Pica8 Nymbus - Detailed Review
Networking Tools
Pica8 Nymbus - Product Overview
Primary Function
Pica8’s main focus is on providing enterprise networking software solutions that automate, manage, and secure network infrastructure. Their tools are designed to transform complex networks into secure, easy-to-deploy, and easy-to-manage environments.Target Audience
The target audience for Pica8’s solutions includes large enterprises, data centers, and distributed campus networks. These solutions are particularly appealing to organizations looking to adopt open networking standards and move away from proprietary hardware and software.Key Features
AmpCon Automation and Network Controller
- This is a GUI-based network automation platform that automates initial switch configuration, provisioning, deployment, and ongoing lifecycle management functions. It uses Ansible Engine with Playbooks for customization and ensures high availability and security.
PicOS Switching Software
- This software turns ordinary white-box hardware into enterprise networking switches. It supports multi-gig, PoE, and OpenFlow, and runs on a variety of access and aggregation devices from manufacturers like Dell and Edgecore. PicOS is based on standard Debian Linux and provides a single suite of software for all necessary Layer 2/3 protocols.
PicOS-V
- This is a free virtual machine that allows users to explore and validate PicOS at their own pace. It helps in familiarizing users with the PicOS Software Switches.
Nymble Automation Framework
- Pica8’s Nymble Automation Framework provides network automation and configuration management using an open-source platform like Ansible. It supports provisioning of PicOS-powered switches, centralized installation of configuration files, and automatic upgrades. This framework is particularly useful for remotely provisioning and configuring white-box switches across branch offices.
Support and Services
Pica8 offers world-class support and services, including 24/7/365 online or phone support, advanced RMA for selected hardware, and on-site support. This ensures that customers can quickly and easily implement, manage, and troubleshoot their network solutions. In summary, while “Pica8 Nymbus” is not a specific product mentioned, Pica8’s offerings in network automation, switch software, and support services make them a significant player in the enterprise networking space. Pica8 Nymbus - User Interface and Experience
User Interface
The Nymble framework features a web-based interface that is user-friendly and intuitive. This interface allows users to create switch-specific configurations, which are then stored in the customer’s database. The use of a web-based interface makes it accessible and easy to manage configurations remotely.
Ease of Use
Pica8’s Nymble Automation Framework is built to simplify network automation and configuration management. It leverages open source tools like Ansible, which many IT professionals are already familiar with. This familiarity reduces the learning curve, making it easier for users to automate provisioning, install configuration files, and perform automatic upgrades. The integration with Ansible also means users can utilize pre-built automation scripts, further enhancing ease of use.
Overall User Experience
The user experience with Pica8’s Nymble is characterized by its simplicity and automation capabilities. Users can manage multiple switches as if they were a single logical switch, thanks to Pica8’s PicaPilot technology. This significantly reduces operational overhead, as configuration, policy, and security changes can be implemented with a single update across multiple switches. The point-and-click interface, as mentioned in other Pica8 products like AmpCon, adds to the user-friendly experience, making network management more efficient and less cumbersome.
Additional Features
Pica8’s products, including Nymble, often include features like zero-touch provisioning (ZTP), monitoring, and configuration management. These features are designed to make network administration more streamlined and automated, which enhances the overall user experience. The licensing model, which allows one license to be run on any hardware without limits on port size or performance, is also highly appreciated by users for its flexibility and cost-effectiveness.
Conclusion
In summary, Pica8’s Nymble Automation Framework offers a user-friendly interface, ease of use through automation and familiar tools, and a positive overall user experience by simplifying network management tasks.
Pica8 Nymbus - Key Features and Functionality
When discussing Pica8’s networking tools
It’s important to clarify that the term “Nymbus” is not associated with Pica8’s products. Instead, Pica8 offers several key features and functionalities through its network automation and management solutions, particularly through its Nymble Automation Framework and PICOS network operating system.
Nymble Automation Framework
- Network Automation and Configuration Management: Pica8’s Nymble Automation Framework uses the open-source platform Ansible to automate network provisioning and configuration. This allows for the remote provisioning and configuration of white box switches across branch offices.
- Centralized Configuration: The framework includes a web-based interface for creating switch-specific configurations, which are stored in the customer’s database. An Ansible-running server connects to the PicOS switches to manage these configurations.
