Router Selection

W

wireless 20 years ago

Hello All,

It's been a few years since I have selected a large router (7500 vintage). This network is a star configuration with hundreds of router (some 1721s) and routers from other vendors as well.

I'll need

1) gig ethernet ( 2 Gig E. ports would be nice.)

2) (1-3) 45MBPS interfaces for Frame relay

3) serial port for a gprs/ppp dial-up modem for secondary admin access.

4) ability to handle lots of video packets (H.264) from hundreds of fractional and T1 frame circuits, across multiple interfaces.

5) redundant processors and power supplies

6) NO end-of-life models...

7) possible need to encrypt all packets on the network between the routers, so support for AES between heterogenous (various models of different vendors) routers would be keen. If I cannot get this, I might have to use a Linux router with cards from Sangoma or other Linux friendly router vendors.

8) VoIP which is not related to the streaming video, might be added later, but it will not be a cisco centric solution, probably some version of SIP.

The end-of-life issues are a bit clouded. I see the 7200 family is at the end of line, but, then 7206VXR does not seem to be at the end of life. I like the 7603, but, I'm not certain I need that much iron, unless there are compelling reasons for a 76xx model. I'd like to have at least 1 slot (2 card ports) empty after I get this router configured.

I'd like input from users of these and similar routers as to what models/cards/price/performance experiences you have and your recommendations.

--curious

Vote

R

rdymek 20 years ago

I've used many higher end routers (7500, 7200, etc), but not many of the newer models (I currently use the 7206VXRs is the newest I've worked on). But if you're looking at purchasing some new equipment, I'd go with the latest hardware, which is what it sounds like you're wanting to do.

If it were me, in my research attempts, I'd probably start by using Cisco's hardware compatibility matrix, combined with the Software ad visor. You'd include all the technologies and physical connections you'd need, and see first off what routers support all that in one box. Then research each of the higher end models you're looking for, and figure out the range that will support your needs (based on pps [processing power], maximum aggregate throughput it can route, etc). Once you discover your range (the lowest model that will work, and the highest model that will work (this would be based on price), then you'll just have to narrow it down at that point.

Once you've got an idea of what you're looking for, then I'd also call Cisco's pre sales support and discuss it with them and get an idea of possible pro's and conns to the various models.

This should help get you started. If I get some time, I may do a bit of this research as well and post it if I find out anything.

Ryan

Vote

B

ben.carbery 20 years ago

Look at the GSR...they'll be supported for quite some time to come. Expensive but robust and scalable. Avoid 7500 - early 90's architecture!

7206VXR with high-end NPE can just do what you want but (from memory) no redundant processors. They are also getting old... Not sure what a 7600 can do.

Vote

S

stephen 20 years ago

resilience should be more about dual routers with 2 separate power supplies etc, and dual WAN links in different ducts to 2 different provider PoPs - dual processor cards and switchover schemes just seem to make the software more delicate in practice.

After all - dual processor cards doesnt protect you against fibre cuts, or a problem at the telco end of your link

lots of Ethernet ports - it is a Cat 6500 with options for more router oriented interfaces :)

other types of WAN port on a 6500 / 7600 are expensive, high speed, or both - unless you use the add on cards which turn it into a more recent clone of 7500 style router.

>

Vote

Router Selection

Join the Discussion

Didn't find your answer?