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Forward Networks VS Cisco ACI

Compare Forward Networks VS Cisco ACI and see what are their differences

Forward Networks logo Forward Networks

Network Automation

Cisco ACI logo Cisco ACI

Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI) simplifies, optimizes, and accelerates the application deployment lifecycle in next-generation data centers and clouds.
  • Forward Networks Landing page
    Landing page //
    2022-11-28
  • Cisco ACI Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-10-21

Forward Networks features and specs

  • Network Visibility
    Forward Networks provides comprehensive visibility into network behavior and configurations, helping organizations understand their network's current state and identify any potential issues.
  • Automated Network Verification
    The platform automates the process of network verification, ensuring that configurations comply with policies and that the network behaves as expected, reducing manual effort and error.
  • Troubleshooting Efficiency
    With detailed path analysis and device information, Forward Networks enhances troubleshooting processes, allowing for faster identification and resolution of network problems.
  • Scalability
    Forward Networks is designed to scale with the needs of large, complex networks, making it suitable for enterprise-level implementations.

Possible disadvantages of Forward Networks

  • Cost
    The solution might be considered expensive for smaller organizations or those with limited IT budgets.
  • Complexity
    Deploying and fully utilizing Forward Networks may require a significant investment of time and expertise in understanding its features and capabilities.
  • Integration
    Integrating Forward Networks with existing network management and monitoring tools can be challenging, potentially requiring custom development.
  • Resource Intensive
    Running detailed network analyses can require significant computational resources, which might impact performance or necessitate additional infrastructure.

Cisco ACI features and specs

  • Centralized Management
    Cisco ACI provides a centralized point of management for the entire network infrastructure, making it easier to configure, automate, and manage policies across the network.
  • Scalability
    ACI allows for scalable design, accommodating the growth of network infrastructure with minimal disruption and extensive support for multi-cloud environments.
  • Policy-Based Automation
    ACI leverages policy-driven automation to reduce the complexity and potential for human error in network configurations. Policies can be applied uniformly across the network to ensure compliance and security.
  • Security
    By using micro-segmentation and other security features, ACI enhances network security by isolating segments of the network and ensuring consistent security policies.
  • Multi-Tenancy Support
    ACI supports multi-tenancy, allowing different segments or tenants within an organization to operate within their own isolated environments while sharing the same physical infrastructure.
  • Integration with Third-Party Tools
    The platform supports integration with a wide range of third-party tools and applications, streamlining workflows and improving operational efficiencies.
  • Visibility and Troubleshooting
    ACI provides extensive monitoring and troubleshooting capabilities, allowing for enhanced visibility into network performance and faster resolution of issues.

Possible disadvantages of Cisco ACI

  • High Initial Investment
    The upfront costs associated with deploying Cisco ACI can be significant, including both hardware and software expenses.
  • Complexity
    While ACI simplifies many aspects of network management, its sophisticated features and architecture can add layers of complexity, requiring specialized knowledge and training.
  • Vendor Lock-In
    Implementing Cisco ACI often ties the organization to Cisco's ecosystem, which might limit flexibility with multi-vendor environments or introduce higher costs for future upgrades and expansions.
  • Learning Curve
    Network administrators and engineers may face a steep learning curve when transitioning to ACI, necessitating time for training and adjustment.
  • Dependency on APIC
    The Application Policy Infrastructure Controller (APIC) is a critical component of the ACI architecture, and any failure or issue with APIC can impact the entire network's operation.
  • Migration Challenges
    Migrating existing network infrastructure to ACI can be a complex and risky process, requiring careful planning and execution to avoid disruptions.

Forward Networks videos

Forward Networks Overview

More videos:

  • Review - Forward Networks Feature Overview
  • Demo - Forward Networks Verify and Predict Demo

Cisco ACI videos

Cisco ACI vs. VMware NSX: Which Software-Defined Solution is Right for You?

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Forward Networks and Cisco ACI)
Monitoring Tools
13 13%
87% 87
Log Management
16 16%
84% 84
Auditing And Compliance
100 100%
0% 0
DCIM Software
0 0%
100% 100

User comments

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What are some alternatives?

When comparing Forward Networks and Cisco ACI, you can also consider the following products

NetBrain Enterprise Suite - NetBrain Enterprise Suite free download. Get the latest version now. Automation solution for documentation, troubleshooting and change assurance

ManageEngine OpManager - Monitors routers, switches, firewalls, load-balancers, wireless LAN controllers, servers, VMs, printers, storage devices, and everything that has an IP and is connected to the network.

SolarWinds IP Address Manager - Tired of spreadsheet-based address management? Save time, boost ROI, and improve network reliability with SolarWinds® IP Address Manager.

Cisco Data Center Network Manager - Cisco Data Center Network Manager offers network management system (NMS) support for traditional or multiple-tenant LAN and SAN fabrics.

SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager - SolarWinds is a leading provider of powerful and affordable IT infrastructure management software. Make IT look easy.

DCImanager - DCImanager is a platform for managing physical equipment. Connect any physical equipment to a single platform. Use the platform to manage your servers, switches, PDU as well as physical and virtual networks.