{"id":9092,"date":"2026-10-02T15:52:33","date_gmt":"2026-10-02T15:52:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/?p=9092"},"modified":"2026-10-02T17:32:55","modified_gmt":"2026-10-02T17:32:55","slug":"cisco-wave-694-k9-review-wan-optimization-deployment-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/post\/cisco-wave-694-k9-review-wan-optimization-deployment-guide","title":{"rendered":"Cisco WAVE-694-K9 Review: WAN Optimization Performance, Features and Deployment Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-1 fusion-flex-container has-pattern-background has-mask-background nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling\" style=\"--awb-border-radius-top-left:0px;--awb-border-radius-top-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-left:0px;--awb-flex-wrap:wrap;\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start fusion-flex-content-wrap\" style=\"max-width:1191.75px;margin-left: calc(-5% \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-5% \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-0 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:2.375%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:0px;--awb-spacing-left-large:2.375%;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:2.375%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:2.375%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:2.375%;--awb-spacing-left-small:2.375%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><script type=\"application\/ld+json\">\n{\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n  \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\n  \"mainEntity\": [{\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",\n    \"name\": \"What is the Cisco WAVE-694-K9?\",\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n      \"text\": \"It is a 1RU Cisco Wide Area Virtualization Engine that runs WAAS software to accelerate applications over the WAN. Cisco sized it for large branch offices and small data centers with WAN links up to about 200 Mbps.\"\n    }\n  },{\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",\n    \"name\": \"How many TCP connections does the WAVE 694 support?\",\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n      \"text\": \"It supports 2,500 optimized TCP connections with the default 16 GB of RAM, and 6,000 connections with the 24 GB memory upgrade.\"\n    }\n  },{\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",\n    \"name\": \"What WAN bandwidth is the WAVE-694-K9 designed for?\",\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n      \"text\": \"Cisco targets both memory builds at a 200 Mbps WAN link, with 450 to 500 Mbps of optimized throughput. This is a sizing guideline rather than a hard limit.\"\n    }\n  },{\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",\n    \"name\": \"Is the Cisco WAVE-694-K9 end of life?\",\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n      \"text\": \"Yes. The last day to order was March 31, 2018, and the last date of support was March 31, 2023. Cisco named the ENCS 5412 with virtual WAAS as the replacement.\"\n    }\n  },{\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",\n    \"name\": \"Can the WAVE 694 run virtual machines?\",\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n      \"text\": \"It hosts up to six virtual blades for light branch services such as Windows file, print, DNS, or DHCP. It is not a general hypervisor host and cannot run vSphere or Hyper-V.\"\n    }\n  },{\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",\n    \"name\": \"What storage does the WAVE-694-K9 use?\",\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n      \"text\": \"It uses two 600 GB drives in RAID 1, which gives 600 GB of usable space for the DRE cache and virtual blade images.\"\n    }\n  },{\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",\n    \"name\": \"Does the WAVE-694-K9 need an interface module?\",\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n      \"text\": \"Only for inline or AppNav designs. Off-path WCCP or PBR deployments can use the two onboard Gigabit Ethernet ports.\"\n    }\n  },{\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",\n    \"name\": \"Is a refurbished WAVE-694-K9 worth buying?\",\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n      \"text\": \"Yes, for spares, labs, and existing WAAS deployments, as long as the unit is tested. Confirm memory, RAID health, fans, power supply, WAAS version, and the seller's warranty before you buy.\"\n    }\n  },{\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",\n    \"name\": \"How much does the Cisco WAVE-694-K9 cost?\",\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n      \"text\": \"A new, in-stock unit lists at $26,620.00 at Direct Macro at the time of writing. Refurbished units cost a fraction of that when available. Budget separately for a second power supply, the 24 GB memory upgrade, and an interface module if your design needs one.\"\n    }\n  },{\n    \"@type\": \"Question\",\n    \"name\": \"Which WAAS software version does the WAVE-694-K9 support?\",\n    \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n      \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n      \"text\": \"It supports WAAS 4.4.1 and later. Cisco's last release line for the WAVE platforms is WAAS 6.4.x, so most buyers standardize on a 6.4 build that matches their Central Manager.\"\n    }\n  }]\n}\n<\/script><div class=\"fusion-content-boxes content-boxes columns row fusion-columns-1 fusion-columns-total-1 fusion-content-boxes-1 content-boxes-icon-with-title content-left .table-of-content-wrapper\" style=\"--awb-item-margin-top:1px;--awb-item-margin-bottom:1px;--awb-margin-top:1px;--awb-margin-bottom:1px;--awb-hover-accent-color:var(--awb-color7);--awb-circle-hover-accent-color:var(--awb-color7);\" data-animationOffset=\"top-into-view\"><div style=\"--awb-backgroundcolor:rgba(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"fusion-column content-box-column content-box-column content-box-column-1 col-lg-12 col-md-12 col-sm-12 fusion-content-box-hover content-box-column-last content-box-column-last-in-row\"><div class=\"col content-box-wrapper content-wrapper link-area-box content-icon-wrapper-yes icon-hover-animation-none\" data-animationOffset=\"top-into-view\"><div class=\"heading heading-with-icon icon-left\"><div class=\"icon\"><span style=\"height:42px;width:42px;line-height:22px;border-color:rgba(255,255,255,0);border-width:1px;border-style:solid;background-color:var(--awb-color8);box-sizing:content-box;border-radius:50%;\"><i style=\"border-color:var(--awb-color8);border-width:1px;background-color:var(--awb-color7);box-sizing:content-box;height:40px;width:40px;line-height:40px;border-radius:50%;position:relative;top:auto;left:auto;margin:0;border-radius:50%;font-size:20px;\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"fontawesome-icon fa-list-ul fas circle-yes\"><\/i><\/span><\/div><p class=\"content-box-heading\" style=\"--body_typography-font-size:24px;line-height:29px;\">Table of Contents<\/p><\/div><div class=\"fusion-clearfix\"><\/div><div class=\"content-container\">\n<hr \/>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-clearfix\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"awb-toc-el awb-toc-el--1\" data-awb-toc-id=\"1\" data-awb-toc-options=\"{&quot;allowed_heading_tags&quot;:{&quot;h2&quot;:0},&quot;ignore_headings&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;ignore_headings_words&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;enable_cache&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;,&quot;highlight_current_heading&quot;:&quot;no&quot;,&quot;hide_hidden_titles&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;,&quot;limit_container&quot;:&quot;post_content&quot;,&quot;select_custom_headings&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;icon&quot;:&quot;fa-angle-double-right fas&quot;,&quot;counter_type&quot;:&quot;custom_icon&quot;}\" style=\"--awb-margin-bottom:1px;--awb-item-font-family:&#039;Bookman Old Style&#039;, serif;--awb-item-font-style:italic;--awb-item-font-weight:700;--awb-item-overflow:hidden;--awb-item-white-space:nowrap;--awb-item-text-overflow:ellipsis;\"><div class=\"awb-toc-el__content\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-1\"><h2>Key Takeaways<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li>This Cisco C9200L-48P-4X-A review grades a 1RU wiring-closet switch that Cisco rates at 176 Gbps switching capacity and 130.95 Mpps forwarding. Read it as an access-layer buying guide rather than a data center spec sheet.