When you’re planning out your network backbone, knowing the difference between Juniper’s EX and QFX series can save you time—and a chunk of your budget. At Link US Online, we’ve been sourcing gear like Juniper and Cisco networking equipment for companies since 2011, and one of the most common questions we get is: Which Juniper switch series should I pick?
Let’s start with the EX Series. These are Juniper’s access and edge switches, designed primarily for enterprise campus networks. If you need reliable, manageable layer 2/3 switches for connecting end-user devices, EX is your friend. They’re great for wiring closets, branch offices, and typical enterprise deployments. You get features like Virtual Chassis (stacking), PoE/PoE+, and manageable power options without overcomplicating the setup.
Now, enter the QFX Series. These are built for high-performance environments—think data centers, core switches, or networks pushing serious throughput. QFX switches often come with higher port densities, lower latency, and deeper buffer sizes. They’re also more likely to support advanced features like EVPN-VXLAN, automation through Juniper’s Apstra, and MACsec encryption. In short, QFX switches are for environments where the network is doing heavy lifting, not just handing off traffic to endpoints.
So what’s the catch? Price and complexity. QFX switches are more expensive and may require more advanced configuration skills. If you’re comparing this to entry-level Cisco networking equipment, it’s like jumping from a Catalyst 1000 to a 9300 or Nexus series—a big leap in capability, and complexity follows.
A quick tip we share with our customers: if you’re building out a campus network, start with EX switches and only consider QFX if you’re running servers, SANs, or high-performance workloads in your core or aggregation layers.
At Link US Online, we don’t just drop a box on your doorstep and disappear. We work with IT teams to choose the right gear based on budget, experience, and future growth. Whether you’re leaning toward Juniper or still comparing with Cisco networking equipment, we’re here to make the decision easier.
Have questions about which Juniper switch is right for you? Call us at (919) 825-0900 and we’ll help you build a network that fits, not just what’s trending.
This post was written by a professional at Link-Us Online. At Link-Us Online, we understand the power of networking and its potential to improve the efficiency of your business. Our team empowers users to discover and acquire high-quality networking hardware from a diverse range of suppliers. We offer a range of industry-leading solutions from top brands such as Cisco, Meraki, HPE, Juniper, APC, Fortinet, and Ubiquiti. Whether you’re a small business owner seeking reliable equipment for your expanding network or someone in the purchasing department working for universities, real estate management companies, or local governments hunting for specific gear, Link-Us Online is your dedicated ally. Contact us if you are looking for computer network equipment suppliers .