Cisco N7K-M148GS-11L 48-Port Gigabit Ethernet Module

The Cisco N7K-M148GS-11L is a purpose-built, high-density 48-port Gigabit Ethernet module for Cisco Nexus 7000 Series switches. Engineered for mission-critical data centers, this module delivers scalable access-layer performance with a focus on simplicity, reliability, and seamless integration into Cisco’s NX-OS fabric. The XL option equips the module with M1-XL forwarding engines, enabling robust line-rate performance and efficient handling of mixed traffic patterns across virtualization, databases, and cloud workloads. Designed to support modern data-center architectures—from traditional 1G access to dense VM-to-VM traffic—this module helps network engineers consolidate, simplify, and contiguously manage network edge and aggregation layers while preserving investment protection in your Nexus 7000 chassis.

• 48 high-density Gigabit Ethernet ports (1 Gbps) available in a single module, each port offering reliable RJ-45 copper connectivity for straightforward cabling, easy deployment, and predictable performance across server, storage, and clustering links.
• XL option with M1-XL forwarding engines delivers enhanced forwarding performance, achieving up to 60 million packets per second (Mpps) to sustain dense traffic in virtualized environments and multi-tenant data centers.
• Seamless NX-OS integration for centralized management, policy enforcement, and advanced features such as VLANs, QoS, security controls, traffic shaping, and scalable routing between core and aggregation layers.
• Modular, hot-swappable design designed to minimize downtime during maintenance and upgrades, helping administrators maintain uptime in large, multi-chassis deployments.
• Optimized for data-center workloads requiring reliable 1-Gigabit access with high port density, offering a balance of cost, performance, and flexibility for modern enterprise networks and scalable virtualization platforms.

Technical Details of Cisco N7K-M148GS-11L

• Part number: N7K-M148GS-11L
• Ports: 48 x 1-Gigabit Ethernet (RJ-45) ports; high-density, single-module footprint designed for Nexus 7000 chassis
• Forwarding engine: M1-XL
• Maximum throughput: Up to 60 Mpps (XL option) for line-rate performance across all ports
• Software: Cisco NX-OS enabled for comprehensive policy, security, and virtualization features
• Chassis compatibility: Cisco Nexus 7000 Series; designed to slot into compatible line-card bays within the chassis
• Form factor: Modular line card designed for in-chassis deployment with standard cabling and power considerations appropriate to Nexus environments

How to install Cisco N7K-M148GS-11L

• Prepare the Nexus 7000 chassis: confirm a free line-card slot that supports the N7K-M148GS-11L and that the chassis is within the appropriate electrical and environmental specifications.
• Power and static precautions: follow ESD-safe procedures and, if necessary, power down non-essential components or use hot-swappable guidelines as allowed by your deployment policy.
• Remove the slot cover and align the module: grasp the N7K-M148GS-11L by its sides, align the module’s connector edge with the chassis slot, and carefully insert until it seats securely and the latch engages.
• Confirm physical installation: verify that the module’s status indicators indicate proper power and activity, and that the module is recognized by the chassis backplane.
• Connect ports and configure: attach network cables to the 48 RJ-45 ports as dictated by your design, then use the Nexus CLI or GUI to verify that the module is online and that all ports show expected link status. Apply or adjust VLANs, QoS policies, and security settings as required for your environment.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What does the N7K-M148GS-11L provide? A: It delivers 48 high-density 1-Gigabit Ethernet ports within a Nexus 7000 line-card form factor, enhanced by the XL option with M1-XL forwarding engines to support higher traffic levels up to 60 Mpps, suitable for data center access and aggregation roles.
• Q: Is the module compatible with all Nexus 7000 chassis? A: It is designed for use in Cisco Nexus 7000 Series chassis that support the M148GS-11L line-card format and NX-OS-based management, ensuring cohesive operation within the Nexus fabric.
• Q: Can I upgrade or replace this module without taking down the network? A: Yes. The module is designed for hot-swappable installation in supported Nexus 7000 environments, minimizing downtime during upgrades or maintenance when performed according to Cisco guidelines.
• Q: What network scenarios is this module best suited for? A: It excels in data-center core and aggregation layers, server-to-server or VM-to-VM traffic, and environments requiring reliable 1-Gigabit access with scalable port density and straightforward upgrade paths.
• Q: What software features can I expect with NX-OS on this module? A: The module leverages Cisco NX-OS for centralized management, VLAN segmentation, Quality of Service, security policies, multicast routing, and other data-center oriented features that enable granular control and policy-driven networking.