Everything You Should Know About Bare Metal Switch

In an era where enterprise networks must support an increasing array of connected devices, agility and scalability in networking have become business imperatives. The shift towards open networking has catalyzed the rise of bare metal switches within corporate data networks, reflecting a broader move toward flexibility and customization. As these switches gain momentum in enterprise IT environments, one may wonder, what differentiates bare metal switches from their predecessors, and what advantages do they offer to meet the demands of modern enterprise networks?

What is a Bare Metal Switch?

Bare metal switches are originated from a growing need to separate hardware from software in the networking world. This concept was propelled mainly by the same trend within the space of personal computing, where users have freedom of choice over the operating system they install. Before their advent, proprietary solutions dominated, where a single vendor would provide the networking hardware bundled with their software.

A bare metal switch is a network switch without a pre-installed operating system (OS) or, in some cases, with a minimal OS that serves simply to help users install their system of choice. They are the foundational components of a customizable networking solution. Made by original design manufacturers (ODMs), these switches are called “bare” because they come as blank devices that allow the end-user to implement their specialized networking software. As a result, they offer unprecedented flexibility compared to traditional proprietary network switches.

Bare metal switches usually adhere to open standards, and they leverage common hardware components observed across a multitude of vendors. The hardware typically consists of a high-performance switching silicon chip, an essential assembly of ports, and the standard processing components required to perform networking tasks. However, unlike their proprietary counterparts, these do not lock you into a specific vendor’s ecosystem.

What are the Primary Characteristics of Bare Metal Switches?

The aspects that distinguish bare metal switches from traditional enclosed switches include:

Hardware Without a Locked-down OS: Unlike traditional networking switches from vendors like Cisco or Juniper, which come with a proprietary operating system and a closed set of software features, bare metal switches are sold with no such restrictions.

Compatibility with Multiple NOS Options: Customers can choose to install a network operating system of their choice on a bare metal switch. This could be a commercial NOS, such as Cumulus Linux or Pica8, or an open-source NOS like Open Network Linux (ONL).

Standardized Components: Bare metal switches typically use standardized hardware components, such as merchant silicon from vendors like Broadcom, Intel, or Mellanox, which allows them to achieve cost efficiencies and interoperability with various software platforms.

Increased Flexibility and Customization: By decoupling the hardware from the software, users can customize their network to their specific needs, optimize performance, and scale more easily than with traditional, proprietary switches.

Target Market: These switches are popular in large data centers, cloud computing environments, and with those who embrace the Software-Defined Networking (SDN) approach, which requires more control over the network’s behavior.

Bare metal switches and the ecosystem of NOS options enable organizations to adopt a more flexible, disaggregated approach to network hardware and software procurement, allowing them to tailor their networking stack to their specific requirements.

Benefits of Bare Metal Switches in Practice

Bare metal switches introduce several advantages for enterprise environments, particularly within campus networks and remote office locations at the access edge. It offers an economical solution to manage the surging traffic triggered by an increase of Internet of Things (IoT) devices and the trend of employees bringing personal devices to the network. These devices, along with extensive cloud service usage, generate considerable network loads with activities like streaming video, necessitating a more efficient and cost-effective way to accommodate this burgeoning data flow.

In contrast to the traditional approach where enterprises might face high costs updating edge switches to handle increased traffic, bare metal switches present an affordable alternative. These devices circumvent the substantial markups imposed by well-known vendors, making network expansion or upgrades more financially manageable. As a result, companies can leverage open network switches to develop networks that are not only less expensive but better aligned with current and projected traffic demands.

Furthermore, bare metal switches support the implementation of the more efficient leaf-spine network topology over the traditional three-tier structure, consolidating the access and aggregation layers and often enabling a single-hop connection between devices, which enhances connection efficiency and performance. With vendors like Pica8 employing this architecture, the integration of Multi-Chassis Link Aggregation (MLAG) technology supersedes the older Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), effectively doubling network bandwidth by allowing simultaneous link usage and ensuring rapid network convergence in the event of link failures.

