Cisco ASR1001-X vs Catalyst 8500L
The ASR1001-X is the long-running 1RU IOS XE aggregation router; the Catalyst 8500L (C8500L-8S4X) is its modern SD-WAN-native successor with an x86 architecture, built-in 10GE uplinks, and current IOS XE SD-WAN. For new edge and SD-WAN deployments, choose the C8500L.
Cisco ASR1001-X
Mature 1RU aggregation router with QFP forwarding and software-upgradable throughput.
- 2.5 Gbps default forwarding, license-upgradable to 20 Gbps
- 6x built-in 1GE plus 2x 10GE, NIM and SPA expansion
- Cisco QuantumFlow Processor (QFP) forwarding engine
- Past end-of-sale; SD-WAN supported but it is the prior-generation edge platform
Cisco Catalyst 8500L (C8500L-8S4X)
Current x86-based 1RU edge platform purpose-built to continue the ASR 1000 experience with SD-WAN.
- Up to 20 Gbps Cisco Express Forwarding aggregate throughput
- 8x 1GE SFP plus 4x 1/10GE SFP+ built-in interfaces
- x86 SOC design tuned for IOS XE SD-WAN and cloud onramp
- Cisco DNA / Cisco Networking subscription licensing; current lifecycle
Cisco ASR1001-X vs Cisco Catalyst 8500L (C8500L-8S4X): spec comparison
| Spec | Cisco ASR1001-X | Cisco Catalyst 8500L (C8500L-8S4X) |
|---|---|---|
| Form factor | 1RU | 1RU |
| Aggregate throughput | 2.5 Gbps default, to 20 Gbps | Up to 20 Gbps CEF |
| Forwarding architecture | QFP (QuantumFlow Processor) | x86 SOC |
| Built-in 1GE ports | 6x SFP | 8x SFP |
| Built-in 10GE ports | 2x SFP+ | 4x 1/10GE SFP+ |
| Module expansion | NIM + SPA | Fixed interfaces (no module slots) |
| Software | IOS XE / IOS XE SD-WAN | IOS XE SD-WAN (Catalyst 8000 family) |
| Licensing | Throughput + DNA add-ons | Cisco Networking subscription tiers |
| Lifecycle status | End of sale (prior generation) | Current generation |
Choose Cisco ASR1001-X if
Choose the ASR1001-X only if you need its NIM and SPA module flexibility on an existing IOS XE design and are not ready to standardize on the Catalyst 8000 family.
Choose Cisco Catalyst 8500L (C8500L-8S4X) if
Choose the Catalyst 8500L for new edge and SD-WAN deployments: it delivers the same up-to-20 Gbps class on a current x86 platform with more built-in 10GE and Catalyst 8000 lifecycle and licensing.
Verdict
The Catalyst 8500L is the modern continuation of the ASR1001-X experience, built for IOS XE SD-WAN on an x86 architecture with richer built-in 10GE. With the ASR1001-X past end of sale, refresh to the C8500L unless you specifically need the 1001-X module slots short-term.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Catalyst 8500L the replacement for the ASR1001-X?
The Catalyst 8500L is the modern SD-WAN-native edge platform that continues the ASR 1000 experience; its x86 design targets the same routing use cases at up to 20 Gbps.
How does the C8500L throughput compare to the ASR1001-X?
Both reach roughly the same 20 Gbps class. The C8500L delivers up to 20 Gbps aggregate CEF throughput, matching the ASR1001-X at its top license tier.
Does the Catalyst 8500L have module slots like the ASR1001-X?
No. The C8500L uses fixed built-in interfaces (8x 1GE SFP and 4x 1/10GE SFP+) rather than the NIM and SPA module slots of the ASR1001-X.
Is the ASR1001-X still supported?
The ASR1001-X is past end of sale but remains in support for now. For new purchases the Catalyst 8500L is the current-generation choice.
More ASR comparisons
Specs are for planning and may change; Uniqcli confirms the current Cisco bill of materials and pricing on your quote. Cisco, Catalyst, Nexus, Meraki, and Firepower are trademarks of Cisco Systems, Inc.; Uniqcli LLC is an independent authorized Cisco partner.