List of the Top 4 On-Prem Network Operating Systems (NOS) in 2025

The CacheGuard product range revolves around a foundational offering known as CacheGuard-OS. When installed on either a physical or virtual machine, CacheGuard-OS effectively converts that system into a robust network appliance. This newly formed appliance can serve multiple functions as various types of gateways that enhance the security and efficiency of your network. Below is a concise overview of the various CacheGuard appliances available. - Web Gateway: exercise control over organizational web traffic and filter out undesirable web access. - UTM (Unified Threat Management): protect your networks from a wide array of online threats using a combination of a firewall, antivirus at the gateway, VPN server, and a filtering proxy. - WAF (Web Application Firewall): prevent harmful requests from reaching your essential web applications and safeguard your enterprise. The WAF incorporates OWASP rules while allowing for the creation of custom rules, along with an IP reputation filtering system that enables the blocking of IPs identified in real-time blacklists. - WAN Optimizer: optimize the flow of your vital network traffic, conserve bandwidth, and ensure high availability for your internet connection through the use of multiple ISPs. Each appliance is designed to address specific network challenges, ultimately providing comprehensive solutions tailored to your organization’s needs.

Open-source software combined with a universal router plays a crucial role in making network access more equitable for all. VyOS aims to transform the way individuals connect to networks, empowering them to create the solutions they envision without facing constraints, limitations, or exorbitant costs. We assert that access to the internet is as vital for human progress as essential resources like food, water, air, and healthcare. Founded by engineers with a passion for innovation, VyOS stands as an open-source company dedicated to facilitating unrestricted network access without financial barriers. Our mission is realized through VyOS, leveraging our open-source software and virtual platforms to provide robust solutions. We offer features such as stateful firewalls, zone-based firewalls, and various types of NAT, including one-to-one, one-to-many, and many-to-many configurations. Moreover, our commitment extends to transparency, allowing users to engage in auditing, create customized images, and contribute to the development, with full access to the entire codebase and build toolchain available to all. This collaborative approach not only enhances security but also fosters a community of innovation and shared knowledge.

Presenting a modern, efficient, and dependable network operating system that aims to boost operational productivity. The refreshed Cisco IOS XR Software redefines network management through its innovative architecture, which emphasizes enhanced modularity, an optimized networking stack, and automation suited for cloud environments that simplifies programming tasks. Elevate your team's performance by utilizing deeper insights, improved efficiency, and strengthened security measures, enabling you to reduce the time spent on troubleshooting while focusing on reaching your business goals. The IOS XR is meticulously designed for lower memory consumption, faster boot times, and seamless integration with both core and access devices, all made possible by its modular framework. This design empowers engineers to focus on revenue-generating tasks while enjoying a cohesive operating system across the entire network. Additionally, the platform is fortified with sophisticated security protocols to protect against potential hardware and firmware vulnerabilities. Ensure the safety of your systems from threats and bugs through advanced signing technologies and various runtime protections, including Integrated Measurement Architecture (IMA), which provide a solid defense against malicious attacks. This strategic approach not only bolsters security but also cultivates a more resilient and robust network infrastructure, further enhancing operational capabilities.

Cisco IOS XE is an advanced, adaptable, and modular operating system designed to operate a wide range of Cisco's enterprise networking devices, including routers, switches, and wireless controllers. Built on a Linux foundation, IOS XE offers robust features in programmability, scalability, and security, making it well-suited for dynamic networking environments. It provides powerful automation through APIs, the ability to run applications, and seamless integration with software-defined networking (SDN), enabling organizations to quickly respond to technological changes. Furthermore, IOS XE incorporates virtualization and multi-core processing capabilities, ensuring high performance and reliability while facilitating management with intuitive tools and centralized control. This blend of functionality not only boosts operational efficiency but also establishes IOS XE as a premier choice for businesses seeking resilient and future-ready networking solutions. As a result, companies can effectively utilize IOS XE to maintain a competitive edge in the fast-paced digital realm. Organizations can confidently embrace this technology to adapt and thrive in a constantly changing landscape.