For years, the Cisco SG350 has been the undisputed top choice for professionals deploying Dante audio networks. Its blend of functionality, ease of use, and proven reliability made it a default selection for critical audio-over-IP installations. Recognizing the evolving needs of the market, Cisco later introduced the CBS350 series, a product line developed under the Cisco Business umbrella. This launch naturally prompts a crucial question for network planners and integrators: are these switches similar enough to be used interchangeably in existing projects, or do the differences between the SG350 and CBS350 necessitate a more careful, strategic evaluation? Understanding the distinction is key to making an informed investment that aligns with both your immediate technical requirements and long-term operational efficiency.
Core Product Identity and Design Philosophy
The Cisco 350 Series, encompassing the SG350 models, is a line of managed Ethernet switches that come with pre-configured settings, simplifying deployment for businesses. They offer a wide range of port densities, from 8 to 48 Fast Ethernet ports and 10 to 52 Gigabit Ethernet ports, providing a flexible foundation for building robust enterprise networks.
In contrast, the Cisco Business 350 Series Switches are positioned as cost-effective, managed solutions specifically designed for small to medium-sized office networks. They are a cornerstone of Cisco’s strategy to offer enterprise-grade features in a more accessible package. The series focuses on enabling digital transformation through advanced capabilities, while an intuitive management dashboard and built-in security protocols help safeguard business data and transactions.
Examining Technical Performance and Throughput
A side-by-side look at the processing specs reveals significant similarities. The packet forwarding rate (in millions of packets per second) and the total switching capacity (in gigabits per second) are virtually identical across most models in both series. The only notable exception is observed in the 16-port variants. The SG350-16 model holds a slight edge due to its configuration with four uplink ports, granting it a higher capacity compared to the CBS350-16 model, which typically features two. However, for the vast majority of applications—including demanding Dante audio environments which rarely exceed a total load of 1 Gbps even with hundreds of channels—both series offer more than sufficient performance headroom. The technical specifications are outlined below:
- 8 Ports: Identical capacity for both series.
- 16 Ports: SG350 maintains a marginally higher capacity.
- 24 Ports: Identical capacity for both series.
- 48 Ports: Identical capacity for both series.
- Models with 10G Uplinks: Identical capacity for both series.
Comparing Management Access: Serial and USB Interfaces
This is where a major practical differentiator emerges for network administrators. There are inevitable situations where out-of-band management becomes critical—when the management VLAN is inaccessible, all front ports are occupied, or the switch doesn’t respond to its IP address. In these scenarios, a serial console port is the lifeline for accessing the device’s command line interface without relying on network connectivity.
On the classic SG350 models, this serial port was located on the rear of the chassis. While a serial cable was included, the common need for a USB-to-RS232 converter added an extra layer of hassle, especially as modern laptops rarely feature native serial ports.
The CBS350 design improves markedly on this front. The serial console port is now conveniently located on the front of the switch, making it instantly accessible without having to wrestle with rack wiring. Furthermore, these models also include a standard USB port, streamlining the connection process. Although you will likely still need your own adapter cable, the elimination of the specific USB-RS232 converter requirement is a welcome simplification for daily maintenance and troubleshooting.
Compatibility and Optical Module Support
For those investing in fiber infrastructure, module compatibility is a paramount concern. The good news is that the supported SFP and SFP+ modules are largely consistent across both the SG350 and CBS350 series. This means that existing investments in compatible optical transceivers are protected, and modules can generally be swapped between the two switch families as needed. A wide array of third-party modules available on the market will also work with both. For users who prefer to stick with genuine Cisco-branded modules, the part numbers and support remain unchanged, ensuring a seamless transition. The supported modules include popular options for short-range (SR), long-range (LR), and bidirectional (BX) applications.
In summary, the transition from the Cisco SG350 to the CBS350 represents a thoughtful evolution rather than a simple replacement. While their core performance metrics are nearly identical, making them both capable contenders for audio and data networking duties, the differences are found in the details that impact usability and positioning. The CBS350 series introduces a more user-friendly physical design with front-facing access ports and modernized connectivity options, aligning it with the needs of growing businesses seeking managed features without complexity. Ultimately, the choice isn’t about raw power but about selecting the right tool for your ecosystem. For those prioritizing absolute feature parity and have existing SG350 infrastructure, sticking with the known entity may be preferable. However, for new deployments, small business networks, and those valuing easier management access, the CBS350 emerges as a compelling, forward-looking alternative. When you are ready to choose your solution, explore the extensive selection of reliable networking equipment available at telecomate.com.
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