The Cisco 2900 Router Datasheet is a critical document for anyone involved in network infrastructure. It provides comprehensive technical specifications, performance metrics, and feature descriptions for the Cisco 2900 Series Integrated Services Routers. Understanding this datasheet is fundamental for making informed decisions about network design, deployment, and troubleshooting.
What is a Cisco 2900 Router Datasheet and How is it Used?
A Cisco 2900 Router Datasheet is essentially a detailed technical blueprint for a specific router model or series. Think of it as the instruction manual and spec sheet rolled into one. It's published by Cisco to give network administrators, engineers, and IT managers all the necessary information to understand what a particular router can do, how it performs, and what its limitations are. These documents are invaluable for several key purposes. For instance, when planning a network upgrade or a new deployment, the datasheet helps determine if a Cisco 2900 router has the required throughput for voice, data, and video traffic. It also outlines the types and number of interfaces available, such as Ethernet, serial, or T1/E1, which dictates how the router can connect to other devices and the network. Furthermore, the datasheet details the supported security features, making it possible to assess if the router meets the organization's security policies.
The practical applications of a Cisco 2900 Router Datasheet are numerous. Network engineers rely on it to:
- Compare different Cisco 2900 models to select the best fit for specific needs.
- Understand the router's memory and processing capabilities to anticipate performance.
- Identify supported software features and protocols, such as VPN capabilities or Quality of Service (QoS) configurations.
- Determine the physical dimensions and power requirements for rack space and electrical planning.
Essentially, the datasheet empowers users to make accurate assessments. The importance of thoroughly reviewing the Cisco 2900 Router Datasheet cannot be overstated, as it directly impacts network reliability, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. Neglecting this document can lead to purchasing an undersized or over-provisioned device, causing performance bottlenecks or unnecessary expenses.
To illustrate, consider a typical scenario where an organization needs to expand its branch office connectivity. The IT team would consult the Cisco 2900 Router Datasheet to find a model that supports the required number of concurrent VPN tunnels, has sufficient bandwidth for the expected traffic load, and offers the necessary interface types to connect to the existing network infrastructure. The datasheet might present information in a table like this:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Maximum Throughput | Up to 250 Mbps |
| WAN Interfaces | 2 x Gigabit Ethernet, 1 x SFP |
| Security Features | Firewall, IPsec VPN, IDS/IPS |
This kind of detailed information, readily available in the datasheet, allows for precise planning and avoids guesswork. It's the definitive source of truth for the router's capabilities.
To gain a deeper understanding of the Cisco 2900 Router and its capabilities, please refer to the official Cisco documentation for the 2900 Series Integrated Services Routers.