Choosing the Best Cisco Router in 2024 – 10 Factors to Consider

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If you are looking for a best-suited Cisco router aligning to your requirements, then this one’s for you. Whether you are the IT or procurement manager of a large-scale enterprise or a startup founder, we’ve got you covered.  So, read till the end or you may miss something really important. Let’s begin!

What is a Cisco Router?

Cisco, one of the tech giants, does not need any second introduction. It is known for producing a vast range of secure, reliable, and fast routers, transforming workplace productivity and efficiency.

Moreover, they support advanced features like wireless connectivity and prioritizing important data for smooth operations. They’re crucial for tasks like:

• Video streaming
• Online calls
• Customer data management
• Real-time Financial transactions

As a whole, Cisco routers are a need for every business. Whether you are the founder of a tech-based startup or the IT manager of a large-scale enterprise business, the Cisco router is what you need to maximize your productivity.

10 Factors to Consider Before Opting For Your Next Cisco Router

Analyze Your Networking Needs

Before buying a Cisco router, figure out what your organization needs for its network. Ask yourself the following questions before going to an online or offline marketplace for your purchase:

• How many people will be utilizing it?
• What is your device count?
• How much data will be used?

Though there are other factors, still if you only focus on this sole consideration, you’ll surely make a satisfying purchase.

Your Router Throughput Requirement

Another important aspect is your required router throughput. There are various Cisco router models and series available in the market, holding contrast throughput capabilities.

You need to consider your organization’s current and anticipated data traffic requirements to determine the optimum level of throughput demand. Overlooking this factor could lead to network congestion and performance bottlenecks, disturbing your workplace’s productivity and user experience.

Go for Future Proof Solution

When selecting a Cisco router for your organization, always pay attention to your potential future requirements. That’s why you should prioritize scalability or else you may need to purchase twice. This means you need to opt for a router that can easily grow with your network as it expands and adapts to new technologies. 

Your router should handle increased traffic and incorporate new features without requiring a complete overhaul of your current setup. This includes:

• Support for additional interfaces
• Expansion modules
• Software upgrades

As a result, your network will keep running smoothly and you’ll be able to supercharge your productivity.

Check for the Compatibility

Make sure the router you choose works well with your devices and your internet service provider. It must support the most up-to-date WiFi standards like WiFi 6 or WiFi 6E, as they offer faster speeds. As a result, you can ensure that your devices can connect seamlessly to the router and take advantage of the latest technological advancements for improved performance.

Consider Router Model

Consider whether a standard router or a mesh WiFi system would better suit your needs, especially if you have a larger area to cover. A standard router is sufficient for smaller spaces; however, a mesh WiFi system could offer improved coverage and performance in larger areas by spreading out multiple access points. So, it is better to evaluate your requirements carefully to determine which option would provide the best coverage and performance for your specific situation.

Evaluate Your Required Features

Cisco routers offer a variety of features designed to address your diverse networking needs. From advanced security functionalities to top-tier routing protocols and Quality of Service (QoS) capabilities, the feature set of a router plays a significant role in determining its suitability for specific use cases. 

Hence, you need to make a list of your non-negotiable features. Analyze what is necessary for you to operate and then prioritize features based on it. These may include:

• VPN support for remote connectivity
• IPv6 compatibility for future-proofing
• Integrated threat defense mechanisms

Interface Options

The interfaces available on a Cisco router determine its connectivity capabilities with other network devices and services. Consider factors such as the types and quantity of interfaces required, including:

• Ethernet
• Serial
• WAN interfaces

Moreover, focus on the availability of expansion slots for modular interfaces. Lastly, you should assess the compatibility of interfaces with existing network infrastructure and future scalability needs to ensure seamless integration and optimal performance.

Look Out For Sustainability and Efficiency

This is the era, where sustainability and energy efficiency are not a consideration but a necessity. So, an in-depth evaluation of the power consumption of Cisco routers is essential. Opt for routers that feature energy-efficient designs and power-saving mechanisms without compromising performance.

Moreover, lower power consumption not only reduces operational costs but also contributes to environmental conservation efforts, aligning with modern corporate sustainability initiatives.

Do Strong Vendor Research

Look for reliable Cisco resellers and trusted vendors specializing in networking equipment. Read reviews, check certifications, and compare prices.

Understand Warranty

Make sure you understand the warranty details provided by the vendor. A strong warranty gives you peace of mind, safeguarding you against any faults or issues that may arise with the product. Familiarize yourself with the warranty terms and what they cover to ensure you’re adequately protected against defects and malfunctions.

Also Read: Meraki MX85 Setup: Your Go-to Guide in 2024

Best Cisco Router Models for Enterprise Businesses

If you are the IT or procurement manager of a large-scale enterprise business then, this one’s for you. Explore and opt for the most-suited Cisco router aligned to your needs. Let’s dive in!

Cisco Aggregation Services Router (ASR) 9000 Series

The Cisco ASR 9000 Series routers are carrier-grade platforms designed for service providers and large enterprise networks. They offer high scalability, performance, and reliability for demanding applications such as video streaming, cloud services, and mobile backhaul. Here are the top variants of this series.

