Description
Overview of the Cisco A9K-MPA-2X10GE 2 Ports Expansion Module
The Cisco A9K-MPA-2X10GE is a specialized network expansion module that provides two network ports using XFP technology. Specifically designed for Cisco ASR 9000 Series Aggregation Services Routers, this module is a critical component for organizations seeking to bolster their network infrastructure with high-performance 10 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity.
XFP Ports
The two XFP ports on the Cisco A9K-MPA-2X10GE are a standout feature, providing a reliable and efficient means of connectivity. XFP is a standardized form factor for optical transceivers, ensuring compatibility and ease of use. These ports support hot-swapping, allowing for the replacement of modules without disrupting network operations.
Throughput and Bandwidth
The module’s support for 10 Gigabit Ethernet translates to impressive throughput and bandwidth capabilities. This is particularly valuable for data-intensive applications such as video streaming, large file transfers, and real-time communication, where high-speed connectivity is paramount.
Hot Swapping
The hot-swappable nature of the XFP ports ensures minimal downtime during maintenance or upgrades. This feature is essential for businesses requiring uninterrupted connectivity, as it allows for the replacement of faulty modules or the addition of new ones without shutting down the entire system.
Advantages of Cisco A9K-MPA-2X10GE Expansion ModuleScalability
The modular design of the A9K-MPA-2X10GE enables organizations to scale their network infrastructure according to evolving requirements. As network demands grow, additional modules can be seamlessly integrated, allowing for a dynamic and scalable solution.
Reliability
Cisco’s reputation for reliability extends to the A9K-MPA-2X10GE. With redundant components and hot-swappable ports, the module minimizes the risk of downtime and ensures a stable network environment.
Performance Optimization
The 10 Gigabit Ethernet support ensures that the module meets the performance demands of modern applications. Whether it’s high-speed data transfers or low-latency communication, the A9K-MPA-2X10GE is designed to optimize network performance.
Streamlined Management
Integration with Cisco’s ASR 9000 Series routers provides a unified management interface, simplifying network administration. Administrators can monitor, configure, and the A9K-MPA-2X10GE alongside other network components from a centralized platform.
Deployment ScenariosData Centers
In the context of data centers, the Cisco A9K-MPA-2X10GE plays a pivotal role in supporting high-speed connections between servers and facilitating the rapid exchange of data. Its modular design allows data center administrators to scale their network infrastructure to accommodate growing workloads.
Service Providers
For service providers, the A9K-MPA-2X10GE offers a reliable solution for delivering high-speed internet services to end-users. The module’s compatibility with the ASR 9000 Series routers ensures that it seamlessly integrates into existing service provider networks, enhancing its capacity to meet the increasing demands of subscribers.
Enterprise Networks
Enterprises with substantial networking requirements benefit from the A9K-MPA-2X10GE’s high-performance capabilities. Whether connecting multiple office locations or supporting bandwidth-intensive applications within the organization, this module provides a robust solution for enterprise-level networking.
Scalability and Expansion Option
The A9K-MPA-2X10GE Cisco 2 Ports 10 Gigabit Ethernet Expansion Module provides a high-speed connectivity solution for Cisco ASR 9000 Series Aggregation Services Routers (ASR9K). The module is designed to be highly scalable, with several expansion options available for increasing the number of ports and bandwidth.
Here are some of the key scalability and expansion options for the A9K-MPA-2X10GE module:
- Multiple Modules: The ASR9K platform supports multiple instances of the A9K-MPA-2X10GE module, allowing for easy expansion and scalability as network demands increase. The ASR9K supports up to four A9K-MPA-2X10GE modules per chassis, providing up to eight 10 Gigabit Ethernet ports per chassis.
- Multi-Chassis Link Aggregation (MC-LAG): The A9K-MPA-2X10GE module supports MC-LAG, which allows for the aggregation of multiple chassis into a single logical device. This provides increased bandwidth, redundancy, and scalability, and allows for the creation of large-scale, high-performance networks.
- Virtual PortChannel (vPC): The A9K-MPA-2X10GE module supports vPC, which allows for the creation of a logical port channel between two devices. This provides increased bandwidth, redundancy, and scalability, and allows for the creation of highly available, resilient networks.
