Starting and Configuring the Router

Observing System Startup and Performing a Basic Configuration

Check conditions prior to system startup:

1.Check that all hardware parts and cables are securely attached to the chassis.

2.Check that a Flash Disk or Flash memory card is installed.

3.Check that the console terminal is turned on.

1.Place the power switch in the on () position. Repeat this action if there is a second power supply.

2.Listen for the fans; they should be operating as soon as power is turned on.

3.During the boot process, observe the system LEDs. The power LED on the I/O controller comes on immediately. Port adapter LEDs go on and off irregularly.

4.Observe the initialization process. When the system boot is complete (a few seconds), the network processing engine begins to initialize the port adapters and I/O controller. The LEDs on each port adapter behave differently (most flash on and off). The ENABLED LED on each port adapter goes on when initialization is completed and the console screen displays a script and system banner.

Note For more information on LEDs, refer to the “LED Description” section in Chapter 1 of the Cisco 7206 Installation and Configuration Guide.

5.When you start up the router for the first time, the system automatically enters the setup command facility, which determines which port adapters are installed and prompts you for configuration information for each one. On the console terminal, after the system displays the system banner and hardware configuration, you will see the following System Configuration Dialog prompt:

---System Configuration Dialog ---

At any point you may enter a questions mark ‘?’ for help.

Use ctrl-c to abort configuration dialog at any prompt.

Default settings are in square brackets ‘[]’.

continue with configuration dialog? [yes]:

6.Enter yes or press Return to enter the initial configuration dialog.

You have the option of proceeding with the setup command facility to configure the interfaces, or exiting from setup and using configuration commands to configure global (system-wide) and interface-specific parameters. You do not have to configure the interfaces immediately; however, you cannot enable the interfaces or connect them to any networks until you have configured them.

Many of the port adapter LEDs do not go on until you have configured the interfaces. To verify correct operation of each interface, complete the first-time startup procedures and configuration, and then refer to the configuration note for each port adapter for LED descriptions and to check the status of the interfaces.

If the system does not complete each of the steps in the startup procedure, refer to the online Cisco 7206 Installation and Configuration Guide, Appendix A, “Troubleshooting the Installation,” for troubleshooting recommendations and procedures.

Note You need to acquire the correct network addresses from your system administrator or consult your network plan to determine correct addresses before you can complete the router configuration.

CISCO7206 specifications

The Cisco 7206 is a versatile and powerful router designed to meet the demands of enterprise networking environments. A member of Cisco's 7200 series, this router is ideal for a range of applications including enterprise edge routing, service provider aggregation, and large branch office connectivity. As network infrastructures continue to grow in complexity, the Cisco 7206 stands out with its robust features, advanced technologies, and reliable performance.

One of the key characteristics of the Cisco 7206 is its modular architecture. This allows for various interface cards to be installed, enabling customization to meet specific networking requirements. The router supports multiple WAN technologies, including T1, E1, and various DSL connections, facilitating versatility and accommodating different connectivity needs. The modularity also extends to its processors and memory, allowing businesses to scale their networking capabilities as they grow.

The Cisco 7206 employs Cisco's proprietary IOS software, providing a wealth of networking features including advanced routing protocols, such as BGP, OSPF, and EIGRP. This ensures robust and reliable data transmission across diverse environments. Quality of Service (QoS) features are also integrated into the router, allowing for traffic prioritization and management of bandwidth, which is especially critical for applications requiring low latency, such as VoIP or video conferencing.

Additionally, security features integrated into the Cisco 7206, including IPsec for VPNs, access control lists (ACLs), and advanced encryption methods, assure that data is transmitted securely across the network. The router also supports Network Address Translation (NAT) and firewall capabilities, offering an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access.

In terms of performance, the Cisco 7206 is equipped with high-speed interfaces and a powerful CPU, enabling it to handle substantial amounts of data traffic efficiently. With support for both IPv4 and IPv6, it indeed meets the needs of modern networks while future-proofing enterprise infrastructures as they transition to newer protocols.

Overall, the Cisco 7206 router combines flexibility, high performance, and advanced features, making it a powerful solution for organizations needing reliable and adaptable networking solutions. With its modular design and extensive compatibility, it provides an effective way for businesses to manage their communications and data traffic.