Cisco C1118-8P vs C1111-4P: Which Router Fits Your Business Needs?

Choosing the right router for your business can significantly impact network performance, security, and scalability. Cisco’s C1118-8P and C1111-4P are both reliable options, but they cater to different needs. Below, we compare their performance, features, and real-world usability to help you decide which model is best for your organization.

Technical Specifications Comparison

The C1118-8P is the clear winner in raw performance, offering faster processing, more memory, and higher throughput. However, the C1111-4P is more power-efficient and sufficient for smaller deployments.

Key Functional Differences

1. Port Availability & Network Expansion

• C1118-8P:

• 8x Gigabit ports (better for multi-device environments)

• 2x USB 3.0 ports (for additional storage or security keys)

• Supports optional LTE failover (for backup connectivity)

• C1111-4P:

• 4x Gigabit ports (sufficient for small offices)

• 1x USB 3.0 port

• No built-in LTE failover

If your business relies on high availability, the C1118-8P is the better choice.

2. Security & VPN Capabilities

Both routers support:
✔ IPSec & SSL VPN
✔ Cisco Firepower Threat Defense (FTD)
✔ Encrypted traffic inspection

However, the C1118-8P handles more VPN tunnels simultaneously due to its superior CPU and RAM.

Design & Build Quality

• C1118-8P:

• Larger chassis with active cooling (better for sustained high loads)

• Rack-mountable (ideal for server rooms)

• C1111-4P:

• Compact, fanless design (silent operation, great for offices)

• Desktop-friendly form factor

If noise and space are concerns, the C1111-4P is preferable.

User Experience & Management

• Setup & Configuration:

• Both use Cisco’s intuitive web interface and CLI

• C1118-8P supports more granular traffic shaping

• Performance Under Load:

• The C1118-8P maintains stability with 50+ connected devices

• The C1111-4P is best for 10-20 devices

Price & Long-Term Value

• C1111-4P:

• Lower upfront cost (~800−1,000)

• Best for budget-conscious small businesses

• C1118-8P:

• Higher investment (~1,500−2,000)

• Justified by better scalability and future-proofing

If you expect business growth, the C1118-8P offers better ROI.

Power Efficiency & Battery Considerations

• C1111-4P: More energy-efficient (15W max)

• C1118-8P: Higher power draw (25W max) but still efficient for its class

Neither supports PoE, so external injectors are needed for PoE devices.

Compatibility & Software Support

• Software: Both run Cisco IOS-XE with full SD-WAN compatibility

• Cloud Integration: Works with AWS, Azure, and VMware

• Third-Party Tools: Supports SNMP, NetFlow, and API automation

The C1118-8P has better long-term firmware support due to its higher-tier positioning.

Final Recommendation

✅ Choose the C1111-4P if:

• You run a small office (10-20 users)

• You need a quiet, low-power router

• Your budget is under $1,000

✅ Choose the C1118-8P if:

• You need high-speed VPN and multi-device support

• You plan to expand your network

• You require enterprise-grade reliability

Both routers deliver Cisco’s trusted performance, but the C1118-8P is the smarter long-term investment for growing businesses.

Need help deciding? Drop your network requirements in the comments!