Cisco NC55 Series Discontinuation Announcement: Implications and Next Steps

In the ever-evolving world of networking technology, change is constant. Cisco Systems, a global leader in networking solutions, has recently announced the discontinuation of its NC55 Series routers. This announcement has significant implications for network operators, service providers, and enterprises that rely on these systems. In this article, we’ll explore the details of this discontinuation, its impact on the industry, and the steps organizations should take moving forward.

Understanding the Cisco NC55 Series

The Cisco Network Convergence System 5500 Series (NC55) has been a cornerstone of high-performance routing for many years. These routers have been widely deployed in service provider networks, data centers, and large enterprise environments due to their scalability, flexibility, and advanced features.

Key features of the NC55 Series include:

• High-density 100GE and 400GE interfaces
• Support for advanced routing protocols
• Carrier-grade reliability and redundancy
• Programmability and automation capabilities
• Integration with Cisco’s software-defined networking solutions

Details of the Discontinuation Announcement

Cisco has officially announced the end-of-sale and end-of-life dates for the NC55 Series routers. Here are the key dates to be aware of:

• End-of-Sale Date: December 31, 2023
• Last Day to Order: December 31, 2023
• End of Software Maintenance Releases: December 31, 2024
• End of Vulnerability/Security Support: December 31, 2026
• End of Support: December 31, 2028

It’s important to note that these dates may vary slightly depending on specific models within the NC55 Series.

Impact on the Industry

The discontinuation of the NC55 Series will have far-reaching effects on the networking industry:

1. Network Upgrades and Migration

Organizations currently using NC55 routers will need to plan for upgrades or migrations to newer platforms. This process can be complex and time-consuming, especially for large-scale deployments.

2. Skill Set Adaptation

Network engineers and administrators familiar with the NC55 Series will need to adapt their skills to work with newer Cisco platforms or alternative solutions from other vendors.

3. Budget Considerations

The need for hardware upgrades and potential retraining of staff may impact IT budgets significantly in the coming years.

4. Market Dynamics

Competitors may see this as an opportunity to gain market share, potentially leading to increased competition and innovation in the high-performance routing space.

Next Steps for Organizations

If your organization is currently using Cisco NC55 Series routers, here are some recommended steps to take:

• Conduct a thorough inventory of all NC55 devices in your network
• Assess the criticality of each device and its role in your infrastructure
• Develop a migration plan, considering Cisco’s recommended replacement options
• Evaluate alternative solutions from Cisco and other vendors
• Plan for potential downtime and service interruptions during the migration process
• Allocate budget for hardware upgrades and staff training
• Consider engaging with Cisco or a certified partner for migration assistance

Cisco’s Recommended Alternatives

Cisco has suggested several alternatives to the NC55 Series, including:

• Cisco 8000 Series Routers
• Cisco ASR 9000 Series Aggregation Services Routers
• Cisco Network Convergence System 5700 Series (NCS 5700)

Each of these platforms offers advanced features and improved performance compared to the NC55 Series. Organizations should carefully evaluate these options based on their specific requirements and future growth projections.

Case Study: Successful Migration

A large European telecommunications provider recently completed a successful migration from NC55 routers to the Cisco 8000 Series. The migration process took approximately 18 months and involved:

• Detailed planning and network analysis
• Phased deployment to minimize service disruptions
• Extensive testing and validation at each stage
• Staff training on the new platform

The result was a 40% increase in network capacity and a 25% reduction in power consumption, demonstrating the potential benefits of upgrading to newer routing platforms.

Conclusion

The discontinuation of the Cisco NC55 Series routers marks the end of an era for many network operators. While this change presents challenges, it also offers opportunities for organizations to modernize their infrastructure and take advantage of the latest advancements in networking technology. By carefully planning and executing their migration strategies, organizations can ensure a smooth transition to newer platforms that will support their networking needs well into the future.

As the industry continues to evolve, staying informed about product lifecycles and planning for inevitable changes will be crucial for maintaining robust and efficient network infrastructures. The discontinuation of the NC55 Series serves as a reminder of the importance of adaptability and forward-thinking in the fast-paced world of networking technology.