The Cisco Catalyst 3550-12G 12-port, multilayer Gigabit Ethernet switch allows network managers to increase control of their local-area networks (LANs) by combining the power of Cisco IOS Intelligent Network Services with the simplicity of Web-based management.  The Cisco Catalyst 3550-12G switch enables midmarket users to significantly improve network availability, scalability, and security by deploying Cisco IOS Intelligent Network Services in either the network backbone or top-of-the-stack wiring closet aggregation using Category 5 copper cabling.  The Cisco Catalyst 3550-12G switch combines a robust feature set with the simplicity of traditional LAN switching, including multi-layer services like IP routing, advanced quality of service (QoS), IP security as well as the easy-to-use Web-based Cisco Cluster Management Suite.