Description
Cisco ASR1000-ESP20 Embedded Services Processor
Meet the Cisco ASR1000-ESP20 Embedded Services Processor, a 20 Gbps acceleration module built on the innovative Cisco QuantumFlow Processor. Engineered for next-generation forwarding and queuing in silicon, this ESP20 module is designed to unlock scalable, high-performance service delivery at the network edge. By integrating cutting-edge silicon-based processing with Cisco IOS XE software, the ESP20 enables smart traffic management, policy-driven services, and predictable performance for demanding enterprise and service provider environments. Whether you’re optimizing VPN performance, implementing advanced QoS, or delivering secure, policy-driven services at scale, the ESP20 is engineered to elevate your edge routing capabilities.
- 20 Gbps throughput with line-rate forwarding: The ESP20 delivers sustained, hardware-assisted performance at 20 Gbps, ensuring consistent, low-latency forwarding across diverse traffic patterns and service requirements.
- Cisco QuantumFlow Processor architecture: Built on Cisco’s QuantumFlow technology, the ESP20 provides scalable, silicon-based forwarding and queuing to support high-velocity traffic with intelligent path separation and precise service discrimination.
- Hardware-accelerated forwarding and queuing: By handling critical forwarding paths in silicon, the ESP20 reduces CPU load on the main router, enabling more complex services without compromising throughput or latency.
- Advanced service capabilities and policy enforcement: The module supports sophisticated traffic management, QoS, and policy-driven features at the edge, enabling reliable service chaining, lightweight encryption handling, and efficient VPN-like throughput optimization.
- Easy integration with ASR1000 routers: Designed specifically for the Cisco ASR1000 Series, the ESP20 plugs into supported chassis slots, aligning with Cisco’s software and hardware compatibility guidelines for a smooth upgrade or expansion path.
Technical Details of Cisco ASR1000-ESP20 Embedded Services Processor
- Throughput: 20 Gbps maximum forwarding capacity, enabling line-rate processing for edge services and policy enforcement.
- Architecture: Embedded Services Processor powered by Cisco QuantumFlow Processor technology for next-generation forwarding and queuing in silicon.
- Module type: ESP (Embedded Services Processor) designed to augment Cisco ASR1000 Series routers with accelerated services and enhanced traffic handling.
- Software integration: Works in concert with Cisco IOS XE and related software stacks, leveraging QuantumFlow-based acceleration to deliver consistent performance gains.
- Compatibility: Intended for use within the Cisco ASR1000 router family; requires supported chassis, slot availability, and software versions as specified by Cisco’s hardware compatibility guidelines.
How to install Cisco ASR1000-ESP20 Embedded Services Processor
- Verify compatibility: Confirm that your Cisco ASR1000 model, chassis, and current IOS XE/software version support the ESP20 module. Review Cisco’s hardware compatibility list to ensure proper support and slot availability.
- Power down and prepare: Safely power down the router and follow ESD precautions. Remove the chassis cover or access panel as required to reach the service processor slots.
- Insert the ESP20 module: Align the ESP20 module with its designated slot in the router chassis. Carefully insert it to engage the backplane connectors, then secure the module with the appropriate screws or latches as specified by Cisco’s hardware guidelines.
- Reconnect and power up: Reattach any backplane cables or required connectors, reassemble the chassis cover, and power the device back on. Allow the system to complete its POST and hardware initialization sequence.
- Verify installation and health: Use the router’s CLI to verify that the ESP20 module is detected and healthy. Check inventory, module status, and logging to confirm proper recognition, and begin with a basic configuration to enable the new services and policies you plan to deploy.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Cisco ASR1000-ESP20 Embedded Services Processor?
The ESP20 is a dedicated hardware module for Cisco ASR1000 Series routers that delivers 20 Gbps of forwarding throughput. It uses the Cisco QuantumFlow Processor to accelerate forwarding and queuing in silicon, enabling high-performance edge services and scalable policy enforcement without overloading the main processor.
What are the core benefits of the ESP20?
Key advantages include hardware-accelerated forwarding to free up CPU cycles, lower latency for critical traffic, consistent line-rate performance for diverse workloads, and enhanced support for advanced QoS and service chaining. This enables efficient, policy-driven service delivery at the network edge, even under heavy loads.
Is the ESP20 compatible with all ASR1000 models?
The ESP20 is designed for use with Cisco ASR1000 Series routers and requires the appropriate chassis, slot availability, and software version. Always verify compatibility from Cisco’s official documentation or hardware compatibility lists before purchase or installation.
How does the ESP20 affect network security and VPN performance?
By offloading intensive forwarding and queuing tasks to silicon, the ESP20 can improve the performance of security features and VPN-related traffic by preserving CPU resources for encryption and policy processing. This helps maintain high throughput and low latency for secure traffic while preserving appliance-wide performance.
What ongoing maintenance or software updates are needed?
Regular software updates through Cisco IOS XE and related management tools are recommended to take advantage of the latest QuantumFlow enhancements, bug fixes, and security patches. Monitor health and performance dashboards to ensure the ESP20 remains optimized for your evolving traffic patterns.
Can the ESP20 be used in a multistream or high-availability deployment?
Yes, the ESP20 is designed to fit into scalable, HA-ready deployments on supported ASR1000 platforms. When configured in a high-availability environment, plan for proper failover, synchronization of policies, and consistent software versions across redundant units to ensure uninterrupted service delivery.
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