- Automatic Upgrades: Nymble supports automatic upgrades of PicOS-powered switches, ensuring that the network remains up-to-date and secure.
PICOS Network Operating System
- Flexible Networking: PICOS is a Linux-based network operating system that runs on disaggregated network switches. It provides a flexible and cost-effective alternative to proprietary networking solutions.
- CrossFlow Technology: PICOS integrates CrossFlow technology, which allows SDN/OpenFlow traffic to flow over the same switch ports as Layer 2/Layer 3 traffic. This enables intent-based networking (IBN) and provides a dedicated security control plane for dynamic data monitoring and network optimization.
- Integration with Other Systems: PICOS easily integrates with legacy switches from vendors like Cisco, Juniper, and Aruba, as well as with wireless networks and security solutions such as Cisco ISE and Aruba ClearPass.
- Simplified Management: PICOS allows for centralized deployment of upgrades, patches, and configuration changes, simplifying network management. It also supports Power Over Ethernet (PoE) and PoE and offers plug-and-play support for voice and video over IP.
Automation and Security
- AmpCon Automation Framework: Pica8’s AmpCon framework is specifically designed for flexible access networks, providing automated and scalable network management. It uses simple English commands and supports full backward compatibility with legacy switches.
- Dynamic Security: The CrossFlow technology in PICOS enables dynamic, granular data monitoring and allows for real-time policy changes to reject or redirect traffic in case of an intrusion, without interrupting the network.
Cost Efficiency and Support
- Cost Savings: PICOS and the associated automation frameworks are designed to be cost-effective, with lower capital and operational expenses compared to legacy proprietary systems. The software and hardware costs are significantly reduced without compromising on features.
- Global Support: Pica8 offers global support through partnerships with hardware vendors like Dell EMC and Edgecore Networks, ensuring that customers can get support for both software and hardware issues 24/7.
AI Integration
While Pica8’s current offerings do not explicitly integrate AI into their network automation tools, their focus on flexible and automated networking sets a foundation that could be enhanced with AI in the future. However, as of now, there is no specific AI-driven functionality mentioned in the context of Pica8’s Nymble or PICOS solutions.
Pica8 Nymbus - Performance and Accuracy
Performance
Pica8’s networking software, such as PicOS and the AmpCon Controller, is built to deliver high-performance networking capabilities. Here are some key points:Scalability and Flexibility
Pica8’s software runs on a broad range of access and aggregation switches from vendors like Dell and Edgecore, supporting multi-gig and PoE hardware. This flexibility allows users to build high-powered, next-gen enterprise networks.Layer 2 and Layer 3 Features
The software supports a wide array of Layer 2 and Layer 3 protocols, including VLANs, Spanning Tree protocols, link aggregation, and various routing protocols like OSPF, BGP, and RIPv2. This comprehensive support ensures reliable and efficient network operations.Automation and Management
The AmpCon Controller provides centralized management, automation, and lifecycle management, which simplifies network deployment, configuration, and troubleshooting. This automation helps in maintaining high network performance with minimal manual intervention.Accuracy
While Pica8’s solutions are not explicitly AI-driven in the traditional sense of machine learning or natural language processing, their accuracy in network operations can be assessed through their adherence to industry standards and the reliability of their features:Standards Compliance
Pica8’s software complies with various IEEE standards and RFCs, ensuring that the network operates accurately and reliably according to established protocols.Feature Reliability
The software supports features like IGMP snooping, QoS, and network security protocols, which are crucial for accurate and reliable network operations. These features are tested and validated to ensure they function as expected.Limitations or Areas for Improvement
While Pica8’s solutions are well-regarded for their performance and reliability, there are a few areas to consider:Hardware Compatibility
Some features are supported only on select platforms depending on the ASIC support. This means that not all hardware configurations may support the full range of features offered by Pica8’s software.Integration with AI Tools
Pica8’s current offerings do not explicitly integrate AI technologies like machine learning or natural language processing. If AI-driven automation or analytics are a key requirement, users might need to look into additional tools or integrations. In summary, Pica8’s networking tools are highly performant and accurate in their operation, thanks to their comprehensive feature set and adherence to industry standards. However, users should be aware of the potential limitations related to hardware compatibility and the lack of explicit AI-driven functionalities. Pica8 Nymbus - Pricing and Plans
Pricing Structure
