The Cisco 3600 is a mid-range dial-up platform that fits between Cisco’s AccessPath and AS5300 products at the high end and the Cisco 2500 series access servers at the low end. Mixed-mode and high density ISDN and asynchronous configurations offer substantial flexibility in dial-up applications. New integrated digital modems (with support for PRI, BRI, CT1 and R2) and new integrted analog modems further enhance the dial access flexibility and scalability of the Cisco 3600.

•ISDN PRI networks

The Cisco 3600 series offers new levels of cost effective ISDN PRI concentration. A Cisco 3640 configured with a Mixed Media LAN/ISDN PRI network module and three 2-port ISDN PRI network modules supports up to 186 (T1) or 240 (E1) B channels. This is a powerful and cost effective way to aggregate many branch offices and telecommuters onto one corporate network.

•ISDN BRI networks

For areas of the world where ISDN BRI services are more widely available or cost effective, the Cisco 3600 series supports many BRI interfaces. Configured with a LAN network module and three 8-port network modules, a Cisco 3640 connects up to 48 B channels. In this way, one system provides high-density BRI interface dial-up support and local LAN and WAN routing connectivity.

•Serial networks

With support for up to 24 synchronous serial interfaces and a mixed media network module, the Cisco 3600 series and its RISC processor are the perfect complement to the Cisco 2500 and 1600 series. The Cisco 3600’s higher performance and modular design are appropriate for locations needing support for multiple 56-kbps links or the ability to change configurations in the future.

•Mixed WAN services

Many corporate environments require support for a mixture of ISDN PRI, ISDN BRI, asynchronous serial, and synchronous serial connections. The Cisco 3640 is ideal for this scenario. It allows migration between interfaces or simultaneous support of several technologies.

•Power branch applications

The Cisco 3620 allows new levels of connectivity and performance for branch offices with its smaller size, lower slot density, and lower cost. A combination of one mixed media network module plus another network module provides new opportunities for branch offices needing more than a fixed-configuration model. The Cisco 3620, for example, provides multiple LAN access server support for asynchronous and ISDN environments, which complements the Cisco 2500 series access servers. Alternatively, a Cisco 3620 adds multiple LAN capabilities to branch bank environments needing to assimilate legacy serial devices, connecting them all to a high-speed Frame Relay network.

•LAN-to-LAN services

Consistent with its other capabilities, the Cisco 3600 series offers midrange LAN-to-LAN connectivity for branch offices needing a flexible modular platform. This is different from other low- to mid-range Cisco routers. The Cisco 4500 and Cisco 4700 are the highest-performance access routers and support a wide array of high-speed LAN and WAN interfaces, including FDDI and ATM. The Cisco 2500 series, with a multitude of fixed configurations, offers cost effective branch office solutions including integrated routers and hubs, single and dual LAN routers, and multiple serial routers.

Network Module Options for the Cisco 3600 Series

The Cisco 3640 and Cisco 3620 routers are 4- and 2-slot modular access routers, respectively, whose LAN and WAN connections are configured by means of interchangeable network modules and WAN interface cards.

The following network modules are available for the Cisco 3640 and Cisco 3620 routers:

•

•

•

•

Single-Port High-Speed Serial Interface (HSSI)

ATM 25 Mbps Network Module

ATM OC3 155Mbps Network Module

6-, 12-, 18-, 24- and 30-digital modem network modules

—LAN with modular WAN (WAN Interface Cards)

2Cisco Product Catalog, February 1999

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Cisco Systems manual Network Module Options for the Cisco 3600 Series, LAN-to-LAN services
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3600 specifications

Cisco Systems 3600 is a high-performance modular router series designed for small to medium-sized enterprises and branch offices. Launched in the late 1990s, it has been widely recognized for its flexibility, scalability, and reliability. The series is part of Cisco's extensive networking portfolio and has played a vital role in delivering various services and applications while enhancing operational efficiency.

One of the main features of the Cisco 3600 series is its modular architecture, allowing organizations to customize the router according to their specific needs. The system supports various interface modules that can accommodate different types of connections, including serial, Ethernet, and DSL, which helps in building versatile network solutions. The modularity not only increases the router’s lifespan by enabling upgrades as technology changes but also supports future expansion as the organization grows.

The Cisco 3600 series routers utilize advanced routing protocols, such as RIP, OSPF, EIGRP, BGP, and IS-IS, to ensure efficient data transmission and optimal network performance. This capability allows the routers to adapt to varying traffic demands and complexities, thereby optimizing bandwidth utilization and reducing latency in communications. With extensive memory options, including Flash and DRAM, the 3600 series can handle robust data processing and support intricate routing environments.

Security is another critical feature of the Cisco 3600 series. It includes support for VPNs, firewalls, and other security protocols, providing a secure environment for data transfer. The implementation of features like Access Control Lists (ACLs) and Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) enhances the overall security posture, making it suitable for organizations looking to protect their sensitive information.

In terms of scalability, Cisco 3600 routers can easily accommodate increased workloads and network growth. This is done through the provision of additional modules and cards to increase capacity and performance. The series can also support multiple WAN connections, enabling seamless integration with various telecommunication services.

Additionally, the Cisco 3600 series is designed for ease of management. Utilizing Cisco's IOS software, network administrators can manage and configure the routers efficiently, thanks to a user-friendly interface and extensive command capabilities. This makes troubleshooting simpler and ensures network availability remains high.

In conclusion, Cisco Systems 3600 series routers combine robust performance, security features, and scalability, making them an invaluable asset for businesses looking to maintain a reliable and efficient networking solution.
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