Skip to content

Guide

Replacing end-of-life Cisco ISR 1900, 2900 and 3900 routers

Still running Cisco ISR G2 routers? Why they should be replaced, the current Cisco and Meraki options, and how to migrate branch routing with minimal downtime.

Unipolar Technologies · 27 September 2026 · 5 min read

Cisco's ISR G2 routers — the 1900, 2900 and 3900 series — were the backbone of branch networks for more than a decade. Cisco has ended sales and support for these models, which means no new software fixes or security patches. If they still carry your branch or internet traffic, it's time to plan a replacement.

Why replace them now

  • Security: without patches, known vulnerabilities stay open on your network edge.
  • Performance: today's internet links and encrypted traffic outgrow these routers' throughput.
  • Support: replacement parts and TAC support are no longer available.

Current options

If you needConsider
Small branch or office routerCisco ISR 1000 series
Larger branch, multiple WAN links, voiceCisco Catalyst 8200 / 8300 edge platforms
Simple, cloud-managed branches with built-in securityCisco Meraki MX appliances with SD-WAN
Head-office or WAN aggregationCatalyst 8500 or ASR 1000 series

The right choice depends on the number of sites, link speeds, whether you want on-premise or cloud management, and your security requirements.

How to migrate with minimal downtime

  1. Export and review the current configuration — routing, NAT, VPNs, access lists and QoS.
  2. Translate it to the new platform and pre-stage the router in a lab.
  3. Schedule the cut-over outside business hours with a rollback plan.
  4. Test every service — internet, VPN, voice, applications — before handing back.

Talk to a Cisco partner

Unipolar is a Cisco Registered Partner with offices in Delhi and Navi Mumbai. We recommend the right replacement, supply it with a GST invoice and migrate the configuration for you. See our Cisco partner page or request a quote.

Need help choosing?

Our engineers will recommend the right option for your workload and budget.

Ask an expert

Let's talk about what you need

Tell us about your project or requirement. We'll respond with ideas, options and a clear quote.

May we use analytics cookies to understand which pages and services are useful? Cookie policy