A901-12C-F-D Cisco ASR 901 Router Ethernet 4 Ports

Overview of the Router Appliance 

The A901-12C-F-D Cisco ASR 901 4 Ports Ethernet Router is a high-performance networking solution designed for enterprises and service providers seeking scalable, reliable, and secure network connectivity. Engineered by Cisco, a leading provider in networking technology, this router is part of the ASR 900 series known for its exceptional data throughput, robust hardware, and advanced routing capabilities. The A901-12C-F-D model supports multiple Ethernet ports and comes equipped with features that enable seamless integration into complex network architectures. Ideal for organizations that require consistent network uptime and high-speed data transfer, the Cisco ASR 901 router ensures optimized network performance while maintaining security standards.

Details Information

• Part Number/SKU: A901-12C-F-D
• Product Series: ASR 901
• Type: Router Appliance

Interface and Port Configuration

• Total Ports: 4
• Management Port: Yes
• Network (RJ-45) Ports: 4

Expansion Capabilities

• Number of Slots: 8
• Slot Type: SFP (mini-GBIC)

Networking Technology

• Ethernet Technology: Gigabit Ethernet
• Network Technology:
• 10/100/1000Base-T
• 10/100Base-TX
• VoIP Support: No
• Memory Capacity: 1 GB
• PoE (RJ-45) Port: No
• Redundant Power Supply: Supported

The A901-12C-F-D Cisco ASR 901 4 Ports Ethernet Router

The A901-12C-F-D Cisco ASR 901 4 Ports Ethernet Router is a high-performance, compact, and scalable networking solution designed for enterprise and service provider environments. It is part of the acclaimed Cisco ASR 900 Series, known for delivering consistent performance, reliability, and advanced routing capabilities in a compact form factor. This router is ideal for customers who need to optimize their network infrastructure without compromising on throughput, security, and flexibility.

With four Ethernet ports, the A901-12C-F-D facilitates seamless connectivity across multiple devices and network segments. Its robust architecture ensures low latency, high availability, and efficient traffic management. Enterprises, service providers, and data centers can benefit from the ASR 901 router's ability to handle complex networking tasks while maintaining energy efficiency and compact deployment requirements.

Hardware Features

The A901-12C-F-D router is built on Cisco's proven hardware architecture, featuring four Ethernet interfaces that support high-speed data transfer. The router integrates advanced network processors capable of handling large volumes of traffic with minimal latency. Its chassis is compact, making it suitable for space-constrained environments while offering flexibility for future expansions.

Software and Routing Capabilities

The A901-12C-F-D is powered by Cisco IOS XR software, offering enterprise-grade routing capabilities. It supports a wide range of routing protocols, including OSPF, BGP, and MPLS, enabling complex routing scenarios and multi-site connectivity. Advanced QoS features ensure efficient traffic prioritization for critical applications, while comprehensive security features protect against cyber threats.

Enterprise Branch Connectivity

The A901-12C-F-D router is ideally suited for enterprise branch offices. Its compact size allows it to be deployed in small offices while still providing enterprise-class routing features. With four Ethernet ports, IT administrators can easily segment network traffic, connect multiple devices, and maintain high-speed connectivity across branch locations. Integrated security features also ensure that sensitive data is protected from unauthorized access.

Service Provider Edge Routing

Service providers can leverage the A901-12C-F-D as an edge router for connecting customer networks to the core infrastructure. The router’s robust processing capabilities allow it to manage high traffic volumes efficiently, ensuring minimal packet loss and latency. Additionally, its support for MPLS, VPN, and advanced QoS mechanisms ensures that service level agreements (SLAs) are consistently met, making it ideal for small to medium service providers seeking reliable edge routing solutions.

Data Center Interconnect

For data center deployments, the A901-12C-F-D acts as a reliable interconnect device, linking multiple data center sites or providing aggregation at the access layer. Its high-performance hardware and extensive software features allow data center administrators to optimize bandwidth utilization and ensure resilient network operations. The router’s support for high availability and redundancy features is critical for maintaining uninterrupted services in a mission-critical environment.

Performance and Reliability

The A901-12C-F-D router is engineered for performance. Its network processors are capable of handling multi-gigabit throughput while maintaining low latency, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted connectivity for demanding applications such as video conferencing, cloud computing, and large-scale data transfers. The router’s efficient packet processing engine enables fast and reliable routing decisions, minimizing bottlenecks in complex network topologies.

Redundancy and Fault Tolerance

Reliability is a cornerstone of the ASR 901 series, and the A901-12C-F-D router is no exception. It supports redundant power supplies and key components to minimize downtime and ensure continuous network operation. Advanced failover mechanisms automatically detect hardware or link failures, seamlessly redirecting traffic to maintain uninterrupted services. These features are particularly important for service providers and enterprises that cannot afford network outages.

