From the local area networks (LANs) within our homes and offices to the sprawling infrastructure that connects data centers and the internet at large, NOS serves as the bedrock upon which our modern digital ecosystem is built.
At its core, a network operating system acts as the conductor, orchestrating the complex symphony of devices, data, and services that make up our networks. It provides the necessary foundation for computers, servers, switches, routers, and other networked devices to communicate, collaborate, and share resources efficiently and securely.
The diversity of network operating systems is as vast as the networks they power. Each NOS brings its unique set of features, capabilities, and characteristics to meet the specific needs of different network environments. Some excel in the realm of enterprise networking, boasting robust scalability, fault tolerance, and sophisticated management tools. Others focus on the realm of home networking, prioritizing ease of use, simplicity, and seamless integration with consumer devices.
While the specific functionalities and architecture of network operating systems may vary, their overarching purpose remains constant: to ensure seamless connectivity, efficient data transmission, and secure information flow across networks of all scales. They enable us to access the vast ocean of digital resources, exchange information in real-time, and collaborate across physical boundaries.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the fascinating landscape of network operating systems. We will delve into their inner workings, examine their key features and advantages, and discuss how they have evolved over time to meet the growing demands of our interconnected world. Whether you are a network administrator, an IT professional, or simply curious about the technology that underpins our digital infrastructure, this guide aims to provide valuable insights into the vital role of network operating systems.
So, let’s embark on this journey to uncover the diverse array of network operating systems that power our networks and discover the remarkable impact they have on our daily lives. From the fundamental protocols that drive local connectivity to the complex frameworks that enable global data exchange, we will unravel the intricacies of these operating systems that silently keep our digital world humming with life.
Contents
List of network operating systems
| Network Operating System | Description |
|---|---|
| Windows Server | Windows Server is a popular network operating system developed by Microsoft. It provides a wide range of features and services to manage and control network resources efficiently. With its user-friendly interface and robust security measures, Windows Server is widely used in enterprise environments. |
| Linux | Linux is a versatile and widely-used network operating system based on the Unix platform. It offers excellent stability, security, and flexibility, making it a preferred choice for network administrators. Linux distributions like Ubuntu, Fedora, and CentOS provide various tools and services for network management. |
| macOS Server | macOS Server, developed by Apple, is a network operating system designed specifically for Apple devices. It offers seamless integration with macOS and iOS devices, providing centralized management and collaboration features. It’s commonly used in environments where Apple devices are prevalent, such as educational institutions and creative industries. |
| Cisco IOS | Cisco IOS is the operating system used in Cisco networking devices, including routers and switches. It offers advanced networking features, security protocols, and extensive configuration options. Cisco IOS is known for its reliability and scalability, making it a top choice for large-scale network infrastructures. |
| Junos | Junos is the network operating system developed by Juniper Networks. It powers Juniper’s networking devices and provides a robust and secure platform for managing network resources. Junos offers advanced routing and switching capabilities, making it popular in service provider networks. |
| HP Intelligent Management Center (IMC) | HP IMC is a comprehensive network operating system developed by Hewlett Packard (now Hewlett Packard Enterprise). It offers network management, monitoring, and security features in a unified platform. HP IMC supports a wide range of HP networking devices and provides an intuitive interface for efficient network administration. |
| IBM AIX | IBM AIX is a network operating system based on the UNIX platform. It is designed for IBM’s Power Systems architecture and offers enterprise-grade reliability, scalability, and security. AIX provides advanced virtualization capabilities, high availability features, and extensive toolsets for system administrators. |
| Solaris | Solaris, developed by Oracle, is a Unix-based network operating system known for its scalability and security. It offers features such as dynamic tracing, container support, and ZFS file system. Solaris is often utilized in enterprise environments where high-performance computing and data-intensive workloads are involved. |
| FreeBSD | FreeBSD is an open-source network operating system known for its stability, security, and performance. It is based on the BSD Unix operating system and offers advanced networking features, including packet filtering, IPsec, and high-speed networking stack. FreeBSD is widely used in various network applications, including web servers and firewalls. |
