Cisco Catalyst IR1101-K9 Rugged Series Router Overview

The Cisco Catalyst IR1101-K9 is a compact, modular, and ruggedized industrial router engineered for mission-critical connectivity in harsh environments. Designed for industries such as utilities, transportation, manufacturing, public safety, and smart cities, the IR1101-K9 delivers secure, resilient, and scalable networking at the edge.

With the SL-IR1101-NE software license, the router gains enhanced networking capabilities tailored for industrial IoT deployments, giving organizations the flexibility to run advanced applications while maintaining enterprise-grade security.

The IR1101-K9 stands out for its modularity, long lifecycle, low power consumption, and superior performance in challenging outdoor and industrial conditions.

Key Features and Benefits of the Cisco IR1101-K9

Ruggedized for Harsh Environments

The IR1101 is purpose-built for extreme temperatures, vibration, shock, high humidity, and dusty environments. It meets industrial certifications that ensure reliable long-term performance where traditional routers cannot survive.

Modular and Future-Proof Design

One of the strongest advantages of the IR1101-K9 is the ability to expand using pluggable modules. This makes it future-ready and adaptable to new requirements such as additional WAN interfaces, storage, or application hosting.

Secure Industrial Connectivity

With secure boot, hardware-accelerated cryptography, and advanced threat defense capabilities, the IR1101-K9 ensures that critical infrastructure data is protected end-to-end.

Optimized with SL-IR1101-NE License

The SL-IR1101-NE (Network Essentials) license adds Layer 3 routing, VPN, QoS, and advanced networking protocols, giving organizations the performance and flexibility needed for enterprise-grade deployments at the IoT edge.

Cisco IR1101-K9 Technical Specifications

Hardware Specifications

• Processor: Multi-core industrial-grade CPU
• Memory:
  • DRAM: 2 GB
  • Flash Storage: 4 GB (expandable with mSATA module)
• Interfaces:
  • 2x Gigabit Ethernet ports
  • Optional LTE/5G module (dependent on configuration)
  • Optional dual active LTE modules via expansion
  • 1x microSD slot
  • 1x USB 2.0 port
• Power Options:
  • 9–36V DC input
  • Low power consumption for energy-limited sites
• Operating Temperature:
  • –40°C to +60°C (–40°F to 140°F)
• Dimensions:
  • Compact footprint ideal for edge enclosures
• Compliance:
  • IEC, UL, ATEX, IP-rated ruggedness

Performance Specifications

• Throughput: Up to 300 Mbps depending on license and module configuration
• VPN Performance: Hardware-accelerated for secure industrial communication
• Routing Protocols (with SL-IR1101-NE):
  • OSPF
  • BGP
  • EIGRP
  • Static and policy-based routing
• WAN and Cellular Capabilities:
  • Multi-carrier LTE support
  • Dual SIM for redundancy
  • Optional 5G-ready modules
• Security Features:
  • Secure Boot
  • MACsec
  • IPsec VPN
  • Zone-based firewall
  • Identity-based access control

Ideal Use Cases for the Cisco IR1101-K9

Industrial IoT and Smart Grids

The IR1101-K9 integrates seamlessly with utility grid automation systems, ensuring real-time communication and reliable failover connectivity.

Transportation and Fleet Networks

Applicable for onboard transportation systems such as buses, trains, and emergency vehicles, the IR1101 offers reliable cellular backhaul and GPS integration.

Smart City Deployments

Perfect for street lighting control, environmental monitoring, and city surveillance systems requiring secure and persistent edge connectivity.

Oil, Gas, and Mining

Ruggedness and modular connectivity options allow stable communication in remote and extreme conditions.

Benefits of the SL-IR1101-NE Network Essentials License

The SL-IR1101-NE license enhances the IR1101-K9 router by enabling:

• Advanced dynamic and static routing capabilities
• Enhanced VPN and secure-tunnel functionality
• Enterprise-grade performance for mission-critical applications
• Better traffic shaping and QoS for latency-sensitive deployments
• Simplified network management and scalability

This combination ensures organizations get maximum value and robustness from their industrial IoT infrastructure.

Why Choose the Cisco IR1101-K9 Rugged Router?

The IR1101-K9 provides the reliability, security, and modularity required for modern industrial networks. Its combination with the SL-IR1101-NE software license delivers an enterprise-class feature set in a rugged, compact form factor—making it an ideal choice for any organization operating industrial or outdoor environments with high connectivity demands.

FAQs

What environments is the Cisco IR1101-K9 designed for?

It is engineered for extreme industrial environments such as utilities, manufacturing floors, transportation systems, and outdoor smart city applications.

What does the SL-IR1101-NE license include?

The Network Essentials license unlocks advanced Layer 3 routing, VPN, QoS, and key security features required for robust industrial networking.

Can I expand my IR1101 router in the future?

Yes. The router features modular expansion bays that can add LTE, 5G, storage, or additional WAN interfaces.

Does the IR1101-K9 support cellular connectivity?

Yes. It supports multiple LTE modules, dual SIM functionality, and optional upgrades to 5G modules.

Is the IR1101-K9 suitable for remote IoT sites?

Absolutely. It’s optimized for low power consumption, rugged durability, and secure connectivity—ideal for remote industrial IoT use cases.