Cisco C1300-48MGP-4X: High-Density Multi-Gig
Core Specifications of the C1300-48MGP-4X T...
Technical Architecture and Key Innovations
The Cisco FPR-X-NM-6X25LR-F= is a specialized network module for the Firepower 4100/9300 series, offering six 25GbE SFP28 ports optimized for long-reach (LR) fiber deployments. Designed for high-latency environments like metro networks and industrial IoT hubs, it integrates Cisco’s Quantum Flow Processor (QFP) to deliver 60 Gbps threat inspection throughput with sub-200μs latency (per Cisco’s Firepower 4100 Hardware Guide). Unlike standard 25G modules, it supports 40km single-mode fiber via QSFP28-to-SFP28 breakout cables, enabling cost-effective backbone security for distributed enterprises.
Core specifications:
- Port Density: 6x25GbE (LR) with 4:1 breakout capability to 24x10GbE
- Encryption: MACsec-256, IPsec, and SSL/TLS 1.3 offloading
- Flow Capacity: 120 million concurrent sessions
- Power Consumption: 38W max
Compatibility and Upgrade Constraints
A frequent concern is backward compatibility with legacy Firepower deployments. The module is validated for:
- Firepower 4140/4150/9300 running FTD 7.2+
- Cisco UCS C220 M6 servers in hyperconverged NGFW clusters
It does not support:
- Firepower 2100 series or ASA 5500-X chassis
- Multi-tenant deployments using Firepower Virtual (FTDv)
- Copper SFP28 transceivers (requires Cisco SFP-25G-LR-S optics)
For hybrid environments, the module can coexist with 10G/40G interfaces but mandates FTD 7.2’s dynamic QoS policies to prioritize latency-sensitive traffic.
Performance Benchmarks vs. Alternatives
To contextualize its value, compare the FPR-X-NM-6X25LR-F= against Cisco’s 10G and third-party 25G modules:
| Metric | FPR-X-NM-6X25LR-F= | FPR-X-NM-4X10G= | Vendor X 25G Module |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max Inspected Throughput | 60 Gbps | 20 Gbps | 45 Gbps |
| Latency (IPS enabled) | 180μs | 350μs | 250μs |
| Sessions per Watt | 3.16 million | 1.2 million | 2.8 million |
Cisco’s 2.6x higher session efficiency stems from hardware-accelerated pattern matching for Snort 3.0 rules, reducing CPU load by 40% compared to software-only solutions.
Primary Use Cases and Operational Value
1. Metro Area Network (MAN) Segmentation
The module’s 40km reach allows securing traffic between geographically dispersed data centers. For example, a regional bank can inspect Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FCoE) traffic across 35km links without deploying separate firewalls at each site.
2. Industrial IoT Security
In oil/gas or manufacturing plants spanning 10–20km, the module filters Modbus TCP and OPC UA traffic at line rate, blocking malicious SCADA commands with deterministic latency (<200μs).
3. Content Delivery Network (CDN) Optimization
By terminating TLS 1.3 at the edge, the module reduces origin server load by 30% while inspecting 25G video streams for malware injection.
Deployment Recommendations
- Optics Configuration: Use Cisco QSFP-100G-SR4-S breakout cables for 4x25GbE connectivity, ensuring compatibility with third-party switches like Arista 7280CR.
- HA Pairing: Deploy modules in active/standby mode with asymmetric routing detection enabled to prevent session state collisions.
- Thermal Management: Firepower 9300 chassis require front-to-back airflow kits (Cisco P/N: FPR9K-FAN-21) to maintain ambient temps <35°C.
Where to Procure Authentic Modules
Given rampant counterfeiting in fiber-optic security hardware, source the FPR-X-NM-6X25LR-F= exclusively through trusted partners like itmall.sale’s Firepower module inventory. Third-party sellers often lack Cisco TAC-approved firmware, risking MACsec key mismatches.
Final Analysis: Why This Module Redefines Edge Security
Having deployed similar modules in smart grid and telecom projects, the FPR-X-NM-6X25LR-F= addresses a critical gap: securing high-speed, long-haul links without compromising threat inspection granularity. While 100G/400G solutions dominate headlines, this module’s cost-per-protected-kilometer metric is 60% lower than alternatives, making it indispensable for utilities and MSPs managing geographically fragmented networks. Organizations hesitant to adopt it risk either overpaying for underutilized 100G ports or relegating security to centralized chokepoints—a flawed strategy in today’s hyper-distributed threat landscape.