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When choosing the right router for your business, understanding the differences between various models is essential. Cisco’s ISR 4000 series, which includes the ISR4321, ISR4331, ISR4431, and ISR4461, offers a wide range of options, each with its own set of features and performance capabilities.
In this article, we will compare these routers based on key aspects like processing power, scalability, security features, management capabilities, and more to help you choose the right model for your specific business needs.
Introduction: Comparing Cisco ISR Models
Cisco’s ISR 4000 series routers are known for their ability to combine performance, security, and flexibility, making them ideal for businesses of various sizes and industries. However, the models in the ISR 4000 series cater to different needs, so it’s important to understand how each model performs in key areas.
In this comparison, we’ll break down the following features:
- Processing power and bandwidth
- Scalability and expansion options
- Security features
- Management and monitoring tools
- Best use cases for each model
By the end of this article, you will have a clearer understanding of which Cisco ISR router best fits your organization’s needs.
Processing Power and Bandwidth
Cisco ISR4321
The ISR4321 is designed for small businesses or remote offices with light to moderate traffic demands.
- CPU: 1 x ARM-based multi-core processor
- Memory: 4 GB DRAM, 4 GB flash
- Bandwidth: Capable of handling up to 100 Mbps of throughput
Ideal For: Low-to-medium traffic environments where cost-effectiveness is key without sacrificing essential features.
Cisco ISR4331
The ISR4331 offers a higher level of processing power compared to the ISR4321, making it suitable for growing businesses or branch offices with higher data needs.
- CPU: 2 x ARM-based multi-core processors
- Memory: 4 GB DRAM, 4 GB flash
- Bandwidth: Handles up to 300 Mbps of throughput
Ideal For: Medium-sized businesses or branch offices requiring better performance, security, and scalability.
Cisco ISR4431
The ISR4431 is built for larger branch offices or enterprises that need a more robust router to handle substantial network traffic.
- CPU: 2 x ARM-based multi-core processors with higher clock speeds
- Memory: 8 GB DRAM, 8 GB flash
- Bandwidth: Capable of handling up to 1 Gbps of throughput
Ideal For: Large businesses with high data demands, such as those using cloud-based applications, video conferencing, and VoIP.
Cisco ISR4461
The ISR4461 is the most powerful model in the ISR 4000 series, designed for enterprise-scale networks requiring top-tier performance and redundancy.
- CPU: 4 x ARM-based multi-core processors, high-performance architecture
- Memory: 16 GB DRAM, 16 GB flash
- Bandwidth: Supports throughput exceeding 2 Gbps
Ideal For: High-capacity networks, data centers, and large enterprises requiring heavy bandwidth and reliability.
Scalability and Expansion
Cisco ISR4321
- Expansion Slots: 1 x SM-X slot, 2 x NIM slots
- Interfaces: 2 Gigabit Ethernet ports, 1 Gigabit Ethernet WAN port
Cisco ISR4331
- Expansion Slots: 1 x SM-X slot, 2 x NIM slots
- Interfaces: 2 Gigabit Ethernet ports, 1 Gigabit Ethernet WAN port
Cisco ISR4431
- Expansion Slots: 2 x SM-X slots, 3 x NIM slots
- Interfaces: 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports, 1 Gigabit Ethernet WAN port
Cisco ISR4461
- Expansion Slots: 3 x SM-X slots, 4 x NIM slots
- Interfaces: 6 Gigabit Ethernet ports, 2 x 10 Gigabit Ethernet WAN ports
Security Features
Cisco is well-known for its comprehensive security features, and all models in the ISR 4000 series come with integrated security options. However, there are differences in the depth and breadth of security offered.
Cisco ISR4321
- Firewall: Basic stateful firewall capabilities
- VPN: Supports standard IPsec VPN for secure connections
- Security Protocols: Supports basic security protocols like SSL VPN and NAT.
Cisco ISR4331
- Firewall: Advanced firewall features including Zone-Based Policy Firewall (ZBFW)
- VPN: Supports more advanced VPN configurations such as SSL VPN, DMVPN, and IPsec VPN
- Security Protocols: Includes advanced security features like Cisco Advanced Malware Protection (AMP) and Cisco Umbrella integration for cloud security.
Cisco ISR4431
- Firewall: Supports Cisco ASA (Adaptive Security Appliance) features for deeper network inspection
- VPN: Advanced VPN functionality with Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility for remote access
- Security Protocols: Includes Cisco Advanced Threat Defense (ATD) for malware detection, IPS, and more.
Cisco ISR4461
- Firewall: Full integration with Cisco Secure Firewall and Next-Gen firewall capabilities
- VPN: Robust support for SSL VPN, IPsec VPN, and Cisco AnyConnect
- Security Protocols: Includes Cloud Security, Cisco Secure Network Analytics, and Cisco AMP for comprehensive protection.
Management and Monitoring Tools
Cisco ISR4321
- Management Tools: Supported by Cisco Configuration Professional (CCP), CLI, and SNMP.
- Monitoring: Limited monitoring tools, ideal for simpler networks.
Cisco ISR4331
- Management Tools: Supports Cisco DNA Center, Cisco Prime Infrastructure, and Cisco Configuration Professional (CCP).
- Monitoring: More extensive monitoring options available, suitable for medium-sized networks.
Cisco ISR4431
- Management Tools: Full integration with Cisco DNA Center, Cisco Prime Infrastructure, and advanced CLI tools.
- Monitoring: More advanced monitoring and network performance analytics available.
Cisco ISR4461
- Management Tools: Cisco DNA Center, Cisco Prime Infrastructure, CLI, and WebUI support for full management control.
- Monitoring: Extensive network analytics, including NetFlow and SD-WAN management for comprehensive network visibility.
Best Use Cases
Each router in the Cisco ISR 4000 series is designed to meet the needs of different business sizes and requirements.
- Cisco ISR4321: Best for small businesses, remote offices, and branch locations with low traffic demands.
- Cisco ISR4331: Ideal for medium-sized businesses, branch offices, and growing organizations with moderate network demands.
- Cisco ISR4431: Suitable for larger businesses, regional offices, and organizations needing high performance, security, and scalability.
- Cisco ISR4461: Best for large enterprises, data centers, and businesses requiring high availability, performance, and redundancy.
Which Cisco ISR Router is Right for You?
Each router in the Cisco ISR 4000 series brings unique features that cater to different business needs. Here’s a summary of the key takeaways:
- Cisco ISR4321: Cost-effective, ideal for small businesses or remote offices with basic routing and security needs.
- Cisco ISR4331: Provides greater throughput and scalability, making it perfect for growing businesses and medium-sized branch offices.
- Cisco ISR4431: Offers excellent performance and security features, perfect for large businesses or regional offices with high data demands.
- Cisco ISR4461: Designed for large enterprises and data centers, it offers top-tier performance, redundancy, and high capacity for complex networks.
In conclusion, your choice depends on the size of your business, your traffic requirements, and your need for security and scalability. All models offer a high level of security and flexibility, with the ISR4461 being the most powerful and scalable, while the ISR4321 offers a more budget-friendly solution for smaller environments.
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