En Cisco ASR 1001-HX router is a compact yet powerful member of Cisco’s Aggregation Services Router (ASR) 1000 Series. Designed for high-performance edge and aggregation environments, it offers up to 60 Gbps of throughput in a single rack unit — making it ideal for enterprise WAN edges, data centre aggregation, and service provider POP deployments.

For network operators looking to maximise ROI on existing infrastructure, Carritech provides a comprehensive range of repair, spare parts, and technical support services to keep the ASR 1001-HX performing at its best long after manufacturer support has ended.

Technical Overview of the Cisco ASR 1001-HX

Key Specifications

• Throughput: Up to 60 Gbps total system bandwidth
• Form factor: 1 RU fixed chassis
• Ports:
  • 4 × 10 Gigabit Ethernet fixed ports
  • 8 × 1 Gigabit Ethernet ports
  • 4 × configurable (1 GE/10 GE) ports
• Memory: 8 GB shared DRAM (expandable)
• Power consumption: Approximately 400 W maximum
• Software: Cisco IOS XE operating system

Architecture and Performance

The ASR 1001-HX integrates an Embedded Services Processor (ESP), allowing hardware acceleration of routing, encryption, firewall, QoS, and NAT services. Its multi-core architecture separates control and data planes, ensuring predictable performance even under heavy traffic loads.

Cisco’s modular software design under IOS XE enables seamless updates, redundancy, and feature flexibility — vital for enterprises prioritising uptime and scalability.

Deployment Scenarios

The Cisco ASR 1001-HX is versatile enough to fit a range of network environments:

1. Enterprise WAN Edge

A robust platform for connecting branch offices, data centres, and cloud services using MPLS, DMVPN, or SD-WAN architectures. The integrated security and QoS capabilities reduce the need for additional network appliances.

2. Data Centre Aggregation

Ideal for use as a border router or aggregation point between top-of-rack switches and core routers, especially in environments requiring compact, high-throughput routing.

3. Service Provider Edge / POP

Service providers use the ASR 1001-HX to aggregate traffic at regional points of presence, where reliability and density are key.

4. Route Reflector or BGP Edge Router

With sufficient memory and control-plane capacity, it can serve as a route reflector for multi-site networks or BGP peering router at Internet edges.

Lifecycle Considerations and Migration Planning

While the ASR 1001-HX remains a capable and widely deployed platform, lifecycle planning is essential to ensure continued stability and compliance.

Upgrade Timing

Organisations still using earlier ASR or ISR models can benefit from the 1001-HX’s higher throughput and enhanced features. However, future capacity needs should be reviewed, as the non-modular design limits upgrade flexibility beyond 60 Gbps.

Licensing and Feature Planning

The ASR 1001-HX uses Cisco’s universal image with feature licensing model. Licences can unlock advanced services such as IPsec encryption, firewalling, or higher throughput tiers. Proper capacity and licensing planning prevents overspending while maintaining scalability.

End-of-Life Management

When Cisco declares End-of-Sale or End-of-Support status, obtaining OEM spares becomes increasingly difficult. Partnering with Carritech ensures continued access to tested and refurbished Cisco ASR 1001-HX spare parts, along with board-level repair and technical support to extend its service life.

How Carritech Supports the Cisco ASR 1001-HX

At Carritech, we specialise in supporting legacy and current telecom infrastructure — ensuring network stability without unnecessary capital expenditure on new equipment.

1. Component and Module Repairs

Our repair engineers restore ASR 1001-HX components such as power supplies, fans, and logic boards to manufacturer-level performance. This reduces both cost and lead time compared with purchasing replacements.

2. Spare Parts Supply

We stock and source hard-to-find Cisco ASR 1001-HX parts, enabling rapid replacement of failed hardware and ensuring service continuity.

3. Level 3 Technical Support

Carritech provides remote Level 3 support for Cisco routers, assisting with software upgrades, configuration troubleshooting, and feature optimisation — complementing or replacing OEM maintenance contracts.

4. Sustainable Asset Management

Nuestro telecom asset management services help operators recover value from decommissioned routers through refurbishment, resale, or environmentally responsible recycling, contributing to a circular economy model.

Conclusion

The Cisco ASR 1001-HX remains a high-value platform for modern networking, balancing performance, efficiency, and reliability. However, to achieve maximum return on investment, operators must adopt a proactive approach to lifecycle support.

Through Carritech’s expert repair, parts, and technical support services, network operators can extend the life of the ASR 1001-HX, minimise downtime, and align their operations with sustainable lifecycle management practices.

Extend the life of your Cisco ASR 1001-HX today.

Get in touch with Carritech for expert repair, spare parts, and lifecycle management solutions that keep your network performing at its best.