<\/li>\n<li>Your PoE budget decides the deployment. One PWR-C5-1KWAC supply delivers 740W, and fitting the second raises that to 1440W, enough for all 48 ports to draw the full 30W each.<\/li>\n<li>The -A suffix is perpetual Network Advantage licensing, unlocking OSPF, EIGRP, policy-based routing, VRF-lite and TrustSec. Buying -E and upgrading later costs more.<\/li>\n<li>It is an access switch, not a data center switch. Access points, phones, cameras and desk ports are its workload; hypervisors, hosting and database traffic belong behind a 10G top-of-rack switch.<\/li>\n<li>Refurbished units hold their value well, because only the fans and power supplies wear out. Ask for a fan health report all the same, since this model rules out a field swap.<\/li>\n<li>Plan the options before you sign off the quote. The four 10G cages arrive empty, StackWise-80 requires the C9200L-STACK-KIT, and the second power supply does not come in the box.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-2\"><h2>What Is the Cisco WAVE-694-K9?<\/h2>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/cisco-wave-694-k9.html\">Cisco WAVE-694-K9<\/a> is a 1RU Wide Area Virtualization Engine that runs Cisco Wide Area Application Services (WAAS) software. It speeds up applications that travel over the WAN by removing repeated data, compressing traffic, and fixing slow TCP behavior on high-latency links. Cisco positioned the WAVE 694 for edge deployments at large branch offices and core deployments at small data centers. It sits above the WAVE 294 and 594 and below the 2RU WAVE 7541 and 7571.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-9094 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/What-Is-the-Cisco-WAVE-694-K9.jpg\" alt=\"What Is the Cisco WAVE-694-K9\" width=\"602\" height=\"318\" srcset=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/What-Is-the-Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-200x106.jpg 200w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/What-Is-the-Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/What-Is-the-Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-400x211.jpg 400w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/What-Is-the-Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-600x317.jpg 600w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/What-Is-the-Cisco-WAVE-694-K9.jpg 602w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 602px) 100vw, 602px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>This Cisco WAVE-694-K9 review is aimed at buyers who are comparing options. You already run, or plan to run, Cisco WAAS, and you are weighing this appliance against a smaller WAVE, a virtual vWAAS instance, or a newer SD-WAN platform.<\/p>\n<h2>Our Verdict in Brief<\/h2>\n<p>Our Cisco WAVE-694-K9 review finds that the WAVE 694 is still a capable Cisco WAN optimization appliance for sites with up to about 200 Mbps of WAN bandwidth. It is also a sensible buy as a spare or an expansion unit for an existing WAAS deployment. Buy it with 24 GB of RAM, the second power supply, and the interface module your deployment mode needs. Skip it for any new design that needs vendor support, cloud-first traffic handling, or more than 200 Mbps per site.<\/p>\n<h2>Cisco WAVE-694-K9 Quick Facts<\/h2>\n<p>This Cisco WAVE 694 review starts with the facts buyers usually request before a quote.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-9095 size-full aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Quick-Facts.jpg\" alt=\"Cisco WAVE-694-K9 Quick Facts\" width=\"602\" height=\"318\" srcset=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Quick-Facts-200x106.jpg 200w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Quick-Facts-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Quick-Facts-400x211.jpg 400w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Quick-Facts-600x317.jpg 600w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Quick-Facts.jpg 602w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 602px) 100vw, 602px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h3><strong>Quick Facts Table<\/strong><\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\">\n<table class=\"has-fixed-layout\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Question<\/th>\n<th>Answer<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>What is it?<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>1RU Cisco WAAS WAN optimization appliance (WAVE 694)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Target WAN bandwidth<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>About 200 Mbps<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Optimized TCP connections<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>2,500 with 16 GB; 6,000 with 24 GB<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Optimized LAN throughput<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>450 Mbps (16 GB); 500 Mbps (24 GB)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Processor<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>One Intel Xeon quad-core X3430 (2.4 GHz) or X3450 (2.67 GHz)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Memory<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>16 GB default, 24 GB upgrade (DDR3 ECC RDIMM)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Storage<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>2 x 600 GB HDD in RAID 1, 600 GB usable<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Network ports<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>2 onboard Gigabit Ethernet, 1 interface module slot<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Virtual blades<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Up to 6<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Power<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>One 450W AC supply; second supply optional for 1+1<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Best use<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Large branch edge or small data center core in a WAAS deployment<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Main limitation<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>End of support since March 31, 2023<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Price<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>$26,620.00 new at Direct Macro (in stock)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/figure>\n<h2>Does the WAVE 694 Still Make Sense in 2026?