| OpenWrt | OpenWrt is a Linux-based network operating system primarily used for embedded systems and wireless routers. It provides an extensible platform for customizing and enhancing network devices’ capabilities. OpenWrt allows users to install additional software packages and configure network settings to suit specific requirements. |
| pfSense | pfSense is a free and open-source network operating system based on FreeBSD. It is widely used as a firewall and router platform, offering features like VPN support, traffic shaping, and intrusion detection. pfSense provides a user-friendly web interface for easy configuration and management. |
| Cisco NX-OS | Cisco NX-OS is a network operating system used in Cisco’s Nexus series of data center switches. It offers advanced features for data center networking, including virtualization, fabric extensibility, and automation. Cisco NX-OS is designed to meet the high-performance and reliability demands of modern data center environments. |
| Arista EOS | Arista EOS (Extensible Operating System) is a network operating system developed by Arista Networks. It powers Arista’s cloud networking platforms and provides advanced capabilities for data center networking. Arista EOS offers programmability, automation, and scalability, making it popular in large-scale cloud environments. |
| Citrix NetScaler | Citrix NetScaler is a network operating system designed for application delivery controllers (ADC) and load balancers. It provides traffic management, secure remote access, and application acceleration features. Citrix NetScaler helps optimize application performance and ensure high availability in enterprise environments. |
| SonicOS | SonicOS is the network operating system used in SonicWall’s network security appliances. It offers a comprehensive set of security features, including firewall, VPN, intrusion prevention, and content filtering. SonicOS provides centralized management and reporting capabilities for efficient network security administration. |
| Zentyal | Zentyal is a Linux-based network operating system focused on providing small and medium-sized businesses with an all-in-one server solution. It offers features like directory services, file sharing, email server, and network gateway functionalities. Zentyal aims to simplify network infrastructure management for organizations with limited IT resources. |
| MikroTik RouterOS | MikroTik RouterOS is a network operating system used in MikroTik’s line of routers and wireless products. It offers extensive routing, switching, and wireless capabilities, along with features like firewall, VPN, and hotspot management. MikroTik RouterOS is popular among network administrators due to its affordability and flexibility. |
| NetWare | NetWare was a network operating system developed by Novell, widely used in the 1990s. It offered robust file and print services, directory services, and client-server functionality. NetWare played a significant role in the adoption of local area networks (LANs) and file sharing in the early days of networking. |
| Novell Open Enterprise Server (OES) | Novell Open Enterprise Server is a network operating system based on SUSE Linux Enterprise Server. It combines the power of Linux with Novell’s services, including file and print services, directory services, and collaboration tools. OES offers compatibility with NetWare, allowing organizations to migrate gradually to Linux-based environments. |
| Oracle Linux | Oracle Linux is an enterprise-class network operating system developed by Oracle. It is based on the open-source CentOS distribution and offers high performance, scalability, and security. Oracle Linux is commonly used in Oracle’s database and application server environments. |
| Google Cloud Network Operating System (NOS) | Google Cloud NOS is a network operating system developed by Google for its cloud networking infrastructure. It provides scalable and reliable networking features, including virtual private clouds (VPC), load balancing, and distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) protection. Google Cloud NOS enables organizations to build and manage network resources in the Google Cloud environment. |
| VMware NSX | VMware NSX is a network virtualization and security platform that includes a network operating system. It offers virtualized networking and security services, allowing organizations to create and manage software-defined networks (SDN) within their virtualized environments. VMware NSX helps simplify network management and provides enhanced security capabilities. |
| HPE Comware | HPE Comware is a network operating system developed by Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE). It powers HPE’s line of networking switches and offers advanced features for enterprise networks, including high availability, scalability, and intelligent management capabilities. HPE Comware provides a flexible and modular architecture for efficient network deployment and operations. |
| ExtremeXOS | ExtremeXOS is a network operating system developed by Extreme Networks. It is designed for Extreme Networks’ high-performance Ethernet switches and provides advanced networking features, including high availability, quality of service (QoS), and security. ExtremeXOS offers a modular and highly resilient architecture to support demanding network environments. |
| Nokia SR OS | Nokia SR OS is a network operating system used in Nokia’s Service Router portfolio. It offers carrier-grade routing capabilities, enabling scalable and reliable networking solutions for service providers. Nokia SR OS supports advanced routing protocols and provides comprehensive management and control plane functionality. |
