Cisco CRS-1 Router: Upgrade Your Cisco Cat6K with Integrated Switch Solutions

Chapter 2 Converting to an Integrated Switch System

Benefits of the Cisco CRS-1 Multishelf Integrated Switch Solution

Cisco CRS-1 Multishelf Integrated Switch Solution

When the Cisco Catalyst 65xx switches are phased out of the multishelf network, the new 22-port SCGE cards, which are installed in the Cisco CRS-1 Multishelf FCCs, are connected directly to the

Cisco CRS-1 Multishelf LCC RPs. The Cisco CRS-1 RP is a system controller that performs route processing and distributes forwarding tables to the line cards. Although each routing system contains two RPs, only one RP is active at a time. The other RP operates in standby mode if the active RP fails.

To perform the conversion, you need to know how to view and use the STP on the Cisco Catalyst 65xx switch through the console port.

Note The Cisco Catalyst 65xx switches are typically configured so that one is the root of the spanning tree, and the other one is the backup root. All the ports in the root switch are in the forwarding state.

Before the conversion to the 22-port SCGE, if you have two ports from the RP connected to a

Cisco Catalyst 65xx switch, you should see one RP port in forwarding state, and the other RP port in blocked state.

RSTP is used to break the interchassis loops in the Layer 2 control network.

Note Loops can happen only when a port is transitioning from a down state to an up state.

Benefits of the Cisco CRS-1 Multishelf Integrated Switch Solution

The following benefits are described for migrating from a Cisco Catalyst 65xx switch-based control network for the multishelf system to a bundled 22-port SCGE integrated switch solution:

•The Cisco Catalyst switches are configured with Cisco IOS software through a separate command-line interface (CLI). But the integrated 22-port SCGE switches are configured from the Cisco CRS-1 router console by using the Cisco IOS XR software, which is the same operating system used by the Cisco CRS-1 router. The control network is easier to connect and manage.

•There is no longer any need for two dedicated Catalyst switches per multichassis system.

Naming Conventions

The following naming conventions are used in this document:

•The fabric chassis upper cage shelf controller card and its slot are both referred to as SC0.

•The lower cage shelf controller card and slot are referred to as the SC1.

•There are two SC cards in every FCC for the purpose of redundancy.

•The active Cat6K remains active in the Cisco CRS-1 Multishelf control network.

Cisco CRS-1 Carrier Routing System Multishelf System Upgrade and Conversion Guide

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CRS-1 specifications

Cisco Systems' Carrier Routing System (CRS-1) is a cutting-edge, high-capacity router designed to meet the demands of service providers and large enterprises. Introduced in the early 2000s, the CRS-1 represents a significant leap forward in routing technology, offering unparalleled performance, scalability, and reliability.

One of the primary features of the CRS-1 is its exceptional scalability. The system is built on a modular architecture that allows for easy upgrades and expansions. This enables service providers to start with a configuration that suits their immediate needs while having the flexibility to expand as traffic demands grow. The CRS-1 supports a wide range of line cards, enabling data, voice, and video to be managed on a single platform, which simplifies network management and reduces operating costs.

The CRS-1 leverages advanced technologies that enable it to deliver impressive performance. With the ability to handle up to 92 terabits per second of throughput, the router is capable of supporting a vast number of connections, making it well-suited for large-scale service providers and data centers. This level of performance is powered by Cisco’s proprietary silicon technology, which optimizes the packet forwarding process and enhances overall efficiency.

Another key characteristic of the CRS-1 is its strong focus on reliability and redundancy. The system is designed with high availability in mind, ensuring that it can continue to operate seamlessly even in the event of hardware failures. Redundant components, such as power supplies and route processors, allow the CRS-1 to maintain its performance and uptime, a critical requirement for mission-critical network operations.

Additionally, the CRS-1 supports a wide variety of protocols and technologies, including Internet Protocol (IP), Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS), and various service provider features. This versatility makes it a compelling choice for organizations looking to implement advanced networking capabilities, such as Quality of Service (QoS) and traffic engineering.

In summary, the Cisco Systems CRS-1 stands out as a formidable solution for modern routing needs. Its modular design, exceptional scalability, robust performance, reliability, and support for multiple protocols and services make it an ideal choice for service providers and enterprises seeking to future-proof their networks. As the demand for bandwidth continues to surge, the CRS-1 remains a pivotal component in the evolution of networking infrastructure.