Pica8’s pricing structure for their networking tools, particularly the Pica8 Network Platform, is designed for flexibility and accessibility, especially for those looking to transition to open networking solutions.Free Options
Pica8 offers several free options to help you get started:PicOS-V Virtual Software Switch
This is a free virtual machine that allows you to explore and validate PicOS at your own pace, without the need for any hardware. It is available for free download with no license requirements.AmpCon Network Controller
When tested together with PicOS-V in a virtual environment, the AmpCon Network Controller is also free from licensing fees.Paid Plans
While the website does not provide detailed tiered pricing plans, here are some key points about what you can expect from their paid offerings:Enterprise Support
Pica8 offers industry-leading enterprise support, which includes prompt and personalized service. This suggests that their paid plans come with comprehensive support, which is a significant value-add.Network Controller and Switch Software
The AmpCon Network Controller and PicOS Software Switches are part of their paid offerings. These tools provide automation and switch management capabilities that are alternatives to solutions from Cisco, Arista, and Juniper.Features
Here are some of the features you can expect from Pica8’s paid and free offerings:Layer 2/Layer 3 Features
Both the PicOS-V and AmpCon Network Controller support Layer 2 and Layer 3 features, including resilient multi-path fabric and Multi-Chassis Link Aggregation (MLAG) technology for improved resiliency and performance.Leaf-Spine Architecture
Pica8’s PicaPilot technology simplifies and enhances the leaf-spine network architecture, making it easier to deploy and manage across the enterprise.Automation
The AmpCon Network Controller provides automation capabilities, making it an open networking alternative to other automation and switch hardware solutions.Engagement and Support
Pica8 emphasizes building long-lasting partnerships with customers through their industry-leading service and technical support. This indicates that their paid plans likely include access to extensive support resources. For more detailed pricing information, it is recommended to contact Pica8 directly, as the website does not provide a comprehensive pricing breakdown. You can reach out to their sales team at sales@pica8.com. Pica8 Nymbus - Integration and Compatibility
Integration with Other Tools
Pica8’s PicOS software is highly integrative, allowing it to work seamlessly with a variety of third-party tools and systems. Here are some key integrations:Network Access Control (NAC)
PicOS integrates with major NAC solutions such as Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) and Aruba ClearPass. This ensures that identity-based policies can be automatically applied across the network.Automation Tools
PicOS supports automation tools like Ansible, Chef, Puppet, and Salt, enabling users to automate network provisioning and management. The software runs on an unmodified Debian Linux kernel, allowing users to leverage standard Linux commands and tools.OpenFlow Controllers
The PicOS SDN Edition supports all major OpenFlow controllers, including OpenStack Neutron ML2, ONOS, Open Daylight, HPE’s VAN, NEC’s ProgrammableFlow Controller, and Ryu. This allows for open programmability and control over MPLS, GRE, NVGRE, or VXLAN tunnels.Wireless Networks
PicOS interoperates with wireless networks from various vendors, ensuring seamless integration with access points (APs) and other wireless solutions.Compatibility Across Different Platforms and Devices
Pica8’s software is compatible with a wide range of hardware platforms, making it highly versatile:Hardware Compatibility
PicOS software can be installed on open switch hardware from leading vendors such as Dell and Edgecore. This includes support for multi-gig Ethernet and up to 100 W PoE, as well as next-generation aggregation and core switches with 96x25G and 64x100G ports.Legacy Switches
PicOS easily integrates with legacy switches from Cisco, Juniper, Arista, HPE, and Aruba, allowing for gradual upgrades without the need for immediate replacement of all existing hardware.Open Networking
Pica8’s open networking approach allows users to mix and match different switch models in a switch stack, unlike legacy vendors that require uniform switch models. This flexibility makes modernizing wiring closets more manageable and scalable.Global Support and Compatibility
Pica8 also offers comprehensive global support, which is crucial for maintaining and troubleshooting networks:Global Partnerships
Pica8 has global partnerships with hardware vendors like Dell EMC and Edgecore Networks, providing 24/7 support for any switch software issues. This ensures that users can get support whenever and wherever they need it. In summary, Pica8’s PicOS and AmpCon platforms are engineered to be highly integrative and compatible with a wide array of tools, platforms, and devices, making them a flexible and reliable choice for enterprise networking needs. Pica8 Nymbus - Customer Support and Resources
Pica8 Customer Support Overview
Pica8, a provider of networking software solutions, offers several comprehensive customer support options and additional resources to ensure users can effectively manage and utilize their network automation tools.Industry-Leading Enterprise Support
