbps
Forwarding Rate
1080 Mpps
Features
- High-density 10GbE and 40GbE connectivity
- Layer 3 managed switching capabilities
- Redundant hot-swap power supplies
- Expandable port count with breakout cables
- DELL OS9 operating system
- Rack-mountable form factor
- ESD-safe packaging
- Supports hot-swapping for zero-downtime
What customers say
Customers generally praise the Dell EMC S4048 ON Ethernet Switch for its robust reliability and consistent high performance in demanding network environments. Many users highlight its solid build quality and the dependable operation it provides, making it a cornerstone for stable network infrastructure. While initial setup can require some technical expertise, its long term stability and efficient data handling are frequently cited as significant advantages, contributing to a positive overall experience for those seeking a durable and powerful networking solution.
Know before you buy
Yes, the switch supports ONIE (Open Network Install Environment), which allows you to install various compatible network operating systems, helping you avoid vendor lock-in.
Absolutely. You can use breakout cables with the 40GbE QSFP+ ports to expand your 10GbE connectivity, providing flexibility for high-density environments.
Yes, the unit is designed for high availability. It features redundant, hot-swappable power supplies that allow you to replace components without interrupting network traffic.
The 12MB packet buffer is designed to handle traffic bursts efficiently, ensuring consistent performance and low latency for demanding workloads like high-performance computing.
The S4048-ON utilizes a rear-to-front airflow design, which is standard for many data center rack configurations to ensure effective cooling.
Yes, it is a Layer 3 managed switch, meaning it can handle complex routing tasks and traffic management within your network infrastructure.
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