Aviz Networks hosts SONiC PlugFest validating network OS capabilities and cost efficiencies

The 2025 SONiC PlugFest convened 48 companies to evaluate the open source network Operating System (OS)’s capabilities across data center, edge, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) networks. The event aimed to assess SONiC’s performance and interoperability in complex networking environments.

This gathering addressed operational considerations such as cost reduction and scalability by validating SONiC’s suitability for enterprise deployment beyond its initial hyperscaler use cases. Participants examined technical features that impact Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and support multi-vendor environments.

Testing focused on key SONiC capabilities, including support for VxLAN/EVPN for virtualized networking, Remote Direct Memory Access (DMA) (RDMA) over Converged Ethernet (RoCE) targeting AI workload demands, scalable L3 IP Clos architectures, Layer 2 leaf-spine topologies, and Power over Ethernet (PoE) functionality within whitebox switches. These elements were experimentally evaluated under large-scale traffic conditions.

The event demonstrated the incorporation of PoE-enabled whitebox switches and Layer 2 enterprise-grade networking within SONiC, broadening the range of potential deployment scenarios. The PlugFest also analyzed cost benefits such as up to 40% lower TCO through reduced hardware expenses, elimination of Network Optimization Suite (NOS) licensing fees, and lower operational expenditures.

Vishal Shukla, CEO of Aviz Networks, said, “Community SONiC is no longer just for early adopters—it’s now an enterprise-ready NOS backed by real-world results across industries.” Manodipto Ghose, Senior Product Manager at Keysight, said, “PlugFest showcases the power of automated, large-scale traffic testing in an open networking environment.” Additionally, Justin van Schaik, Technical Solutions Architect at WWT, said, “For enterprises evaluating SONiC, the PlugFest is a game-changer.” Alan Weckel, Founding Analyst at 650 Group, said, “PlugFest 2025 reinforces the fact that SONiC is a mature, production-ready NOS that enterprises can deploy with confidence, thanks to a robust vendor ecosystem and proven interoperability.”

The participants indicated ongoing plans to advance SONiC adoption through further validation and development efforts aligning with evolving enterprise networking needs.