Router Components

Internal configuration components

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

RAM
NVRAM
Flash
ROM
Configuration Register

External configuration components

6. Interfaces- makes physical connections to the outside world.
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Ethernet and fast Ethernet

Asynchronous & synchronous serial
Token Ring
FDDI
ATM
Console and Auxiliary port

1.RAM (Random Access Memory)

It is read and write memory.

It contains software and data structure.
It is principal software running the Cisco IOS image and Running-Configuration.
Some Routers (e.g.2500 series) run IOS from Flash and not RAM.

2.NVRAM (Nonvolatile RAM)

Stores initial or startup configuration file.

It is not erased when the router/switch is reloaded.
Uses a battery to maintain the data when power is removed from the router.

3.Flash Memory

Stores fully functional IOS image.

Not erased when the router is reloaded.
It is an EEPROM created by Intel.
Can be used to store configuration files on Cisco 7500 series platforms.
Some routers (e.g.2500 series) run the IOS image directly from flash and not from
RAM.

4.ROM (Read Only Memory)

Contains micro codes to start and maintain the router

Stores bootable IOS image
Contains the code that is used to boot the router until the router knows where to
get the full IOS image.

5.Configuration Register

Its a 16-bit software register, written into NVRAM.

Used to control how the router boots up.
Value can be seen with the show version command and typically is
0X2102,which tells the router to load the IOS from flash memory.

6.Interfaces
Rear view of 2500 series router showing different physical interfaces: (IC/59)