How do I know if a refurbished switch is of good quality?

To ensure a refurbished Cisco WS-C2960X-24PS-L switch is of good quality, consider the following checks:

Physical Inspection:

• Examine the switch for physical damage or wear, ensuring all ports, buttons, and indicators are intact and working1.

• For Cisco switches, the device should look almost like new, with no unacceptable scratches or aesthetic imperfections4.

Functionality Testing:

• Initial Boot and System Check:

  • Connect the switch to power, checking for proper boot-up, unusual noises, or LED patterns during startup1.

  • Use a console cable to connect to the switch and access the Command Line Interface (CLI) to verify access and configuration1.

  • During boot time, check for any port or hardware failure information1. The command show post will show any failures1.

• Network Connectivity:

  • Connect devices to the switch's ports to ensure they can communicate with each other and access the network1.

  • Test specific features to ensure they function as expected1.

• Software and Firmware:

  • Verify the switch has the latest firmware installed, and if not, consider upgrading to the latest stable version for security and performance enhancements1.

• Advanced Diagnostics:

  • Use the global configuration command diagnostic bootup level complete to initiate a comprehensive hardware diagnostic test during the switch boot process. Note that this command may take some time to complete and may impact switch operation during the test1.

Provider Assessment:

• Reputation: Look for providers with a good reputation. Check online reviews and customer feedback to gauge their reliability and quality of service2.

• Warranty and Support: Choose providers that offer warranties and support for their refurbished switches, ensuring the warranty covers hardware failures and that technical support is available2.

• Documentation: Ensure the switch comes with all necessary documentation, including warranty information, user manuals, and any refurbishment certifications1.

When buying refurbished network switches, ensure they match your network requirements and are compatible with your network infrastructure2. Also consider port density, speed, and VLAN support2.