Building High-Performing Enterprise Networks

FS S5870 series of switches is tailored for enterprise networks, primarily equipped with 48 1G RJ45 ports and a variety of uplink ports. This configuration effectively resolves the challenge of accommodating multiple device connections within enterprises. S5870 PoE+ switches offer PoE+ support, reducing installation and deployment expenses while amplifying network deployment flexibility, catering to a diverse range of scenario demands. Furthermore, the PicOS License and PicOS maintenance and support services can further enhance the worry-free user experience for enterprises. Features such as ACL, RADIUS, TACACS+, and DHCP snooping enhance network visibility and security. FS professional technical team assists with installation, configuration, operation, troubleshooting, software updates, and a wide range of other network technology services.

What is Priority-based Flow Control and How It Improves Data Center Efficiency

Data center networks are continuously challenged to manage massive amounts of data and need to simultaneously handle different types of traffic, such as high-speed data transfers, real-time communication, and storage traffic, often on shared network infrastructure. That’s where Priority-based Flow Control (PFC) proves to be a game-changer.

What is Priority-Based Flow Control?

Priority-Based Flow Control (PFC) is a network protocol mechanism that’s part of the IEEE 802.1Qbb standard, designed to ensure a lossless Ethernet environment. It operates by managing the flow of data packets across a network based on the priority level assigned to different types of traffic. PFC is primarily used to provide Quality of Service (QoS) by preventing data packet loss in Ethernet networks, which becomes especially critical in environments where different applications and services have varying priorities and requirements.

How Does Priority-Based Flow Control Work?

To understand the workings of Priority-Based Flow Control, one needs to look at how data is transmitted over networks. Ethernet, the underlying technology in most data centers, is prone to congestion when multiple systems communicate over the same network pathway. When network devices become swamped with more traffic than they can handle, packet loss is typically the result. PFC addresses this problem by using a mechanism called “pause frames.”Pause frames are sent to a network device (like a switch or NIC) telling it to stop sending data for a specific priority level. Each type of traffic is assigned a different priority level and, correspondingly, a different virtual lane. When congestion occurs, the device with PFC capabilities issues a pause frame to the transmitting device to temporarily halt the transmission for that particular priority level, while allowing others to continue flowing. This helps prevent packet loss for high-priority traffic, such as storage or real-time communications, ensuring these services remain uninterrupted and reliable.

Why do We Need Priority-Based Flow Control?

Data centers serve as the backbone of enterprise IT services, and their performance directly impacts the success of business operations. Here’s why implementing PFC is vital:

  • Maintains Quality of Service (QoS): In a diverse traffic environment, critical services must be guaranteed stable network performance. PFC preserves the QoS by giving precedence to essential traffic during congestion.
  • Facilitates Converged Networking: The combination of storage, compute, and networking traffic over a single network infrastructure requires careful traffic management. PFC allows for this convergence by handling contention issues effectively.
  • Supports Lossless Networking: Some applications, such as storage area networks (SANs), cannot tolerate packet drops. PFC makes it possible for Ethernet networks to support these applications by ensuring a lossless transport medium.
  • Promotes Efficient Utilization: Properly managed flow control techniques like PFC mean that existing network infrastructure can handle higher workloads more efficiently, pushing off the need for expensive upgrades or overhauls.

Application of Priority-Based Flow Control in Data Centers

Here’s a closer look at how PFC is applied in data center operations to boost efficiency:

Managing Mixed Workload Traffic

Modern data centers have mixed workloads that perform various functions from handling database transactions to rendering real-time analytics. PFC enables the data center network to effectively manage these mixed workloads by ensuring that the right kind of traffic gets delivered on time, every time.

Maintaining Service Level Agreements (SLAs)

For service providers and large enterprises, meeting the expectations set in SLAs is critical. PFC plays a crucial role in upholding these SLAs. By prioritizing traffic according to policies, PFC ensures that the network adheres to the agreed-upon performance metrics.

