Aruba 8325-32C 32-Port 100G QSFP28 Network Switch (Front-to-Back Airflow)

Overview

The Aruba JL626A is a 32-port 100G QSFP28 network switch designed to deliver data center-class speed and resilience for enterprise environments. With each port supporting 100 gigabits per second, it provides the bandwidth needed to handle cloud workloads, mobile collaboration, and growing IoT device traffic without requiring additional hardware or re-cabling. Housed in a 1U rack enclosure, this switch supports up to 6.4 Tbps of switching capacity and forwards 1905 million packets per second, eliminating bottlenecks in campus cores, aggregation layers, or server racks.

Running on the Aruba AOS-CX operating system, it combines automation with deep analytics to simplify network management. The embedded Network Analytics Engine uses a time series database to monitor network events and detect anomalies proactively. Management is flexible, with options including CLI, REST APIs, and Aruba NetEdit, allowing seamless integration into existing workflows and DevOps pipelines.

Key features

• Thirty-two QSFP28 ports provide high-density 100G connectivity for demanding network environments.
• Non-blocking performance with 6.4 Tbps switching capacity and 1905 Mpps forwarding rate ensures smooth data flow even under heavy loads.
• AOS-CX software offers automation and advanced analytics to simplify network operations and improve visibility.
• Redundant design with two hot-swappable 650 watt power supplies and six fans supports continuous operation during maintenance.
• Front-to-back airflow optimizes cooling within standard 1U rack space, fitting easily into existing data center setups.
• Supports Layer 2 and Layer 3 features suitable for campus core, aggregation, and data center deployments.
• Flexible management through CLI, REST APIs, and Aruba NetEdit enables integration with various network management tools.
• Operates reliably in a wide temperature range from 32 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit, accommodating typical data center conditions.

Key specs

• Ports: 32 QSFP28 ports supporting 100 Gbps each
• Switching capacity: 6.4 Tbps
• Forwarding rate: 1905 million packets per second (Mpps)
• Power supplies: Two 650 watt hot-swappable units
• Cooling: Six fans with front-to-back airflow
• Form factor: 1U rack-mountable
• Operating temperature: 32 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit
• Operating system: Aruba AOS-CX

Connectivity and compatibility

This switch is designed to consolidate multiple 10G links or support high-density virtualization with its 32 QSFP28 ports, each capable of 100G speeds. It fits well in environments requiring high throughput and low latency, such as campus cores, aggregation layers, and data centers. The Layer 2 and Layer 3 feature set ensures compatibility with a wide range of network architectures and protocols, making it a versatile choice for enterprise networks.

Performance and reliability

With redundant power supplies and fans, the switch maintains operation even during component replacement or maintenance, minimizing downtime. The front-to-back airflow design helps maintain optimal temperatures in typical data center environments. The embedded Network Analytics Engine enhances reliability by continuously monitoring network health and alerting administrators to potential issues before they impact users.

Ideal uses and environments

The Aruba JL626A is well suited to large universities, research labs, and distributed enterprises that require scalable 100G capacity in a compact 1U form factor. It supports environments where high throughput and low latency are critical, such as cloud data centers, virtualization platforms, and campus aggregation points. Its robust design and advanced management features make it a strong choice for network architects focused on scalability, automation, and operational efficiency.