Run Apps on Cisco ISR Routers

Earlier this month we joked that the Sguil project was acquired by Cisco, such that Sguil would be integrated into Cisco platforms. Cisco routers already run Tcl, but now thanks to Cisco's new Application eXtension Platform, other possibilities are developing. According to Optimize Branch Footprint with Application Integration, Cisco says:

• Linux-based integration environment with downloadable Software Development Kit (SDK)


• Multiple applications support with the ability to segment and guarantee CPU, memory, and disk resources


• Certified libraries to implement C, Python, Perl, and Java applications


• Supported by Cisco 1841, 2800, and 3800 Series Integrated Services Route

Sun used to say The Network is the Computer. Cisco now states The Network as a Platform. In other words, why deploy another server or appliance if you can just run it on your Cisco router?

I am unsure how this will play out. I figure Cisco just wanted to add to the confusion caused by virtualization with their own take on consolidating platforms. At some point I see one giant box (labelled Skynet probably) with a massive antenna to which we all connect our dumb terminals via wireless.

I'd like to get a Cisco 2800 series ISR router to try this out... donations are welcome. :)