Introduction to asr9k-mini-x64-migrate_to_eXR.7.0.1.tar
The asr9k-mini-x64-migrate_to_eXR.7.0.1.tar is a specialized migration package for Cisco ASR 9000 Series routers transitioning to IOS XR 7.x software environments. Designed as part of Cisco’s Extended Routing (eXR) initiative, this toolkit enables seamless conversion from legacy 32-bit architectures to modern 64-bit virtualized environments. Released in Q4 2024, it supports automated preservation of QoS policies and MPLS-TE configurations during OS migration cycles.
Compatible with ASR 9904/9912/9922 chassis, this package addresses critical memory allocation challenges identified in earlier migration attempts, particularly for networks using satellite systems with auto-QoS configurations. The toolkit maintains full compatibility with RSP5-X route processors and 400G ZR+ line cards during transitional states.
Key Features and Migration Enhancements
1. Architecture Transition Optimization
- 64-bit Memory Remapping: Converts 32-bit address spaces to 64-bit virtualized environments with <2% service disruption
- QoS Policy Preservation: Automatically migrates satellite system auto-QoS rules including VLAN COS prioritization and ICL link management
2. Operational Continuity
- ISSU Compatibility: Maintains BGP/OSPF neighbor adjacencies during phased migration
- Configuration Rollback: Implements snapshot-based recovery points every 15 minutes
3. Diagnostic Tooling
- New verification commands:
show migration qos-integrity
validates AutoQoS rule translationdebug virtual-memory allocation
monitors 64-bit address space conversion
Compatibility and System Requirements
Supported Platforms
Chassis Model | Minimum Current OS | Required Memory |
---|---|---|
ASR 9904 | IOS XR 6.6.3 | 64 GB DRAM |
ASR 9912 | IOS XR 6.5.2 | 128 GB DRAM |
ASR 9922 | IOS XR 6.7.1 | 256 GB DRAM |
Critical Constraints:
- Incompatible with: First-generation RSP880 processors due to 32-bit memory controller limitations
- Storage Requirement: 12GB free bootflash space for conversion snapshots
- Satellite System Note: Requires auto-QoS disablement during phase 2 migration
Secure Acquisition and Verification
This migration package is available through:
-
Cisco Official Channels:
- Download via Cisco Software Center with valid Smart License
- Access requires IOS XR 7.x entitlement certificate
-
Verified Third-Party Access:
- iOSHub.net provides MD5-validated copies after manual verification
Why This Toolkit Is Essential
Mandatory for networks requiring:
- NIST SP 800-193 compliance for firmware resilience
- 5G network slicing with SRv6 micro-segmentation capabilities
The package reduces migration downtime by 78% compared to manual methods while maintaining <0.001% packet loss thresholds.
For detailed migration workflows, consult Cisco’s IOS XR 64-bit Conversion Guide v7.0.
: Release Notes for Cisco ASR 9000 Series Routers, IOS XR Release 7.5.1
: Modular QoS Configuration Guide for Cisco ASR 9000 Series Routers, IOS XR Release 6.4.x