Cisco ASR 1000 Series 40G Embedded Service Control Processor

The Cisco ASR1000-ESP40= is an embedded service control processor for Cisco ASR 1000 Series routers that pushes up to 40 Gbps of traffic while enforcing policies and security in hardware. It draws on the Cisco QuantumFlow Processor architecture, so tasks such as Layer 2 and Layer 3 forwarding, MAC classification, and quality of service all run at line rate without consuming extra router slots or external appliances.

For security-conscious networks, the module applies access control lists, manages VPNs, and handles up to 8,000 IPsec tunnels on the same silicon that moves the packets. Service providers and large enterprises can rely on its capacity for as many as 2,000,000 firewall or carrier-grade NAT sessions, making it a strong fit at the WAN edge, in aggregation layers, or behind high-capacity internet uplinks.

Traffic shaping and prioritization stay precise thanks to 128,000 queues, so latency-sensitive applications like voice, video, or financial transactions receive predictable performance even when bandwidth is fully used. Support for both IPv4 and IPv6 routing lets operators transition networks at their own pace while keeping policy enforcement consistent.

The processor ships in a design that is compact and energy efficient, drawing a typical 227 W and peaking at 267 W, which simplifies power planning in dense racks and remote facilities. Operating temperatures from 41 to 104 °F allow deployment in standard data-center aisles, controlled wiring closets, or temperature-regulated telco environments.

Whether you are consolidating multiple services onto a single router, building out managed VPN offerings, or expanding multi-tenant infrastructure with up to 8,000 VRF instances, the ASR1000-ESP40= provides the throughput and scale needed to grow without constant hardware swaps.

• Up to 40 Gbps throughput
• Handles up to 4,000 ACLs and 100,000 ACEs
• Full IPv4 and IPv6 routing support
• Supports up to 2,000,000 firewall or NAT sessions
• Quality of service with 128,000 queues
• Accommodates 8,000 IPsec tunnels
• Manages up to 8,000 VRF instances
• Operating temperature range: 41 to 104 °F
• Typical power consumption 227 W, maximum 267 W