Dell on Monday introduced a new series of high-performance PowerConnect switches with new security capabilities and enterprise-class management features.

The Dell PowerConnect 3400 series of stackable Fast Ethernet switches consists of the 24-port PowerConnect 3424 and 3424P and the 48-port PowerConnect 3448 and 3448P.

"The PowerConnect 3400 series is a highly versatile family of switches that can deliver Fast Ethernet with security, flexibility, and value," said Larry Hart, senior PowerConnect manager at Dell.  "Dell is driving standards deeper into the enterprise allowing customers to reap the benefits of advanced technology such as Power-over-Ethernet at an affordable price," he said.

The PowerConnect 3400 series is designed for building a wiring closet, enabling small-office desktop connectivity, or for connecting to a GbE backbone, according to Dell.

The PowerConnect 3400 security features include IEEE 802.1x-based edge authentication. Unauthorized access can be prevented by requiring all users to identify themselves to the network with a log-in/password or other authentication device, according to Dell. The new switches also support Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) Version 3, which encrypts network management traffic as it flows between the switch and the host.

The PowerConnect 3424P and the 3448P include Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) features and start at US$999 for the PowerConnect 3424P and $1,299 for the 3448P. The PowerConnect 3424 is priced at $449 and $749 for the 3448. The PowerConnect 3424 and 3448 are available now, and the PowerConnect 3424P and 3448P will be available later this summer.