The Cisco® Multiprocessor WAN Application Module (MWAM) provides high-performance, scalable distributed service processing for the Cisco Catalyst® 6500 Series switches and Cisco 7600 Series routers (Figure 1). Cisco MWAM enables service providers to deploy, provision, and manage value-added services at the network edge. This innovative service module delivers the most comprehensive set of edge aggregation services for fixed-line and mobile operators worldwide.
Cisco MWAM is a line card supported on the Cisco Catalyst 6500 Series and Cisco 7600 Series platforms to deliver the performance, density, and scalability required for comprehensive IP service delivery in large-scale deployments. It combines subscriber management functions with tier-1-class routing to enable service providers to deliver new, competitive IP services to their subscribers.
Cisco Catalyst 6500 Series switches and Cisco 7600 Series routers are the industry-leading edge devices that deliver robust, high-performance features for a range of service provider edge and enterprise metropolitan-area network (MAN) and WAN applications. Coupled with the broadest set of interfaces and innovative adaptive network processing technology, the Cisco Catalyst 6500 Series switches and the Cisco 7600 Series routers lead the industry with integrated Ethernet and private-line aggregation capabilities. This unique combination enables operators to improve operational efficiency at the network edge while maximizing return on investment.
Figure 1. Figure 1
HIGHLY SCALABLE ARCHITECTURE
Each Cisco MWAM card includes three processor complexes, each containing two CPUs designed to run as individual Cisco IOS® Software-based routers (Figure 2). Each complex is connected to the chassis backplane through a Gigabit Ethernet channel. The interfaces used by these Cisco IOS instances are Gigabit Ethernet 802.1Q trunk ports, which carry virtual LAN (VLAN) encapsulated traffic to and from the network. Two processor complexes have access to 1 GB of memory and the third has access to 512 MB.
Figure 2. Figure 2
Cisco MWAM Architecture
SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
· Cisco IOS Software Release 12.2(14)ZA on the Cisco Catalyst 6500 Supervisor 2 with Multilayer Switch Feature Card 2 (MSFC2)
· Cisco IOS Software Release 12.2(14)ZA on the Cisco 7600 Supervisor 2 with MSFC2
· Cisco Catalyst 6500 Switch or Cisco 7600 Router
· Cisco IOS Software Release for Cisco MWAM application software
· One chassis slot
APPLICATIONS
Several applications have been or will soon be migrated to Cisco MWAM to increase session density, improve management capabilities, and reduce complexity of configuration. These include:
· Cisco Gateway GPRS Support Node (GGSN)-General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) Packet Gateway
· Cisco Service Selection Gateway (SSG)-Service Creation and Management Gateway
Currently each Cisco MWAM card must be configured with a single application. Multiple Cisco MWAM cards with different applications can be implemented within a chassis.
BENEFITS OF CISCO MWAM ARCHITECTURE
Integrated Module
Installed inside a chassis with enhanced processing and memory capabilities, the Cisco MWAM allows increased session density compared to traditional solutions. This is of critical importance where rack space is at a premium.
Supports Future Versions
The flexible Cisco IOS Software-based approach of the Cisco MWAM means that the solution will be able to meet future requirements without requiring a system overhaul. Multiple Cisco MWAMs can be added to the chassis to meet growing demands.
Lower Cost of Ownership
Because the Cisco MWAM is integrated in the chassis, there are fewer devices to manage, and capacity can be increased by adding new cards rather than new systems.
Refer to Table 1 for ordering information, to Table 2 for CPU and memory specifications, and to Table 3 for physical specifications.
Table 1. Ordering Information
Product Number
Description
WS-SVC-MWAM-1
Cisco Multiprocessor WAN Application Module
WS-SVC-MWAM-1=
Cisco Multiprocessor WAN Application Module (spare)