Enhancing Converged Network Adapters (CNAs)

CNAs, which consolidate network and storage networking on a single adapter card, rely heavily on PFC to ensure data and storage traffic can flow without interfering with one another, thereby enhancing overall performance.

Integrating with Software-Defined Networking (SDN)

In the SDN paradigm, control over traffic flow is centralized. PFC can work in tandem with SDN policies to adjust priorities dynamically based on changing network conditions and application demands.

Enabling Scalability

As data centers grow and traffic volume increases, so does the complexity of traffic management. PFC provides a scalable way to maintain network performance without costly infrastructure changes.

Improving Energy Efficiency

By improving the overall efficiency of data transportation, PFC indirectly contributes to reduced energy consumption. More efficient data flow means network devices can operate optimally, preventing the need for additional cooling or power that might result from overworked equipment.


In conclusion, Priority-based Flow Control is a sophisticated tool that addresses the intrinsic complexities of modern data center networking. It prioritizes critical traffic, ensures adherence to quality standards, and permits the coexistence of diverse data types on a shared network. By integrating PFC into the data center network’s arsenal, businesses can not only maintain the expected service quality but also pave the way for advanced virtualization, cloud services, and future network innovations, driving efficiency to new heights.

What is MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching)?

In the ever-evolving landscape of networking technologies, Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) has In the ever-evolving landscape of networking technologies, Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) has emerged as a crucial and versatile tool for efficiently directing data traffic across networks. MPLS brings a new level of flexibility and performance to network communication. In this article, we will explore the fundamentals of MPLS, its purpose, and its relationship with the innovative technology of Software-Defined Wide Area Networking (SD-WAN).

What is MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching)?

Before we delve into the specifics of MPLS, it’s important to understand the journey of data across the internet. Whenever you send an email, engage in a VoIP call, or participate in video conferencing, the information is broken down into packets, commonly known as IP packets, which travel from one router to another until they reach their intended destination. At each router, a decision must be made about how to forward the packet, a process that relies on intricate routing tables. This decision-making is required at every juncture in the packet’s path, potentially leading to inefficiencies that can degrade performance for end-users and affect the overall network within an organization. MPLS offers a solution that can enhance network efficiency and elevate the user experience by streamlining this process.

MPLS Definition

Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) is a protocol-agnostic, packet-forwarding technology designed to improve the speed and efficiency of data traffic flow within a network. Unlike traditional routing protocols that make forwarding decisions based on IP addresses, MPLS utilizes labels to determine the most efficient path for forwarding packets.

At its core, MPLS adds a label to each data packet’s header as it enters the network. This “label” contains information that directs the packet along a predetermined path through the network. Instead of routers analyzing the packet’s destination IP address at each hop, they simply read the label, allowing for faster and more streamlined packet forwarding.

MPLS Network

An MPLS network is considered to operate at OSI layer “2.5”, below the network layer (layer 3) and above the data link layer (layer 2) within the OSI seven-layer framework. The Data Link Layer (Layer 2) handles the transportation of IP packets across local area networks (LANs) or point-to-point wide area networks (WANs). On the other hand, the Network Layer (Layer 3) employs internet-wide addressing and routing through IP protocols. MPLS strategically occupies the space between these two layers, introducing supplementary features to facilitate efficient data transport across the network.

The FS S8550 series switches support advanced features of MPLS, including LDP, MPLS-L2VPN, and MPLS-L3VPN. To enable these advanced MPLS features, the LIC-FIX-MA license is required. These switches are designed to provide high reliability and security, making them suitable for scenarios that require compliance with the MPLS protocol. If you want to know more about MPLS switches, please read fs.com.

What is MPLS Used for?