| Brocade Vyatta | Brocade Vyatta is a network operating system that offers virtual routing and firewalling functionalities. It enables organizations to create virtualized network services, such as virtual routers and firewalls, in cloud and virtualized environments. Brocade Vyatta provides flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness for software-defined networking (SDN) deployments. |
| Cumulus Linux | Cumulus Linux is a network operating system based on Linux and designed for white-box switches. It provides a Linux-based networking environment with a rich set of open networking features, including automation, telemetry, and programmability. Cumulus Linux allows for greater control and customization of network infrastructure using open standards. |
| Dell Networking OS | Dell Networking OS is a network operating system developed by Dell Technologies for its networking switches. It offers a feature-rich environment for managing and controlling network resources efficiently. Dell Networking OS supports various networking protocols and provides advanced features like virtualization and software-defined networking (SDN). |
| Huawei VRP | Huawei VRP (Versatile Routing Platform) is a network operating system used in Huawei’s networking devices, including routers and switches. It offers comprehensive routing and switching capabilities, advanced security features, and high-performance forwarding capabilities. Huawei VRP is widely deployed in service provider networks and enterprise environments. |
| Fortinet FortiOS | Fortinet FortiOS is a network operating system used in Fortinet’s network security appliances, including firewalls and security gateways. It provides a wide range of security features, including firewall, VPN, intrusion prevention, and web filtering. FortiOS enables organizations to secure their networks and protect against cyber threats effectively. |
| IBM z/OS | IBM z/OS is a mainframe operating system used in IBM’s System z mainframe computers. It offers high-performance computing capabilities, security features, and scalability for mission-critical applications. IBM z/OS provides advanced networking functionalities, such as TCP/IP support and network virtualization, for mainframe environments. |
| OpenSwitch | OpenSwitch is an open-source network operating system focused on white-box switches and open networking. It provides a Linux-based platform with a modular architecture, enabling customization and flexibility in network deployments. OpenSwitch aims to foster innovation and collaboration in the open networking community. |
| IPX/SPX | IPX/SPX (Internetwork Packet Exchange/Sequenced Packet Exchange) is a network protocol suite developed by Novell for its NetWare network operating system. It provided reliable packet delivery and was commonly used in the past for local area networks (LANs). |
| LANtastic | LANtastic is a network operating system developed by Artisoft. It was designed for small to medium-sized networks and offered file and print sharing, as well as email and remote access capabilities. LANtastic provided an easy-to-use interface for network administration. |
| OS/2 LAN Server | OS/2 LAN Server was a network operating system developed by IBM for its OS/2 operating system. It offered file and print services, as well as support for client-server applications. OS/2 LAN Server was popular in the 1990s for its reliability and scalability. |
| SCO UNIX | SCO UNIX is a network operating system developed by Santa Cruz Operation (SCO). It was based on the Unix operating system and provided networking capabilities for SCO’s line of Unix-based operating systems. SCO UNIX offered robust networking features and compatibility with various protocols. |
| SunOS | SunOS was a Unix-based network operating system developed by Sun Microsystems (now part of Oracle Corporation). It served as the foundation for the Solaris operating system and offered advanced networking capabilities, including support for TCP/IP protocols. |
| Tru64 UNIX | Tru64 UNIX, previously known as Digital UNIX or DEC OSF/1, was a network operating system developed by Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC). It was based on the Unix operating system and offered advanced features like clustering and advanced file systems. |
| Unisys MCP | Unisys MCP (Master Control Program) is a network operating system developed by Unisys for its ClearPath mainframe computers. It provides high-performance and secure networking capabilities for mission-critical applications in enterprise environments. |
| Xinu | Xinu is a highly portable, Unix-like network operating system developed by Douglas Comer in the early 1980s. It is known for its simplicity and efficiency, making it suitable for resource-constrained systems and embedded devices. Xinu offers basic networking capabilities for small-scale networks. |
| QNX | QNX is a real-time network operating system developed by QNX Software Systems. It is designed for embedded systems and offers high reliability and deterministic behavior. QNX provides networking features for building real-time communication and control systems. |
| MorphOS | MorphOS is a lightweight network operating system developed for the PowerPC-based Amiga computers. It offers a modern and efficient networking environment with support for various protocols and services. MorphOS is known for its intuitive user interface and multimedia capabilities. |
| NetWare Lite | NetWare Lite was a network operating system developed by Novell, targeted at small networks and home users. It provided basic file and print sharing capabilities and was known for its simplicity and ease of use. NetWare Lite played a role in popularizing networking for home users. |
