Cisco ASR1002-HX Crypto Module with No Default Throughput

The Cisco ASR1002-HX Crypto Module is a purpose-built hardware accelerator designed to elevate security performance on the Cisco ASR 1000 Series routers. Built for edge and data-center deployments, this module delivers dedicated cryptographic processing that speeds up IPsec, VPN, TLS, and other encrypted traffic without imposing a fixed throughput on your network. By separating encryption work from general packet processing, it helps you scale security as your traffic grows while keeping latency low and reliability high. This crypto module is ideal for organizations that require robust, high-performance encryption to protect sensitive data while maintaining scalable, enterprise-grade routing capabilities.

• Hardware-accelerated cryptography: The Cisco ASR1002-HX Crypto Module provides dedicated hardware encryption and decryption engines, enabling rapid processing of IPsec, VPN, and cryptographic protocols. This reduces CPU load on the main router, freeing resources for routing, QoS, and other services while maintaining strong security posture.
• No default throughput: Unlike fixed-throughput modules, this crypto module is designed to work with your platform’s configuration and traffic patterns. Throughput is determined by the combined capacity of the ASR 1000 Series chassis, software, and available memory, giving you flexibility to optimize security performance as your network evolves.
• Dramatically improves VPN and encrypted traffic performance: With optimized cryptographic paths, encrypted tunnels and remote-access VPNs can run at higher speeds with lower latency, supporting large-scale deployments across branch offices, data centers, and colocation facilities.
• Modular, hot-swappable design: The crypto module is built for minimal downtime in busy environments. When maintenance is needed, you can replace or upgrade the module without a full router reboot, helping you maintain service levels and uptime.
• Seamless Cisco ecosystem integration: Engineered to work in harmony with the Cisco ASR1002-HX router and the broader ASR 1000 family, this module benefits from Cisco's validated interoperability, firmware updates, and global support.

Technical Details of Cisco ASR1002-HX Crypto Module

• Product family: Crypto Module for Cisco ASR 1000 Series routers, designed to complement the ASR1002-HX platform.
• Throughput: No default throughput is specified; performance is tuned by the overall platform configuration and licensing, allowing security throughput to scale with network needs.
• Cryptographic acceleration: Hardware-based engines optimized for IPsec, VPN, and other cryptographic workloads, delivering fast, deterministic encryption and decryption.
• Supported protocols and algorithms: Includes support for common crypto standards such as AES, DES, 3DES, SHA-1, and SHA-2 family, enabling secure data protection across a range of security policies.
• Compatibility: Designed for use with Cisco ASR1002-HX routers and compatible with the Cisco ASR 1000 Series ecosystem, ensuring validated interoperability and Cisco software integration.
• Form factor and availability: Removable crypto module designed for edge and data-center deployments, enabling modular upgrades and maintenance with minimal downtime.
• Power and environmental considerations: Engineered for standard data-center power environments; consult Cisco documentation for specific power, cooling, and space requirements in your deployment.

How to install Cisco ASR1002-HX Crypto Module

• Prepare the site: Power down the Cisco router and disconnect from power sources. Ground yourself and ensure you are working in an ESD-safe environment to protect sensitive components.
• Access the chassis: Remove the chassis lid or access panel per the router’s maintenance procedure. Identify the Crypto Module slot intended for replacement or installation.
• Align and insert: Align the module’s connectors with the slot and slide it firmly into place until it is seated. Ensure there is a solid, secure connection with no wobbly connections.
• Secure and reassemble: Reattach any required fasteners or latches and reseat the chassis cover. Confirm that the module is properly secured and aligned with the backplane.
• Power on and verify: Reconnect power and boot the device. Use the appropriate Cisco commands to verify the crypto module is recognized, and verify that IPsec/VPN cryptographic features are operational and stable.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What does “no default throughput” mean for the Cisco ASR1002-HX Crypto Module? A: It indicates that the module does not advertise a fixed, standalone throughput. Security performance depends on the overall platform capacity, software configuration, and traffic mixes, enabling you to tailor security performance to your network needs.
• Q: Is this module compatible with all Cisco ASR 1000 routers? A: The Cisco ASR1002-HX Crypto Module is designed for use with the ASR1002-HX router and other components in the ASR 1000 Series ecosystem. Always verify compatibility with your specific chassis and software version before installation.
• Q: How does this module affect latency and performance? A: Hardware-based cryptographic acceleration reduces CPU load and can lower end-to-end latency for encrypted traffic compared to software-based encryption, especially in high-traffic VPN scenarios. Actual results depend on workload, algorithms, and overall system configuration.
• Q: What kind of support or warranty coverage applies? A: This module is covered under Cisco’s hardware warranty and support programs through authorized resellers. For precise terms, contact Cisco or your Cisco-certified partner for the exact warranty duration and service options for your region.