Specs
Quick Specs
- Model: Cisco 2901
- Throughput: Up to 25 Mbps with services enabled
- WAN Ports: 2 x 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet
- Expansion: 4 EHWIC slots, 2 DSP slots, 1 ISM slot
- Integrated Services: Supports voice, video, security, wireless, and data
- Power: Optional internal PoE (up to 360W) and external RPS support
- Encryption: Built-in hardware-based IPSec VPN acceleration
- Management: Cisco IOS Software with universal image and licensing
- Fabric: Integrated multigigabit fabric for high-bandwidth module interconnect
- Form Factor: 1RU rack-mountable chassis
- Weight: 16 lb (7.3 kg)
- Dimensions: 1.75 x 17.25 x 17.3 in. (44.5 x 438.2 x 439.4 mm)
Part Number:
- PN: CISCO2901-SEC/K9
- Mfg PN: N/A
The Cisco 2901 Integrated Services Router is a compact, high-performance solution designed for branch offices requiring secure, reliable, and scalable network connectivity. It offers 2 Gigabit Ethernet WAN ports, modular expansion options, and built-in hardware encryption for VPNs. With support for integrated services like voice, video, and security, the 2901 simplifies IT infrastructure while delivering enterprise-grade performance in a 1RU form factor.
Built for businesses that demand flexibility and future-proofing, the Cisco 2901 provides modular slots for voice DSPs, wireless LAN controllers, and advanced service modules. Its ability to consolidate multiple services into a single device reduces operational complexity, saves rack space, and ensures seamless connectivity across distributed networks. It's an ideal router for secure, converged branch deployments.
EHWIC Slots
(Enhanced High-Speed WAN Interface Card)
The Cisco 2901 includes four EHWIC slots, which provide flexible expansion for WAN interfaces like serial, DSL, and switch modules. These slots also support new high-speed interfaces for future-proofing.
- Supports data, voice, and video modules
- Backward compatible with HWICs and WICs
- Used for T1/E1, DSL, switch modules, 4G LTE, etc.
- Each EHWIC slot supports up to 400 Mbps aggregate throughput
DSP Slots
(Digital Signal Processor)
Two internal DSP slots allow for digital signal processing needed for voice applications such as transcoding, conferencing, and voice termination.
- Supports PVDM3 modules for voice services
- Required for voice gateway, SRST, and conferencing
- Supports various channel densities depending on module
- Low-latency voice and secure voice call support
ISM Slot
(Internal Services Module)
The ISM slot provides internal service capabilities such as application acceleration or integrated service engines. It’s optimized for running services within the router.
- Supports modules like Cisco Services Ready Engine (SRE)
- Enables branch office services (e.g., WAN optimization, caching)
- Integrated internally — does not consume external rack space
- Designed for high-performance, service-level applications
Spec Sheet 4
| Feature | Cisco 2901 | Cisco 2911 | Cisco 2921 | Cisco 2951 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cisco Unified CCME Sessions | 35 | 50 | 100 | 150 |
| Total Onboard WAN 10/100/1000 Ports | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| RJ-45-Based Ports | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| SFP-Based Ports (use of SFP port disables the corresponding RJ-45 port) | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| Service Module Slots | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 |
| Double-Wide Service Module Slots | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| EHWIC Slots | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Double-Wide EHWIC Slots | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| ISM Slots | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Onboard DSP (PVDM) Slots | 2 | 2 | 3 | 3 |
| Memory DDR2 ECC DRAM - Default | 512 MB | 512 MB | 512 MB | 512 MB |
| Memory (DDR2 ECC DRAM) - Maximum | 2 GB | 2 GB | 2 GB | 2 GB |
| Compact Flash (External) - Default | slot 0: 256 MB slot 1: none |
slot 0: 256 MB slot 1: none |
slot 0: 256 MB slot 1: none |
slot 0: 256 MB slot 1: none |
| Compact Flash (External) - Maximum | slot 0: 4 GB slot 1: 4 GB |
slot 0: 4 GB slot 1: 4 GB |
slot 0: 4 GB slot 1: 4 GB |
slot 0: 4 GB slot 1: 4 GB |
| External USB 2.0 Flash Memory Slots (Type A) | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| USB Console Port (Type B) (up to 115.2 kbps) | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Serial Console Port | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Serial Auxiliary Port | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Power-Supply Options | AC and PoE | AC, PoE, and DC | AC, PoE, and DC | AC, PoE, and DC |
| RPS Support (External) | No | Cisco RPS 2300 | Cisco RPS 2300 | Cisco RPS 2300 |