- Entry-level, lower-cost solution
- Layer 2 switching in hardware
- Full feature parity with the Cisco Catalyst 2960 LAN Base image
The Cisco Enhanced EtherSwitch Service Modules greatly expands the router's capabilities by integrating industry-leading Layer 2 switching with feature sets identical to those found in the Cisco Catalyst 3560-E and Catalyst 2960 Series Switches. The Cisco Enhanced EtherSwitch Service Modules are the first modules to take advantage of the increased capabilities on the Cisco 3900 and 2900 Series Integrated Services Routers. Additionally, these service modules enable Cisco's industry-leading power initiatives, and per-port PoE power monitoring-all of which enhance the ability of the branch office to scale to next-generation requirements and still meet important initiatives for IT teams to operate a power efficient network.