Pica8 is committed to delivering the best service and technical support in the industry. They build long-lasting partnerships with their customers by providing prompt and personalized support, which sets them apart from larger providers.Global Support Partnerships
Pica8 has global partnerships with hardware vendors such as Dell EMC and Edgecore Networks. This means customers can receive support whenever and wherever they need it. For example, if a customer has a support contract with Dell EMC for hardware, Pica8 will handle any software issues related to their switches, ensuring comprehensive coverage.Flexible Support Models
Pica8 allows customers to upgrade and modernize their network infrastructure gradually. This flexibility includes the ability to integrate Pica8’s PICOS network operating system with legacy switches from various vendors like Cisco, Juniper, and Arista, without the need for a complete overhaul. This approach ensures that customers can manage their networks efficiently without significant disruptions.Automation and Management Tools
Pica8’s Nymble Automation Framework is a key resource for customers. This framework uses Ansible for network automation and configuration management, allowing for the remote provisioning and configuration of switches across branch offices. It includes a web-based interface for creating switch-specific configurations and automatic upgrades, making network management more streamlined and efficient.Training and Validation
Customers can start exploring Pica8’s solutions with PicOS-V, a free virtual machine that allows them to validate and explore the PicOS network operating system at their own pace. This hands-on approach helps users become familiar with the software before full deployment.Integration with Other Tools
Pica8’s network platform is compatible with various other tools and systems, such as network monitoring tools like Zabbix, and network automation tools like Ansible and Ansible Tower. This interoperability ensures that customers can integrate Pica8’s solutions with their existing network management ecosystem.Conclusion
By providing these support options and resources, Pica8 ensures that its customers have the tools and assistance they need to manage and optimize their network infrastructure effectively. Pica8 Nymbus - Pros and Cons
Advantages
Cost Savings
Pica8 enables enterprises to significantly reduce their network Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) by 50% or more. This is achieved through decreased operational and capital expenditures, even compared to heavily discounted legacy solutions.
Flexibility and Scalability
The PICOS NOS supports a wide range of hardware platforms, including switches from Dell and Edgecore, and offers scalable configurations such as up to 2,304 1 GbE access ports and up to 1,536 10 GbE access ports. This flexibility allows for easy upgrades and expansions.
Automation and Management
Pica8 offers advanced automation features through its AmpCon automation framework and tools like PicaPilot. These tools simplify network management by allowing multiple switches to be managed as a single logical switch, reducing operational overhead and improving network resiliency.
SDN Capabilities
PICOS includes innovative features like CrossFlow, which integrates both traditional Layer 2/3 switching and Software Defined Networking (SDN) capabilities on the same ports, enhancing network flexibility and real-time security.
Compatibility and Integration
Pica8 solutions are fully backward compatible with legacy systems, allowing for incremental upgrades and integration with existing infrastructure. This makes the transition to Pica8’s solutions smoother and less disruptive.
Industry-Leading Support
Pica8 provides world-class support and services, including 24/7 access to support teams, online tools, and on-site support. This ensures that customers can quickly implement, manage, and troubleshoot their network solutions.
Disadvantages
Learning Curve
While Pica8’s solutions offer a familiar Command Line Interface (CLI) for network administrators, the transition to a new NOS and automation tools might still require some learning and adjustment time.
Dependency on Hardware Compatibility
Although Pica8 supports a broad range of hardware, there could be limitations or specific requirements for certain hardware configurations. Ensuring compatibility with existing or planned hardware is essential.
Initial Setup and Configuration
While Pica8 offers tools like PicaPilot to simplify management, the initial setup and configuration of a large-scale network might still be time-consuming and require significant planning and resources.
Potential for Over-Reliance on Automation
While automation is a significant advantage, there is a risk of over-reliance on automated systems. Ensuring that network staff have the necessary skills to manage and troubleshoot the network manually is important.
In summary, Pica8’s solutions offer substantial benefits in terms of cost savings, flexibility, and advanced management capabilities, but may require some initial investment in learning and setup, and careful consideration of hardware compatibility.