| NetWare for Small Business | NetWare for Small Business was a network operating system developed by Novell, specifically tailored for small businesses. It offered easy installation and management of network services like file sharing, print services, and email. NetWare for Small Business provided a cost-effective solution for small-scale networks. |
| OpenVMS | OpenVMS is a network operating system developed by Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC, later acquired by Hewlett-Packard). It offers high availability, security, and scalability for mission-critical applications. OpenVMS provides advanced networking capabilities for enterprise networks. |
| RSTS/E | RSTS/E (Resource System Time Sharing/Extended) is a network operating system developed by Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC). It was designed for PDP-11 minicomputers and offered basic networking capabilities for time-sharing and resource-sharing environments. |
| Stratus VOS | Stratus VOS (Virtual Operating System) is a network operating system developed by Stratus Technologies. It provides fault-tolerant and highly available networking capabilities for critical business applications. Stratus VOS is commonly used in industries such as finance, healthcare, and telecommunications. |
| VxWorks | VxWorks is a real-time operating system developed by Wind River Systems. It is used in embedded systems and offers a scalable and reliable platform for networked devices. VxWorks provides networking capabilities suitable for real-time communication and control applications. |
| DR-DOS | DR-DOS (Digital Research DOS) is an operating system developed by Digital Research. While primarily a disk operating system, it offered basic networking capabilities for file and print sharing in local area networks. DR-DOS was a competitor to MS-DOS in the early days of personal computing. |
| Inferno | Inferno is a network operating system developed by Bell Labs. It offers a distributed computing environment with support for networking and communication protocols. Inferno is known for its lightweight and portable nature, making it suitable for resource-constrained devices. |
| KolibriOS | KolibriOS is a lightweight network operating system developed from scratch. It is designed for x86-based computers and offers a minimalistic yet functional networking environment. KolibriOS can be used in embedded systems or as a small, bootable operating system. |
| Linux-based DD-WRT | DD-WRT is a Linux-based network operating system commonly used in wireless routers. It provides extended features beyond those offered by the manufacturer’s firmware, including advanced networking, security, and customization options. DD-WRT is popular among networking enthusiasts and professionals. |
| Linux-based Tomato | Tomato is a Linux-based network operating system used in routers to enhance their functionality. It offers features like bandwidth monitoring, Quality of Service (QoS), and advanced routing capabilities. Tomato provides a user-friendly interface for managing network settings and optimizing performance. |
| Linux-based LEDE/OpenWrt | LEDE (Linux Embedded Development Environment) and its successor, OpenWrt, are Linux-based network operating systems primarily used in embedded devices and wireless routers. They provide a customizable and extensible platform for building network solutions with enhanced security and network management features. |
| Minix | Minix is a Unix-like network operating system developed by Andrew S. Tanenbaum. It serves as an educational operating system and offers networking capabilities suitable for learning and experimentation. Minix has been influential in the development of other operating systems, including Linux. |
| Oberon | Oberon is a network operating system developed at ETH Zurich. It is known for its simplicity and clean design, making it suitable for educational and research purposes. Oberon provides basic networking functionality for small-scale networks. |
| Plan 9 from Bell Labs | Plan 9 from Bell Labs is a distributed network operating system developed by Bell Labs. It offers a unique approach to networking, treating all resources as files accessible through a distributed file system. Plan 9 provides a clean and consistent environment for networked computing. |
| RISC OS | RISC OS is an operating system developed for ARM-based computers, primarily Acorn Archimedes and RiscPC. It offers networking capabilities, including file sharing and internet connectivity. RISC OS provides a user-friendly interface and is known for its efficiency and low system requirements. |
| RT-11 | RT-11 is a network operating system developed by Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC). It was designed for PDP-11 computers and offered multitasking and networking capabilities suitable for small-scale networks and real-time applications. |
| SymbOS | SymbOS is a network operating system developed for Z80-based home computers, including Amstrad CPC and MSX. It offers networking capabilities, including file sharing and internet connectivity. SymbOS provides a graphical user interface and a range of applications for networked computing. |
| Temple Operating System (TOPS-10) | TOPS-10 was a network operating system developed by Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC) for its PDP-10 mainframe computers. It provided time-sharing and file-sharing capabilities, making it popular in academic and research institutions. |
| THEOS | THEOS is a network operating system developed by THEOS Software Corporation. It offers multiuser and multitasking capabilities, along with networking features suitable for small-scale networks. THEOS provides a comprehensive suite of business applications for various industries. |
