Cisco systems unveiled a new series of Hardware router that is capable of handling 322 terabits per second (Tbps) of data tripling its capacity from its CRS-1 series router.
CRS stands for Carrier Routing Sytem and is a large scare core router used for the internet backbone which is fibre. With the introduction of CRS-3 Cisco moved ahead its competitors by offering speeds that are 12 times faster. The Cisco CRS-3 would allow every man, woman and child in China to make a video call, simultaneously. It sure will reduce congestion in the backbone traffic.
If you thought buying one of these $90,000.00 router will let the end user see a bump in his speeds then you will be disappointed. The last mile (connectivity from the network interface device to your home) is influenced by your local ISP and the medium of communication, i.e. copper or fibre. However, if you were to be doing video conferencing you will surely see an improvement and this new technology is a boon to multi-billion dollar corporations with large networks spanning the globe.
A comparison of the CRS models is impressive.
| Model | Slot Capacity | Aggregate Switching Capacity | Dimensions (H x W x D) |
| Cisco CRS-1 4-Slot Single-Shelf System | 4 slots | 320 Gbps | 30 x 18.55 x 30.28 in. (76.2 x 47.12 x 76.91 cm) with front cover |
| Cisco CRS-1 8-Slot Single-Shelf System | 8 slots | 640 Gbps | 38.5 x 17.5 x 36.6 in. (99.06 x 44.45 x 93.0 cm) |
| Cisco CRS-1 16-Slot Single-Shelf System | 16 slots | 1.2 Tbps | 84 x 23.6 x 36 in. (213.36 x 59.94 x 91.44 cm) |
| Cisco CRS-1 Multishelf System | 1152 slots | 92 Tbps | — |
| Cisco CRS-3 4-Slot Single-Shelf System | 4 slots | 1.12 Tbps | 30 x 18.55 x 30.28 in. (76.2 x 47.12 x 76.91 cm) with front cover |
| Cisco CRS-3 8-Slot Single-Shelf System | 8 slots | 2.24 Tbps | 38.5 x 17.5 x 36.6 in. (99.06 x 44.45 x 93.0 cm) |
| Cisco CRS-3 16-Slot Single-Shelf System | 16 slots | 4.48 Tbps | 84 x 23.6 x 36 in. (213.36 x 59.94 x 91.44 cm) |
| Cisco CRS-3 Multishelf System | 1152 slots | 322 Tbps | — |