HPE Networking CW 2050 Managed Ethernet Switch
The HPE Networking CW 2050 is a fixed-port Layer 2 managed Ethernet switch engineered for modern enterprise and branch office converged access networks. This managed Ethernet switch combines twenty 10/100/1000BASE-T copper ports with four Smart Rate 1/2.5GbE ports and four 1G/2.5G SFP uplink ports, delivering flexible multi-gigabit connectivity in a compact, rack-mountable form factor. Ideal for organizations deploying wireless access points, IP surveillance, and mixed-bandwidth endpoints, the CW 2050 provides enterprise-class switching capacity and centralized management without complexity.
Key Features
- 20 × 10/100/1000BASE-T copper ports for standard gigabit connectivity
- 4 × Smart Rate 1/2.5GbE ports for flexible bandwidth scaling
- 4 × SFP 1G/2.5G uplink ports for high-speed inter-switch and server connections
- Layer 2 managed switching with enterprise-grade network management
- Fixed-port architecture optimized for access layer deployment
- Compact, rack-mountable design for space-efficient data center and branch installations
- Support for converged networks combining voice, video, and data traffic
- Designed for wireless access points, surveillance systems, and IoT endpoints
Technical Specifications
| Specification |
Details |
| Manufacturer |
HPE (Hewlett Packard Enterprise) |
| Part Number |
S6X69A#ABA |
| Product Name |
HPE Networking CW 2050 20p 10/100/1000BASE-T 4p Smart Rate 1/2.5GbE 4p SFP 1G/2.5G Switch |
| Switch Type |
Fixed-Port Layer 2 Managed Ethernet Switch |
| Copper Ports (Standard) |
20 × 10/100/1000BASE-T |
| Copper Ports (Smart Rate) |
4 × 1/2.5GbE |
| Uplink Ports |
4 × SFP 1G/2.5G |
| Total Port Count |
28 ports |
| Management |
Layer 2 Managed with centralized network management |
| Form Factor |
Rack-Mountable |
| Use Case |
Enterprise and branch office converged access networks |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a managed Ethernet switch and why do I need one?
A managed Ethernet switch provides centralized control, monitoring, and configuration of network traffic. Unlike unmanaged switches, managed models like the HPE CW 2050 offer VLAN support, quality of service (QoS), and security features essential for enterprise environments deploying wireless access points, surveillance systems, and mixed-bandwidth devices.
What are Smart Rate 1/2.5GbE ports?
Smart Rate ports automatically negotiate between 1GbE and 2.5GbE speeds, providing flexible bandwidth for devices that support higher speeds while maintaining backward compatibility with standard gigabit equipment. This makes the CW 2050 ideal for future-proofing your network infrastructure.
How many devices can the HPE CW 2050 support?
With 20 standard gigabit ports, 4 Smart Rate 1/2.5GbE ports, and 4 SFP uplink ports, the switch accommodates up to 28 connected devices or uplinks. The exact capacity depends on your network topology, bandwidth requirements, and the types of endpoints (wireless access points, cameras, servers) you're connecting.
Is the HPE Networking CW 2050 suitable for small offices?
Yes. The compact, rack-mountable design and fixed-port architecture make the CW 2050 ideal for branch offices and small enterprise environments. Its converged network capabilities support voice, video, and data traffic, making it a cost-effective solution for organizations requiring managed switching without excessive complexity.