Traffic Engineering

One of the primary purposes of MPLS is to enhance traffic engineering within a network. By using labels, MPLS enables network operators to establish specific paths for different types of traffic. This granular control over routing paths enhances network performance and ensures optimal utilization of network resources.

Quality of Service (QoS)

MPLS facilitates effective Quality of Service (QoS) implementation. Network operators can prioritize certain types of traffic by assigning different labels, ensuring that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth and low latency. This makes MPLS particularly valuable for applications sensitive to delays, such as voice and video communication.

Scalability

MPLS enhances network scalability by simplifying the routing process. Traditional routing tables can become complex and unwieldy, impacting performance as the network grows. MPLS simplifies the decision-making process by relying on labels, making it more scalable and efficient, especially in large and complex networks.

Traffic Segmentation and Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)

MPLS supports traffic segmentation, allowing network operators to create Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). By using labels to isolate different types of traffic, MPLS enables the creation of private, secure communication channels within a larger network. This is particularly beneficial for organizations with geographically dispersed offices or remote users.

MPLS Network

MMPLS Integrates With SD-WAN

Integration with SD-WAN

MPLS plays a significant role in the realm of Software-Defined Wide Area Networking (SD-WAN). SD-WAN leverages the flexibility and efficiency of MPLS to enhance the management and optimization of wide-area networks. MPLS provides a reliable underlay for SD-WAN, offering secure and predictable connectivity between various network locations.

Hybrid Deployments

Many organizations adopt a hybrid approach, combining MPLS with SD-WAN to create a robust and adaptable networking infrastructure. MPLS provides the reliability and security required for mission-critical applications, while SD-WAN introduces dynamic, software-driven management for optimizing traffic across multiple paths, including MPLS, broadband internet, and other connections.

Cost Efficiency

The combination of MPLS and SD-WAN can result in cost savings for organizations. SD-WAN’s ability to intelligently route traffic based on real-time conditions allows for the dynamic utilization of cost-effective connections, such as broadband internet, while still relying on MPLS for critical and sensitive data.

Want to learn more about the pros and cons of SD-WAN and MPLS, please check SD-WAN vs MPLS: Pros and Con

Conclusion

In conclusion, Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) stands as a powerful networking technology designed to enhance the efficiency, scalability, and performance of data traffic within networks. Its ability to simplify routing decisions through the use of labels brings numerous advantages, including improved traffic engineering, Quality of Service implementation, and support for secure Virtual Private Networks.

Moreover, MPLS seamlessly integrates with Software-Defined Wide Area Networking (SD-WAN), forming a dynamic and adaptable networking solution. The combination of MPLS and SD-WAN allows organizations to optimize their network infrastructure, achieving a balance between reliability, security, and cost efficiency. As the networking landscape continues to evolve, MPLS remains a foundational technology, contributing to the seamless and efficient flow of data in diverse and complex network environments.

What Is Access Layer and How to Choose the Right Access Switch?

In the intricate world of networking, the access layer stands as the gateway to a seamless connection between end-user devices and the broader network infrastructure. At the core of this connectivity lies the access layer switch, a pivotal component that warrants careful consideration for building a robust and efficient network. This article explores the essence of the access layer, delves into how it operates, distinguishes access switches from other types, and provides insights into selecting the right access layer switch.

What is the Access Layer?

The Access Layer, also known as the Edge Layer, in network infrastructure is the first layer within a network topology that connects end devices, such as computers, printers, and phones, to the network. It is where users gain access to the network. This layer typically includes switches and access points that provide connectivity to devices. The Access Layer switches are responsible for enforcing policies such as port security, VLAN segmentation, and Quality of Service (QoS) to ensure efficient and secure data transmission.

For instance, our S5300-12S 12-Port Ethernet layer 3 switch would be an excellent choice for the Access Layer, offering robust security features, high-speed connectivity, and advanced QoS policies to meet varying network requirements.

Access Layer Switch

What is Access Layer Used for?

