Implementing IS-IS on Cisco IOS XR Software

Information About Implementing IS-IS on Cisco IOS XR Software

When single-topology support for IPv6 is used, only narrow link metrics, also known as old-style type, length, and value (TLV) arguments, may be employed. During single-topology operation, one shortest path first (SPF) computation for each level is used to compute both IPv4 and IPv6 routes. Using a single SPF is possible because both IPv4 IS-IS and IPv6 IS-IS routing protocols share a common link topology.

Because multitopology is the default behavior in the software, you must explicitly configure IPv6 to use the same topology as IPv4 enable single-topology IPv6. Configure the single-topologycommand in IPv6 router address family configuration submode of the IS-IS router stanza.

Multitopology IPv6 Support

Multitopology IPv6 support on Cisco IOS XR software for IS-IS assumes that multitopology support is required as soon as it detects interfaces configured for both IPv6 and IPv4 within the IS-IS stanza.

Nonstop Forwarding

On Cisco IOS XR software, NSF minimizes the amount of time a network is unavailable to its users following a route processor (RP) failover. The main objective of NSF is to continue forwarding IP packets and perform a graceful restart following an RP failover.

When a router restarts, all routing peers of that device usually detect that the device went down and then came back up. This transition results in what is called a routing flap, which could spread across multiple routing domains. Routing flaps caused by routing restarts create routing instabilities, which are detrimental to the overall network performance. NSF helps to suppress routing flaps in NSF-aware devices, thus reducing network instability.

NSF allows for the forwarding of data packets to continue along known routes while the routing protocol information is being restored following an RP failover. When the NSF feature is configured, peer networking devices do not experience routing flaps. Data traffic is forwarded through intelligent line cards or dual forwarding processors (FPs) while the standby RP assumes control from the failed active RP during a failover. The ability of line cards and FPs to remain up through a failover and to be kept current with the Forwarding Information Base (FIB) on the active RP is key to NSF operation.

When the Cisco IOS XR router running IS-IS routing performs an RP failover, the router must perform two tasks to resynchronize its link-state database with its IS-IS neighbors. First, it must relearn the available IS-IS neighbors on the network without causing a reset of the neighbor relationship. Second, it must reacquire the contents of the link-state database for the network.

The IS-IS NSF feature offers two options when configuring NSF:

IETF NSF

Cisco NSF

If neighbor routers on a network segment are NSF aware, meaning that neighbor routers are running a software version that supports the IETF Internet draft for router restartability, they assist an IETF NSF router that is restarting. With IETF NSF, neighbor routers provide adjacency and link-state information to help rebuild the routing information following a failover.

In Cisco IOS XR software, Cisco NSF checkpoints (stores persistently) all the state necessary to recover from a restart without requiring any special cooperation from neighboring routers. The state is recovered from the neighboring routers, but only using the standard features of the IS-IS routing protocol. This capability makes Cisco NSF suitable for use in networks in which other routers have not used the IETF standard implementation of NSF.

Cisco IOS XR Routing Configuration Guide

RC-88

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Cisco Systems IOS XR manual Multitopology IPv6 Support, Nonstop Forwarding, RC-88

IOS XR specifications

Cisco Systems IOS XR is an advanced operating system designed specifically for high-performance routers and service provider networks. It serves as the backbone for many of Cisco's high-end routing platforms, enabling service providers to manage their networks with increased efficiency, flexibility, and scalability.

One of the main features of IOS XR is its modular architecture. This allows for the independent operation of various components within the OS, facilitating the deployment of new features and updates without affecting the overall stability of the system. This modularity ensures that service providers can implement rapid changes and enhancements while maintaining service continuity.

Another characteristic of IOS XR is its support for 64-bit architecture, which provides enhanced performance and the ability to manage larger amounts of data. This is particularly beneficial for service providers that deal with high traffic volumes and require robust data processing capabilities. The utilization of 64-bit technology also enables the operating system to utilize memory more efficiently, allowing for greater scalability.

IOS XR incorporates advanced technologies such as Distributed System Architecture (DSA) and Multiple Routing Instances (Merging Routes). DSA allows for the distribution of routing processes across multiple hardware resources, maximizing performance and redundancy. Multiple Routing Instances enable operators to create separate logical routing tables for different services, improving isolation and efficiency in managing network traffic.

The operating system also focuses heavily on security, featuring extensive encryption methods and access controls to safeguard network resources. IOS XR supports various authentication protocols, ensuring secure access to routers and switches. In addition, the OS includes comprehensive logging and monitoring capabilities, allowing network administrators to track activities and respond quickly to potential threats.

Another critical aspect of IOS XR is its adherence to the principles of service-oriented architecture (SOA). This approach permits the development of applications and services that can operate independently, fostering innovation and enabling service providers to tailor their offerings based on customer demands.

Ultimately, Cisco IOS XR is a powerful, reliable operating system that meets the complex needs of modern telecommunications networks. With its focus on modularity, performance, security, and scalability, it enables service providers to deliver high-quality, resilient services to their customers while efficiently managing network resources. As the industry continues to evolve, IOS XR remains a vital tool for those aiming to stay competitive in the ever-changing landscape of networking.