Cisco 1000 Series Connected Grid Routers (CGR 1000) vs. Cisco 5500 Series Network Convergence System (NCS 5500)

This tool is suitable for smart grid environments where remote monitoring and control is required, and arguably it may be a little less appropriate for organizations with limited resources for initial implementation and configuration. But in general it can help improve the efficiency of the electrical grid. Its advanced security, scalability and analytical capabilities distinguish it from other similar programs.

Cloud based solutions, these need the necessary bandwidth going from point A to point B. Automate as much as possible from a WAN Core edge standpoint, take away the always on maintaining of the routers/switches on the network. Automation is extremely important in today's world. The Cisco 5500 Series Network Convergence System would not be a very viable solution for a small company, especially from a budgetary standpoint.

Incentivized

• Segments the network.
• Provides security through the use of Access Control Lists.
• Makes routing decisions using routing protocols such as OSPF, RIP, BGP etc ...
• Provides fault tolerance.

Incentivized

• It is versatile due to the diversity in models and form factors.
• Low power consumption compared to similar models
• Mature operating system code allowing for quick production installation and configuration.

Incentivized

• Improve integration with other systems
• Some advanced features may require complex configuration
• Some functions take a long time

• Horizontal blade designs are rare these days because if the gear is shipped in a rack, the blade can bend. The NCS5500's blades are horizontal.
• Not a NCS5500 specific issue, but XR has a ways to go, but will continue to grow with customer input.

Incentivized

Cisco support is always informative and reliable. Depending on the level of support you subscribe to, the techs and Cisco TAC are well versed in hardware and operating system of the NCS series routers. You can receive 24x7 support and either Next Business Day or 4-hour part replacement from Cisco if required.

Incentivized

Cisco and HPE Routers are comparable products. Both do the job well without many differences. I would say HP Routers are easier to configure but come with a small performance hit compared to Cisco routers of the same size/scope. Cisco has the brand recognition and many more certified professionals using them though.

Incentivized

Ultimately other Arista and Juniper choices were tested but design and testing did not give much detail as to why these are better overall or in comparison. We are already using Cisco in this level of the topology so that was most likely the strongest reason and fit the application we are using it for.

• Improvement in operational efficiency
• Reduced downtime
• Greater reliability in the electrical network

• 100% uptime for 5 years.
• No successful intrusion attempts in 5 years.
• Very high throughput has allowed for constant and reliable connectivity.

Incentivized