Cisco ASR 9922

The Cisco 9922 router is your go-to networking infrastructure, designed to meet the specific requirements of large-scale enterprises. It delivers unparalleled performance, scalability, and reliability, all set to turn the tables around for your business.

Specifications

Cisco ASR 9912

When it comes to the best Cisco router models for enterprises, the Cisco ASR 9912 variant is what you are looking for. It combines exceptional performance with the flavors of scalability, and reliability to not only meet but exceed your expectations. 

Specifications

Cisco 8300 Router Series

The Cisco 8300 router series are versatile platforms designed for secure connectivity and application delivery at the enterprise edge. They offer advanced security features, including threat detection and mitigation, along with high performance and reliability.

Following are the top variants of the 8300 series:

C8300-1N1S-6T and C8300-1N1S-4T2X

These variants of the Cisco 8300 router series have all the capabilities to skyrocket your workplace productivity. Let’s dive into the core specifications of these variants.

Specifications

C8300-2N2S-6T

The Cisco 8300 router series consists of C8300-2N2S-6T and C8300-2N2S-4T2X. They are another good choice for your enterprise business if you find them aligned with what you are looking for.

Specifications

Cisco ISR 4000 Series

The Cisco ISR 4000 Series offers high performance, reliability, and security for enterprise branch offices and remote sites. It features integrated services, including routing, security, WAN optimization, and application acceleration.

Cisco 4221 Router

The first on the list for the Cisco 4000 router series is the Cisco 4221 router variant. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the core specifications of this variant.

Specifications

Cisco 4331 Router

Moving forward, let’s explore the Cisco 4331 router which may be your ideal choice if you are looking for similar specifications. Here you go!

Specifications

Cisco Small Business Router – Which One to Go For?

Cisco RV Series Routers

When we talk about Cisco RV Series routers, they are designed specifically for small businesses and budget-friendly solutions. Yet they are quite reliable for secure internet connectivity. Moreover, they also fall under the category of Cisco VPN router with a bunch of features like:

• VPN support
• Firewall protection
• Management interfaces

Cisco 1000 Series Integrated Services Routers (ISR)

If you are on the hunt for compact and versatile Cisco router platforms then, you need to look at their 1000 series. It is an ideal choice for small office and home office (SOHO) environments. They offer:

• Integrated security
• WAN optimization
• VPN and firewall support

Also Read: Cisco Meraki MA-ANT-20 Dual-Band Omni Antenna Review

Cisco 1100 Series Integrated Services Routers (ISR)

Cisco 1100 Series routers are best suited for small to medium-sized enterprise branches. Security and VPN support is not an issue if you opt for this one. Furthermore, its features are engineered specifically to meet the specific needs of your startup. Lastly, there is no future concern since you can scale according to your business growth.

FAQs

What does “Cisco Wifi router” refer to?

A Cisco Wifi router is a networking device manufactured by Cisco Systems, a renowned company that provides wireless internet connectivity to devices within a specific area. It typically combines the functions of a router, which directs traffic between different networks, and a wireless access point, which enables devices to connect to the internet wirelessly.

What is a Cisco Virtual router?

A Cisco Virtual router is a software-based router that runs on a virtualized platform rather than being a physical hardware device. It provides the same routing functionalities as a physical router but offers greater flexibility and scalability in deployment. Moreover, it is often termed as Cisco cloud-based router.

What are the top Cisco routers available?

Some of the best Cisco router models are: Cisco ISR 4000 Series, Cisco ASR 1000 Series, and Cisco Catalyst 8000 Series. These routers are known for their high performance, reliability, and advanced features, making them suitable for a wide range of networking applications.

What is a Cisco VPN router?

A Cisco VPN router is a router that includes built-in support for Virtual Private Network (VPN) connectivity. It allows remote users or branch offices of an enterprise business to securely connect to a central network over the internet, encrypting data transmission to ensure privacy and security.

What are some typical uses of Cisco routers?

Cisco routers are used in various scenarios, including:

• Business networks: Cisco routers are commonly deployed in corporate networks to connect multiple devices and facilitate communication within the organization.
• Internet service providers: ISPs use Cisco routers to manage and route internet traffic across their networks, ensuring reliable connectivity for subscribers.
• Branch offices: Cisco routers are often installed in branch offices to connect them to a central network, enabling seamless communication and data access.
• Telecommunications: Telecom companies utilize Cisco routers in their infrastructure to handle voice, data, and multimedia traffic efficiently.
• Data centers: Cisco routers play a crucial role in data center networks, providing connectivity between servers, storage systems, and other network devices.

Wrapping Up

At this point, you are familiar with the essential factors you need to consider to make a satisfying purchase. Moreover, you have walked through the top series and variants of Cisco routers tailored to your needs.

Explore Direct Macro if you are ready to take the call for your networking equipment. Direct Macro deals in both refurbished and new IT hardware at the best prices and quality. Good luck with your purchase!