ISR 4331 compatible L3 Switch Module

[pbilog]

Is the SM-X-ES3-16-P switch module compatible with the ISR 4331? The data sheet only mentions 4451-X. I am having a hard time finding a L3 switch module for our 4331 router. 

[lpersing · Accepted solution]

This is confusing, I can see why you are questioning the documentation. I looked here:

https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/routers/access/4400/software/configuration/guide/isr4400swcfg/bm_isr_4400_sw_config_guide_chapter_01110.html#concept_6BCB029CC8D74DFFA0C2E4E35730ED4D

and it says it is supported but it only references the 4451 document for configuration. I would say it is supported but Cisco didn't write a separate config guide for the 4331. Might be a good idea to reach out to your account rep for clarification.

[balaji.bandi · Accepted solution]

Look at the below matrix :

https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/products/routers/4000-series-integrated-services-routers-isr/relevant-interfaces-and-modules.html

[Leo Laohoo]

As far as I am aware, no. 

All switch modules are Layer 2 only because it is physically "attached" to a Layer 3 device, the router.

[Joseph W. Doherty]

"All switch modules are Layer 2 only because it is physically "attached" to a Layer 3 device, the router."

BTW, yea, most of them are, but sometime not only L2.

The OP's mentioned module supports L3.  L3 switch modules were also offered on earlier ISRs too.  Reason for L3 in the switch module, so you can provide wire-speed L3, which often the smaller ISRs cannot (at least for the number of ports and their bandwidths provided on the switch module).

[Joseph W. Doherty · Accepted solution]

"The data sheet only mentions 4451-X."

Correct, but the 4K module reference @balaji.bandi provided does show the SM-X-ES3-16-P is also supported on the 4461, 4351 and (your) 4331 all using IOS-XE 3.10 (or better).

If you do find the SM-X-ES3-16-P is incorrectly listed as supported, you might consider using a compact L3 switch like a 9200.