Users can now onboard their Catalyst 9500 and Cisco C9610 Smart Switches to dashboard via cloud management with device configuration. This expanded capability allows users to extend the monitoring capabilities of the Meraki dashboard from the access to the core, while still retaining the full IOS XE feature-set.
In device configuration mode, users can view switch statistics, configuration details, and access to troubleshooting tools. This reduces truck rolls as configurations can be viewed, edited, and managed via Cloud CLI, while retaining access to traditional management methods via console port and SSH as configurations are performed locally on the device.
This is significant for two primary reasons.
First, if you are currently using Cloud Monitoring for your Catalyst 9500, this release introduces parity support for the new architecture to allow users to migrate ahead of the March 31, 2026, end-of-service date. The minimum firmware for the supported models is IOS XE 17.15.3+.
Second, for the first time ever we are introducing support for modular switching in dashboard by extending device configuration mode into the next-generation Cisco C9610 Smart Switch platform. This milestone signals a shift in the applicable use cases of cloud management for organizations across the globe. The 10-slot chassis can be configured with two redundant supervisors, eight line card slots, eight power supply slots, and four fan tray modules - allowing for up to 480 ports on a single page.
What’s Next
If you are currently using cloud monitoring for your Catalyst 9500 switches, we recommend upgrading to device configuration mode before the March 31, 2026 end-of-service date. Step-by-step upgrade guidance is available in documentation, and a video walkthrough is also available to help you understand the process.
To learn how Cisco is building the foundation for next-generation campus network cores, designed to support the demands of the next decade and beyond, explore the new C9610 Smart Switch.
We’re excited to continue expanding the benefits of cloud management to customers worldwide, and we appreciate your continued participation and support in this journey!
