To check the Cisco switch model, use the show version
command in the Cisco CLI. This command displays detailed information about the switch, including the model number.
Using the show version
Command
The show version
command is a fundamental tool for gathering information about a Cisco switch. Here's how to use it and interpret the output:
- Access the Cisco CLI: Connect to the switch via console, Telnet, or SSH.
- Enter privileged EXEC mode: Type
enable
and enter the enable password if prompted. - Execute the command: Type
show version
and press Enter.
Interpreting the Output
The output of the show version
command provides a wealth of information. The specific line to look for regarding the model is typically labeled "Model Number" or similar.
Switch#show version
Cisco IOS Software, C3850 Software (C3850-IPBASEK9-M), Version 16.9.6, RELEASE SOFTWARE (fc2)
Technical Support: http://www.cisco.com/techsupport
Copyright (c) 1986-2021 by Cisco Systems, Inc.
Compiled Sat 27-Feb-21 06:13 by mcpre
ROM: Bootstrap program is C3850 boot loader
BOOTLDR: C3850 Boot Loader (C3850-HBOOT-M) Version 16.6.5, RELEASE SOFTWARE (fc1)
Switch uptime is 1 week, 2 days, 2 hours, 36 minutes
System returned to ROM by Reload Reason: Unknown
System image file is "flash:/packages.conf"
Last reload reason: Unknown
License Level: ipbase
License Type: Permanent Right-To-Use
Next reload license Level: ipbase
**Model Number : WS-C3850-24T**
System Serial Number : ABC123XYZ
... (rest of the output)
In the example output above, the line Model Number : WS-C3850-24T
indicates that the switch model is a WS-C3850-24T.
Understanding Model Variants
As noted in the reference, Cisco's website may show different versions of a model with suffixes like E, L, and S. These suffixes typically indicate different feature sets or capabilities. For instance:
- E: Enhanced feature set
- L: LAN Base feature set
- S: IP Services feature set
To determine the exact capabilities of your switch, cross-reference the full model number obtained from show version
with the specifications on Cisco's website. You can also use the show license
command to get more information about the licensed features on the switch.