Refurbished vs new Cisco switches: how to decide

Buy refurbished when you need to match an existing installed base, add ports to an existing stack, keep spares on the shelf, or work within a tight budget. Enterprise switches such as the Catalyst 2960-X, 3650 and 3850 are built for long service, and a properly tested unit performs like the day it was installed.

Buy new when you need the newest features, the longest OEM support, or the tender or policy requires new equipment. For current platforms like the Catalyst 9200 and 9300, remember to budget for the Cisco DNA subscription that comes with new units.

Before buying refurbished, ask how each unit is tested, whether the power supplies and fans are checked, what software version it runs, whether licences match your needs, and who will support it if it fails.

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