Introducing the CX4800-56F: Zyxel’s New Flagship Aggregation Switch

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Zyxel Networks is proud to introduce the CX4800-56F, our latest flagship switch, designed to deliver high-speed, high-density fiber connectivity for enterprise and data center networks. With powerful 100G uplinks, 25G/10G downlinks, and advanced Layer 3 features, the CX4800-56F is built to support the growing demands of modern networking infrastructure.

Decoding the Model Name

The naming convention of the CX4800-56F follows Zyxel’s structured approach:

• C → Represents 100G uplinks
• X → Indicates 10G-base downlinks
• 4800 → The series name
• 56 → Total number of ports
• F → Designates a fiber-based model (SFP variant)

Key Hardware Specifications

The CX4800-56F features a fully fiber-based design with a total of 56 ports:

• 48 SFP+ ports supporting 1G, 10G, and 25G speeds
• 8 QSFP28 uplink ports supporting 100G speeds

Hot-Swappable Modules

The CX4800-56F supports hot-swappable components, including:

• Power Supply Units (PSUs) – Available in both AC and DC versionsCX4800 dual power can support redundancy, even only one power, it's still can run full load traffic.
• Cooling Fans – High-speed 23,000 RPM fans, generating 69 dBA noise levels

Console Connectivity

The CX4800-56F introduces a new RJ45 console port, this new addition ensures compatibility with common Cisco and H-series console cables, making it easier for network engineers to integrate the switch into existing environments.

Software and Feature Enhancements

Cloud Management & Network AV Mode

• Full support for Zyxel’s Nebula Cloud (NCC), allowing remote monitoring and management

Layer 3 Features and Future Firmware Updates

At launch, the CX4800-56F supports Layer 3 Access Standard features, similar to the XGS2220 series. The CX4800 also supports Network AV Mode. However, future firmware updates will enhance the switch to L3 Aggregation with Advanced Routing.

Forward Error Correction (FEC) for High-Speed Links

To ensure data integrity at high speeds (25G and 100G), the switch supports Forward Error Correction (FEC). There are three encoding standards, which must be manually selected when connecting to non-Zyxel devices. Zyxel-to-Zyxel connections can use automatic FEC negotiation.