<\/h2>\n<p>Yes, but this Cisco WAVE-694-K9 review recommends it only for specific jobs. Much of the WAN traffic that WAAS was built for, such as file shares, Exchange, and internal web apps, still crosses private links in manufacturing, government, healthcare, and retail networks. Where those links are slow, far away, or expensive, Cisco WAVE-694-K9 enterprise WAN optimization still cuts transfer times sharply.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Worth buying when<\/strong> you already run WAAS and need a spare, a lab unit, or another site at the same software version, and when the site&#8217;s WAN link is 200 Mbps or less.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Not worth buying when<\/strong> you need Cisco TAC support, security patches, SaaS optimization, or a platform that will stay in service for another five years.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-3\"><h2>Full Cisco WAVE-694-K9 Specifications Breakdown<\/h2>\n<p>The figures below come from Cisco&#8217;s WAVE data sheet and the WAVE-594\/694 hardware installation guide. The -K9 suffix marks the strong-encryption build that is standard for WAAS appliances.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-9096 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Specifications-Breakdown.jpg\" alt=\"Cisco WAVE-694-K9 Specifications Breakdown\" width=\"602\" height=\"318\" srcset=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Specifications-Breakdown-200x106.jpg 200w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Specifications-Breakdown-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Specifications-Breakdown-400x211.jpg 400w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Specifications-Breakdown-600x317.jpg 600w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Specifications-Breakdown.jpg 602w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 602px) 100vw, 602px\" \/><br \/>\n<strong>Specifications<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\">\n<table class=\"has-fixed-layout\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Attribute<\/th>\n<th>Cisco WAVE-694-K9<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Form factor<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>1RU; 1.69 x 16.89 x 20.33 in (with PSU handles)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Weight<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Up to 22.51 lb (10.21 kg)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Processor<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>1 x Intel Xeon quad-core X3430 2.4 GHz or X3450 2.67 GHz, 8 MB cache<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Memory<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>16 GB or 24 GB ECC DDR3 RDIMM, 1333 MT\/s, 4 GB modules<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Storage<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>2 x 600 GB HDD, RAID 1, 600 GB usable (SSD build: 2 x 800 GB)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Onboard network<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>2 x 10\/100\/1000BASE-T<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Expansion<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>1 interface module slot<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Interface module options<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>4-port or 8-port GE copper inline, 4-port GE SX fiber inline, AppNav modules<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Optimized TCP connections<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>2,500 (16 GB) or 6,000 (24 GB)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Target WAN link<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>200 Mbps<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Optimized throughput<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>450 to 500 Mbps<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Core fan-out<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>150 peers (16 GB) or 300 peers (24 GB)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Virtual blades<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Up to 6<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Power<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>One 450W AC PSU; optional second PSU for 1+1 redundancy<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Maximum input power \/ heat<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>530W; 1,808 BTU\/hr<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Cooling<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>6 hot-plug fans<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Console<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>USB, mini-USB, and RJ-45 serial<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Roles<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>WAAS application accelerator or WAAS Central Manager<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Mfr Part#<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>WAVE-694-K9<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/figure>\n<p><strong>Source Note:<\/strong> Hardware figures come from Cisco&#8217;s WAVE data sheet and installation guide. Connection, WAN, throughput, and fan-out figures come from Cisco&#8217;s 2014 WAAS design guide. Cisco calls these sizing guidelines, not hard limits, so your real results depend on traffic mix and latency. Some resale listings show 2RU, 8 GB, or four drives for this part number. Those details belong to other WAVE models, not the 694.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-4\"><h2>Inside the Chassis: Interfaces, Disks, Power and Fans<\/h2>\n<p>In this Cisco WAVE-694-K9 review, the build quality shows how simple the unit is to install, connect, and keep running when a part fails.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-9097 size-full aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-Interfaces-Disks-Power-and-Fans.jpg\" alt=\"Cisco Interfaces Disks Power and Fans\" width=\"602\" height=\"318\" srcset=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-Interfaces-Disks-Power-and-Fans-200x106.jpg 200w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-Interfaces-Disks-Power-and-Fans-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-Interfaces-Disks-Power-and-Fans-400x211.jpg 400w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-Interfaces-Disks-Power-and-Fans-600x317.jpg 600w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-Interfaces-Disks-Power-and-Fans.jpg 602w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 602px) 100vw, 602px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3>1.\u00a0 Interface and Port Layout<\/h3>\n<p>The rear panel carries the two onboard Gigabit Ethernet ports, the interface module slot, the console ports, and the power supply bays. The onboard ports are enough for an off-path design that uses WCCP or policy-based routing. An inline design needs an inline interface module, because that module is what places the appliance directly between the <a href=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/networking-devices\/routers\/cisco.html\">router<\/a> and the LAN switch.<\/p>\n<h3>2.