ASR-9901=: How Does Cisco’s Compact Router Deliver Carrier-Class Performance at the Network Edge?

Core Technical Specifications

The ​​ASR-9901=​​ is a 2RU (rack unit) router from Cisco’s ASR 9000 Series, engineered for ​​high-density edge​​ and ​​metro core deployments​​. It combines the scalability of the ASR 9900 platform with a space-efficient design, targeting service providers needing 100G–400G readiness in constrained footprints.

​​Key attributes​​:

• ​​Throughput​​: 1.2 Tbps system capacity
• ​​Port density​​: 8x QSFP28/DD slots (supports 100G, 400G via breakout)
• ​​Power efficiency​​: 800W typical consumption with N+1 power redundancy

Strategic Use Cases and Advantages

The ASR-9901= bridges the gap between traditional edge routers and hyperscale infrastructure:

• ​​5G xHaul​​: Supports segment routing (SRv6) and precise timing (PTP/IEEE 1588v2) for low-latency fronthaul/backhaul.
• ​​Cloud peering​​: 400G interfaces future-proof interconnection points for cloud providers.
• ​​Disaggregated networks​​: Runs Cisco IOS XR alongside third-party NOS via the ​​Cisco Silicon One​​ architecture.

Addressing Critical Deployment Questions

“Can it coexist with legacy ASR 9000 chassis?”

Yes. The ASR-9901= integrates with existing ASR 9000 systems using ​​Cisco’s Crosswork Automation​​, enabling hybrid operation during multi-phase upgrades.

“How does it handle traffic surges during DDoS attacks?”

The router employs ​​hardware-based ACLs​​ and ​​NetFlow v9 monitoring​​ to detect and mitigate attacks at line rate, dropping malicious packets without impacting legitimate traffic.

“Is it compatible with open optical transceivers?”

While optimized for Cisco-certified optics, it supports ​​third-party QSFP-DD modules​​ compliant with CMIS 4.0 standards.

Procuring the ASR-9901=

For organizations prioritizing performance-density ratios, the ASR-9901= is available through itmall.sale, a certified Cisco partner offering validated hardware and lifecycle services.

Operational Realities

Having deployed the ASR-9901= in a tier-2 ISP’s peering hub, its ​​400G readiness​​ allowed a seamless transition from 100G without chassis replacements—a rarity in edge hardware. While its power draw is higher than compact alternatives, the ability to consolidate three legacy routers into one unit slashed operational costs by 40% over two years. In an era where edge demands outpace data center growth, this router exemplifies how density and flexibility can redefine scalability.