2911 ISR G2 as a core switch in campus network?

[Alexander Simbun]

Hello experts,

Just wonder about having a Cisco 2911 ISR G2 router with Cisco SM-X Layer 2/3 EtherSwitch Service Module (16 port) can be used as a core switch in a campus network. Possible? Our goal is to find a way to simplify our company's network infrastructure by re-using/re-assigning/upgrade some of our existing Cisco network devices in order to reduce cost.

Kindly advice.

Regards,

Alex

[Leo Laohoo]

Anything is possible, however, a few points to consider: 

1.  Single point-of-failure:  If your router dies, so does your core switch; 

2.  1 Gbps backbone between your switch and your router.  Nothing more, nothing less.  

[Alexander Simbun]

Thank you Leo for your reply. 1Gbps backbone between the switch and router? Where can I find the information?

Regards,

Alex

[Leo Laohoo · Accepted solution]

1Gbps backbone between the switch and router? Where can I find the information?

Go HERE.  

The interface communication between router-to-module may be 1 Gbps but you won't be able to push 1 Gbps.  

[Reza Sharifi]

Hi Alex,

It is possible but the 2911 is not a very powerful router.  It can work if you need low throughput and your users don't need to download/access files with high speed. So, really its all about your requirement 

HTH