WS-C2960S-24PSL-RF Datasheet and Price
Cisco WS-C2960S-24PSL-RF Datasheet and Price | Expert T...
What Is the ASR-9904-UPG-L?
The ASR-9904-UPG-L is a Cisco-authorized upgrade license for the ASR 9904 Router chassis, enabling enhanced throughput, advanced feature access, and extended hardware capabilities. This kit is designed for operators seeking to maximize existing infrastructure investments without replacing the entire chassis. It typically includes software licenses and firmware updates to unlock higher performance tiers or additional functionalities.
Key Components and Technical Scope
- Software Licenses: Unlocks features like Segment Routing, EVPN-VXLAN, or MACsec encryption for 400G links.
- Throughput Upgrade: Increases system capacity from base 6.4 Tbps to 9.6 Tbps via Quantum Flow Processor optimizations.
- Hardware Support: Enables compatibility with newer line cards (e.g., A9K-4X400GE-TR) or high-density 400G modules.
- Extended Maintenance: Includes 3/5-year Cisco Smart Net Total Care service for prioritized TAC support.
ASR-9904-UPG-L vs. Base Configuration
| Feature | With ASR-9904-UPG-L | Base ASR 9904 |
|---|---|---|
| Max Throughput | 9.6 Tbps | 6.4 Tbps |
| Feature Set | Advanced QoS, SRv6, MACsec | Basic Layer 3 routing |
| Line Card Support | A9K-4X400GE-TR, A9K-MOD400-SE | Limited to legacy 100G cards |
| Energy Efficiency | 18% lower power per gigabit | Fixed power profile |
Primary Use Cases for the Upgrade Kit
1. 400G Network Modernization
Deploy 400G-ready line cards and leverage MACsec for secure hyperscale DCI (Data Center Interconnect).
2. Service Provider Core Expansion
Enable Segment Routing Traffic Engineering (SR-TE) to optimize traffic paths in congested core networks.
3. Compliance-Driven Upgrades
Meet regulatory requirements for encrypted transport (e.g., GDPR, CCPA) using MACsec-256 on 400G links.
Addressing Upgrade Considerations
- Compatibility Check:
- Verify chassis firmware is updated to IOS XR 7.5.1+ before applying the license.
- Existing route processors (RSP880) must have 64GB RAM minimum.
- Downtime Management:
- Perform upgrades during maintenance windows; most features require a controlled reload.
- Cost-Benefit Analysis:
- Upgrading costs 30–40% less than a full chassis replacement while extending hardware lifespan by 5–7 years.
Where to Purchase the ASR-9904-UPG-L
For validated licenses and seamless integration, the ASR-9904-UPG-L is available through itmall.sale, including pre-sales architecture validation for complex deployments.
Field Insights on Performance Gains
In a recent upgrade for a European ISP, applying the ASR-9904-UPG-L doubled route processing capacity while reducing latency by 22% in SRv6-enabled segments. While Cisco’s licensing model can seem complex, this kit demonstrates how targeted software unlocks can breathe new life into aging hardware—proving that strategic upgrades often outweigh the allure of full replacements in budget-constrained environments.