Cisco ISR 1100 C1111-8P Datasheet: Your Go-To Branch Router
Ever walked into a small branch office and thought, "This place needs solid routing without turning into a data center rack monster"? That's where the Cisco ISR 1100 Series C1111-8P shines. This little beast packs 8 Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports, dual GE WAN interfaces, and optional PoE into a desktop-friendly chassis. With 4 GB of DRAM and Cisco IOS XE powering the show, it's built for today's hybrid work setups—secure WAN, integrated services, and even wireless if you want it. Here's the thing: in a world of bloated gear, the C1111-8P keeps it simple, scalable, and seriously capable.
Key Features That Make It Tick
Let's dive right in. What really stands out about the C1111-8P? It's not just another router; it's a Swiss Army knife for branch connectivity.
First off, port density without the bulk. You've got 8 Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports ready to rock—plug in switches, IP phones, or cameras. Need WAN flexibility? Dual GE WAN ports: one combo RJ-45/SFP for fiber or copper, and another straight RJ-45. Mix and match your ISP links like a pro.
PoE is where it gets fun. Optional support for 4 PoE ports or 2 PoE+ means you can power those Wi-Fi APs or VoIP handsets directly. No extra injectors cluttering your setup. Imagine deploying in a retail store—bam, one box handles routing and powers the POS network.
Under the hood, a multi-core processor chews through traffic with ease. Paired with 4 GB DRAM, it supports Cisco IOS XE's full stack: SD-WAN for intelligent path selection, integrated security like IPSec VPNs and firewalling, and even optional embedded 802.11ac Wave 2 wireless. Throughput? It'll handle 1-2 Gbps aggregate without breaking a sweat on typical branch loads.
Security? Baked in. Cisco Umbrella DNS-layer protection, Encrypted Traffic Analytics (ETA)—these aren't add-ons; they're standard. You'll sleep better knowing threats get squashed at the edge.
And form factor? At roughly 1.65 x 10.80 x 7.85 inches, it fits on a shelf next to the coffee machine. Rack-mountable too if you're feeling fancy.
Full Technical Specifications at a Glance
No fluff—here's the nitty-gritty in tables, just like you'd want for a quick spec check. I've pulled straight from Cisco's docs for accuracy.
Hardware Overview
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | C1111-8P |
| Ports | 8 Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports |
| WAN Ports | 2 (1 Combo RJ-45/SFP + 1 RJ-45) |
| PoE | Optional PoE (4 PoE or 2 PoE+) |
| Memory | 4 GB DRAM |
| Dimensions | 1.65 x 10.80 x 7.85 inches (H x W x D) |
| Processor | Multi-core processor |
Software and Features
| Category | Features |
|---|---|
| Software | Cisco IOS XE |
| Key Features | Integrated security (IPSec VPN, firewall, ETA), WAN connectivity (SD-WAN), optional embedded 802.11ac wireless LAN |
| Use Case | Branch office routing with integrated services |
| End of Sale | Last order date: July 28, 2026 |
These specs scream value. Notice the end-of-sale date? If you're planning refreshes, grab it before it's gone—stock up now.
Real-World Use Cases: Where It Excels
Picture this: a 20-person accounting firm with a satellite office. Internet's spotty, phones drop calls, and security's a headache. Drop in the C1111-8P. Dual WAN aggregates your cable and LTE backup. PoE powers the office Wi-Fi AP and a few cameras. IOS XE's SD-WAN kicks in during peak hours, steering VoIP over the cleanest path. Boom—zero downtime, app performance through the roof.
Or think retail. Small chain store needs to connect POS terminals, inventory scanners, and a guest Wi-Fi. The 8 GE LAN ports handle it all. Add PoE for the AP, and you've got secure guest isolation via Cisco's SASE features. No IT guy needed on-site.
What about managed service providers (MSPs)? This router's a dream for multi-tenant branches. Template it via DNA Center, push zero-touch provisioning, and monitor via vManage. Scales from one site to hundreds without custom hacks.
Here's my take: if your branches are under 50 users, forget enterprise behemoths. The C1111-8P nails the sweet spot—cost-effective, future-proof, and dead simple to deploy.
Why It Beats the Competition
Competitors like the Juniper SRX300 or HPE Aruba 9004? Solid, but let's be real. Cisco's ecosystem wins. IOS XE means seamless integration with Meraki, Catalyst, or SecureX. Want to layer on ThousandEyes for visibility? One click.
PoE options are more flexible here—no skimping. And that SFP WAN port? Future-proofs for 10G if you upgrade. Others lock you into proprietary modules.
Throughput-wise, it punches above its weight. Real-world tests show 1.5 Gbps IMIX—plenty for branches. Plus, Cisco's support? Gold standard. MTTR is minutes, not days.
The edge? Longevity. Even with EOS in 2026, support runs years beyond. Competitors announce EOS and ghost you.
Wrapping It Up: Time to Upgrade?
The Cisco ISR 1100 C1111-8P isn't revolutionary—it's reliably excellent. For branches craving Gigabit speeds, PoE smarts, and security without complexity, it's tough to beat. Don't wait for that WAN outage to bite.
Ready to spec it out? Head to Cisco's ISR 1000 page for the full datasheet. Chat with a Cisco partner today—mention the C1111-8P and lock in your quote before July 2026. Your network will thank you.
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