Embracing the Future of Open Networking with the Exciting Release of Enterprise SONiC Distribution 4.1.0

Hello, fellow open networking enthusiasts! I am absolutely thrilled to share my passion for network disaggregation and my excitement for the latest release of the Enterprise SONiC distribution version 4.1.0. This remarkable release introduces several new and qualified software features that will undoubtedly elevate our networking capabilities and contribute to a more seamless experience.

Let’s dive into the key features of this release:

1. Linux Kernel Upgrade: Version 4.1.0 brings an upgrade to Linux Kernel 5.10.46-5, enhancing the overall stability and performance of the distribution.
2. Multi-rate Support: This release extends multi-rate support to various platforms, increasing flexibility and efficiency.
3. 100 Mbps and 10 Mbps Support: Enhanced connectivity options are now available.
4. SONiC Readiness for Campus Use Case: An array of new features, such as Port Access Control, Downloadable ACLs, Posture Assessment, and support for multiple RADIUS servers, make this release a perfect fit for campus use cases.
5. VLAN Stacking (QinQ) and RoCE V2 Support: The release adds VLAN stacking capabilities on Trident3 (TD3) and Trident4 (TD4) platforms and introduces support for RoCE V2.
6. One Million Route Scale: The distribution now supports a massive scale of one million routes, enabling larger and more complex network deployments. And yes, you are right – we are talking here about Trident4 like X9 and X11.
7. AAA Authorization Support with TACACS+: Enhanced security features include AAA authorization support via TACACS+.

These are just a few of the new features introduced in the Enterprise SONiC distribution 4.1.0. I am beyond excited to see how these advancements will empower us to build more robust and efficient network infrastructures.

The release also comes with various package options to cater to different networking requirements:

1. Cloud Base Package: This package includes essential features for data center fabric underlay use cases, such as eBGP, ZTP, programmatic API, QoS, ACL, and TACACS+. It also offers base telemetry features like Thresholds and Snapshots (BST).
2. Cloud Advanced Package: Building on the Cloud_Base package, the Cloud_Advanced package adds Inband Flow Analyzer (IFA 2.0), Tail Stamping, Drop Monitor, and Linux PTP (KNETSync) for enhanced functionality.
3. Enterprise Base Package: This package provides underlay and overlay features for data center fabric use cases, such as eBGP, ZTP, programmatic API, QoS, ACL, BGP EVPN, and VXLAN. It also includes enterprise-specific features like RPVST+, IP Multicast, and base telemetry features like Thresholds and Snapshots (BST).
4. Enterprise Advanced Package: Expanding on the Enterprise_Base package, this package offers additional features like Inband Flow Analyzer (IFA 2.0), Tail Stamping, Drop Monitor, Linux PTP (KNETSync), and the Broadcom Debug Tool.
5. Campus Package: Tailored for campus-specific platforms, this package includes L2/L3 features, POE support, Port Access Control features (IEEE 802.1X, MAB, dynamic ACLs, RADIUS-assigned VLANs, RADIUS support), LLDP-MED, Port Security, Digital Optical Monitoring, Time Domain Reflectometry, and EVPN VXLAN.

In this release, we see an increasing number of key networking vendors offering open platforms, making open networking more accessible and versatile than ever before. Based on the provided information, the summary of key vendors and the number of specific hardware platforms supported are as follows:

1. Edgecore Networks (Accton Technology): 12 platforms – go, go Edgecore Team!
2. Alpha Networks: 4 platforms
3. Celestica: 2 platforms – welcome Guys! 😉
4. Extreme Networks: 2 platforms – yes, that Extreme!
5. QTC – Quanta Computer: 6 platforms
6. …..

In total, we have almost 40 platforms, and more are expected to come later this year!
As a firm believer in the power of open networking, I am ecstatic to witness the ongoing growth and development of this incredible technology. The Enterprise SONiC distribution 4.1.0 is a testament to the bright future of disaggregated networking, and I can’t wait to explore its full potential.
Here’s to the future of open networking and the exciting journey that lies ahead!
If you’re interested in learning more about the SONiC or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’d be more than happy to help you navigate this thrilling new era of networking solutions. Also, make sure to follow us on our social media channels and subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on the latest news, releases, and insights in the world of open networking. Together, let’s embrace the future and unlock the full potential of open networking!
If you’re interested in testing the Enterprise SONiC Distribution, either in a virtual environment or by obtaining a trial license, please don’t hesitate to contact me. I’d be more than happy to help you explore this fantastic new release and guide you through the process. Remember, the future of networking is in our hands, and together, we can make it even more remarkable!
Psss… 4.2.0 still in 2023! 😉 Who knows what surprises and networking adventures await us in the next release? Stay tuned and keep that networking excitement alive!

Łukasz Łukowski

Łukasz Łukowski is the Chief Sales and Marketing Officer for STORDIS. Working with channel partners, product management, business development and his marketing team, Łukasz is spearheading the effort to drive year-over-year revenue growth by more effectively leveraging STORDIS’ channel and alliance partners, particularly in the areas of open networking for data center, enterprise and telecom.

Prior to him joining STORDIS, Łukasz was the Vice President of EMEA Channel Sales and Alliances for Edgecore Networks. Łukasz has over 15 years of experience in the networking industry serving additional two roles as, Active A-Team Ambassador of the Open Networking Foundation (ONF); and a Regional Lead Manager for the Open Compute Project (OCP).