IS-IS Configuration Guide for Cisco 8000 Series Routers, Cisco IOS XR Release

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Multi-instance IS-IS instances

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Explains multi-instance IS-IS operations, including configuration approaches and restrictions encountered when implementing multiple IS-IS instances on Cisco platforms.


Multi-instance IS-IS instance is a routing protocol feature that

  • allows you to configure up to 16 separate IS-IS instances on a device

  • enables MPLS to operate on multiple IS-IS processes when they run on distinct sets of interfaces, and

  • prevents double-booking by enforcing that each interface associates with only one IS-IS instance, generating configuration errors if violated.

Each IS-IS instance is treated equally by the Routing Information Base (RIB). When redistributing routes between instances, the RIB does not automatically prefer Level 1 over Level 2 routes. You must manually enforce route preference by setting different administrative distances for each instance type.


Restrictions on interface usage with multiple IS-IS instances

These restrictions apply when configuring multiple IS-IS instances:

  • An interface can be associated with only one IS-IS instance (process).

  • Instances may not share an interface; each interface assignment is exclusive.