\u00a0 Disk Array and Cache Storage<\/h3>\n<p>The WAVE 694 uses two 600 GB drives in RAID 1, which gives 600 GB of usable space. That space holds the Data Redundancy Elimination (DRE) cache and any virtual blade images. RAID 1 was a real step up from the entry WAVE 294, which the FedTech review of that model flagged for having no RAID support at all. A single drive failure on the 694 degrades the array but does not take the appliance down.<\/p>\n<h3>3.\u00a0 Power Supplies and Cooling Design<\/h3>\n<p>The 694 ships with one 450W AC supply, and the second supply is optional. For any site where downtime matters, order the second supply for 1+1 redundancy. Six hot-plug fans handle cooling, so a failed fan is a field swap and not a chassis replacement. At 20.33 inches deep, the unit needs a full-depth rack, not a shallow wall cabinet.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-5\"><h2>Cisco WAVE-694-K9 Features: WAAS Software and WAN Optimization<\/h2>\n<p>The appliance is only as useful as the WAAS software it runs. These are the capabilities that matter in practice.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-9098 size-full aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Features.jpg\" alt=\"Cisco WAVE-694-K9 Features\" width=\"602\" height=\"318\" srcset=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Features-200x106.jpg 200w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Features-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Features-400x211.jpg 400w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Features-600x317.jpg 600w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Features.jpg 602w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 602px) 100vw, 602px\" \/><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Data Redundancy Elimination (DRE): Replaces repeated byte patterns with small references, so data that has crossed the WAN once is not sent in full again.<\/li>\n<li>Persistent LZ Compression: Compresses the traffic that DRE leaves behind, and it can run alone or alongside DRE.<\/li>\n<li>TCP Flow Optimization (TFO): Shields clients and servers from latency, packet loss, and small TCP windows so that long-distance links carry more data.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Application Optimizers:<\/strong> Protocol-aware acceleration for traffic such as SMB\/CIFS file sharing, HTTP and HTTPS, SSL, Exchange MAPI, NFS, Citrix ICA, and video.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Flexible Interception:<\/strong> Inline, WCCPv2, policy-based routing, and AppNav, so it fits single-router branches as well as clustered data center designs.<\/li>\n<li>Virtual Blades: Up to six guest VMs for small branch services such as Windows Server roles, print, DNS, or DHCP.<\/li>\n<li>Central Management: WAAS Central Manager handles policies, device groups, reporting, and upgrades for the whole deployment from one console.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Cisco WAVE-694-K9 Performance Review<\/h2>\n<p>Throughput on this appliance depends mostly on installed memory. Cisco&#8217;s design guide sizes the two builds as follows.<\/p>\n<h3><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-9099 size-full aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Performance-Review.jpg\" alt=\"Cisco WAVE-694-K9 Performance Review\" width=\"602\" height=\"318\" srcset=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Performance-Review-200x106.jpg 200w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Performance-Review-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Performance-Review-400x211.jpg 400w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Performance-Review-600x317.jpg 600w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Performance-Review.jpg 602w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 602px) 100vw, 602px\" \/><\/h3>\n<h3><strong>Performance Comparison WAVE-694 with 16 GB vs 24 GB<\/strong><\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\">\n<table class=\"has-fixed-layout\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Metric<\/th>\n<th>WAVE-694 with 16 GB<\/th>\n<th>WAVE-694 with 24 GB<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Max optimized TCP connections<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>2,500<\/td>\n<td>6,000<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Recommended WAN link<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>200 Mbps<\/td>\n<td>200 Mbps<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Max optimized throughput<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>450 Mbps<\/td>\n<td>500 Mbps<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Max core fan-out<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>150 peers<\/td>\n<td>300 peers<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/figure>\n<p>Two points matter when you read these numbers.<\/p>\n<p><strong>First,<\/strong> WAN bandwidth is a guideline, not a hard cap. The appliance will pass more traffic, but optimization quality drops once you exceed the sizing.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Second,<\/strong> the LAN-side throughput of 450 to 500 Mbps is how DRE and compression let a 200 Mbps link behave like a much faster one for repeated traffic.<\/p>\n<p>Real WAVE-694 WAN optimization gains vary widely. Repeated file transfers and software distribution can shrink dramatically, while encrypted traffic that WAAS cannot inspect, and one-time video streams, see little benefit. Count your concurrent connections per site before you pick a build. A 300-user branch where each user holds 8 to 10 TCP sessions is already near the 2,500-connection limit of the 16 GB model.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-6\"><h2><span lang=\"en-PK\" style=\"font-family: 'Arial Black',sans-serif;\">End-of-Life Status and Support Options<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>This is the most important caveat in this Cisco WAVE-694-K9 review. Cisco announced end of life for the WAVE 294, 594, 694, 7541, 7571, and 8541 platforms, and the last day to order was March 31, 2018. The last date of support was March 31, 2023. There are no new software fixes, and new Cisco service contracts are no longer available.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-9100 size-full aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-End-of-Life-Status-and-Support-Options.jpg\" alt=\"Cisco End-of-Life Status and Support Options\" width=\"602\" height=\"318\" srcset=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-End-of-Life-Status-and-Support-Options-200x106.jpg 200w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-End-of-Life-Status-and-Support-Options-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-End-of-Life-Status-and-Support-Options-400x211.jpg 400w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-End-of-Life-Status-and-Support-Options-600x317.jpg 600w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-End-of-Life-Status-and-Support-Options.jpg 602w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 602px) 100vw, 602px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Cisco named the ENCS 5412 running virtual WAAS (EWAAS 2500 or 6000 connections) as the replacement. For the Central Manager role, the replacement is vCM 2000. On any unit you buy today, the <a href=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/warranty\">seller&#8217;s warranty<\/a> is the only hardware protection you will have, so get its length and RMA terms in writing.