| TPF | TPF (Transaction Processing Facility) is a network operating system developed by IBM for its mainframe computers. It offers high-performance transaction processing capabilities and supports large-scale, mission-critical applications in industries such as airlines and banking. |
| UnixWare | UnixWare is a network operating system developed by Univel, a joint venture between Novell and SCO. It was based on the Unix operating system and offered advanced networking features and compatibility with industry standards. UnixWare provided a reliable platform for business applications. |
| VM/CMS | VM/CMS (Virtual Machine/Conversational Monitor System) is a network operating system developed by IBM for its VM mainframe computers. It provided virtual machine capabilities, allowing multiple instances of operating systems to run concurrently. VM/CMS offered networking features for shared resources and communication between virtual machines. |
| Wang VS | Wang VS is a network operating system developed by Wang Laboratories. It offered distributed computing capabilities, allowing multiple nodes to share resources and collaborate efficiently. Wang VS provided networking functionality suitable for business applications and office automation. |
| Xenix | Xenix was a network operating system developed by Microsoft, based on the Unix operating system. It provided networking capabilities for Intel-based microcomputers and offered compatibility with Unix applications. Xenix played a role in the early adoption of networking in the PC industry. |
| CP/M | CP/M (Control Program for Microcomputers) is an operating system developed by Digital Research. While primarily a disk operating system, it provided limited networking capabilities, including file sharing and basic communication protocols. CP/M was widely used on early microcomputers. |
| MP/M | MP/M (Multi-Programming Monitor) is a network operating system developed by Digital Research. It provided multitasking and limited networking capabilities for microcomputers, allowing multiple users to share resources and run concurrent applications. MP/M was popular in small office environments. |
| TurboDOS | TurboDOS is an operating system developed by Digital Research. It offered networking capabilities for microcomputers, including file sharing and communication protocols. TurboDOS was known for its compatibility with CP/M and MS-DOS applications. |
| XTS-400 | XTS-400 is a network operating system developed by Convergent Technologies. It was designed for their minicomputer systems and offered multitasking and networking capabilities. XTS-400 provided a reliable platform for business applications and was widely used in the 1980s. |
| UEFI | UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) is not a full-fledged network operating system but plays a crucial role in modern network booting and system initialization. It provides the infrastructure for booting over the network using protocols such as PXE (Preboot Execution Environment). UEFI is commonly used in modern computers and servers. |
| ARX | ARX is a network operating system developed by Nasuni Corporation. It is designed for cloud storage environments and provides distributed file system capabilities, allowing organizations to manage and access data across multiple locations. ARX offers advanced data management and security features in a cloud-centric networked environment. |
| Element OS | Element OS is a network operating system developed by Pure Storage for their FlashArray storage systems. It provides advanced storage management features, including high-performance block-level storage, data deduplication, and snapshots. Element OS enables efficient and scalable network storage solutions for enterprise environments. |
| Hadoop | Hadoop is not a network operating system per se but is a distributed processing framework commonly used for big data processing and analytics. It offers a distributed file system (HDFS) and a processing framework (MapReduce) that allows large-scale data processing across a network of computers. Hadoop is widely used in big data applications. |
| Scality RING | Scality RING is a distributed file and object storage system that provides a network operating system-like environment for managing massive amounts of unstructured data. It enables organizations to build scalable and highly available storage infrastructures across geographically distributed locations. Scality RING offers features like data replication, erasure coding, and data tiering. |
| ScaleIO | ScaleIO is a network operating system developed by Dell EMC for their software-defined storage solution. It provides block-level storage virtualization and allows organizations to build highly scalable and flexible storage systems. ScaleIO offers features like data striping, redundancy, and dynamic resource allocation. |
| Apache Mesos | Apache Mesos is a distributed systems kernel that provides a network operating system-like environment for managing and orchestrating large-scale applications across clusters of computers. It enables efficient resource management and scheduling, making it suitable for deploying and managing complex networked applications. |
| Container Linux | Container Linux (formerly CoreOS) is a lightweight Linux-based network operating system designed for containerized applications. It offers a minimalistic and secure platform for running containers at scale. Container Linux provides automatic updates and container runtime environments, facilitating the deployment of containerized network applications. |