The primary role of the access layer is to facilitate communication between end devices and the rest of the network. This layer serves as a gateway for devices to access resources within the network and beyond. Key functions of the access layer include:

Device Connectivity

The access layer ensures that end-user devices can connect to the network seamlessly. It provides the necessary ports and interfaces for devices like computers, phones, and printers to establish a connection.

VLAN Segmentation

Virtual LANs (VLANs) are often implemented at the access layer to segment network traffic. This segmentation enhances security, manageability, and performance by isolating traffic into logical groups.

Security Enforcement

Security policies are enforced at the access layer to control access to the network. This can include features like port security, which limits the number of devices that can connect to a specific port.

Quality of Service (QoS)

The access layer may implement QoS policies to prioritize certain types of traffic, ensuring that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth and minimizing latency for time-sensitive applications.

What is the Role of An Access Layer Switch?

Access switches serve as the tangible interface at the access layer, tasked with linking end devices to the distribution layer switches while guaranteeing the delivery of data packets to those end devices. In addition to maintaining a consistent connection for end users and the higher-level distribution and core layers, an access switch must fulfill the demands of the access layer. This includes streamlining network management, offering security features, and catering to various specific needs that differ based on the network context.

Factors to Consider When Selecting Access Layer Switches

Choosing the right access layer switches is crucial for creating an efficient and reliable network. Consider the following factors when selecting access layer switches for your enterprise:

  • Port Density

Evaluate the number of ports required to accommodate the connected devices in your network. Ensure that the selected switch provides sufficient port density to meet current needs and future expansion.

  • Speed and Bandwidth

Consider the speed and bandwidth requirements of your network. Gigabit Ethernet is a common standard for access layer switches, but higher-speed options like 10 Gigabit Ethernet may be necessary for bandwidth-intensive applications.

  • Power over Ethernet (PoE) Support

If your network includes devices that require power, such as IP phones and security cameras, opt for switches with Power over Ethernet (PoE) support. PoE eliminates the need for separate power sources for these devices.

  • Manageability and Scalability

Choose switches that offer easy management interfaces and scalability features. This ensures that the network can be efficiently monitored, configured, and expanded as the organization grows.

  • Security Features

Look for switches with robust security features. Features like MAC address filtering, port security, and network access control (NAC) enhance the overall security posture of the access layer.

  • Reliability and Redundancy

Select switches with high reliability and redundancy features. Redundant power supplies and link aggregation can contribute to a more resilient access layer, reducing the risk of downtime.

  • Cost-Effectiveness

Consider the overall cost of the switch, including initial purchase cost, maintenance, and operational expenses. Balance the features and capabilities of the switch with the budget constraints of your organization.

  • Compatibility with Network Infrastructure

Ensure that the chosen access layer switches are compatible with the existing network infrastructure, including core and distribution layer devices. Compatibility ensures seamless integration and optimal performance.

Related Article:How to Choose the Right Access Layer Switch?

Conclusion

In conclusion, the access layer is a critical component of network architecture, facilitating connectivity for end-user devices. Choosing the right access layer switches is essential for building a reliable and efficient network. Consider factors such as port density, speed, PoE support, manageability, security features, reliability, and compatibility when selecting access layer switches for your enterprise. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can build a robust access layer that supports the connectivity needs of your organization while allowing for future growth and technological advancements.

Bare Metal Switch vs White Box Switch vs Brite Box Switch: What Is the Difference?

In the current age of increasingly dynamic IT environments, the traditional networking equipment model is being challenged. Organizations are seeking agility, customization, and scalability in their network infrastructures to deal with escalating data traffic demands and the shift towards cloud computing. This has paved the way for the emergence of bare metal switches, white box switches, and brite box switches. Let’s explore what these different types of networking switches mean, how they compare, and which might be the best choice for your business needs.

What Is Bare Metal Switch?