Pica8 Nymbus - Comparison with Competitors
Comparison of Pica8’s Nymbus with Other AI-Driven Networking Tools
To compare Pica8’s Nymbus with other AI-driven networking tools, we need to look at several key aspects such as automation, analytics, and overall network management capabilities.Pica8 Nymbus
Pica8’s Nymbus is a network operating system that focuses on open networking and provides a high degree of customization and flexibility. Here are some of its key features:- Open Networking: Nymbus supports a wide range of hardware platforms, allowing users to choose from various vendors.
- Automation: It includes automation tools for network provisioning and management.
- Scalability: Nymbus is designed to handle large-scale network deployments.
Alternatives and Competitors
Arista Networks
Arista Networks offers several AI-driven solutions, including the Arista CloudVision platform and the Arista Etherlink AI platforms. Here are some unique features:- CloudVision: Provides continuous network monitoring, predictive analytics, and automation of network configuration and management tasks.
- Etherlink AI: Optimized for demanding AI workloads, such as training and inferencing, ensuring optimal network performance.
Juniper Networks
Juniper’s AI-Native Networking Platform is notable for its comprehensive use of AI:- Marvis Virtual Network Assistant: Offers a conversational interface, prescriptive actions, and Self-Driving Network operations to streamline and optimize network performance.
- Mist AI: Provides automated operations, service-level expectations, and AI-driven management, significantly reducing trouble tickets and operational expenses.
Arrcus
Arrcus focuses on hyper-scale networking software:- Network Operating System: Offers a route reflector and deep visibility and analytics platform, enhancing network connectivity and efficiency, particularly in multi-cloud environments.
- Automation and Analytics: Provides automated network operations and detailed analytics for better network health insights.
Cumulus Networks
Cumulus Networks offers a Linux operating system for industry-standard network switches:- Automation: Automates network provisioning and gives unprecedented visibility into network operations.
- Scalability: Suitable for large-scale data center environments.
Key Differences and Unique Features
- Automation and Scalability: Both Pica8 Nymbus and Cumulus Networks offer strong automation and scalability features, but Pica8’s focus on open networking provides more hardware flexibility.
- AI Integration: Juniper’s AI-Native Networking Platform and Arista’s CloudVision stand out for their deep integration of AI, offering predictive analytics, automated troubleshooting, and self-driving network operations.
- Hyper-Scale Networking: Arrcus is particularly strong in hyper-scale networking, making it a good choice for large, complex network environments.
Conclusion
While Pica8 Nymbus excels in open networking and customization, other tools like Juniper’s AI-Native Networking Platform and Arista’s CloudVision offer more advanced AI-driven features for network optimization and automation. Arrcus and Cumulus Networks provide strong alternatives with their focus on hyper-scale networking and automated network operations, respectively. The choice ultimately depends on the specific needs of the organization, such as the scale of the network, the need for AI-driven insights, and the importance of hardware flexibility. Pica8 Nymbus - Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pica8 Nymble?
Pica8 Nymble is an automation framework that provides network automation and configuration management for Pica8’s PicOS network operating system. It uses the open-source platform Ansible to automate tasks such as provisioning, configuration, and upgrades of PicOS-powered switches.How does Pica8 Nymble work?
Nymble works through a web-based interface where users can create switch-specific configurations stored in a customer’s database. It connects to an Ansible-running server that manages the PicOS switches. This framework runs on the customer’s cloud computing environment and is included with a PicOS license.What are the key features of Pica8 Nymble?
Key features include automated provisioning of switches, centralized installation of configuration files, and automatic upgrades. Nymble also supports compliance and consistency checks, connectivity checks, and network operation and remediation routines using Ansible playbooks.How does Pica8 compare to incumbent network vendors like Cisco and Aruba?
Pica8 offers network automation and management on open hardware, which can be more cost-effective and simpler to manage compared to proprietary systems. However, the total cost of ownership and whether it offers significant savings over incumbent vendors is still a subject of debate. Pica8’s approach focuses on saving time and reducing operational overhead.What is PicOS, and how does it differ from legacy network operating systems?
PicOS is a Linux-based network operating system that is compartmentalized, allowing updates or changes to one component without affecting the entire system. This contrasts with legacy systems like Cisco IOS, where updates often require a wholesale replacement of the software/firmware image. PicOS supports standards-based Layer-2 and Layer-3 protocols and includes features like voice VLANs, OSPF, and QoS.How does Pica8’s PicaPilot technology enhance network management?
