ASR-9910=: Why Is It Critical for Cisco Networks? How Does It Compare to ASR 9900 Series Models?

What Is the ASR-9910=?

The ​​ASR-9910=​​ is a high-performance router chassis in Cisco’s Aggregation Services Router (ASR) 9000 Series, engineered for ​​carrier-grade scalability​​ in service provider and enterprise core networks. It serves as the foundation for deploying terabit-level routing, supporting applications like 5G, IoT, and hyperscale cloud services.

Key Technical Features and Applications

• ​​Hardware Architecture​​: Modular design with ​​14-slot capacity​​, supporting up to 56x 400G ports or 224x 100G ports per system.
• ​​Performance​​: Delivers ​​25.6 Tbps per chassis​​ using Cisco’s nV Edge Technology, optimized for low-latency, high-throughput environments.
• ​​Use Cases​​: Built for ​​core network peering​​, data center interconnect (DCI), and large-scale content distribution.

Addressing Top User Questions

​​Q: Is the ASR-9910= backward-compatible with older ASR 9000 line cards?​​

A: Yes, it supports ​​hybrid deployments​​ with earlier-generation line cards (e.g., ASR 9901/9904), ensuring phased upgrades without operational disruption.

​​Q: How does it differ from the ASR-9922= or ASR-9906= models?​​

A: While all three share Cisco IOS XR Software, the ASR-9910= offers ​​mid-range port density​​—balancing the 9906=’s compact footprint and the 9922=’s maximum scalability (32.4 Tbps).

​​Q: What redundancy mechanisms are included?​​

A: Features ​​N+N power redundancy​​, dual route processors, and hitless software upgrades (ISSU) for ​​99.999% uptime​​ in mission-critical networks.

Strategic Benefits for Network Architects

• ​​Scalability​​: Modular expansion allows incremental capacity increases, reducing upfront costs.
• ​​Energy Efficiency​​: Consumes ​​40% less power per gigabit​​ compared to previous generations, leveraging Cisco’s EnergyWise architecture.
• ​​Automation​​: Integrates with Cisco Crosswork Network Controller for ​​zero-touch provisioning​​ and AI-driven traffic optimization.

For teams prioritizing flexibility in core network design, the ​​ASR-9910= can be sourced here​​.

Final Take

The ASR-9910= isn’t just another router—it’s a ​​future-proof backbone​​ for operators navigating exponential data growth. While the ASR-9922= suits hyper-scale deployments, the 9910= strikes a pragmatic balance between cost, density, and operational agility, making it indispensable for evolving network demands.