The Cisco MDS 9216A Multilayer Fabric Switch brings new capability and investment protection to the fabric switch market. Sharing a consistent architecture with the Cisco MDS 9500 Series, the Cisco MDS 9216A combines multilayer intelligence with a modular chassis, making it an extremely capable and flexible fabric switch. Starting with 16 2-Gbps Fiber Channel ports, the expansion slot on the Cisco MDS 9216A allows for the addition of any current or future Cisco MDS 9000 Family module for up to 64 total ports.