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Software Support: The WAVE-694 runs WAAS 4.4.1 and later releases, and Cisco&#8217;s final release train for the WAVE platforms is WAAS 6.4.x. Load the newest 6.4 build that your Central Manager supports, and update the BIOS before you fit an AppNav interface module, since AppNav requires the latest BIOS.<\/li>\n<li>Licensing: Optimization features depend on the WAAS license installed on the unit. Virtual blades also need the separate Virtual Blade license, which Cisco sold only alongside the WAAS Enterprise license. Ask the seller which licenses are active on any used unit.<\/li>\n<li>Migration Path: When you are ready to retire WAAS, the usual routes are Catalyst SD-WAN with AppQoE TCP optimization and DRE, or Cisco&#8217;s named replacement, the ENCS 5412 with virtual WAAS. ISR routers running IOS XE 17.4 or later no longer support ISR-WAAS, so do not plan to move WAAS onto a newer branch router.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Best-Fit Buyers for the Cisco WAVE-694-K9<\/h2>\n<p>This Cisco WAVE-694-K9 review finds that the appliance suits a specific group of buyers. These are the Cisco WAVE-694-K9 use cases where the appliance still earns its place.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-9101 size-full aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Best-Fit-Buyers-for-the-Cisco-WAVE-694-K9.jpg\" alt=\"Best-Fit Buyers for the Cisco WAVE-694-K9\" width=\"602\" height=\"318\" srcset=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Best-Fit-Buyers-for-the-Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-200x106.jpg 200w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Best-Fit-Buyers-for-the-Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Best-Fit-Buyers-for-the-Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-400x211.jpg 400w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Best-Fit-Buyers-for-the-Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-600x317.jpg 600w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Best-Fit-Buyers-for-the-Cisco-WAVE-694-K9.jpg 602w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 602px) 100vw, 602px\" \/><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Organizations already running Cisco WAAS that need matching spares, a failover pair, or one more large branch at the same software version.<\/li>\n<li>Large branch offices with 50 to 200 Mbps MPLS or private WAN links that carry file, email, and internal application traffic.<\/li>\n<li>Small data centers that need a core appliance to terminate WAAS tunnels from up to 150 or 300 remote peers.<\/li>\n<li>Network engineers building a CCNP or WAAS lab who want real hardware at refurbished prices.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/post\/bulk-buying-it-hardware\">MSPs and VARs<\/a> supporting customers with legacy WAAS deployments that are not yet ready to migrate.<\/li>\n<li>Government, healthcare, and manufacturing sites with long-distance or satellite links where latency, not bandwidth, is the main problem.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-7\"><h2>When the WAVE 694 Is the Wrong Choice<\/h2>\n<p>Knowing where the appliance falls short helps you avoid a costly mismatch.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Anyone designing a new WAN from scratch. Choose <a href=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/post\/mx85-explained-the-ultimate-guide-to-cisco-meraki-mx85-hw\">SD-WAN<\/a> or a supported platform instead.<\/li>\n<li>Organizations whose compliance rules require vendor-supported, patched network devices.<\/li>\n<li>Sites with WAN links well above 200 Mbps, which need a WAVE 7541 class unit or a virtual instance on stronger hardware.<\/li>\n<li>Cloud-first and SaaS-heavy teams, since most of their traffic is encrypted and goes straight to the internet.<\/li>\n<li>Buyers who want a general-purpose server. The WAVE 694 runs WAAS, not VMware or Linux workloads.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Can It Handle Virtualization, Hosting or Database Workloads?<\/h2>\n<p>Readers of this Cisco WAVE-694-K9 review often ask whether the appliance can take on server-style jobs. The answer differs for each workload.<\/p>\n<h3>1.\u00a0 Virtualization: Virtual Blades, Not a Hypervisor<\/h3>\n<p>Only in a narrow sense. The WAVE 694 hosts up to six virtual blades, which are small guest VMs that run next to WAAS on the same box. This was built so a branch could remove a separate server for Windows file, print, DNS, or DHCP roles. It is not a hypervisor host. You cannot run vSphere or Hyper-V on it, the CPU and memory are shared with WAAS, and the blades are limited to what the WAAS release supports. For real virtualization, use a <a href=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/post\/how-to-buy-refurbished-servers-for-your-data-center\">proper server<\/a> and let the WAVE 694 speed up traffic to it.<\/p>\n<h3>2.\u00a0 Hosting: Not Built to Serve Customers<\/h3>\n<p>No. Hosting providers and colocation customers need servers, not WAN accelerators. The 694 can help a provider that offers private WAN links to customers&#8217; branch sites, but it should never host customer sites, apps, or VMs.<\/p>\n<h3>3.\u00a0 Databases: Faster Access, not a Database Server<\/h3>\n<p>It does not run databases, but it can speed up access to one. Chatty client-server database traffic over a high-latency link benefits from TFO and compression. Database replication across a WAN can also shrink when the same data repeats. Keep the database itself on a server with fast storage, and keep an eye on encrypted database sessions, which get little benefit unless you set up SSL acceleration.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-8\"><h2>Choosing Between 16 GB and 24 GB of RAM<\/h2>\n<p>RAM is the one upgrade that changes the Cisco WAVE-694-K9 WAN optimization capacity. The appliance supports 16 GB or 24 GB of ECC DDR3 RDIMM memory using 4 GB modules.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-9102 size-full aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Choosing-Between-16-GB-and-24-GB-of-RAM.jpg\" alt=\"Choosing Between 16 GB and 24 GB of RAM\" width=\"602\" height=\"318\" srcset=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Choosing-Between-16-GB-and-24-GB-of-RAM-200x106.jpg 200w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Choosing-Between-16-GB-and-24-GB-of-RAM-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Choosing-Between-16-GB-and-24-GB-of-RAM-400x211.jpg 400w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Choosing-Between-16-GB-and-24-GB-of-RAM-600x317.jpg 600w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Choosing-Between-16-GB-and-24-GB-of-RAM.jpg 602w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 602px) 100vw, 602px\" \/><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>16 GB (Default): Enough for up to 2,500 optimized connections, which suits a branch of about 200 to 250 users or a core site with up to 150 peers.<\/li>\n<li>24 GB (Upgrade): Raises the limit to 6,000 connections and 300 peers. Choose it for any core role, any site with more than roughly 250 users, or any unit running several virtual blades.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Our Advice:<\/strong> This Cisco WAVE-694-K9 review recommends the 24 GB build whenever you can get it. The price gap on the refurbished market is small, and it keeps the unit useful if the site grows. Match module type exactly, since the appliance only supports Cisco-qualified <a href=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/memory\/cisco.html\">server memory<\/a> configurations.