ASR-920-24SZ-M= Overview in Cisco’s Edge Portfolio

The ​​Cisco ASR-920-24SZ-M=​​ is a ​​24-port, modular aggregation router​​ designed for ​​high-density metro Ethernet and mobile backhaul​​ deployments. Part of the ASR 920 Series, this model emphasizes ​​scalability​​ and ​​service flexibility​​, catering to service providers needing to consolidate traffic from cell towers, business sites, or IoT hubs.

Hardware Design and Interface Capabilities

The “24SZ” designation indicates ​​24x SFP/SFP+ ports​​ (1G/10G), while the “M” suffix likely denotes ​​modular uplink support​​ (e.g., optional 40G/100G QSFP28 slots). Key specifications include:

• ​​Layer 2/Layer 3 features​​: MPLS, QoS, and BGP/OSPF routing.
• ​​Sub-75W power draw​​: Optimized for energy-sensitive edge deployments.
• ​​Extended operating range​​: Functions in -40°C to 65°C environments.

This router is engineered for ​​carrier-class reliability​​, with hitless software upgrades and redundant power options.

Core Use Cases for the ASR-920-24SZ-M=

The router excels in scenarios requiring ​​high port density and low latency​​, such as:

• ​​5G midhaul/fronthaul​​: Aggregating CPRI/eCPRI streams from small cells with <1ms jitter.
• ​​Multi-tenant business access​​: Delivering E-Line/E-Tree services to enterprises via VLAN segmentation.
• ​​Smart grid communications​​: Backhauling SCADA traffic from substations with hardware-based encryption.

For example, a regional ISP could deploy this model to unify DSLAM, LTE macrocell, and enterprise traffic onto a single fiber backbone.

ASR-920-24SZ-M= vs. Other ASR 920 Models

Compared to the ASR-920-12CZ-A= (12 ports), the 24SZ-M= offers:

• ​​Double the port density​​: Ideal for cell tower collocation or high-site aggregation.
• ​​Modular uplink flexibility​​: Future-proofing with 100G-ready interfaces.
• ​​Enhanced buffering​​: Prioritizes bursty traffic (e.g., video streaming) without packet drops.

This makes it a ​​long-term investment​​ for operators anticipating traffic growth.

Sourcing Genuine ASR-920-24SZ-M= Hardware

Authentic ASR-920-24SZ-M= routers and compatible modules (e.g., 10G SFP+ optics) are available exclusively through itmall.sale’s Cisco-authorized store. This ensures compliance with Cisco’s software compatibility matrix and access to critical security advisories.

Why Edge Routers Define Operational Success

After witnessing a regional ISP lose 20% of its customers due to edge router failures during peak hours, I’ve learned that hardware choices like the ASR-920-24SZ-M= aren’t just about specs—they’re about trust. In an era where downtime means social media outrage, overengineering the edge isn’t a luxury. It’s the price of staying in business.