Cisco is encouraging users with the aging 12000 Gigabit Switch Router (GSR) routers to upgrade from traditional IOS to IOS XR. They are offering XR Upgrade Solution bundles to facilitate the migration. The bundle includes analysis tools, remote support and discounted training.

IOS XR runs on the ASR, GSR, and CRS service provider class routers. IOS XE is built on Linux and has a modular software design that the monolithic IOS does not have. The modularity, created by separating the control and data planes, allows for service isolation creating the ability to upgrade without downtime. Cisco is playing catch-up to Juniper whose network operating system, Junos, has had this modular capability for years.

A user looking to replace an older non-XR model should consider options since an upgrade would require an IOS migration. Cisco ASR aggregation routers and even 7600 series edge routers are possibilities both of which require an IOS migration. Juniper’s M series service provider routers and MX Ethernet services routing platform are serious alternatives and have the advantage of a single OS architecture and code train.

In calculating migration costs users must also consider fair market values of equipment being replaced. Equipment with trade value can lower acquisition cost significantly. In addition, users should address disposal and data erasure compliancy when trading in or selling used Cisco routers. Finally, building a test and development environment is essential for a pain free migration. Short term hardware solutions can be rented at fraction of the purchase price and can be used for test/ dev as well as technology “bake offs”.