Cisco C1117-4P Router: All-in-One Cisco 1100 Series ISR for SMB Branch Offices

The Cisco C1117-4P Router is a compact, high-performance Integrated Services Router (ISR) from the Cisco 1100 Series. Designed to streamline network operations in small and medium branch offices, it blends wide-area networking (WAN), robust security, and wired and wireless access on a single, scalable platform. Running Cisco IOS XE Software, this router delivers enterprise-grade capabilities in a footprint ideal for edge deployments, enabling organizations to simplify infrastructure while maintaining stringent security and dependable performance.

• The Cisco C1117-4P consolidates WAN connectivity, security services, and access networking in one device, making it an ideal all-in-one solution for today’s hybrid work environments and distributed offices. With a purpose-built ISR platform, it supports converged services—data, voice, and video—without sacrificing reliability or manageability.
• Powered by Cisco IOS XE Software, the C1117-4P provides a modern, modular operating system that scales with your network. Expect advanced security policies, policy-based routing, and flexible service integration, enabling IT teams to implement consistent configurations across multiple sites.
• 4 PoE-enabled Gigabit Ethernet ports on the C1117-4P empower you to deploy IP phones, cameras, and other PoE devices directly at the edge. This simplifies cabling, reduces the need for separate switches, and supports scalable, future-ready office setups.
• Designed for small and medium branch offices, the C1117-4P delivers enterprise-grade performance in a compact form factor. It handles everyday office workloads, secure remote access, and reliable WAN connectivity while remaining easy to deploy, monitor, and manage.
• Easy deployment and ongoing management are hallmarks of the C1117-4P. The router integrates seamlessly with existing Cisco tools and workflows, allowing IT teams to configure, monitor, and update the device via familiar interfaces and streamlined software updates.

Technical Details of Cisco C1117-4P Router

• Product family: Cisco 1100 Series Integrated Services Router (ISR)
• Software: Cisco IOS XE Software for modern, scalable network operations
• Interfaces: 4 x Gigabit Ethernet ports with PoE support on the 4P model (PoE-enabled edge connectivity for power devices)
• Security features: Built-in security capabilities including firewall, VPN, and policy-driven access control integrated into IOS XE
• Deployment target: Small to medium enterprise branch offices requiring consolidated WAN, security, and access services
• Power and form factor: Compact, energy-efficient ISR platform designed for reliable edge deployment

How to install Cisco C1117-4P Router

Installing the Cisco C1117-4P Router is designed to be straightforward for IT professionals familiar with Cisco devices. Follow these general steps to bring your edge router online, while adhering to your organization’s security and network policies.

• Unbox, inspect, and prepare: verify the contents, inspect for any transit damage, and confirm you have the required power supply, console cable, and any mounting hardware. Ensure you have access to a management workstation with network access to the router’s initial interfaces.
• Physical setup and cabling: place the C1117-4P in a ventilated cabinet or rack, connect the power supply, and attach the WAN link to the appropriate interface. Connect PoE devices, such as IP phones or cameras, to the 4 PoE-enabled Gigabit Ethernet ports. Use the remaining ports for LAN devices as needed.
• Initial access and configuration: connect a computer to a LAN port or use the console port to access the device. Launch the Cisco IOS XE initial configuration workflow or a preferred network management tool. Establish basic settings such as device hostname, interface IPs, and password policies.
• Security and policy setup: define essential security features, including firewall rules, VPN connections (site-to-site or remote access), and access control policies. Apply QoS policies if voice, video, or critical data services require priority handling.
• WAN and routing configuration: configure your WAN interfaces, including any DHCP, static, or PPPoE connections as required by your service provider. Set up routing protocols or static routes to ensure reliable reachability to remote sites and cloud services.
• Wireless considerations (if applicable): configure wireless access options consistent with your deployment—this may involve integrating with an external wireless controller or APs, depending on your network design.
• Software updates and backup: upgrade to the latest IOS XE version supported by the C1117-4P, if needed, and create backup configurations. Regularly monitor for updates to receive security patches and feature enhancements.
• Validation and handover: validate connectivity to the Internet and to any branch resources, test VPN tunnels, and verify that PoE devices power on correctly. Document the final configuration for ongoing maintenance and future changes.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the Cisco C1117-4P Router best used for? The C1117-4P is designed for small and medium branch offices that need an all-in-one solution for WAN connectivity, robust security, and wired/wireless access. It consolidates multiple network services into a single platform, simplifying management while delivering enterprise-level capabilities at the edge.
• Does the C1117-4P have PoE ports? Yes. The model name indicates PoE-enabled ports, allowing you to power IP phones, cameras, or other PoE devices directly from the router’s Ethernet interfaces.
• What software does it run? It runs Cisco IOS XE Software, which provides a modern, modular operating environment with advanced security, policy control, and scalable networking features suitable for branch deployments.
• How is management handled? Management can be performed via CLI and, depending on the IOS XE version, through a web-based GUI or Cisco management tools. Cisco IOS XE supports centralized management workflows, configuration backups, and software updates.
• Is wireless support included? The platform is designed for wired and wireless access in a single solution. Wireless capabilities are typically realized through compatible access points and integration with the router’s security and policy framework, depending on your network design.
• Is the C1117-4P suitable for SD-WAN or cloud connectivity? The Cisco 1100 Series ISR family is designed to support modern network architectures, including secure WAN connectivity and integration with cloud services. For specific SD-WAN features, verify the exact IOS XE version and licensing available for your deployment.