GLC-TE - Cisco 1000Base-T SFP Mini-GBIC Transceiver

Cisco GLC-TE — 1000Base-T SFP Mini-GBIC Transceiver

What it is

GLC-TE is a Cisco Gigabit Ethernet SFP transceiver module that provides 1000Base-T connectivity over standard copper Ethernet cabling.
It lets compatible network devices with SFP slots connect to RJ-45 Ethernet networks without needing fiber optics.

Why buyers pick GLC-TE (plain English)

Copper instead of fiber
Uses familiar Cat5e/Cat6 copper cabling for Gigabit Ethernet — no fiber runs or transceivers required.

Mini-GBIC compact design
SFP form factor makes it hot-swappable and flexible for diverse network switches and routers.

Easy uplinks and access links
Ideal when fiber isn’t available but the device has only SFP slots.

Works with standard RJ-45 networks
Connects easily to traditional Ethernet infrastructure.

Cisco-friendly support
Built to work cleanly in Cisco platforms that support 1000Base-T SFP optics.

60-second spec box (GLC-TE)

Form factor
SFP (Small Form-Factor Pluggable)

Speed / protocol
1GbE (1000Base-T)

Media type
Copper Ethernet

Connector type
RJ-45

Max distance
Up to 100 m over Cat5e/Cat6/Cat6a

Use case
Gigabit copper uplinks and network access from SFP ports.

Where it fits (and when to choose something else)

Perfect for:

• Switches/routers with SFP slots needing copper Ethernet

• Short copper runs in wiring closets and offices

• Cost-sensitive Gigabit access links

• Environments without fiber infrastructure

Choose something else if:

• You need fiber runs → 1000Base-SX/LX optics

• You need longer distances → fiber transceivers

• You want multi-gig speeds → 10G SFP+ or 25G optics

TL;DR

GLC-TE is Cisco’s 1000Base-T SFP copper transceiver:
a hot-swappable mini-GBIC that brings Gigabit RJ-45 Ethernet to SFP ports when fiber isn’t needed.