Cisco 8122X-64EF-O: Powering the Next Generation of AI and Hyperscale Networks

The networking landscape is undergoing a seismic shift. As Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) workloads become the primary drivers of data center traffic, the demand for bandwidth, efficiency, and scalability has reached unprecedented levels. In response, Cisco has introduced the **8122X-64EF-O**, a powerhouse within the Cisco 8100 Series that redefines the boundaries of high-density routing and switching.

At the heart of the Cisco 8122X-64EF-O lies the **Cisco Silicon One G200 ASIC**. Built on cutting-edge 5-nm technology, this silicon architecture is the first to unify the performance of a high-end router with the density and power efficiency of a data center switch.

The G200 ASIC enables the 8122X-64EF-O to deliver a staggering **51.2 Tbps of total bandwidth** in a compact 2RU form factor. This level of performance is critical for AI/ML training clusters, where low latency and massive throughput are non-negotiable for optimizing job completion times.

Technical Specifications and Port Density

Total Bandwidth >>>>>>> 51.2 Tbps
Form Factor >>>>>>>>>>2RU Fixed Chassis
Port Density >>>>>>>>>>64x 800G OSFP800 Ports
Breakout Support >>>>>>Up to 128x 400G ports via breakout cables
ASIC Generation >>>>>>Cisco Silicon One G200 (5-nm)
Software Support>>>>>>Cisco IOS XR and SONiC (Open Source)

Open Networking and SONiC Support

One of the most significant features of the 8122X-64EF-O is its support for **SONiC (Software for Open Networking in the Cloud)**. By embracing open-source networking, Cisco allows hyperscalers and large enterprises to integrate the 8122X-64EF-O into their existing automated environments seamlessly.

This "Open" approach (denoted by the "-O" in the product ID) ensures that organizations can leverage Cisco's world-class hardware while maintaining the agility and customization offered by an open-source network operating system. For those requiring traditional carrier-grade features, the device also fully supports **Cisco IOS XR**, providing a robust and familiar management experience.

Key Use Cases

The Cisco 8122X-64EF-O is not just a router; it is a foundational element for several high-performance environments:

AI/ML Infrastructure: Providing the high-bandwidth, low-latency fabric required for massive GPU clusters and distributed AI training.
Hyperscale Data Centers: Serving as a high-density leaf or spine switch that can scale to meet the demands of global cloud services.
Service Provider Core: Offering a power-efficient solution for internet peering and core routing where space and energy consumption are at a premium.
High-Performance Computing (HPC): Supporting data-intensive scientific and financial workloads that require reliable, high-speed connectivity.

Sustainability and Efficiency

In addition to its performance, the 8122X-64EF-O is a leader in energy efficiency. The Silicon One architecture is designed to deliver more "bits per watt" than any previous generation. By consolidating 51.2 Tbps of capacity into a 2RU chassis, Cisco helps organizations reduce their physical footprint and cooling requirements, directly contributing to more sustainable data center operations.

Conclusion

The Cisco 8122X-64EF-O represents a bold step forward in network engineering. By combining the massive scale of Silicon One G200 with the flexibility of open networking, Cisco has delivered a platform that is uniquely equipped to handle the AI-driven future. Whether you are building a next-generation AI cluster or scaling a global cloud infrastructure, the 8122X-64EF-O provides the performance, efficiency, and openness required to succeed.

Cisco 8122X-64EF-O: Powering the Next Generation of AI and Hyperscale Networks