Testing Python or Ansible scripts against the XR API.
You can set the admin username and password during the first boot. Configuration Logic: IOS XR uses a two-staged configuration
Use virt-install for a simple, declarative launch: Iosxrv-k9-demo-6.1.3.qcow2
RP/0/RSP0/CPU0:iosxrv(config)# interface MgmtEth0/RSP0/CPU0/0 RP/0/RSP0/CPU0:iosxrv(config-if)# ipv4 address 192.168.1.50 255.255.255.0 RP/0/RSP0/CPU0:iosxrv(config-if)# no shutdown RP/0/RSP0/CPU0:iosxrv(config-if)# exit Use code with caution. Step 3: Enabling SSH Access
The IOS XRv series is a virtualized platform that runs the same software found on high-end routers like the Cisco ASR 9000 and CRS series. The "demo" designation indicates it is intended for educational and testing purposes rather than production deployments. Testing Python or Ansible scripts against the XR API
: Identifies the platform as the virtualized flavor of Cisco Internetwork Operating System (IOS) XR. Unlike traditional IOS, XR is built on a modular, preemptive microkernel architecture (traditionally QNX, and later transitioning to Linux-based architectures in modern XR versions).
The "demo" image has . Every packet that enters a physical/virtual interface is punted to the CPU. Step 3: Enabling SSH Access The IOS XRv
Wait 5-10 minutes after the first boot. The system requires time to initialize the full system database before accepting login credentials.
This indicates the image is a demo/limited version. It has throughput limitations compared to production or simulation images but is fully functional for control plane testing.
Today, newer versions of the IOS XRv and other virtual routing platforms (like the IOS XRv 9000) are available for modern network simulation tools, often as part of subscription services from Cisco DevNet or through direct downloads from Cisco's official website for valid service contract holders.
Why stick with 6.1.3 when Cisco releases 7.x or 24.x versions?