Chapter 4 Observing System Startup and Performing a Basic Configuration

Configuring a Cisco 7200 VXR Router

You have the option of proceeding with the setup 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, proceed to Chapter 5, “Troubleshooting the Installation” for troubleshooting recommendations and procedures.

Configuring a Cisco 7200 VXR Router

Before configuring the router, determine whether or not you want to use a management tool such as Cisco Security Device Manager.

Cisco Security Device Manager (SDM), version 1.1, is an optional Java-based device-management tool that allows you to configure LAN interfaces, routing, Network Address Translation (NAT), firewalls, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), and other features without knowledge of the Cisco command-line interface (CLI). You can configure features such as Access Control Lists (ACLs), routing protocols, and other options using SDMs advanced mode.

Note You will need to use CLI commands to configure several features that SDM does not support. SDM does not support the following features: WAN configuration, Gigabit Ethernet (GE) interfaces, AA client, EZ VPN server, QoS, SSHv2, DHCP server configuration options, and usability enhancements.

SDM is preinstalled on your router’s Flash Disk or CompactFlash Disk when it is ordered as part of a VPN bundle or as part of a 7xxx VPN bundle. If your router did not ship with SDM preinstalled, you can download a free copy from the Software Center at Cisco.com at http://www.cisco.com/kobayashi/sw-center/index.shtm. Because SDM uses a GUI, it requires that you access it from a PC using a supported web browser. Go to the Security Device Manager (SDM), Version 1.1 User Note for the 7xxx Routers for more information.

You can configure your Cisco 7200 VXR router using one of the procedures described in the following sections:

Performing a Basic Configuration Using AutoInstall, page 4-4

Performing a Basic Configuration Using the Setup Facility, page 4-4

Configuring Port Adapter Interfaces, page 4-10

Performing a Basic Configuration Using Global Configuration Mode, page 4-14 Follow the procedure that best fits the needs of your network configuration.

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.

Before continuing the configuration process, check the current state of the router by entering the show version command. The show version command displays the release of Cisco IOS software that is available on the router.

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Cisco Systems manual Configuring a Cisco 7200 VXR Router

7200 VXR specifications

The Cisco Systems 7200 VXR Series is a robust and highly scalable modular router designed to meet the demands of service providers and enterprises seeking high-performance solutions for their network infrastructures. Launched as part of the Cisco 7200 series, the VXR (Virtual Extensible Routing) variant enhances capabilities while providing effective support for a wide range of applications, including Internet Protocol (IP) routing, Voice over IP (VoIP), and Virtual Private Network (VPN) configurations.

At the core of the 7200 VXR is its modular design, which enables network administrators to customize the router according to their specific needs. The router supports a variety of interface cards, processing engines, and power supply options, ensuring flexibility for diverse network environments. This modularity facilitates easy upgrades and expansions, making it ideal for growing enterprises and service providers looking to future-proof their networks.

One of the standout features of the Cisco 7200 VXR is its impressive routing performance. It can handle a high level of traffic with low latency, which is critical for bandwidth-intensive applications. The router supports a wide array of routing protocols, including Border Gateway Protocol (BGP), Open Shortest Path First (OSPF), and Integrated Intermediate System-to-Intermediate System (IS-IS), providing versatility for various network topologies.

The 7200 VXR also incorporates advanced features for enhanced security and reliability. With support for IPsec VPNs, it enables secure data transmission across untrusted networks. The router also includes features like Quality of Service (QoS) for prioritizing network traffic, ensuring critical applications receive the bandwidth they require even during peak loads.

In terms of scalability, the Cisco 7200 VXR can support hundreds of thousands of routes and MAC addresses, making it suitable for large metropolitan area networks (MANs) as well as enterprise backbone applications. It also provides the capability to support IPv4 and IPv6 networks, preparing organizations for a transition to next-generation internet protocols.

Additional characteristics of the Cisco 7200 VXR include enhanced manageability through the Cisco IOS software, which offers a comprehensive command-line interface and support for network management protocols. The router is also energy-efficient, with options for redundant power supplies that ensure continuous availability and minimal downtime in mission-critical applications.

Overall, the Cisco Systems 7200 VXR represents a powerful solution that combines performance, scalability, and security, making it an excellent choice for organizations looking to enhance their network capabilities in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.