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-9\"><h2>Planning the Right Storage Setup<\/h2>\n<p>The storage layout is fixed, so the decision is about condition and spares, not capacity.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-9103 size-full aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Planning-the-Right-Storage-Setup.jpg\" alt=\"Planning the Right Storage Setup\" width=\"602\" height=\"318\" srcset=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Planning-the-Right-Storage-Setup-200x106.jpg 200w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Planning-the-Right-Storage-Setup-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Planning-the-Right-Storage-Setup-400x211.jpg 400w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Planning-the-Right-Storage-Setup-600x317.jpg 600w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Planning-the-Right-Storage-Setup.jpg 602w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 602px) 100vw, 602px\" \/><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Keep RAID 1 with Both Drives: Never run the appliance on a single disk. The DRE cache sits on this array, and RAID 1 is what keeps the unit online when a drive fails.<\/li>\n<li>Stock a Spare Drive: Keep one matching 600 GB drive on the shelf, since Cisco no longer sells DSK-694-600GB replacements. Browse compatible <a href=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/storage-devices\/internal-hard-drives\/server-hard-drives\/cisco.html\">server hard drives<\/a> before you need one.<\/li>\n<li>Size Virtual Blades Carefully: Blade disk images share the same 600 GB, so large guest VMs reduce the space left for the DRE cache and lower optimization results.<\/li>\n<li>Know Your Drive Type: Most units ship with two 600 GB hard drives, but Cisco also built the WAVE-694 with two 800 GB SATA SSDs in RAID 1. SSD units cannot be downgraded below WAAS 5.5.1, so confirm the drive type before you buy.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-10\"><h2>Network Design and Traffic Interception Options<\/h2>\n<p>For this Cisco WAVE-694-K9 review, one rule stands out: your interception method decides which interface module you need, so settle it before you order.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-9104 size-full aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Network-Design-and-Traffic-Interception-Options.jpg\" alt=\"Network Design and Traffic Interception Options\" width=\"602\" height=\"318\" srcset=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Network-Design-and-Traffic-Interception-Options-200x106.jpg 200w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Network-Design-and-Traffic-Interception-Options-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Network-Design-and-Traffic-Interception-Options-400x211.jpg 400w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Network-Design-and-Traffic-Interception-Options-600x317.jpg 600w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Network-Design-and-Traffic-Interception-Options.jpg 602w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 602px) 100vw, 602px\" \/><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Off-Path with WCCPv2: The most common data center and large-branch design. The router redirects traffic to the WAVE over the two onboard Gigabit ports, which you can bundle with EtherChannel. No inline module is needed.<\/li>\n<li>Inline: Best for a simple branch with one router. Add the 4-port or 8-port copper inline module, or the 4-port SX fiber inline module for fiber handoffs. Inline modules include fail-to-wire bypass, so traffic keeps flowing if the appliance loses power.<\/li>\n<li>AppNav: For clustered designs that spread load across several WAAS nodes. The WAVE 694 accepts the AppNav interface modules with 12 copper or 12 SFP Gigabit ports.<\/li>\n<li>Policy-Based Routing: Works where WCCP is not an option, but it needs careful health tracking so traffic is not blackholed if the WAVE fails.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Plan the surrounding equipment as well. You will need <a href=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/networking-devices\/network-accessories\/transceiver.html\">SFP transceivers<\/a> for fiber modules, Cat6 patch cables, and a <a href=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/post\/network-switch-things-you-need-to-know-before-buying\">capable LAN switch<\/a>. If the branch switch is also due for a refresh, compare options in our <a href=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/networking-devices\/switches\/network-switches\/cisco.html\">network switches<\/a> range. Run the WAVE&#8217;s management interface on a separate VLAN, and make sure it can reach the Central Manager on the ports your WAAS version requires.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-11\"><h2>Cisco WAVE-694-K9 Deployment Guide<\/h2>\n<p>A clean rollout follows the same six steps at every site.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-9105 size-full aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Deployment-Guide.jpg\" alt=\"Cisco WAVE-694-K9 Deployment Guide\" width=\"602\" height=\"318\" srcset=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Deployment-Guide-200x106.jpg 200w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Deployment-Guide-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Deployment-Guide-400x211.jpg 400w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Deployment-Guide-600x317.jpg 600w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Cisco-WAVE-694-K9-Deployment-Guide.jpg 602w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 602px) 100vw, 602px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3>\u00b7 Step 1: Size the Site<\/h3>\n<p>Count users, concurrent TCP sessions, and WAN bandwidth, and confirm the site fits 2,500 or 6,000 connections and about 200 Mbps.<\/p>\n<h3>\u00b7 Step 2: Match Software Versions<\/h3>\n<p>Load a WAAS release that matches your Central Manager and peer appliances, since mixed versions limit features.<\/p>\n<h3>\u00b7 Step 3: Rack and Cable<\/h3>\n<p>Install both power supplies on separate circuits, connect the console, and cable the onboard or inline ports for your chosen design.<\/p>\n<h3>\u00b7 Step 4: Run Initial Setup<\/h3>\n<p>Use the setup wizard over the console to set the IP address, gateway, DNS, NTP, and the Central Manager address, then register the device.<\/p>\n<h3>\u00b7 Step 5: Configure Interception<\/h3>\n<p>Enable WCCPv2 service groups on the router, or confirm inline bypass works by pulling power during a maintenance window.<\/p>\n<h3>\u00b7 Step 6: Apply Policy and Verify<\/h3>\n<p>Push the application policy from Central Manager, then check optimized connection counts, compression ratios, and user-facing transfer times.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-12\"><h2>Buying a Refurbished WAVE 694: Is It a Smart Move?<\/h2>\n<p>Yes. Since Cisco itself no longer sells the WAVE 694, <a href=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/networking-devices\/routers\/cisco-refurbished.html\">refurbished and used units<\/a> are the most affordable way to buy one. Direct Macro currently lists a new, in-stock unit at <strong>$26,620.00<\/strong>, while refurbished units, when available, cost a fraction of that. The value is real, provided the unit has been tested.