The Cisco ISR 4351/K9 is a next-generation integrated services router designed for medium to large-sized branch offices or businesses that require a high-performance, secure, and scalable networking solution. As part of Cisco’s ISR 4000 Series, the ISR 4351/K9 combines advanced routing, security, voice, video, and application services in a single platform, making it an ideal choice for businesses that need to optimize connectivity, improve security, and future-proof their networks.
Key Features and Benefits:
1. High-Performance Routing:
- The ISR 4351/K9 supports up to 2 Gbps throughput, delivering high-speed routing for data-heavy applications, such as cloud access, video conferencing, and real-time communications.
- It features Gigabit Ethernet ports for fast and reliable connectivity, ensuring seamless performance across distributed networks.
2. Advanced Security:
- The router includes robust security features to safeguard the network, including:
- Next-generation firewall (NGFW)
- Intrusion Prevention System (IPS)
- Virtual Private Network (VPN) support for secure remote access
- Advanced malware protection and secure web filtering
- These built-in security capabilities help protect branch office networks from cyber threats and unauthorized access, ensuring that sensitive data is always secure.
3. Modular and Scalable Architecture:
- The ISR 4351 features a modular design, allowing for easy expansion and customization of network capabilities. The router supports service modules and WAN interface cards (WICs), giving businesses the flexibility to scale their network as their requirements grow.
- This modularity also enables businesses to add additional features like wireless services, telephony interfaces, or higher port densities as needed.
4. Comprehensive Service Integration:
- The ISR 4351/K9 integrates multiple services in a single device, including data, voice, video, and security. This integration reduces the need for multiple, separate devices, lowering both costs and complexity.
- With Unified Communications (UC) support, the router enables businesses to seamlessly deliver VoIP, video conferencing, and other collaboration tools, enhancing productivity and communication across branch locations.
5. WAN Optimization and Cloud Integration:
- The router includes WAN optimization to ensure optimal performance for cloud applications, video, and voice traffic across wide-area networks (WANs).
- It supports Software-Defined WAN (SD-WAN), which allows businesses to connect securely and optimize traffic to cloud environments and remote locations. This improves both the reliability and efficiency of cloud-based applications and services.
6. Simplified Management:
- The ISR 4351/K9 supports Cisco DNA Center and Cisco Prime Infrastructure, offering centralized management for the router and entire network. This simplifies tasks like monitoring, configuration, and troubleshooting.
- The router also supports Zero-touch provisioning (ZTP), making it easy to deploy the device in remote locations with minimal manual intervention, which is particularly useful for branch offices without dedicated IT staff.
7. Energy Efficiency:
- The ISR 4351 is designed to be energy-efficient, helping businesses reduce power consumption and operating costs while maintaining high levels of performance.
8. Support for Future Technologies:
- The ISR 4351/K9 is future-proof, supporting emerging technologies like 5G, IoT, and edge computing. This ensures businesses can adopt new technologies without needing to replace their router hardware in the near future.
- It also integrates with cloud-based services and SD-WAN solutions, enabling businesses to connect to cloud environments and support cloud-first strategies with ease.
Use Cases:
- Branch Office Connectivity: The ISR 4351/K9 is ideal for medium to large-sized branch offices that require high-speed, secure network connectivity, and need to support data, voice, video, and cloud applications.
- Unified Communications: The router is well-suited for businesses deploying unified communications, including VoIP, video conferencing, and collaboration tools, providing a reliable platform for communications across multiple locations.
- Remote Worker Connectivity: With VPN support and secure remote access, the ISR 4351/K9 enables businesses to securely connect remote workers or satellite offices to their main network, supporting flexible work environments.
- Cloud Integration: For businesses transitioning to cloud-first architectures, the ISR 4351/K9 provides seamless integration with cloud services, offering reliable and secure access to cloud applications while optimizing WAN performance.
Summary:
The Cisco ISR 4351/K9 is a high-performance integrated services router designed to meet the needs of medium to large-sized branch offices. Offering up to 2 Gbps throughput, advanced security, modular expandability, and cloud integration, the router supports a wide range of business applications, including data, voice, video, and security services. With features like WAN optimization, SD-WAN support, and unified communications, it provides a flexible and scalable networking solution for businesses looking to future-proof their network while simplifying management and reducing costs.
