Cisco C1111-4PLTEEA vs C1111-4P: Decoding the LTE-Enhanced Router Variant

When evaluating Cisco's C1100 series routers, the C1111-4PLTEEA presents an interesting LTE-enhanced alternative to the standard C1111-4P model. This comparison reveals critical differences that could significantly impact your network reliability and deployment flexibility, particularly for remote locations or businesses requiring failover capabilities.

Core Specifications Comparison

While both models share identical core computing specifications, the 4PLTEEA variant's integrated LTE modem fundamentally changes its operational capabilities and deployment scenarios.

Functional Distinctions

1. Connectivity Reliability

• 4PLTEEA Key Advantage:

• Automatic failover to LTE when primary WAN fails

• Supports multiple carrier SIM cards (global variants available)

• LTE Cat 11 (600 Mbps theoretical download)

• Standard 4P Limitations:

• Requires external USB LTE modem for failover

• Additional configuration complexity

• Typically slower LTE performance

2. Security Implementation

Both models include:

• Hardware-accelerated IPsec encryption

• Firewall throughput of 500 Mbps

• Cisco's advanced threat protection

The 4PLTEEA adds:

• Encrypted LTE backhaul capability

• SIM card security features

• Enhanced WAN diversity monitoring

Physical Design Variations

• Enclosure Differences:

• 4PLTEEA has slightly taller chassis (1.95" vs 1.8")

• Additional SMA antenna connectors on rear panel

• Shared: Same rugged metal construction

• Thermal Management:

• 4PLTEEA requires more aggressive passive cooling

• Both maintain silent operation

• Identical operating temperature ranges (-20 to 55°C)

• Indicator Lights:

• 4PLTEEA adds dedicated LTE signal strength LEDs

• Shared status indicators for power/ports

User Experience Comparison

Deployment Scenarios:

• 4PLTEEA Excels In:

• Temporary sites (construction, events)

• Retail locations with unreliable broadband

• Mobile deployments (vehicles, kiosks)

• Standard 4P Better For:

• Fixed locations with stable connectivity

• Environments where cellular isn't permitted

• Cost-sensitive deployments

Management Differences:

• 4PLTEEA adds cellular signal metrics dashboard

• Both share identical web interface and CLI

• Same SD-WAN implementation

Real-World Performance:

• Wired performance identical

• 4PLTEEA adds 50-100ms latency when on LTE

• Similar QoS handling capabilities

Pricing Analysis

• Base Unit Pricing:

• C1111-4P: 950−1,100

• C1111-4PLTEEA: 1,400−1,600

• Operational Costs:

• 4PLTEEA requires cellular data plan

• 4P has lower power consumption

• Similar maintenance costs

Value Proposition:
The LTE variant's 35-40% premium is justified for:

• Businesses needing guaranteed uptime

• Remote monitoring applications

• Organizations with distributed locations

Power Efficiency Considerations

• Idle Power Draw:

• 4P: 8W

• 4PLTEEA: 10W (LTE idle)

• Active Differences:

• LTE transmission adds 3-5W

• Both support power scheduling

Battery Backup Impact:

• 4PLTEEA reduces UPS runtime by 15-20%

• Critical for sites relying on battery during outages

Compatibility & Expansion

Hardware Integration:

• Both support:

• Identical USB peripherals

• Same console port accessories

• Compatible rack mounts

Software Compatibility:

• Identical IOS-XE version support

• Same API and management systems

• Equal third-party integration

Unique 4PLTEEA Considerations:

• Carrier-specific firmware variants

• Cellular module driver updates

• SIM card compatibility checks

Software Support & Updates

• Security Patches:

• Both receive equal priority

• Shared vulnerability fixes

• Feature Updates:

• 4PLTEEA gets additional LTE feature enhancements

• Standard 4P focuses on wired improvements

• Long-Term Support:

• Cisco typically maintains parity

• LTE model may see extended support cycle

Decision Framework

Choose C1111-4P When:
✔ Wired reliability is guaranteed
✔ Cellular functionality isn't required
✔ Budget is primary concern
✔ Deployment is in urban areas

Choose C1111-4PLTEEA When:
✔ Business continuity is critical
✔ Locations have spotty wired service
✔ Mobile or temporary deployments exist
✔ The premium fits operational needs

For about 40% additional cost, the LTE-enhanced model provides invaluable redundancy that could prevent costly downtime. The decision ultimately hinges on your specific reliability requirements and whether your operations can justify the additional investment in cellular failover capability.

Pro Tip: Consider your actual cellular coverage when evaluating the 4PLTEEA - the best hardware can't compensate for poor signal strength in your deployment locations. Always verify carrier compatibility before purchase.