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-9106 size-full aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Buying-a-Refurbished-WAVE-694.jpg\" alt=\"Buying a Refurbished WAVE 694\" width=\"602\" height=\"318\" srcset=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Buying-a-Refurbished-WAVE-694-200x106.jpg 200w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Buying-a-Refurbished-WAVE-694-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Buying-a-Refurbished-WAVE-694-400x211.jpg 400w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Buying-a-Refurbished-WAVE-694-600x317.jpg 600w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Buying-a-Refurbished-WAVE-694.jpg 602w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 602px) 100vw, 602px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Comparison Table New vs. Refurbished<\/strong><\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\">\n<table class=\"has-fixed-layout\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Factor<\/th>\n<th>New (Sealed)<\/th>\n<th>Refurbished<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Availability<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>In stock at Direct Macro<\/td>\n<td>Common<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Price<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>$26,620.00 at Direct Macro<\/td>\n<td>A fraction of the new price<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Warranty<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Seller warranty only<\/td>\n<td>Seller warranty only<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Disks and fans<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Unused<\/td>\n<td>Request a health report<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Software<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Factory image, likely old<\/td>\n<td>Confirm WAAS version and wipe<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Support<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>No Cisco support either way<\/td>\n<td>No Cisco support either way<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/figure>\n<p>Since Cisco support has ended for both, this Cisco WAVE-694-K9 review finds that a <a href=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/post\/it-hardware-buying-guide\">tested refurbished unit<\/a> with a solid seller warranty is usually the better buy for spares and labs. Choose a new unit at <strong>$26,620.00<\/strong> when a production site needs unused drives and fans.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-13\"><h2>Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist<\/h2>\n<p>Work through this Cisco WAVE-694-K9 review checklist with the seller before you commit to a unit.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Confirm the part number WAVE-694-K9 on the chassis label, not WAVE-594 or WAVE-294, which look similar.<\/li>\n<li>Ask for the installed memory, 16 GB or 24 GB, shown in the device output, not just in the listing.<\/li>\n<li>Check that both 600 GB drives are present and the RAID 1 array shows healthy.<\/li>\n<li>Request power-on test results that cover both onboard ports, the interface module, fans, and power supply.<\/li>\n<li>Confirm the installed WAAS version and that the configuration has been wiped.<\/li>\n<li>Check which interface module, if any, is included, and whether rack rails and power cords ship with it.<\/li>\n<li>Note the Cisco part numbers MEM-694-24GB (24 GB memory upgrade) and DSK-694-600GB (600 GB drive). Both are end of life, so source spares together with the appliance.<\/li>\n<li>Get the warranty and return window in writing, 90 days at minimum.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-14\"><h2>WAVE-694-K9 vs Other WAN Optimization Options<\/h2>\n<p>Buyers usually shortlist the WAVE 694 against other WAVE models, virtual WAAS, and general enterprise servers. Here is how this Cisco WAVE appliance review sees the trade-offs.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-9107 size-full aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/WAVE-694-K9-vs-Other-WAN-Optimization-Options.jpg\" alt=\"WAVE-694-K9 vs Other WAN Optimization Options\" width=\"602\" height=\"318\" srcset=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/WAVE-694-K9-vs-Other-WAN-Optimization-Options-200x106.jpg 200w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/WAVE-694-K9-vs-Other-WAN-Optimization-Options-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/WAVE-694-K9-vs-Other-WAN-Optimization-Options-400x211.jpg 400w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/WAVE-694-K9-vs-Other-WAN-Optimization-Options-600x317.jpg 600w, https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/WAVE-694-K9-vs-Other-WAN-Optimization-Options.jpg 602w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 602px) 100vw, 602px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><strong>Comparison Table<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\">\n<table class=\"has-fixed-layout\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Option<\/th>\n<th>Scale<\/th>\n<th>Trade-off vs WAVE-694-K9<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Cisco WAVE-694-K9<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>2,500 to 6,000 conns, ~200 Mbps<\/td>\n<td>Baseline; 1RU, RAID 1, end of support<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Cisco WAVE-594<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>750 to 1,300 conns, 50 to 100 Mbps<\/td>\n<td>Cheaper, but sized for smaller branches<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Cisco WAVE-7541<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>18,000 conns, ~500 Mbps<\/td>\n<td>2RU, RAID 5, more scale, no virtual blades<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Cisco vWAAS-6000<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>6,000 conns, ~200 Mbps<\/td>\n<td>Same scale as a VM; needs a host server<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Cisco ENCS 5412 + EWAAS<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>2,500 or 6,000 conns<\/td>\n<td>Cisco&#8217;s named replacement; newer, costs more<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Enterprise x86 server<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Depends on the software<\/td>\n<td>Flexible, but WAN optimization needs a license<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/figure>\n<p>Choose the WAVE 694 when you need a matching physical node for an existing WAAS deployment. Choose vWAAS on a supported server when you already have spare virtualization capacity. Choose SD-WAN when you are <a href=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/blog\/post\/choosing-the-best-cisco-router-in-2024\">replacing the WAN design itself<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2>Strengths and Weaknesses<\/h2>\n<p>Here is where this Cisco WAVE-694-K9 review finds the appliance performs well and where it falls short.<\/p>\n<h3>Strengths<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Strong WAN optimization for links up to about 200 Mbps with DRE, compression, and TFO.<\/li>\n<li>Scales from 2,500 to 6,000 optimized connections with a simple memory upgrade.<\/li>\n<li>RAID 1 storage, hot-plug fans, and an optional second power supply in 1RU.<\/li>\n<li>Flexible deployment: inline, WCCP, PBR, and AppNav.<\/li>\n<li>Up to six virtual blades for small branch services.<\/li>\n<li>Central Manager support for fleet-wide policy and reporting.<\/li>\n<li>Available new from stock at $26,620.00, with lower-cost refurbished options.