The file is a virtual disk image used to run Cisco’s IOS XRv, a virtualized version of the carrier-grade IOS XR software. This specific version is a staple for network engineers and students who need to simulate high-end routing environments without purchasing expensive physical hardware like the ASR 9000 series.
Cisco IOS XR is the operating system designed for service provider networks, offering modularity, high availability, and massive scalability. The (Virtual Router) version allows this software to run as a Virtual Machine (VM). The "demo" designation indicates it is a trial or lab-use image, which typically includes a throughput cap (often 2 Mbps) but remains fully functional for protocol testing. Key Technical Specifications Version: 6.1.3 Format: .qcow2 (QEMU Copy-On-Write)
If it asks for a root username, create one (e.g., admin ) and set a password. Iosxrv-k9-demo-6.1.3.qcow2
When you first boot the image, you will likely reach a prompt asking for a username and password. On demo images, you often need to create one: Wait for the "SYSTEM CONFIGURATION COMPLETED" message. Press to get the setup prompt.
Newer "XRv 9000" images require 16GB+ of RAM. The classic XRv (6.1.3) runs smoothly on 3GB, allowing you to run 10+ routers on a standard laptop. The file is a virtual disk image used
When prompted for the missing file, select your iosxrv-k9-demo-6.1.3.qcow2 . GNS3 will upload the image to your GNS3 VM. 2. EVE-NG Deployment For EVE-NG, the naming convention is strict: SSH into your EVE-NG server. Create a directory: /opt/unetlab/addons/qemu/xrvr-6.1.3/ . Upload the file and rename it to virtioa.qcow2 .
Testing complex BGP attributes or MPLS L3VPNs in a multi-node topology. The (Virtual Router) version allows this software to
The .qcow2 format is natively supported by QEMU/KVM, making it the preferred choice for popular network simulation platforms. 1. GNS3 Deployment
Fix permissions using the command: /opt/unetlab/wrappers/unl_wrapper -a fixpermissions . 3. Standard QEMU/KVM If running directly via CLI:
To enter configuration mode, type configure (shortcut conf t ). Remember, IOS XR requires a commit command to apply changes. Common Use Cases