Top OpenContrail Alternatives for Network Virtualization and SDN

OpenContrail is a robust, Apache 2.0-licensed project offering a comprehensive suite for network virtualization and SDN, including a controller, virtual router, and analytics engine. Built for scale with extensive REST APIs, it provides fundamental network platforms for cloud infrastructure, focusing on network virtualization, programmability, automation, and big data for infrastructure. However, for various reasons such as specific feature requirements, platform preferences, or budget considerations, users may seek an OpenContrail alternative. This article explores some of the best alternatives available today.

Best OpenContrail Alternatives

If you're looking to explore other powerful solutions for your network virtualization and SDN needs, here are some excellent alternatives to OpenContrail, each with its unique strengths and features.

pfSense

pfSense is a free and open-source firewall and router based on BSD. It's a strong OpenContrail alternative for those needing unified threat management, load balancing, multi-WAN, DHCP server, integrated virus scanner, OpenVPN compatibility, and Virtual LAN features.

ClearOS

ClearOS is a family of free and open-source Linux-based operating systems. It serves as an excellent OpenContrail alternative, particularly for those looking for a solution that includes an email server, database, gateway, PHP, PhpMyAdmin, web-based interface, and web server capabilities.

MikroTik RouterOS

MikroTik RouterOS is a commercial, web-based, and self-hosted Linux-based operating system. As an OpenContrail alternative, it's ideal for turning a computer into a router with features like Wi-Fi Direct and user management.

IPFire

IPFire is a free and open-source Linux-based server distribution designed as a firewall. It's a solid OpenContrail alternative focusing on flexibility, scaling from small to large networks, and offering DHCP Server, DNS Server, and VPN functionalities.

Untangle

Untangle is a freemium Linux-based platform for deploying network applications. It offers a unified GUI, database, and reporting, making it a viable OpenContrail alternative with features like ad blocking, gateway functionality, plugins, VPN, and web filtering.

VyOS

VyOS is a commercial, open-source Linux-based network operating system. It provides software-based network routing, firewall, and VPN functionality, including built-in VPN, command-line interface, network discovery, OpenVPN, and virtualization support, making it a powerful OpenContrail alternative.

Smoothwall

Smoothwall Express is a free and open-source Linux-based firewall. It's a straightforward OpenContrail alternative that includes its own security-hardened GNU/Linux operating system and gateway functionality based on OpenVPN.

IPCop

IPCop Firewall is a free and open-source Linux firewall distribution. Geared towards home and SOHO users, its user-friendly, task-based interface makes it an accessible OpenContrail alternative for those needing basic gateway functionalities.

Juniper Contrail

Juniper Contrail Networking is a commercial, self-hosted SDN platform based on the open-source OpenContrail project. It automates network virtualization, making it a direct and highly capable OpenContrail alternative for enterprises seeking a commercial solution with extensive support.

Choosing the right OpenContrail alternative depends entirely on your specific networking requirements, budget, and desired level of control and complexity. We encourage you to explore each option further to find the best fit for your infrastructure needs.