Chapter 1. Introducing Cisco IOS XR

This chapter covers the following topics: Evolution of Networking Requirements for Carrier-Grade NOS Operating System Concepts High-Level Overview of Cisco IOS XR Cisco IOS XR Platforms References

This chapter reviews the evolution of network operating systems (NOS), requirements for current and future networks, and how Cisco IOS XR meets these requirements. The first section of this chapter provides an overview of the evolution of networking. The second section outlines the requirements for a carrier-grade NOS that underpins a converged network with critical applications. The third section reviews basic concepts of operating systems. The final sections provide a high-level overview of Cisco IOS XR.