Overview of Edge Platforms High performance open networking 1GbE and 10GbE Multigigabit switches for modern workloads at the network edge.
Modern, integrated edge solutions for bandwidth-intensive applications, Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) devices, and Internet-of-Things (IoT).
Best For:
- Multi-gigabit campus edge deployments
- High-density PoE for wireless APs & IoT
- Bandwidth-intensive edge applications
Maximize connectivity at the edge
Extend open, standard-based switching technology to the network edge. Enhance workforce productivity with bandwidth-intensive applications. Increase automation at the network edge with PoE (Power over Ethernet) and Internet of Things (loT) devices.
Overview of PowerSwitch E3248PXE-ON
PowerSwitch E3248PXE-ON Key Specifications
Designed for demanding edge environments, this switch delivers multi-gigabit performance with high-power PoE to support bandwidth-intensive applications, wireless access points, and IoT devices at scale.
NPU
Broadcom Trident3™-X5
Switch Capacity
1560 Gbps
Ports
48x RJ45 10 M/100 M/1 G/2.5 G/5G/10 G 802.3bt (up to 90W) PoE, 4x 25 G SFP28, 2x 100 G QSFP28
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If you're comparing PowerSwitch E3248PXE-ON vs PowerSwitch E3248P-ON — Choose this if you need multi-gigabit performance and high-power PoE at the network edge.
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Upgrading from Dell N-Series to the E3248PXE-ON
If you are currently running legacy Dell N-Series switches like the N3048P, N4032, or N2048, the PowerSwitch E3248PXE-ON is your direct, future-proof upgrade path. As the N-Series reaches End-of-Life (EOL), the E3248PXE-ON ensures seamless integration while massively upgrading your edge capabilities.
Power over Ethernet
Upgrading from the N3048P? The E3248PXE-ON jumps from standard PoE+ (30W) to 802.3bt Type-4 PoE++ (90W) to power modern IoT devices and WiFi 6/7 access points.
Throughput & Uplinks
Replace legacy 10G uplinks with dual 100GbE QSFP28 ports for bottleneck-free aggregation to your core.
Modern OS
Move away from legacy firmware to Enterprise SONiC Distribution by Dell Technologies for open-source automation.
The Dell PowerSwitch E3248PXE-ON is the direct replacement for the N3048P. It provides the same 48-port form factor with significantly upgraded capabilities: 802.3bt PoE++ (90W per port vs. 30W), multi-gigabit speeds up to 10G per port, and dual 100GbE QSFP28 uplinks. It is the recommended migration path as the N-Series reaches End-of-Life.
The Dell PowerSwitch E3248PXE-ON replaces the N4032 for edge deployments requiring high-power PoE and modern uplink speeds. While the N4032 offered 24x 10GBASE-T ports, the E3248PXE-ON provides 48x multi-gigabit ports with 802.3bt PoE++ (90W) and dual 100GbE uplinks, delivering a substantial upgrade in both port density and power budget.
The Dell PowerSwitch E3248PXE-ON is the recommended upgrade from the N2048. The N2048 provided 48x 1GbE ports with basic management. The E3248PXE-ON delivers multi-gigabit speeds (up to 10G per port), 802.3bt PoE++ (90W), and 100GbE uplinks — a generational leap in edge networking performance.
No. The E3248PXE-ON uses a different architecture and network operating system (Enterprise SONiC) than the legacy N-Series. However, it is designed to integrate into existing network fabrics as a drop-in replacement at the access layer. You can run both during a phased migration, connecting each to your existing core/distribution switches.
Technical Details
Hardware Specifications
Complete technical specifications for the PowerSwitch E3248PXE-ON.
PERFORMANCE
NPUBroadcom Trident3™-X5
Switch Capacity1560 Gbps
Forwarding Capacity2167 Mpps
CONNECTIVITY
Ports48x RJ45 10 M/100 M/1 G/2.5 G/5G/10 G 802.3bt (up to 90W) PoE, 4x 25 G SFP28, 2x 100 G QSFP28
Buffer Size32 MB
For full specifications, please reference the datasheet (PDF).
Frequently Asked Questions
Dell edge platforms are a portfolio of networking infrastructure and software solutions designed to securely process and analyze data close to its source. They provide the foundation for running applications and workloads outside of a traditional data center, helping you innovate with confidence and drive business forward. Dell's edge networking portfolio includes a range of PowerSwitch edge switches designed for edge environments, offering flexible form factors and connectivity options.
Dell PowerSwitch E-Series enhances workforce productivity with bandwidth-intensive applications and increase automation at the network edge with PoE (Power over Ethernet) and Internet of Things devices.
The primary benefit is to modernize your network edge with switches that are ideal for powering wireless access points, VoIP phones, surveillance cameras, building automation, and IoT devices.
Our PowerSwitch E-Series extend your data center fabric to remote locations using the same reliable network operating system and familiar networking tools to monitor, manage, and deploy at the edge.
To determine compatibility, you should compare the specifications of the new and old models, focusing on port density, speed, power-over-ethernet (PoE) budget, and management features. Dell provides detailed datasheets and migration guides to help you identify the appropriate modern replacement. This ensures a smooth transition while upgrading to the latest networking technology.
Dell edge platforms incorporate a cyber-resilient architecture with features like secure boot, cryptographically signed firmware, data-at-rest encryption, AAA authorization, TACACS+ accounting and RADIUS support for comprehensive secure access support. These multi-layered security measures help secure your infrastructure and data against modern threats.
Dell's edge solutions are designed for scalability through modular hardware and flexible software platforms. Extend your data center fabric to remote locations using the same reliable network operating system and familiar networking tools to monitor, manage and deploy at the edge.
Common use cases include providing reliable connectivity in retail stores for point-of-sale and inventory systems, connecting IoT devices in manufacturing for real-time monitoring, and supporting remote office/branch office (ROBO) operations. Dell's edge platforms are ideal for any scenario that requires robust, secure, and easily managed network infrastructure outside the core data center.
Product Comparison
Compare Ethernet switches
See how the PowerSwitch E3248PXE-ON stacks up against other models in the lineup.
PowerSwitch E3248PXE-ON Current
Broadcom Trident3™-X5
1560 Gbps
48x RJ45 10 M/100 M/1 G/2.5 G/5G/10 G 802.3bt (up to 90W) PoE, 4x 25 G SFP28, 2x 100 G QSFP28
Broadcom Trident3™-X3
576 Gbps
48x RJ45 10/100/1000 Mb 802.3 at (up to 30 W) PoE, 4x 10 G SFP+, 2x 100 G QSFP28
Broadcom Trident3™-X3
528 Gbps
24x 1 G SFP, 4x 10 G SFP+, 2x 100 G QSFP28
Downloads
Documentation & Resources
Access datasheets and technical resources for the PowerSwitch E3248PXE-ON.
Hardware Spec Sheet
Complete hardware specifications, port configurations, and performance data.
Download PDF
Quick Reference Guide
A high-level architecture guide covering best practices for spine-and-leaf deployments.
Download Guide
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