Security Features

The router integrates robust firewall capabilities that protect against unauthorized access and malicious attacks. It supports stateful inspection, access control lists (ACLs), and advanced threat detection to safeguard both enterprise and service provider networks. By providing granular control over network traffic, administrators can enforce strict security policies without compromising performance.

VPN and Secure Connectivity

For secure remote connectivity, the A901-12C-F-D supports multiple VPN protocols, including IPsec and SSL VPNs. These protocols ensure that data transmitted over public or shared networks remains encrypted and secure. Enterprises with remote workers or multiple branch offices can rely on the router to provide secure site-to-site or client-to-site connections, maintaining data integrity and confidentiality.

Intrusion Prevention and Threat Management

The router includes built-in intrusion prevention system (IPS) capabilities, which actively monitor and block potential threats. This proactive security approach allows IT teams to prevent attacks before they affect network performance or compromise sensitive information. Integration with Cisco’s threat intelligence services ensures that the router stays updated with the latest security signatures and mitigation techniques.

Scalability and Flexibility

The A901-12C-F-D router offers modular interface support, enabling network administrators to adapt the device to evolving business needs. Additional modules or interface cards can be added as traffic demands increase, providing a cost-effective way to scale network capacity without replacing the entire router. This flexibility is particularly valuable for growing enterprises or service providers with dynamic network requirements.

Software Upgrades and Feature Packs

Cisco IOS XR software allows administrators to deploy software upgrades and feature packs without disrupting ongoing operations. This ensures that the router can stay current with new protocols, security enhancements, and performance improvements. Network operators can introduce new services or improve existing ones with minimal downtime, keeping their infrastructure agile and competitive.

Multi-Service Capabilities

The router supports a variety of service types, including voice, video, and data traffic. Its advanced QoS capabilities enable prioritization of latency-sensitive traffic, ensuring high-quality voice calls and video streaming even during periods of heavy network utilization. Enterprises and service providers can deliver consistent service experiences across multiple applications and user groups.

Centralized Network Management

Administrators can manage the A901-12C-F-D router using Cisco’s centralized management tools, which provide visibility into network performance, configuration status, and security events. Centralized management simplifies operations, reduces configuration errors, and enables faster troubleshooting in complex network environments. Features like automated provisioning and template-based configuration further streamline administrative tasks.

Real-Time Monitoring and Analytics

With integrated monitoring and analytics capabilities, the router allows real-time tracking of network performance metrics such as bandwidth utilization, packet loss, and latency. This data can be leveraged to optimize network operations, identify potential issues before they impact users, and plan for future capacity needs. Advanced logging and alerting features ensure that network administrators are immediately notified of anomalies or failures.

Performance Differences

Compared to other models in the ASR 900 Series, the A901-12C-F-D emphasizes a balance between compact design and robust routing capabilities. While higher-end models may offer additional ports or higher throughput, the A901-12C-F-D is optimized for small to medium deployments that require high reliability without excessive complexity. Its performance is sufficient for most enterprise branch and edge scenarios while maintaining low power consumption and cost-efficiency.

Port Density and Connectivity Options

The four-port Ethernet configuration of the A901-12C-F-D makes it ideal for small-scale deployments where connectivity needs are moderate but require stability and redundancy. Other models with higher port densities may be suited for larger sites or data centers, but the A901-12C-F-D strikes an optimal balance for edge routing, branch offices, and service provider aggregation points.

Use Cases

The A901-12C-F-D is commonly deployed in branch office environments where multiple devices need reliable connectivity. Its four Ethernet ports support office computers, VoIP phones, and access points, providing a centralized point for traffic management. Integrated security features protect sensitive branch data, while QoS ensures high-quality communication across voice and video services.

Small to Medium Service Provider Edge Routing

Small and medium service providers can leverage the router to connect multiple customer sites to their core network. Support for MPLS, VPNs, and advanced routing protocols ensures efficient traffic management and reliable service delivery. The router’s performance allows service providers to maintain consistent SLAs without significant investment in larger, more complex hardware.

Remote Office and Mobile Backhaul

For remote offices or mobile network backhaul scenarios, the A901-12C-F-D provides a robust solution. Its compact size and low power requirements make it ideal for locations with limited infrastructure. By supporting high-speed Ethernet connections and advanced routing features, the router ensures reliable data transport even in geographically dispersed environments.

Certifications and Compliance

The A901-12C-F-D Cisco ASR 901 router meets various industry standards, including compliance with IEEE Ethernet standards, environmental regulations, and safety certifications. These certifications ensure interoperability with existing network infrastructure and adherence to best practices for network deployment and management.

Regulatory Compliance

Compliance with regulatory standards such as RoHS, CE, and FCC ensures that the router meets environmental, safety, and electromagnetic interference requirements. This is particularly important for businesses that operate in multiple countries and require devices that conform to international standards.