Cisco Nexus 3172TQ 48-Ports 10GBASE-T Ethernet Layer 3 Rack-mountable Managed Network Switch with 6-Ports QSFP+ – N3K-C3172TQ-10GT

Cisco Nexus 3172TQ N3K-C3172TQ-10GT Data Center Network Switch

Build dense data-center connectivity with the Cisco Nexus 3172TQ N3K-C3172TQ-10GT, a rack-mountable Layer 3 managed network switch providing 48 10GBASE-T Ethernet ports and six QSFP+ ports. Its combination of high-speed copper access and QSFP+ interconnects gives network administrators flexibility when connecting servers, storage systems, aggregation layers, and data-center fabrics. The platform is designed for structured rack deployments where port density, organized cabling, and a clear path for high-speed network connections are central to the architecture.

Key Features

• 48-port 10GBASE-T Ethernet switching
• Six QSFP+ ports for compatible interconnects
• Layer 3 managed network platform
• Data-center-oriented Nexus 3172TQ design
• Rack-mountable chassis

Product Specifications

• Part Number: N3K-C3172TQ-10GT
• Manufacturer: Cisco
• Series: Nexus 3172TQ
• 10GBASE-T Ports: 48
• QSFP+ Ports: 6
• Switching Layer: Layer 3
• Interface Types: 10GBASE-T Ethernet and QSFP+
• Form Factor: Rack-mountable
• Product Type: Managed Network Switch

Data Center Interface Specifications

• Copper interface group: 10GBASE-T Ethernet
• High-speed interface group: QSFP+ connectivity
• Port profile: Dense server, storage, and infrastructure connections
• Deployment role: Access, aggregation, or interconnect switching
• Media planning: Select compatible copper, optical, direct-attach, or breakout accessories

Rack and Architecture Specifications

• Installation format: Rack-mountable data-center chassis
• Management role: Layer 3 managed switching
• Connection planning: Allocate copper ports to endpoint and server links
• Uplink planning: Reserve QSFP+ ports for compatible high-speed paths
• Infrastructure planning: Coordinate rack position, power, cooling, and cable routing

Use Cases

• Connect high-performance 10GbE servers in a rack
• Support virtualization and application infrastructure
• Build dense data-center access or aggregation layers
• Use QSFP+ ports for compatible uplink and interconnect designs
• Refresh older switching hardware with a managed 10GbE platform

Compatibility

• 10GBASE-T servers, storage devices, and network equipment
• Compatible QSFP+ transceivers, cables, and breakout assemblies
• Cisco Nexus software and supported management environments
• Data-center racks with suitable power, cooling, and cable management
• Confirm optics, cabling, licensing, software, and topology requirements before deployment

Frequently Asked Questions

How many 10GBASE-T ports are provided?

The switch includes 48 10GBASE-T Ethernet ports.

How many QSFP+ ports are listed?

The product includes six QSFP+ ports.

Is it a Layer 3 managed switch?

Yes. It is identified as a Layer 3 rack-mountable managed network switch.

What environment is it designed for?

The port density and interface combination are suited to data-center server, storage, aggregation, and interconnect deployments.

What should be checked before deployment?

Verify compatible optics, cables, software, licensing, power, cooling, and the intended network topology.

The Cisco Nexus 3172TQ N3K-C3172TQ-10GT gives data-center teams a balanced mix of dense 10GbE copper connectivity and QSFP+ expansion in a rack-ready platform. Its Layer 3 management capability and high port count make it a practical foundation for server, storage, virtualization, and aggregation designs that need organized high-speed connectivity. Confirm the full Cisco Nexus support matrix and media requirements before integrating it into production.