Networking
Routers, switches, firewalls and gateways delivered as virtual machines or cloud images.
Era2000s-present
Architecture / focusHypervisor and cloud deployments
What to compare
Compare generation, intended workload, performance, energy use, expandability, software support and total maintenance needs. Product names alone rarely identify every important compatibility difference.
Compatibility and security
Separate management, validate virtual-switch design and protect snapshots and templates.
Reference note: Specifications and support status can vary by exact model, release, board revision and vendor policy. Verify critical decisions with the manufacturer or project documentation.