PicaPilot enables network managers to control multiple white box switches as if they were a single logical switch. This simplifies the management of leaf-spine networks, reduces operational overhead, and eliminates the need for large, expensive switch chassis. It allows for easier configuration, policy, and security changes across multiple switches.What security enhancements does the latest PicOS update include?
The latest PicOS update includes new capabilities to address network efficiency and security, such as interoperability with existing network access control (NAC) tools. This enables fully automated network access policy enforcement and improves the security posture of the network. It also supports centralized policy-based access control for network access points.Can Pica8’s solutions be used in various network environments?
Yes, Pica8’s solutions are versatile and can be used in high-performance computing (HPC), data centers, and enterprise networking environments. The PicOS operating system is qualified to run on proven, high-performance hardware and supports a range of network architectures and protocols.How does Pica8 support automation and workflow management?
Pica8’s AmpCon Network Controller and Nymble framework support automation through Ansible playbooks and workflows. These tools automate common network tasks, such as compliance checks, connectivity checks, and network operation routines, saving valuable administration time and simplifying network management.What kind of support does Pica8 offer to its customers?
Pica8 is known for its industry-leading enterprise support. It builds long-lasting partnerships with customers by providing prompt and personalized support that is unmatched by larger providers. This includes technical support and service that ensures customers get the help they need efficiently.Is Pica8’s PicOS compatible with other network tools and systems?
Yes, PicOS is designed to be compatible with various network tools and systems. It supports Open Network Install Environment standards, integrates with NAC systems like ISE and ClearPass, and works with other open networking standards like OpenFlow 1.5. Pica8 Nymbus - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of Pica8’s Network Automation Solutions
Pica8, with its suite of network automation tools, particularly the AmpCon and Nymble frameworks, offers a compelling alternative to traditional proprietary network solutions from vendors like Cisco and Aruba.Key Benefits
Simplified Deployment and Management
Pica8’s AmpCon framework stands out with its “Push-Button Deployment” capability, allowing even non-technical staff to configure and deploy large numbers of remote switches using simple GUI-based commands. This significantly reduces the need for on-site network engineers and minimizes human error in large-scale deployments.
Cost-Effectiveness
Pica8’s solutions are built on open networking principles, using white-box or brite-box switches, which can be more cost-effective than proprietary hardware. The software itself is also less expensive, and the overall operational costs are reduced through simplified lifecycle management and automated processes.
Security and Visibility
AmpCon includes built-in security features such as compliance checking, configuration validation, and the ability to implement policy changes on the fly to address security issues. This enhances the overall security posture and provides better visibility into the network.
Interoperability and Flexibility
Pica8’s PICOS NOS integrates seamlessly with legacy switches from various vendors, allowing for gradual upgrades without the need for a complete overhaul. It also supports OpenFlow and Layer 2/3 networking on the same switch ports, offering flexible intent-based networking capabilities.
AI-Ready Architecture
The AmpCon framework is extendable and ready to incorporate emerging technologies like telemetry and artificial intelligence, which can further automate network management and optimization.
Who Would Benefit Most
Large Enterprises
Companies with extensive branch networks and remote sites can significantly benefit from Pica8’s automation tools. These tools simplify the deployment and management of switches, reduce operational expenses, and improve security and visibility.
Educational Institutions
Schools and universities can leverage Pica8’s flexible networking approach to create cost-effective and easily manageable networks. The use of accessible tools like Zabbix for monitoring and Ansible for automation makes it easier for educational institutions to maintain their networks.
Government Entities
State and local governments can also benefit from Pica8’s solutions by achieving better network management at a lower cost. The scalability and flexibility of Pica8’s networks make them suitable for various government applications.
Overall Recommendation
Pica8’s network automation solutions, particularly AmpCon and Nymble, offer a strong alternative to proprietary network automation tools. They provide significant advantages in terms of cost savings, simplified deployment, and enhanced security and visibility. For organizations looking to modernize their network infrastructure, reduce operational costs, and improve network management efficiency, Pica8’s solutions are highly recommended.
However, it is important to consider the transition process and the need for some level of technical expertise, especially when integrating with existing infrastructure. Pica8’s low learning curve and full backward compatibility with legacy switches can ease this transition, making it a viable option for those looking to move away from traditional proprietary solutions.