WAAS Deployement : Inline Vs Off-path

[lm_esrome]

Hi All,

I would like to get your expertise on deciding  suitable deployement method.

We have to deploy the WAAS solution between a DC and 70+ branch locations ( expected TCP connections in each <= 200) which are connected through provider managed MPLS cloud . Decided to use WAE 7341 (with WCCP redirection method)as the WAE in DC side but when it comes to branch side still thinking between INLINE ( WAVE 274) vs WCCP (ISR router with NME) . Basically , would like to understand more about ..

a) Difference between Inline and Off-path deployement in all aspects.

b) Does inline deployement with WAVE 274 ( has 2 NIC ) passes through the traffic in case of Power / device failure

We have been did PoC with WCCP method , it was very stable and got good respone. We would like to use inline method as it is the  low cost solution, if it can provide same level STABLITIY + RESPONSE.

Regards,

Maria

[Nicolas Fournier · Accepted solution]

Hi Maria,

I don't know exactly which aspects you are interested in but usually, WCCP is used when we want to spread the load over multiple WAE as it is easier to achieve then with Inline interfaces.

Now, as in your case, you'll be only using one NME, so it doesn't apply.

Another difference is that the module is integrated inside your router while the WAVE obviously isn't so it will require additional cabling in your network.

Inline acceleration will not add any processing load to your router while WCCP will. Even if this load increase might not be that high, you might want to think about it if your routers are already heavily used.

If you have any other aread you would like to get more info on, let me know and I'll see what I can do for you.

Regarding your question on what would happen if the WAVE gets powered off or fails completely, the inline interface has an hardware bypass mechanism that will kick off if this occurs and the device will simply start bridging the traffic between the two sides of the interface, preventing a network outage.

Regards,

Nicolas

[lm_esrome]

Thanks for the info..

I have one query regaring physical connectivity . if i have to connect the WAN interface of WAVE applaiance directly to a non cisco CPE ,as our branches doesn't any WAN router , will it give any connectivity issues like duplex mismatches .  Because got the chance to read couple of blogs , it seems inline connectivity gives such kind of issues.

In general , which method of deployment is most recommended for branch  offices ? because we have the chance to choose best of it.

Regards,

Maria

[Nicolas Fournier]

Hi Maria,

You might use different cabling depending on how your inline interface is connected but it should come up.

Here is for your reference a document that describes how it should be done: http://www.cisco.com/en/US/partner/docs/app_ntwk_services/waas/wave/installation/274-474/guide/wave274inln.html#wp1038050

There is no "recommended" solution for this out of the box, you have to decide based on your requirements what would be better. You have to choose if you want to go with the integrated module that will require config on the router side only or for the standalone appliance that would require no changes on the router but which will require some recabling on your network.

Regards,

Nicolas

[Jan Rockstedt]

Hi Maria,

My sugestion is have the WAE turn-off when you do the cable installation for the inlinecard.

If you dont get link on both side, then its wrong cable or cables.

Jan