| Photon OS | Photon OS is a minimal Linux-based network operating system developed by VMware. It is designed for virtualized environments and container deployments. Photon OS offers a small footprint, optimized for performance and security, making it an ideal choice for running networked applications in virtualized or cloud environments. |
| Open vSwitch | Open vSwitch is an open-source network operating system designed for virtualized and software-defined networks. It provides a virtual switch implementation with advanced networking features like flow-based forwarding, VLAN support, and network virtualization. Open vSwitch is widely used in cloud environments and virtualized data centers. |
| Nutanix Acropolis | Nutanix Acropolis is a hyper-converged infrastructure software platform that combines compute, storage, and networking in a single solution. It provides a distributed network operating system-like environment for managing and scaling virtualized infrastructure. Nutanix Acropolis offers features like automated data tiering, virtual networking, and centralized management. |
| Cumulus VX | Cumulus VX is a virtual network operating system based on Cumulus Linux. It allows users to run a virtualized version of Cumulus Linux in a virtual environment for testing and development purposes. Cumulus VX enables users to explore and familiarize themselves with Cumulus Linux features without dedicated hardware. |
| Cisco IOS XE | Cisco IOS XE is a network operating system used in Cisco networking devices, including routers and switches. It combines the benefits of a modular architecture with the scalability and flexibility of Linux. Cisco IOS XE offers advanced networking features, security, and programmability for enterprise networks and service providers. |
| Dell EMC Isilon OneFS | Dell EMC Isilon OneFS is a distributed network operating system designed for scale-out network-attached storage (NAS) environments. It provides a single, unified file system across a cluster of nodes, allowing organizations to manage and access large amounts of data efficiently. Dell EMC Isilon OneFS offers high-performance data storage and advanced data protection features. |
| Red Hat Storage Server | Red Hat Storage Server (formerly GlusterFS) is a network operating system designed for distributed file storage. It provides a scalable and fault-tolerant storage platform that can be easily deployed on commodity hardware. Red Hat Storage Server offers features like distributed data replication, load balancing, and high availability. |
| Microsoft Azure Stack | Microsoft Azure Stack is not a network operating system in the traditional sense, but rather an integrated system that allows organizations to deploy and run Azure services on-premises or in a hybrid cloud environment. It provides a consistent development and management experience across Azure and Azure Stack environments, enabling networked applications to run seamlessly. |
| Red Hat OpenShift | Red Hat OpenShift is a container platform that provides a network operating system-like environment for managing and deploying containerized applications. It offers a secure and scalable platform for building and running networked applications using Kubernetes orchestration. Red Hat OpenShift simplifies the deployment and management of networked container applications. |
| VMware ESXi | VMware ESXi is a hypervisor-based network operating system that provides a virtualization platform for running virtual machines. It offers advanced networking capabilities, including virtual switches, virtual networking, and software-defined networking features. VMware ESXi enables organizations to consolidate and optimize their network infrastructure through virtualization. |
| OpenStack | OpenStack is not a network operating system per se, but rather an open-source cloud computing platform that provides a network operating system-like environment for managing and provisioning cloud resources. It offers a wide range of networking services, including virtual networks, load balancing, and network security. OpenStack enables the creation and management of networked cloud infrastructures. |
| Cisco ACI | Cisco ACI (Application Centric Infrastructure) is a network operating system used in Cisco’s ACI fabric architecture. It provides a software-defined networking (SDN) solution that enables automated network provisioning, policy-based management, and centralized control of network resources. Cisco ACI simplifies network operations and enhances network visibility and security. |
| Juniper Junos Space | Juniper Junos Space is a network operating system used in Juniper Networks’ network management platform. It provides a centralized management environment for Juniper networking devices, offering features such as configuration management, monitoring, and troubleshooting. Juniper Junos Space simplifies network administration and enables efficient network operations. |
| VyOS | VyOS is an open-source network operating system based on Debian Linux. It offers a full-featured router and firewall platform with advanced networking capabilities, including VPN support, dynamic routing protocols, and traffic shaping. VyOS provides a flexible and modular network operating system suitable for a wide range of network deployments. |
| ArubaOS | ArubaOS is a network operating system developed by Aruba Networks (a Hewlett Packard Enterprise company) for their wireless and wired network infrastructure. It provides advanced networking features, including wireless controller functionality, security, and network management capabilities. ArubaOS enables efficient administration and optimization of network resources. |
