Executive SummaryUpdated on Apr 20, 2025
Arista Networks Platform and Cisco Catalyst Switches compete in the networking platform market, offering distinct advantages and comprehensive features. Based on features, Arista leads with its ease of configuration and single operating system while Cisco excels in strong security features and wide compatibility.
Features: Arista Networks Platform provides an advanced Linux shell, robust automation capabilities, and extensive telemetry options, eliminating the need for third-party solutions. Its ease of configuration and scalability are top qualities, especially for large networks. Alternatively, Cisco Catalyst Switches offer excellent security features, including VLAN and RSPAN, along with stacking capabilities and high reliability under severe conditions, providing robust solutions for diverse environments.
Room for Improvement: Arista Networks Platform customers desire reduced pricing, better documentation, and improved integration with third-party products. Enhancing support for multi-vendor environments and competitive pricing is needed. Cisco Catalyst Switches face criticisms over high cost and complex licensing, with calls for simplified pricing, less licensing complexity, and better non-Cisco product integration at no extra costs. Improved graphical interfaces and customer service are also frequently requested.
Ease of Deployment and Customer Service: Arista Networks Platform is known for responsive technical support and straightforward engineer access, with quick problem-solving. It primarily supports on-premises deployment with user-friendly processes. Cisco Catalyst Switches are popular across numerous environments, including clouds, offering extensive support availability. Some users experience challenges with unclear documentation and solution complexity.
Pricing and ROI: Arista Networks Platform is considered premium-priced, often higher than competitors like Cisco, offering cost-effectiveness at large scales with significant savings potential. Cisco Catalyst Switches are similarly high-priced, with debated cost-effectiveness compared to Juniper and HPE, but generally deliver favorable ROI. Both platforms provide valuable, reliable solutions worth the investment to many users.
