High-performance networking systems have historically been divided into routing or switching classes, with distinct hardware and software. Over time, this distinction has become less pronounced. This convergence has occurred with the evolution of feature-rich switching chips and routing chips that balance traditional Service Provider (SP)-class capabilities with many benefits of switching Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs).
Cisco 8000 Series routers complete this journey. They deliver provider-class routing functionality at unmatched density, performance, and power. This enables Cisco 8000 Series to be deployed into an unprecedented range of routing roles - all supported with a single ASIC architecture and operating system - thus streamlining qualification, deployment, and operations.
The Cisco 8000 Series combines Cisco's revolutionary Cisco Silicon One, IOS XR software, and a set of clean-sheet chassis to deliver a breakthrough in high-performance routers. The 8000 Series comprises a full range of feature-rich, highly scalable, deep-buffered, 400G-optimized routers ranging from 10.8 Tbps in a 1 RU footprint to an industry-leading, rack-mountable modular system capable of ~260 Tbps of full duplex, line rate forwarding in its initial release.
The Cisco 8000 Series includes two distinct router architectures that both utilize the Cisco Silicon One ASIC. The 8800 Series provides the highest bandwidth via modular chassis with a redundant control plane and switch fabric.
The Cisco 8200 Series utilizes Cisco's new Router-on-Chip (RoC) model to deliver full routing functionality with a single ASIC per router. The RoC architecture is distinguished from System-on-Chip (SoC) switches by supporting large forwarding tables, deep buffers, more flexible packet operations, and enhanced programmability. Both the 8201 and 8202 provide 10.8 Tbps of network bandwidth with dramatically lower power than contemporary 10 Tbps systems.