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Weaknesses<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>End of sale in 2018 and end of support in 2023, with no new software fixes.<\/li>\n<li>Only two onboard Gigabit ports without an interface module.<\/li>\n<li>Limited gains on encrypted and SaaS traffic.<\/li>\n<li>Only 600 GB of usable storage, shared by the cache and virtual blades.<\/li>\n<li>Full-depth chassis that does not fit shallow branch cabinets.<\/li>\n<li>Needs WAAS expertise to tune and troubleshoot.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Direct Macro&#8217;s Buying Advice<\/h2>\n<p>Our advice depends on how you plan to use the unit. Buy the <a href=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/cisco-wave-694-k9.html\">Cisco WAVE-694-K9<\/a> to extend, repair, or test an existing Cisco WAAS deployment, and configure it properly: 24 GB of RAM, both power supplies, a spare 600 GB drive, and the interface module your interception design needs. For a large branch on a 200 Mbps private link, or a small data center core, it remains one of the most cost-effective WAN optimization appliances available.<\/p>\n<p>Do not buy it as the base of a new WAN strategy. If you are starting fresh, put that budget toward SD-WAN or a supported virtual platform. You can browse current options in our <a href=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/networking-devices\/routers\/cisco-new.html\">new Cisco routers<\/a> range or our <a href=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/networking-devices\/routers.html\">Router category<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-15\"><h2>Our Review Methodology<\/h2>\n<p>Direct Macro sells hardware and does not run an independent test lab. Here are the sources behind each part of this Cisco WAVE-694-K9 review.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Manufacturer Specifications: Hardware, memory, storage, power, and module details come from Cisco&#8217;s WAVE data sheet and the WAVE-594\/694 hardware installation guide.<\/li>\n<li>Performance Sizing: Connection, WAN, throughput, and fan-out figures come from Cisco&#8217;s WAAS design guide.<\/li>\n<li>Lifecycle: End-of-sale and end-of-support dates come from Cisco&#8217;s end-of-life announcement for the WAVE platforms.<\/li>\n<li>Pricing: The <strong>$26,620.00 <\/strong>figure is Direct Macro&#8217;s list price for a new unit at the time of writing. Refurbished pricing reflects the secondary market, not Cisco.<\/li>\n<li>Hands-On Checks: Units in our inventory are inspected for part number, memory, drive health, fans, power, and port function before they ship.<\/li>\n<li>Editorial Judgment: Buyer profiles, workload fit, and the verdict are our own views, formed independently of stock levels.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Final Thoughts<\/h2>\n<p>This Cisco WAVE-694-K9 review ends on a clear verdict. The appliance still does exactly what Cisco built it to do: it makes a 200 Mbps WAN link feel much faster for the traffic that repeats, and it does so in 1RU with RAID 1 and redundant power. Its weakness is age, not performance. Judge it by the job in front of you. As a spare, a lab unit, or another node in a working WAAS deployment, it is excellent value. As the start of a new WAN design, it is the wrong choice.<\/p>\n<p>We stock the WAVE-694-K9 new at <strong>$26,620.00<\/strong>. Talk to our <a href=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/contact\">expert team<\/a> about tested stock, and we will confirm memory, drive health, and software version before you commit. For larger orders, request a <a href=\"https:\/\/directmacro.com\/bulk-quote\">bulk quote<\/a> today.<\/p>\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n<ol>\n<li><strong> What is the Cisco WAVE-694-K9?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>It is a 1RU Cisco Wide Area Virtualization Engine that runs WAAS software to accelerate applications over the WAN. Cisco sized it for large branch offices and small data centers with WAN links up to about 200 Mbps.<\/p>\n<ol start=\"2\">\n<li><strong> How many TCP connections does the WAVE 694 support?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>It supports 2,500 optimized TCP connections with the default 16 GB of RAM, and 6,000 connections with the 24 GB memory upgrade.<\/p>\n<ol start=\"3\">\n<li><strong> What WAN bandwidth is the WAVE-694-K9 designed for?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Cisco targets both memory builds at a 200 Mbps WAN link, with 450 to 500 Mbps of optimized throughput. This is a sizing guideline rather than a hard limit.<\/p>\n<ol start=\"4\">\n<li><strong> Is the Cisco WAVE-694-K9 end of life?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Yes. The last day to order was March 31, 2018, and the last date of support was March 31, 2023. Cisco named the ENCS 5412 with virtual WAAS as the replacement.<\/p>\n<ol start=\"5\">\n<li><strong> Can the WAVE 694 run virtual machines?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>It hosts up to six virtual blades for light branch services such as Windows file, print, DNS, or DHCP. It is not a general hypervisor host and cannot run vSphere or Hyper-V.<\/p>\n<ol start=\"6\">\n<li><strong> What storage does the WAVE-694-K9 use?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>It uses two 600 GB drives in RAID 1, which gives 600 GB of usable space for the DRE cache and virtual blade images.<\/p>\n<ol start=\"7\">\n<li><strong> Does the WAVE-694-K9 need an interface module?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Only for inline or AppNav designs. Off-path WCCP or PBR deployments can use the two onboard Gigabit Ethernet ports.<\/p>\n<ol start=\"8\">\n<li><strong> Is a refurbished WAVE-694-K9 worth buying?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Yes, for spares, labs, and existing WAAS deployments, as long as the unit is tested. Confirm memory, RAID health, fans, power supply, WAAS version, and the seller&#8217;s warranty before you buy.<\/p>\n<ol start=\"9\">\n<li><strong> How much does the Cisco WAVE-694-K9 cost?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>A new, in-stock unit lists at $26,620.00 at Direct Macro at the time of writing. Refurbished units cost a fraction of that when available. Budget separately for a second power supply, the 24 GB memory upgrade, and an interface module if your design needs one.<\/p>\n<ol start=\"10\">\n<li><strong> Which WAAS software version does the WAVE-694-K9 support?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>It supports WAAS 4.4.1 and later. Cisco&#8217;s last release line for the WAVE platforms is WAAS 6.4.x, so most buyers standardize on a 6.4 build that matches their Central Manager.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>This Cisco WAVE-694-K9 review covers a 1RU WAN optimization appliance that Cisco sized for about 200 Mbps of WAN bandwidth and 2,500 optimized TCP connections, or 6,000 with 24 GB of RAM.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":19,"featured_media":9093,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[774],"tags":[802,805,804,803],"class_list":["post-9092","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-reviews","tag-cisco-wave-694-review","tag-cisco-wave-694-k9-features","tag-cisco-wave-694-k9-specifications","tag-wave-694-k9-performance"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v21.8 (Yoast 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