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How compatible are sfp modules between devices. For example, am I likely to be able to plug something like this into a cisco, hp, or other switch with mini gbic ports?

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  • Many telecom vendors has announced that their products are 100% compatible with the original brand, which may be quite confused for the buyers. You should turn to a reliable OEM vendor and make sure its compatibility.
    – Mark Twain
    Jun 1, 2016 at 8:47

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I have been asked the question many times in my technical support role at Advance Technology. If a device requires coded SFP modules (i.e. Cisco / HP) then you need either the OEM module or a compatible version. If the device does not require coded SFP (i.e. Netgear) then you can use any SFP, even a Cisco.

Please see this document regarding the compatibility of SFP's and also a FAQ I put together in an attempt to straighten out some of the confusion on this topic.

http://knowledge.advance.technology/information-why-choose-advance-compatible-transceivers/

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    Actually, on Cisco gear you can disable the need for coded SFPs. Good luck getting support in that config, but you can do it.
    – MDMarra
    Sep 14, 2012 at 21:02
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    n.b On Cisco platforms the command "service unsupported-transceiver" is generally available in NxOS and IOS versions. The command won't autocomplete and, as is implied, it is unsupported but allows the use of 3rd party optics.
    – rnxrx
    Sep 15, 2012 at 0:37
  • It allows it but not all will work.
    – Overmind
    Nov 13, 2020 at 7:12

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