| Cisco NX-OS | Cisco NX-OS is a network operating system used in Cisco’s Nexus series of data center switches. It offers advanced features for data center networking, including virtualization, fabric extensibility, and automation. Cisco NX-OS is designed to meet the high-performance and reliability demands of modern data center environments. |
| ExtremeXOS | ExtremeXOS is a network operating system developed by Extreme Networks. It is designed for Extreme Networks’ high-performance Ethernet switches and provides advanced networking features, including high availability, quality of service (QoS), and security. ExtremeXOS offers a modular and highly resilient architecture to support demanding network environments. |
| Huawei VRP | Huawei VRP (Versatile Routing Platform) is a network operating system used in Huawei’s networking devices, including routers and switches. It offers comprehensive routing and switching capabilities, advanced security features, and high-performance forwarding capabilities. Huawei VRP is widely deployed in service provider networks and enterprise environments. |
| MikroTik RouterOS | MikroTik RouterOS is a network operating system used in MikroTik’s line of routers and wireless products. It offers extensive routing, switching, and wireless capabilities, along with features like firewall, VPN, and hotspot management. MikroTik RouterOS is popular among network administrators due to its affordability and flexibility. |
| Vyatta | Vyatta is a network operating system developed by Vyatta Inc. (acquired by Brocade, later acquired by Extreme Networks). It offers routing, firewall, and VPN capabilities in a Linux-based environment. Vyatta provides a flexible and open platform for building network solutions with advanced security and network services. |
| Big Switch Networks Big Cloud Fabric | Big Cloud Fabric is a network operating system developed by Big Switch Networks. It provides a software-defined networking (SDN) solution that enables network automation, programmability, and dynamic network provisioning. Big Cloud Fabric simplifies network operations and enhances network scalability and agility. |
| Arista EOS | Arista EOS (Extensible Operating System) is a network operating system developed by Arista Networks. It powers Arista’s cloud networking platforms and provides advanced capabilities for data center networking. Arista EOS offers programmability, automation, and scalability, making it popular in large-scale cloud environments. |
| Nutanix Acropolis AHV | Nutanix Acropolis AHV is not a network operating system on its own, but it is a hypervisor-based solution developed by Nutanix for their hyper-converged infrastructure platform. It provides a virtualization platform with integrated networking capabilities, allowing organizations to run networked applications on Nutanix infrastructure efficiently. |
| OpenELEC | OpenELEC is a network operating system designed specifically for media center devices, such as Raspberry Pi and other embedded systems. It offers a lightweight and dedicated environment for running media center applications, providing network connectivity for streaming and media sharing purposes. |
| Yocto Project | Yocto Project is not a network operating system itself, but rather a collaboration project that provides tools and resources for building custom Linux distributions for embedded systems. It offers a flexible framework for creating networked applications and devices with customized features and functionality. |
| FreeBSD-based pfSense | pfSense is an open-source network operating system based on FreeBSD. It is widely used as a firewall and router platform, offering features like VPN support, traffic shaping, and intrusion detection. pfSense provides a user-friendly web interface for easy configuration and management. |
| Sophos XG Firewall | Sophos XG Firewall is a network operating system designed for firewall and network security purposes. It provides a comprehensive set of features, including network protection, web filtering, and intrusion prevention. Sophos XG Firewall offers centralized management and advanced threat intelligence to secure network environments. |
| Palo Alto Networks PAN-OS | PAN-OS is the network operating system used in Palo Alto Networks’ next-generation firewalls. It provides advanced security features, including application-level control, threat prevention, and VPN connectivity. PAN-OS offers granular visibility and control over network traffic to protect against modern threats. |
| ClearOS | ClearOS is a Linux-based network operating system designed for small and medium-sized organizations. It offers a range of network services, including firewall, VPN, file sharing, and email server. ClearOS provides an easy-to-use interface for network management and simplifies the deployment of network infrastructure. |
| OpenDaylight | OpenDaylight is not a network operating system per se, but rather an open-source software-defined networking (SDN) controller platform. It provides a framework and tools for building and deploying SDN solutions, enabling network automation, programmability, and centralized control of network resources. |
| Cumulus Linux | Cumulus Linux is a Linux-based network operating system designed for white-box switches. It provides a modern and open platform for building network solutions with enhanced programmability and automation. Cumulus Linux allows for greater control and customization of network infrastructure using open standards. |
| Raspbian | Raspbian is a network operating system based on Debian Linux and specifically designed for Raspberry Pi single-board computers. It offers a lightweight and optimized environment for running networked applications on Raspberry Pi devices. Raspbian provides networking capabilities for IoT projects, home automation, and other networked applications. |
