CISCO ASR1000-RP2 SERIES ROUTE PROCESSOR 2 LINE CARD

The CISCO ASR1000-RP2 Series Route Processor 2 is a crucial component in the Cisco ASR 1000 Series Aggregation Services Routers. It serves as the route processor or the central processing unit (CPU) of the router, managing all control plane functions and enabling high-performance routing, security, and service functions.

Key Features:

1. Core Functionality:

   • Central Control: The RP2 handles the routing information, network management, and system operations of the ASR 1000 Series Routers. It processes routing protocols, handles network management functions, and supports control plane features such as BGP, OSPF, and other dynamic routing protocols.
   • Line Card Management: It manages the operations of the line cards and interfaces, enabling data packets to be processed efficiently and routed to their destinations.

2. Performance:

   • High-Performance Processing: The RP2 is designed to support high throughput and large-scale routing operations, making it suitable for service providers and large enterprise networks.
   • Scalability: It offers scalable performance to meet the growing needs of modern networks, including support for thousands of interfaces and high-speed data processing.

3. Redundancy and Reliability:

   • Dual RP Configuration: The Cisco ASR 1000 Series supports redundant RP configurations, where two RP2 modules can be installed in a single chassis. If the primary RP fails, the secondary RP takes over, ensuring continuous operation and high availability.
   • Failover Capabilities: With support for Stateful Switchover (SSO) and Nonstop Forwarding (NSF), the RP2 ensures that network services remain uninterrupted during a failover event.

4. Memory and Storage:

   • Increased Memory Capacity: The RP2 features enhanced memory capacity compared to its predecessors, allowing it to handle larger routing tables and more complex routing policies.
   • Flash Storage: It includes onboard flash storage for storing the operating system, configuration files, and other critical data, with provisions for upgrades to increase storage capacity as needed.

5. Interface Support:

   • Flexible Interface Support: The RP2 works with various interface cards in the ASR 1000 Series, providing support for different types of network connections, including Ethernet, WAN, and others, at various speeds.
   • Advanced QoS and Security Features: The RP2 enables advanced Quality of Service (QoS) and security functions, including firewall services, VPN termination, and traffic shaping, essential for managing service provider and enterprise networks.

6. Software Support:

   • Cisco IOS XE Software: The RP2 runs Cisco's IOS XE operating system, which is a modular and extensible OS that supports a wide range of network services and features, including MPLS, VPNs, security, and traffic management.

7. Power and Cooling:

   • Efficient Power Usage: The RP2 is designed for energy efficiency, minimizing power consumption while delivering high performance.
   • Cooling Requirements: The RP2 is designed to operate within the cooling infrastructure of the ASR 1000 chassis, typically utilizing the chassis fans to maintain optimal temperatures.

Applications:

• Service Provider Networks: The RP2 is ideal for service providers who need to support large-scale routing, high availability, and advanced network services across their networks.
• Enterprise Networks: Large enterprises that require reliable, high-performance routing for their internal networks, as well as secure, high-speed connectivity to external networks, will benefit from the RP2's capabilities.
• Data Centers: The RP2 is well-suited for data center environments where high throughput, low latency, and robust routing capabilities are essential.

Considerations:

• Compatibility: Ensure that the RP2 is compatible with your specific Cisco ASR 1000 Series router model and that your network environment can fully leverage the advanced features offered by the RP2.
• Redundancy Planning: For critical applications, consider deploying a redundant RP2 configuration to maximize network uptime and reliability.
• Software Licensing: Ensure that you have the appropriate Cisco IOS XE software licenses to enable the features and services required for your network.

The CISCO ASR1000-RP2 Series Route Processor 2 Line Card is a powerful and versatile component designed to meet the demanding needs of modern networks, providing high performance, scalability, and reliability for both service providers and large enterprises.