Cisco 3945E Integrated Services Router

The Cisco 3945E Integrated Services Router is a high-performance, feature-rich gateway designed for modern branch offices. As part of the Cisco ISR Generation 2 (ISR G2) family, it integrates routing, security, and services in a compact, scalable platform that supports rich-media collaboration, flexible WAN connectivity, and virtualization-ready workflows. Built on decades of Cisco innovation, the 3945E helps businesses simplify operations, accelerate deployment, and deliver enterprise-grade performance at the network edge.

• Unified security and advanced threat protection: The 3945E delivers comprehensive security features integrated into the router, including firewall capabilities, secure VPN (IPsec), intrusion prevention options, and hardware-accelerated encryption. This combination protects distributed networks, remote workers, and cloud resources without the need for a separate security appliance, reducing latency and simplifying management.
• Optimized for rich-media collaboration and reliable WAN connectivity: Engineered for real-time voice, video, and collaboration traffic, the 3945E supports Quality of Service (QoS), media-aware processing, and reliable WAN services. It ensures clear voice quality, smooth video conferencing, and dependable data access for branch offices, even under fluctuating network conditions.
• Modular, scalable architecture for growth: A flexible design allows you to tailor the router with a range of interface cards and service modules. This modular approach lets you scale bandwidth, add new connectivity options, and upgrade capabilities without replacing the core platform, protecting your investment as your network evolves.
• Industry-leading reliability with simplified management: The ISR G2 platform is built for 24/7 operation in distributed environments. It runs Cisco IOS XE software, which provides robust automation, telemetry, and centralized management features. The result is easier provisioning, faster troubleshooting, and more predictable performance across multiple sites.
• Cost-effective, energy-efficient, and business-ready: The 3945E combines high value with a compact footprint and low power consumption, making it an economical choice for branch deployments. Its reliability, reduced cabling complexity, and streamlined operation translate into lower total cost of ownership and easier ongoing maintenance.

Technical Details of Cisco 3945E Integrated Services Router

• Platform family and architecture: Part of the Cisco 3900 Series Integrated Services Routers, the 3945E is designed to deliver secure services at branch locations with a balance of performance, flexibility, and energy efficiency. The ISR G2 family emphasizes virtualization-ready design and enhanced service delivery for distributed enterprises.
• Performance and capabilities (ISR G2): The 3945E supports integrated services, security features, and scalable networking capabilities appropriate for small to mid-sized sites. With hardware-assisted processing and software-defined features, it enables rapid deployment of secure routing, VPNs, voice/video applications, and data services at the network edge.
• Security features: Built-in firewall, VPN support, IPsec, and optional security services are designed to protect data in transit and safeguard access to cloud and on-prem resources. The platform emphasizes secure remote connectivity for teleworkers and partner networks without compromising performance.
• Interfaces and modular options: The router supports a range of Ethernet, WAN, and serial interfaces through modular slots and network cards. This flexibility allows you to connect to diverse networks, adapt to changing bandwidth needs, and consolidate multiple services (routing, security, voice, video) into a single device.
• Management and operating system: Cisco IOS XE powers the 3945E, providing an intuitive command-line interface and a modern, programmable environment. The software supports automation, centralized management, diagnostics, and updates, helping IT teams accelerate deployment and maintenance across many sites.
• Deployment scenarios: Ideal for distributed enterprises seeking a dependable edge router for branch offices, regional hubs, or small data-center edge deployments. The 3945E enables secure site-to-site and remote-access VPNs, integrates with Cisco collaboration solutions, and aligns with modern SD-WAN practices when combined with appropriate services.

How to install Cisco 3945E Integrated Services Router

Installing the Cisco 3945E involves planning for space, power, cooling, and network integration, followed by a staged configuration that enables core routing, security, and services. Start with a rack-mount setup or stable surface placement in a climate-controlled environment to ensure optimal reliability and longevity. Verify that you have the appropriate interface cards and service modules for your WAN connectivity, Ethernet access, and any specialized needs (such as voice or video support).

• Mount the router securely in a 19-inch rack or place it on a stable cabinet, ensuring adequate clearance for air flow and easy access to console ports and status indicators.
• Connect the power supply, network uplinks, and any required auxiliary power options. Confirm that grounding and surge protection are in place to protect the device and attached peripherals.
• Access the Cisco IOS XE CLI via the console port or through an initial configuration method provided by your network management tools. Establish a basic device identity, including hostname, domain, and administrative credentials.
• Configure essential routing and security features: IP routing protocols, VPN settings, firewall policies, and QoS rules aligned with your traffic profiles. If you plan to enable collaboration features, provision voice and video parameters in accordance with your Cisco collaboration solution.
• Apply licenses as required for advanced security, performance, or service options. Validate connectivity with your core network, test failover and WAN redundancy, and implement monitoring to capture performance and health metrics.
• Document the configuration and create a baseline image for future recovery. Establish change control practices and schedule routine software updates to maintain security and feature parity with evolving requirements.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What is the Cisco 3945E ISR best used for? A: The 3945E ISR is designed for branch offices and small to mid-sized enterprises that need a secure, scalable edge router with integrated services. It consolidates routing, security, and collaboration-ready features in a single platform to simplify deployment and management across distributed sites.
• Q: Can the 3945E handle multimedia traffic and video conferencing? A: Yes. The router is optimized for real-time media, with QoS and media-aware processing that supports high-quality voice and video applications while maintaining reliable data throughput for business-critical services.
• Q: How does the ISR G2 architecture benefit my network? A: ISR G2 emphasizes modularity, virtualization, and easier software management. This enables faster service delivery, scalable growth, and improved efficiency through automation, telemetry, and centralized management, making it well-suited for evolving branch deployments.
• Q: Is the 3945E suitable for secure remote access? A: Absolutely. The integrated security features, including VPN support and firewall capabilities, protect remote workers and partner networks, enabling secure connectivity to corporate resources and cloud services.
• Q: What management tools work with the 3945E? A: The device runs Cisco IOS XE and supports Cisco management ecosystems and automation tooling. This includes GUI-based provisioning where applicable, CLI for advanced configuration, and integration with Cisco network management platforms for monitoring, orchestration, and policy enforcement.