| OPNsense | OPNsense is a free and open-source network operating system based on FreeBSD. It is commonly used as a firewall and routing platform, offering features such as VPN support, captive portal, and traffic shaping. OPNsense provides a user-friendly web interface for network configuration and management. |
| OpenWISP | OpenWISP is an open-source network operating system designed for wireless mesh networks and community networks. It provides network management and monitoring capabilities for large-scale deployments. OpenWISP offers features such as network visualization, configuration management, and remote device monitoring. |
| VyOS Router | VyOS Router is an open-source network operating system based on Debian Linux. It offers a powerful and scalable routing platform, with support for dynamic routing protocols, VPN, and firewall capabilities. VyOS Router provides a flexible and modular solution for building and managing network infrastructure. |
| ClearFog | ClearFog is a network operating system designed for SolidRun’s ClearFog family of networking devices. It offers a Linux-based environment with advanced networking features, including routing, switching, and security capabilities. ClearFog provides a versatile platform for building network solutions with high performance and flexibility. |
| OpenDaylight-based OpenFlow Controllers | OpenFlow Controllers are not network operating systems themselves, but they are software frameworks that implement the OpenFlow protocol for software-defined networking (SDN). OpenFlow Controllers, such as OpenDaylight, provide the control and management plane functionality for SDN networks, enabling programmability and automation of network operations. |
| Citrix NetScaler SDX | Citrix NetScaler SDX is a network operating system used in Citrix’s NetScaler SDX platform. It provides application delivery controller (ADC) capabilities, including load balancing, traffic management, and application security. Citrix NetScaler SDX offers multi-tenant support and efficient resource utilization for optimizing application delivery. |
| Open vSwitch-based OpenStack Neutron | OpenStack Neutron is not a network operating system in itself, but it is a component of the OpenStack cloud computing platform. Neutron provides networking services and virtual network abstractions for managing network resources in OpenStack environments. Open vSwitch is commonly used as the networking backend for OpenStack Neutron. |
| Nutanix Flow | Nutanix Flow is not a network operating system, but rather a networking solution provided by Nutanix for their hyper-converged infrastructure platform. It offers software-defined networking (SDN) capabilities, including microsegmentation, network visualization, and security policy enforcement. Nutanix Flow simplifies network management and enhances security in hyper-converged environments. |
| FreeNAS | FreeNAS is a network operating system based on FreeBSD, focused on providing network-attached storage (NAS) functionality. It offers a comprehensive set of features for file sharing, data backup, and data protection. FreeNAS provides an intuitive web interface for managing network storage resources effectively. |
| XCP-ng | XCP-ng is a hypervisor-based network operating system derived from XenServer. It provides a virtualization platform with advanced networking capabilities for running virtual machines in a networked environment. XCP-ng offers features like virtual networking, storage management, and high availability. |
| Vyatta Core | Vyatta Core is an open-source network operating system based on Linux. It provides routing, firewall, and VPN capabilities suitable for small to medium-sized networks. Vyatta Core offers a flexible and customizable platform for network deployments, allowing for easy integration with existing network infrastructures. |
| Quagga | Quagga is not a network operating system itself, but rather an open-source routing software suite that provides implementations of various routing protocols. It allows users to build network operating systems or router-like functionality using its modular components. Quagga supports protocols such as BGP, OSPF, and RIP. |
| DragonFly BSD | DragonFly BSD is a free and open-source network operating system derived from FreeBSD. It offers a robust networking environment, including support for advanced networking protocols, multipath routing, and network virtualization. DragonFly BSD provides a stable and scalable platform for various networked applications. |
| IPFire | IPFire is a Linux-based network operating system focused on security and firewalling capabilities. It provides a range of features, including packet filtering, VPN support, intrusion detection, and proxy server functionality. IPFire offers an easy-to-use web interface for network configuration and security management. |
| OpenNMS | OpenNMS is not a network operating system itself, but rather an open-source network management platform. It offers network monitoring and management capabilities, including fault management, performance monitoring, and event handling. OpenNMS provides a flexible and extensible platform for managing network resources and ensuring network availability. |
| AmigaOS | AmigaOS is a network operating system developed for Commodore’s Amiga line of computers. It provided networking capabilities, including TCP/IP support, file sharing, and network protocols. AmigaOS offered a user-friendly interface and multimedia capabilities for networked applications and gaming. |
