The Cisco Catalyst 3560 switch is a fixed configuration, enterprise-class, IEEE 802.3af and Cisco prestandard Power over Ethernet (PoE) switch in Fast Ethernet configurations that provides availability, security, and quality of service (QoS) to enhance network operations. The Catalyst 3560 is an ideal access layer switch for small enterprise wiring closets or branch office environments that are using their LAN infrastructure for the deployment of new products and applications such as IP telephones, wireless access points, video surveillance, building management systems, and remote video kiosks. Customers can deploy network-wide intelligent services, such as advanced QoS, rate limiting, access control lists, multicast management, and high-performance IP routing – while maintaining the simplicity of traditional LAN switching. Embedded in the Catalyst 3560 is the Cisco Cluster Management Suite (CMS) Software, which allows users to simultaneously configure and troubleshoot multiple Cisco Catalyst desktop switches using a standard Web browser. Cisco CMS Software provides configuration wizards that greatly simplify the implementation of converged networks and intelligent network services.

The Catalyst 3560 can provide a lower total cost of ownership (TCO) for deployments that incorporate Cisco IP phones and Cisco Aironet wireless LAN access points, as well as any IEEE 802.3af-compliant end device. Power over Ethernet removes the need for wall power to each PoE-enabled device and eliminates the cost for additional electrical cabling that would otherwise be necessary in IP phone and wireless LAN deployments. Maximum power availability for a converged voice and data network is attainable when a Catalyst 3560 Switch is combined with the Cisco Redundant Power System 675 (RPS 675) for seamless protection against internal power supply failures and an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) system to safeguard against power outages.