CISCO C9500-32C-EDU Catalyst 9500 Series Switches

C9500-32C-EDU 32-Port 100G K-12 Switch

C9500-32C-EDU is the education-specific order for the C9500-32C hardware platform. Cisco's K-12 SKU list describes it as a Catalyst 9500 with 32 x 100G interfaces; the current platform data sheet identifies the underlying C9500-32C as a high-performance 32-port 100G QSFP28 model.

Do not substitute the 40G EDU PID

The related C9500-32QC-EDU is described as a 32 x 40G K-12 order. Record required line rate, optic type, breakout or adapter plan, peer compatibility and oversubscription before choosing between them. Similar EDU naming does not make their port-speed design interchangeable.

100G optical acceptance

For each planned QSFP28 port, document the approved optic or cable, reach, fiber type, FEC expectation, peer and rollback path. Cisco's interface guide also documents 40G and adapter-based lower rates for the C9500-32C; support still depends on the selected transceiver and IOS XE release.

Power and cooling identity

The C9500-32C uses a different power and fan compatibility matrix from C9500-32QC. Cisco lists 1600W AC/DC PSU families for C9500-32C and the C9K-T2 fan-tray family. Capture every installed PSU and fan PID, airflow direction and redundant-feed design instead of copying accessories from the 32QC order.

Education procurement evidence

Cisco's published K-12 list identifies this exact EDU SKU and recorded 100 percent E-Rate eligibility in that document. Eligibility, contract vehicle, funding year, license/subscription terms and buyer qualification must be revalidated for the current purchase; the historical list is product evidence, not a funding approval.

Official sources: Cisco Catalyst 9500 data sheet, Cisco K-12 EDU SKU list and Cisco IOS XE interface guide.