Cisco routers connect branch offices, data centers and service provider networks. The right model depends on site size and WAN speed. Most new branch builds use the Catalyst 8000 edge platforms, while small offices often run ISR 1000 models.
This guide compares the Catalyst 8200, 8300, ISR 1000 and ASR 920. In addition, it explains NIM, PIM and SM slots, so you can plan for growth.
Which Cisco routers fit which site
Each family has a clear sweet spot. The ISR 1000 suits small branches, while the Catalyst 8200 suits branches that want SD-WAN with room for modules. Meanwhile, the 8300 handles larger branches, and the ASR 920 serves metro Ethernet access.
Catalyst 8200 edge platforms
The 8200 is an SD-WAN capable branch platform with one NIM and one PIM slot. Two versions trade memory for price.
C8200-1N-4T
The C8200-1N-4T has four 1G WAN ports, 8 GB of DRAM and 16 GB of M.2 storage. It handles up to 1 Gbps of SD-WAN IPsec traffic. So it fits a branch with a fast internet line and a few modules.
C8200L-1N-4T
The C8200L-1N-4T is the lower cost version. It keeps the four 1G WAN ports and both slots. However, it has a 4 core CPU, 4 GB of DRAM and no default M.2 storage. As a result, it tops out at 500 Mbps of SD-WAN IPsec.
Cisco Catalyst 8300 routers for larger branches
The 8300 adds an SM slot for larger service modules, plus more throughput. Both models here are 1RU.
C8300-1N1S-6T
The C8300-1N1S-6T has six 1G ports and one SM, one NIM and one PIM slot. It handles up to 2 Gbps of SD-WAN IPsec at 1400 byte packets. Therefore, it suits a busy branch on a 1G circuit.
C8300-1N1S-4T2X
The C8300-1N1S-4T2X has two 10G and four 1G ports with the same slots. It handles up to 17 Gbps of SD-WAN IPsec at 1400 byte packets. So it is the pick when the WAN link runs at 10G.
NIM, PIM and SM slots on Cisco routers
Slots let a router grow without a full replacement. A NIM slot takes a network interface module, such as extra WAN or voice ports. Meanwhile, a PIM slot takes a pluggable interface module, usually for cellular WAN. Finally, the SM slot on the 8300 takes larger service modules.
Cisco ISR 1000 routers for small branches
The C1111-8P has two GE WAN ports, one RJ-45 and one RJ-45/SFP combo, plus eight GE LAN switch ports. Some of those LAN ports support PoE or PoE+, so it can power a phone or access point. Meanwhile, the C1121-4P has one GE WAN port and four GE LAN ports for very small offices.
ASR 920 for metro Ethernet
The ASR-920-4SZ-A is a 1RU aggregation services router with two GE and four 10GE ports. It is AC powered and has redundant built in power supplies. Because of that, service providers use it for metro Ethernet access and mobile backhaul.
For its 10G ports, pair it with SFP+ optics such as the SFP-10G-LR. See our optics guide for more options.
How to choose Cisco routers for your sites
Encrypted throughput is the best starting point. So match each site to a rating with some room to spare.
- 500 Mbps of SD-WAN IPsec or less: C8200L-1N-4T.
- Up to 1 Gbps: C8200-1N-4T.
- 2 Gbps with a service module slot: C8300-1N1S-6T.
- 10G WAN and up to 17 Gbps: C8300-1N1S-4T2X.
- Small office with local PoE: C1111-8P.
Also remember that IPsec ratings depend on packet size and features, so leave headroom. In addition, count the NIM and PIM modules you need before you settle on a model.
Common mistakes when buying Cisco routers
Small details cause most router ordering problems. So check these before you order.
- Choosing the C8200L when you need M.2 storage, since it has none by default.
- Sizing a router by port speed instead of encrypted throughput.
- Forgetting the NIM or PIM module that the site actually needs.
- Using an ASR 920 as a branch router, when it is built for metro access.
New vs used Cisco routers
New routers make sense for large SD-WAN rollouts with a long support runway. However, used units cut costs for spares, labs and small sites. Silverback tests used gear before it ships, so it arrives ready to configure.
You can weigh both options in our guide to refurbished vs new hardware. For switches and Meraki gear, see our Cisco buyer's guide.
Cisco router part numbers we supply
Silverback supplies every part below, new and used, tested before it ships.
| Part number | Product | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| C8200-1N-4T | Catalyst 8200 edge platform | 4x 1G WAN, 1 NIM and 1 PIM slot, up to 1 Gbps SD-WAN IPsec |
| C8200L-1N-4T | Catalyst 8200L edge platform | 4x 1G WAN, 1 NIM and 1 PIM slot, up to 500 Mbps SD-WAN IPsec |
| C8300-1N1S-6T | Catalyst 8300 1RU router | 6x 1G, SM, NIM and PIM slots, up to 2 Gbps SD-WAN IPsec |
| C8300-1N1S-4T2X | Catalyst 8300 1RU router | 2x 10G and 4x 1G, SM, NIM and PIM slots, up to 17 Gbps SD-WAN IPsec |
| C1111-8P | ISR 1100 8-port router | 2 GE WAN (one SFP combo), 8 GE LAN with some PoE/PoE+ |
| C1121-4P | ISR 1000 4-port router | 1 GE WAN and 4 GE LAN ports |
| ASR-920-4SZ-A | ASR 920 aggregation router (AC) | 1RU, 2 GE and 4x 10GE, redundant built in power |
Send us the part number and get pricing and lead time within one business day. You can also request a quote or browse our inventory. Full specs are on the Catalyst 8300 data sheet and related Cisco pages.
Buyback for retired Cisco routers
When you upgrade branch gear, the old routers still have value. Silverback buys them back, and our certified ITAD service covers data destruction. So your configs and keys get wiped before the gear moves on.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the C8200 and C8200L?
The C8200-1N-4T has 8 GB of DRAM, 16 GB of M.2 storage and up to 1 Gbps of SD-WAN IPsec. The C8200L-1N-4T has 4 GB of DRAM, no default M.2 and up to 500 Mbps.
What is a PIM slot?
A PIM slot takes a pluggable interface module, usually for cellular WAN. Both the Catalyst 8200 and 8300 models here have one.
Which Catalyst 8300 has 10G ports?
The C8300-1N1S-4T2X has two 10G and four 1G ports, with up to 17 Gbps of SD-WAN IPsec.
Is the ASR 920 a branch router?
No. The ASR-920-4SZ-A is an aggregation router built for metro Ethernet access and mobile backhaul.
Does the C1111-8P support PoE?
Yes. Some of its eight GE LAN ports support PoE or PoE+.
Get a quote for Cisco routers
Send your list of routers, modules and optics, from one branch to a full rollout. We reply with pricing and lead time within one business day.
Call (888) 391-5211 or request a quote online. Also tell us whether you want new or used condition.
