Cisco ASR 9000 Series: A9K-2X100GE-TR – High-Performance Dual-Port 100G Adapter

Jun 11 , 2025 15

Cisco ASR 9000 Series: A9K-2X100GE-TR – High-Performance Dual-Port 100G Adapter

Product Overview

The Cisco A9K-2X100GE-TR is a high-performance dual-port 100 Gigabit Ethernet (100GE) network module designed for the Cisco ASR 9000 Series routers. This compact yet powerful adapter delivers carrier-class reliability and flexibility for service provider edge, enterprise core, and cloud interconnect applications.

Key Features & Specifications

Use Cases

✔ Mobile Backhaul – High-density 5G fronthaul/backhaul aggregation
✔ Enterprise WAN – High-speed campus/core connectivity
✔ Cloud Peering – Low-latency data center interconnects
✔ Video Distribution – High-bandwidth content delivery

Next-Generation Successor: A9K-2X100GE-SE

Key Upgrades & Improvements

Why Upgrade to the -SE Model?

✔ Future-Proof Design – Supports 400G via QSFP-DD optics
✔ Carrier-Grade Security – Line-rate MACsec without performance penalty
✔ Operational Efficiency – 50% lower power consumption
✔ Cloud-Native Ready – Full EVPN/VXLAN support

Migration Strategy

1. New Deployments

• Standardize on A9K-2X100GE-SE for all new installations

• Leverage QSFP-DD optics for investment protection

2. Existing -TR Installations

• Phase out during hardware refresh cycles

• Prioritize upgrades for security-sensitive applications

3. Hybrid Networks

• Maintain -TR models in non-critical paths

• Deploy -SE modules for high-priority traffic

"The -SE version delivers twice the performance at half the power – a game-changer for edge networks."
**— Senior Network Architect, Global Tier 1 Carrier**

Conclusion

While the A9K-2X100GE-TR remains a reliable workhorse for 100G networks, the A9K-2X100GE-SE represents the next evolutionary step with:

• 400G-ready architecture

• Military-grade encryption

• Cloud-scale automation

• Sustainable power profile

Recommended Actions:
▸ Conduct power/cooling assessment
▸ Validate optics compatibility
▸ Explore Cisco's Technology Migration Program

Short Title Alternative:
"Cisco's Dual 100G Evolution: From TR to SE"