Cisco Replacements

Case Communications' ImageStream routers are specifically designed to work as Cisco alternatives. Despite this emphasis, an ImageStream router may be configured with a wide range of options, and it may not be obvious which router is ideal for your application.

For more detailed comparisons between routers supplied by Case Communications and Cisco routers, click here.

The Cisco replacement matrix below is designed to provide a reference point for you to consider as you familiarise yourself with ImageStream routers from Case Communications. Our routers are modular, so each chassis may be used in several different applications.

Like Cisco, ImageStream routers may offer more than one router chassis that can handle a particular application. As a result, you will not find a 1:1 relationship between Cisco and ImageStream routers models. Instead, you will find a range of ImageStream routers that can replace each Cisco product. The right choice will typically depend on your specific application, expectations for growth, space limitations, serviceability requirements, and redundancy needs.

As the matrix suggests, it can be difficult to determine that a particular ImageStream router will be an ideal replacement without also considering information beyond the Cisco model number. For example, some people might buy the Cisco 7204 for DS3 premise (CPE) applications, while others might buy the same router for core applications using OC3 connections. In the case of DS3 CPE, you could replace the Cisco 7204 with an ImageStream Rebel Router, but you would probably deploy a Gateway Router in the core OC3 application.

Additional considerations like power supply redundancy may also affect the final chassis selection. For example, some people might deploy the Rebel for their DS3 CPE applications, while others might choose to upgrade their DS3 CPE router from the Rebel (which does not offer redundant power) to the Gateway, which offers several options for redundant power. Some people may choose the lower cost Rebel for DS3 CPE, but then buy two complete routers and keep a spare on the shelf. Still others may decide that dual AC inputs are required to support continuous operation as the router is moved from one power source to another. Each of these unique requirements may affect which ImageStream routers will be ideal for a particular application.

As you consider your Cisco replacement options, be sure to check with an experienced Case Communications Application Engineer or with your Case Communications reseller to help determine which chassis will best accomplish your objectives.