A bare metal switch is a hardware device devoid of any pre-installed networking operating system (NOS). With standard components and open interfaces, these switches offer a base platform that can be transformed with software to suit the specific needs of any network. The idea behind a bare metal switch is to separate networking hardware from software, thus providing the ultimate flexibility for users to curate their network behavior according to their specific requirements.

Bare metal switches are often seen in data center environments where organizations want more control over their network, and are capable of deploying, managing, and supporting their chosen software.

What Is White Box Switch?

A white box switch takes the concept of the bare metal switch a step further. These switches come as standardized network devices typically with pre-installed, albeit minimalistic, NOS that are usually based on open standards and can be replaced or customized as needed. Users can add on or strip back functionalities to match their specific requirements, offering the ability to craft highly tailored networking environments.

The term “white box” suggests these devices come from Original Design Manufacturers (ODMs) that produce the underlying hardware for numerous brands. These are then sold either directly through the ODM or via third-party vendors without any brand-specific features or markup.

Bare Metal Switch vs White Box Switch

While Bare Metal and White Box Switches are frequently used interchangeably, distinctions lie in their offerings and use cases. Bare Metal Switches prioritize hardware, leaving software choices entirely in the hands of the end-user. In contrast, White Box Switches lean towards a complete solution—hardware potentially coupled with basic software, providing a foundation which can be extensively customized or used out-of-the-box with the provided NOS. The choice between the two hinges on the level of control an IT department wants over its networking software coupled with the necessity of precise hardware specifications.

What is Brite Box Switch?

Brite Box Switches serve as a bridge between the traditional and the modern, between proprietary and open networking. In essence, Brite box switches are white box solutions delivered by established networking brands. They provide the lower-cost hardware of a white box solution but with the added benefit of the brand’s software, support, and ecosystem. For businesses that are hesitant about delving into a purely open environment due to perceived risks or support concerns, brite boxes present a middling ground.

Brite box solutions tend to be best suited to enterprises that prefer the backing of big vendor support without giving up the cost and flexibility advantages offered by white and bare metal alternatives.

Comparison Between Bare Metal Switch, White Box Switch and Brite Box Switch

Here is a comparative look at the characteristics of Bare Metal Switches, White Box Switches, and Brite Box Switches:

FeatureBare Metal SwitchWhite Box SwitchBrite Box Switch
DefinitionHardware sold without a pre-installed OSStandardized hardware with optional NOSBrand-labeled white box hardware with vendor support
Operating SystemNo OS; user installs their choiceOptional pre-installed open NOSPre-installed open NOS, often with vendor branding
Hardware ConfigurationStandard open hardware from ODMs; users can customize configurations.Standard open hardware from ODMs with added flexibility of configurations.Standard open hardware, sometimes with added specifications from the vendor.
CostLower due to no licensing for OSGenerally lowest cost optionHigher than white box, but less than proprietary
Flexibility & ControlHighHighModerate
IntegrationRequires skilled IT to integrateIdeal for highly customized environmentsEasier; typically integrates with vendor ecosystem
Reliability/SupportRelies on third-party NOS supportSelf-supportVendor-provided support services
Bare Metal Switch vs White Box Switch vs Brite Box Switch

When choosing the right networking switch, it’s vital to consider the specific needs, technical expertise, and strategic goals of your organization. Bare metal switches cater to those who want full control and have the capacity to handle their own support and software management. White box switches offer a balance between cost-effectiveness and ease of deployment. In contrast, brite box switches serve businesses looking for trusted vendor support with a tinge of openness found in white box solutions.

Leading Provider of Open Networking Infrastructure Solutions

FS (www.fs.com) is a global provider of ICT network products and solutions, serving data centers, enterprises, and telecom networks around the world. At present, FS offers open network switches compatible with PicOS®, ranging from 1G to 400G, customers can procure the PicOS®, PicOS-V, and the AmpCon™, along with comprehensive service support, through FS. Their commitment to customer-driven solutions aligns well with the ethos of open networking, making them a trusted partner for enterprises stepping into the future of open infrastructure.