What Uplink Modules Are Supported on Cisco Catalyst 9200 and 9300 Switches?
If you’re upgrading or expanding a Cisco Catalyst network, selecting the correct uplink module is critical. Cisco Catalyst 9200, 9300 and 9300X switches support a range of network modules that provide 1G, 10G, 25G, 40G and even 100G uplink connectivity.
However, compatibility is often misunderstood, leading to costly purchasing mistakes. This guide explains which uplink modules are supported and highlights important limitations before you buy.
Cisco Catalyst 9200 and 9300 Network Module Compatibility
Cisco 9200 and 9300 Modules Are NOT Interchangeable
A common misconception is that Cisco Catalyst 9200 and 9300 uplink modules can be swapped between platforms.
They cannot.
Catalyst 9200 network modules are strictly incompatible with Catalyst 9300 switches. Although some module names appear similar, they are designed for different hardware architectures and are not interchangeable.
Always verify switch model compatibility before purchasing replacement or upgrade modules.
Important Limitation for Catalyst 9200L and 9300L Models
Cisco Catalyst 9200L and 9300L switches do not support field-replaceable uplink modules.
These models feature fixed uplink ports integrated directly into the motherboard and therefore do not include a network module slot.
If additional uplink flexibility is required, consider a standard Catalyst 9200 or Catalyst 9300 model instead.
| Uplink Module | Description |
|---|---|
| C9200-NM-4X | 4x 1G/10G SFP+ |
| C9200-NM-4G | 4x 1G SFP |
| C9200-NM-2Y | 2x 25G SFP28 |
| C9200-NM-2Q | 2x 40G QSFP+ |
| C9300-NM-4G | 4x 1G SFP |
| C9300-NM-8X | 8x 10G SFP+ |
| C9300-NM-2Y | 2x 25G SFP28 |
| C9300-NM-2Q | 2x 40G QSFP+ |
| C9300-NM-4M | 4x Multigigabit Copper |
| C9300X-NM-8M | 8x Multigig Copper |
| C9300X-NM-8Y | 8x 25G SFP28 |
| C9300X-NM-2C | 2x 100G QSFP28 |
| C9300X-NM-4C | 4x 100G QSFP28 |
Most Popular Cisco Uplink Modules
The following Cisco network modules are among the most commonly deployed upgrades for Catalyst switches:
- Cisco C9200-NM-4X
- Cisco C9300-NM-8X
- Cisco C9300-NM-2Q
- Cisco C9300-NM-4M
- Cisco C9300X-NM-8Y
These modules are frequently used when upgrading from 1G to 10G, 25G or 40G uplinks and are often purchased alongside Cisco transceivers, DAC cables and stacking accessories.
Need Help Choosing the Right Cisco Uplink Module?
Flux IT Hardware is an independent UK Cisco reseller supplying new, new-surplus and refurbished Cisco networking hardware.
Whether you need a single replacement uplink module or a complete network refresh, our Cisco specialists can help identify compatible hardware, reduce project costs and source hard-to-find Cisco parts.
Why Buy From Flux IT?
✅ New, New-Surplus and Refurbished Cisco Hardware
✅ Fast UK Delivery
✅ Competitive Pricing
✅ Trade-In & Trade-Up Options Available
✅ Two-Year Warranty on Refurbished Hardware
✅ Cisco Switches, Routers, Firewalls, Optics and Spare Parts
Request a Cisco Hardware Quote
Need pricing or availability? Send us your RFQ/BOM. Request a Cisco Hardware Quote
📞 03330 048885
Our team can usually source Cisco hardware not listed online through our network of over 500 UK and European IT suppliers.
FAQ – Cisco Catalyst 9200 and 9300 Network Module
Yes. Professionally tested refurbished Cisco uplink modules are widely used in enterprise, education and data centre environments to reduce upgrade costs while maintaining compatibility and reliability
Cisco recommends installing the appropriate blank module when no uplink module is fitted. Blank modules help maintain correct airflow and cooling performance inside the switch chassis.
Yes. The supported transceiver types depend on the uplink module being used. For example, SFP+ modules require compatible 10G SFP+ optics or DAC cables, while QSFP28 modules require supported 40G or 100G transceivers.
Cisco recommends installing or replacing uplink modules during a maintenance window with the switch powered down to avoid hardware damage or unexpected network disruption.
Cisco Catalyst 9300X uplink modules support significantly higher bandwidths, including 100G QSFP28 connectivity, while standard Catalyst 9300 modules are generally limited to 40G uplinks.
No. Cisco Catalyst 9200L switches have fixed uplink ports built directly into the motherboard. They do not feature a removable network module slot.
25G uplinks are supported on selected Cisco Catalyst 9200 mGig models, Cisco Catalyst 9300 switches and Cisco Catalyst 9300X platforms using SFP28 network modules such as the C9200-NM-2Y, C9300-NM-2Y and C9300X-NM-8Y.
No. Cisco Catalyst 9300 uplink modules are not compatible with Cisco Catalyst 9200 switches. Although some modules have similar naming conventions, the hardware platforms use different architectures and the modules cannot be interchanged.
