Nexus 5K as collapsed core switch.

Evgeniy Ivanov · ‎05-08-2014

Hi, all!
I have a question about Cisco Nexus 5K.

I need to connect 9 2960S access switches to distribution switch.
Also, i need to connect one remote SAN storage to two servers via FC.

I want to use nexus 5K with universal ports.
But Nexus is a datacenter switch. Is there any disadvantages to use it as a collapsed core switch?

Vasilii Mikhailovskii · ‎05-08-2014

Hello.

I guess the primary disadvantage would be a cost, as you need at least two Nexus 5K and 10G links for CNA ports.

sean_evershed · ‎05-08-2014

No stand out disadvantages come to mind.

Just make sure that you choose the correct model that includes the OSI Layer3 routing engine if you also want to use it for core functionality.

Marvin Rhoads · ‎05-08-2014

I've installed several in use cases like the one you describe. Functionally they pretty much suffice.

If you're a small shop and don't otherwise use Nexus gear, there is the learning curve of NX-OS and the associated technologies like VPCs and FEXes. It's not super hard, but different from IOS with different design considerations.

There are some features on the Nexus (like unified ports) not available on a Catalyst switch and vice versa (e.g. VSS).