Description
Product Overview for the Cisco HWIC-2T= 2-Ports Expansion Module
The Cisco HWIC-2T= 2-Ports HWIC Serial WAN Expansion Module is a crucial component in Cisco’s networking arsenal, designed to enhance the capabilities of routers by providing additional serial ports for Wide Area Network (WAN) connectivity. In this detailed guide, we will delve into the various aspects of the Cisco HWIC-2T= module, exploring its features, benefits, installation process, and practical applications.
Understanding Cisco HWIC-2T=
The Cisco HWIC-2T= is a High-Speed WAN Interface Card (HWIC) that adds two serial ports to compatible Cisco routers. These serial ports support synchronous and asynchronous communication protocols, making them versatile for various WAN connectivity needs. The module is hot-swappable, allowing for easy installation and removal without disrupting the router’s operation.
Key Features
- Dual Serial Ports: The primary feature of the Cisco HWIC-2T= is the provision of two serial ports, enabling routers to connect to multiple WAN links concurrently. This is particularly beneficial for businesses requiring redundant or load-balanced connectivity.
- Synchronous and Asynchronous Support: The module supports both synchronous and asynchronous communication, accommodating a wide range of applications. Synchronous communication is ideal for real-time data transfer, while asynchronous communication is suitable for tasks like console access.
- Hot-Swappable Design: The hot-swappable design of the Cisco HWIC-2T= allows for seamless installation and removal. This feature ensures minimal downtime during upgrades or replacements.
- Compatibility: The module is designed to be compatible with various Cisco router models, enhancing flexibility for users with different networking requirements.
Practical Applications
The Cisco HWIC-2T= 2-Ports HWIC Serial WAN Expansion Module finds application in a variety of scenarios where enhanced WAN connectivity is essential. Let’s explore some practical use cases.
- Redundant WAN Connectivity: Businesses requiring high availability and resilience in their network connections can leverage the dual serial ports of the HWIC-2T= for redundant WAN links. In the event of a primary link failure, the router seamlessly switches to the secondary link, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity.
- Load Balancing: The module enables load balancing across multiple WAN links, optimizing network performance and preventing bottlenecks. This is particularly beneficial for organizations with high traffic demands, distributing the load efficiently for enhanced user experience.
- Serial Device Connectivity: The synchronous and asynchronous support of the HWIC-2T= makes it suitable for connecting to serial devices, such as modems, console ports, or legacy equipment. This versatility is valuable in environments where diverse communication protocols are utilized.
- Branch Office Connectivity: Remote or branch offices can benefit from the Cisco HWIC-2T= by establishing reliable and secure WAN connections. The module’s compatibility with various Cisco router models makes it adaptable to different network infrastructures.
Benefits of Cisco HWIC-2T=
- Scalability: The module provides a scalable solution for expanding WAN connectivity, allowing organizations to adapt to growing network demands without the need for significant infrastructure overhauls.
- Cost-Effective Expansion: Adding serial ports through the HWIC-2T= module is a cost-effective way to enhance router capabilities. This approach is often more economical than investing in entirely new routers with built-in serial ports.
- Versatility: The synchronous and asynchronous support, coupled with the dual serial ports, adds a layer of versatility to the network infrastructure. This adaptability is crucial for meeting the diverse communication requirements of modern businesses.
- Hot-Swappability: The hot-swappable design ensures minimal disruption during maintenance or upgrades. This feature is especially valuable in environments where continuous network availability is a priority.
Performance and Reliability
The model Cisco 2-Ports High-Speed WAN Interface Card is designed to provide high performance and reliability for connecting a Cisco router to a wide area network (WAN). The card supports data rates of up to 2.048Mbps, which allows for fast and efficient data transfer between the router and the WAN. This ensures that critical business applications and services can run smoothly and without interruption.
The card also supports various WAN protocols such as HDLC, PPP, and Frame Relay, which allows for compatibility with different types of WAN connections. This enables the router to communicate with various types of network devices and service providers.
The HWIC-2T= is designed to operate in demanding network environments, it is built with high-quality components and is rigorously tested to ensure it can perform reliably under a wide range of conditions. The card is also designed to be easy to install and configure, which minimizes downtime and allows for quick deployment.
Interface Provided for Digital Workplace
The model Cisco 2-Ports High-Speed WAN Interface Card provides a reliable and high-speed interface for connecting a Cisco router to a wide area network (WAN) in a digital workplace. The card has two serial ports which can be used to connect to various types of WAN connections such as T1/E1, ISDN, or leased lines.
In a digital workplace, this item can be used to provide connectivity for various types of remote employees, such as telecommuters, road warriors, and branch office employees. With the high-speed and reliable WAN connectivity provided by the model, these employees will be able to access the company’s network resources, such as email, file servers, and databases, from anywhere, at any time.
The card also supports various WAN protocols, such as HDLC, PPP, and Frame Relay, making it possible to connect to different types of WANs, including those used by service providers. This allows for flexibility in choosing a WAN provider that meets the business needs.
Furthermore, the HWIC-2T= is built with robust hardware and software, which makes it able to handle various environmental conditions and withstand different types of stress, such as high temperatures and power fluctuations. Additionally, the card is equipped with advanced security features, such as access control lists (ACLs) and virtual private network (VPN) capabilities, which help to protect the network and the data it carries from unauthorized access and malicious attacks.
General Information about this Cisco HWIC-2T=
- Manufacturer: Cisco
- Part Number or SKU# HWIC-2T=
- Product Name: 2-Port Serial Wan Interface Card
- Product Type: High-Speed Wan Interface Card (HWIC)
Technical Specifications
- Network Type: Wide Area Network (WAN)
- Application/Usage: Specifically designed for Wide Area Network (WAN) applications.
- Interfaces/Ports for WAN Interface Card:
- Number of Ports: 2
- Port Type: Serial WAN
- Port Details: 2 x Serial RS-232 WAN
- Data Transfer Rate: 8 Mbps Gigabit Ethernet
Expansion Module Compatibility
- Compatibility: Designed to be compatible with the following Cisco Integrated Services Routers:
- Cisco 1841
- Cisco 2801
- Cisco 2811
- Cisco 2821
- Cisco 2851
- Cisco 3825
- Cisco 3845
In short, the Cisco HWIC-2T= 2-Ports HWIC Serial WAN Expansion Module is a powerful and versatile addition to Cisco routers, offering enhanced WAN connectivity for a wide range of applications. Its dual serial ports, support for synchronous and asynchronous communication, hot-swappable design, and compatibility with various router models make it a valuable asset for businesses seeking to optimize their network infrastructure.
Whether used for redundant connectivity, load balancing, serial device connectivity, or branch office expansion, the Cisco HWIC-2T= plays a crucial role in creating a resilient and efficient network. With its cost-effective scalability and user-friendly installation process, this expansion module remains a popular choice for network administrators aiming to elevate their routers’ performance and capabilities.
