The Cisco N55-M160L3-V2 Nexus 5596 Layer 3 Expansion Module is a Version 2 Generic Expansion Module (GEM) designed to extend Layer 3 routing capabilities on compatible Cisco Nexus 5596UP and 5596T switches. It provides hardware-based routing functionality for enterprise and data-center networks, helping organizations expand their existing switching infrastructure without replacing the entire chassis.
Featuring up to 160 Gbps of Layer 3 capacity and a forwarding rate of up to 240 million packets per second (Mpps), the Cisco N55-M160L3-V2 supports demanding routing and aggregation workloads. Its Version 2 ASIC architecture provides enhanced IPv4 host and multicast route table capacity with compatible Cisco NX-OS releases. The module integrates with the Nexus 5500 platform and requires the appropriate Layer 3 base license and software configuration.
The Cisco Nexus 5596 N55-M160L3-V2 Layer 3 Expansion Module is suitable for data-center routing, enterprise network aggregation, and Layer 3 capacity expansion in compatible Nexus 5596 environments. Before purchasing, verify switch compatibility, NX-OS requirements, licensing, and installation procedures, as the module is not hot-swappable and requires the switch to be powered down for installation or removal.
Product Specifications – Cisco N55-M160L3-V2 Nexus 5596 Layer 3 Expansion Module V2
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Specification
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Details
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Manufacturer
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Cisco Systems
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Complete Product Name
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Cisco Nexus 5596 Layer 3 Expansion Module, Version 2
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Part Number
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N55-M160L3-V2
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Product Type
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Layer 3 Generic Expansion Module (GEM)
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Product Family
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Cisco Nexus 5500 Series
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Compatible Switches
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Cisco Nexus 5596UP and 5596T, subject to configuration
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Primary Function
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Adds hardware-based Layer 3 routing services
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Layer 3 Forwarding Capacity
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Up to 160 Gbps
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Forwarding Rate
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Up to 240 million packets per second (Mpps)
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ASIC Generation
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Version 2 Layer 3 ASIC
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IPv4 Host Table
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Up to 16,000 entries with supported software
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IPv4 Multicast Route Table
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Up to 8,000 entries with supported software
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Software Platform
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Cisco NX-OS
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Minimum Software Enhancement
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NX-OS Release 5.2(1)N1(1b) or later for increased table sizes
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Base License Requirement
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Cisco Nexus 5500 Layer 3 Base License (N55-BAS1K9), included with the hardware purchase but requiring installation
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Physical Ports
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No external front-panel network ports; provides Layer 3 services to switch I/O ports
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Installation
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Dedicated expansion-module slot
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Hot-Swappable
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No; switch must be powered down before installation or removal
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Field-Replaceable Unit
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Yes
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Product Status
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Discontinued
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Primary Applications
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Data-center routing, Layer 3 aggregation, and enterprise network expansion
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FAQs
Q1. What is the Cisco N55-M160L3-V2?
The Cisco N55-M160L3-V2 is a Layer 3 expansion module designed to enhance routing capabilities on compatible Cisco Nexus 5596 Series switches.
Q2. Who should buy the Cisco N55-M160L3-V2?
The Cisco N55-M160L3-V2 is suitable for enterprises, data centers, and network operators maintaining compatible Nexus 5596 infrastructure and requiring expanded Layer 3 networking functionality.
Q3. Is a refurbished Cisco N55-M160L3-V2 worth buying?
Yes. A professionally refurbished Cisco N55-M160L3-V2 can provide reliable Layer 3 expansion capabilities and compatibility with existing Nexus 5596 infrastructure while offering a practical lower-cost alternative to new equipment.
Q4. What does the Cisco N55-M160L3-V2 provide?
The Cisco N55-M160L3-V2 provides Layer 3 expansion functionality, enabling compatible Nexus 5596 switches to support additional routing capabilities for data center network deployments.
Q5. Which switch is compatible with the Cisco N55-M160L3-V2?
The Cisco N55-M160L3-V2 is designed for use with compatible Cisco Nexus 5596 Series switches and should be installed according to Cisco hardware and software compatibility requirements.
