Open-source routers hit limitations

Firms hoping to reduce network costs by deploying open-source routers may be disappointed since experts say such systems are hard to configure and lack the processing power required to handle large volumes of traffic.

Vyatta last month became the latest company to launch an open-source router. It said its Open Flexible Router (OFR) software can be deployed on standard PCs and is about 80 percent cheaper than proprietary kit from vendors such as Cisco, Huawei and Nortel.

"OFR is ideal for mid-sized firms or branch offices, providing key functionality found in traditional closed-source routing solutions," Vyatta said.

http://www.itweek.co.uk/itweek/news/2163446/open-source-routers-hit