- Upgradeability: The A9K-MPA-2X10GE module is upgradeable, allowing for easy expansion and scalability as network demands increase. The module supports field upgrades, which allows for the addition of new ports or higher bandwidth as needed.
Network Connectivity Options
The A9K-MPA-2X10GE Cisco 2 Ports 10 Gigabit Ethernet Expansion Module provides connectivity options for high-speed Ethernet networks. Here are some of the network connectivity options supported by this module:
- 10 Gigabit Ethernet: The module supports two 10 Gigabit Ethernet ports, which provide high-speed connectivity for data center, enterprise, and service provider networks. 10 Gigabit Ethernet offers data rates of 10 Gbps, making it ideal for applications such as high-definition video streaming, cloud computing, and storage area networks (SANs).
- Optical Connections: The module supports optical connections using SFP+ (small form-factor pluggable) transceivers. SFP+ transceivers are available in a variety of types and can be used to connect to multimode or single-mode fiber optic cabling.
- Copper Connections: The module supports copper connections using RJ-45 connectors and SFP+ transceivers. Copper connections offer a cost-effective way to connect to Ethernet networks over shorter distances, typically up to 100 meters.
- VLANs: The module supports virtual LANs (VLANs), which are used to partition a network into smaller logical segments. VLANs provide a way to control network traffic and improve security by isolating traffic between different groups of users.
- Quality of Service (QoS): The module supports QoS, which is a mechanism for prioritizing network traffic based on its importance. QoS can be used to ensure that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth and resources to operate efficiently.
Ports and Connectors
The A9K-MPA-2X10GE Cisco 2 Ports 10 Gigabit Ethernet Expansion Module provides two 10 Gigabit Ethernet ports for Cisco ASR 9000 Series Aggregation Services Routers (ASR9K). The module connects to the router chassis through a single interface, which provides both data and power to the module.
Here are some details about the ports and connectors of the A9K-MPA-2X10GE module:
- Ethernet Ports: The A9K-MPA-2X10GE module provides two 10 Gigabit Ethernet ports, which support both optical and copper interfaces. The ports are labeled “0/0/0/0” and “0/0/0/1” and can be used for a variety of networking applications.
- Connector Types: The A9K-MPA-2X10GE module supports a range of connector types for both optical and copper interfaces. For optical interfaces, the module supports the following connector types: SFP+, SFP-10G-SR, SFP-10G-LR, SFP-10G-ER, SFP-10G-ZR, and XFP. For copper interfaces, the module supports the following connector types: RJ-45 and SFP+ Twinax.
- Interface Slot: The A9K-MPA-2X10GE module connects to the router chassis through a single interface slot, which provides both data and power to the module. The interface slot is labeled “0” and is located on the front of the module.
- LED Indicators: The A9K-MPA-2X10GE module features LED indicators for each Ethernet port, which provide information about link status and activity. The LEDs are located on the front of the module and are labeled LINK and ACT.
General Information of the Cisco A9K-MPA-2x10GE Expansion Module
- Manufacturer: Cisco
- Part Number or SKU# A9K-MPA-2x10GE
- Product Type: Expansion Module
Networking
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Data Link Protocol: 10 Gigabit Ethernet
Expansion / Connectivity
- Interfaces: 2 x network – XFP
- Compatible Slots: 1 x expansion slot
Features
- Flow Control
- Full Duplex Capability
- MPLS Support
- Quality of Service (QoS)
- NetFlow
Compliant Standards
- IEEE 802.1x
- IEEE 802.3ah
- IEEE 802.1ag
- ITU-T G.709
In summary, the Cisco A9K-MPA-2X10GE stands as a testament to Cisco’s commitment to innovation in the networking space. Its dual XFP ports, modular design, and compatibility with the ASR 9000 Series routers make it a versatile and powerful solution for a variety of networking scenarios. From data centers to service providers and enterprise networks, the A9K-MPA-2X10GE offers scalability, reliability, and performance optimization. As organizations continue to navigate the challenges of an increasingly connected world, Cisco’s networking solutions, exemplified by the A9K-MPA-2X10GE, play a crucial role in building robust and efficient infrastructures.