Cisco IOS XR

Cisco IOS XR is a powerful and scalable network operating system designed specifically for service provider routers. It's built on a modular microkernel architecture, which provides enhanced stability and flexibility compared to traditional monolithic systems.

Key Features

• High availability: Supports in-service software upgrades and process restart without impacting network operations.

• Scalability: Can handle large-scale routing deployments with millions of routes and interfaces.

• Programmability: Offers extensive APIs and supports modern automation tools like YANG models and gRPC.

• Security: Implements robust security features, including role-based access control and secure boot.

• Virtualization: Supports network function virtualization (NFV) and software-defined networking (SDN) capabilities.

Conclusion

IOS XR is primarily used in Cisco's high-end router platforms, such as the ASR 9000 and NCS 5500 series. It's favored by service providers and large enterprises for its reliability and advanced features in managing complex, high-performance networks.

You can get practice by using the IOS XRv image, this is a virtual router.

While powerful, IOS XR has a steeper learning curve compared to traditional IOS.