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Product Overview
The A9K-2T-8P-AIP-TR is a multi-service line card for Cisco’s ASR 9000 Series routers, combining 2x 100G QSFP28 ports and 8x 10G SFP+ ports with integrated Application Infrastructure Platform (AIP) functionality. Designed for service providers and enterprises, it enables on-router application hosting, allowing third-party or custom apps to run directly on the network edge—reducing latency and simplifying architecture for IoT, content caching, or real-time analytics.
Technical Specifications
- Port configuration: 2x 100G ports (configurable as 4x 25G) + 8x 10G ports.
- AIP capabilities: 16-core CPU, 64GB RAM, and 480GB SSD for hosting containerized applications.
- Throughput: 200G line-rate forwarding alongside 10Gbps application processing capacity.
- Software support: Runs Cisco IOS XR 7.x+ with Kubernetes/Docker integration for app orchestration.
- Energy efficiency: Consumes 18% less power than separate edge servers + traditional line cards.
AIP Advantages Over Conventional Routing Modules
The A9K-2T-8P-AIP-TR merges routing and compute into a single platform, addressing gaps in traditional setups:
- Latency reduction: Process IoT sensor data or video streams within the router, bypassing backhaul to centralized servers.
- Simplified operations: Unified management of network and apps via Cisco Crosswork Automation.
- Cost efficiency: Eliminate standalone edge servers, cutting CapEx and rack space.
Key Deployment Scenarios
- 5G edge computing: Host MEC (Multi-access Edge Computing) apps like AR/VR rendering engines.
- Content delivery networks: Cache 4K video streams at regional hubs, reducing upstream bandwidth costs.
- Industrial IoT gateways: Run predictive maintenance algorithms on factory-floor routers.
For licensing or procurement details, visit the “A9K-2T-8P-AIP-TR” product page.
Addressing Critical User Questions
Q: What types of applications can the AIP host?
A: Any containerized app (Docker/Kubernetes), including custom Python/Java tools, SD-WAN controllers, or AI inference engines, provided they align with Cisco’s security policies.
Q: Does application hosting degrade routing performance?
A: No—the dedicated AIP compute resources isolate app processing from routing tasks, ensuring line-rate throughput.
Q: How does term licensing (TR) work for AIP apps?
A: The base TR license covers router functionality; third-party apps may require separate subscriptions from developers or Cisco partners.
Q: Is the card compatible with non-AIP ASR 9000 line cards?
A: Yes, but AIP-hosted apps can only operate on this specific module.
Strategic Implications
The A9K-2T-8P-AIP-TR challenges the notion that routers should merely move packets. In a decade of observing edge architectures, I’ve seen countless teams struggle with bloated server farms and fragmented management. This module’s fusion of 100G routing and edge compute isn’t just innovative—it’s a necessity for operators battling hyperscale cloud providers’ dominance. While skeptics argue about vendor lock-in, the operational simplicity and latency gains here are too significant to ignore. For networks prioritizing agility over tradition, this card isn’t an upgrade—it’s a pivot point.