Who is Criterion Networks?
Criterion Networks is a networking technology and services company focused on Software Defined Networking (SDN), network function virtualization (NFV), and programmable network architectures for service providers and enterprises.
- SDN and NFV-focused network design, validation, and consulting services
- Network programmability and automation training and labs for engineers and architects
- Hands-on virtual lab environments for SDN, Network Functions Virtualization (NFV), and cloud networking (network training / enablement)
- Frameworks and tools for modeling, testing, and certifying programmable network solutions (network engineering)
- Enablement programs for service providers, vendors, and enterprises adopting SDN/NFV and cloud-centric architectures
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More About Criterion Networks
Criterion Networks operates in the network engineering and training segment with a focus on SDN, network function virtualization (NFV), network programmability, and cloud-centric architectures for service providers, vendors, and enterprises. The company addresses requirements around designing, testing, validating, and operating programmable networks that rely on software control planes, APIs, and virtualization. Its offerings are typically used by network engineering teams, solutions architects, and operations staff who need exposure to SDN controllers, virtual network functions, and automated configuration workflows in controlled lab environments.
The organization provides structured training courses and hands-on lab programs that cover SDN, NFV, network automation, and cloud networking concepts, using virtualized topologies and programmable infrastructure to replicate real-world deployment scenarios. These labs allow users to work with common SDN protocols and frameworks such as OpenFlow, controller-based architectures, overlay networks, and API-driven configuration models, though specific protocol coverage depends on individual programs. This training and enablement focus supports enterprises and service providers that are moving from traditional hardware-centric networking to software-driven and policy-based designs.
Criterion Networks also offers network design, validation, and consulting services that help organizations assess, model, and test SDN and NFV-based solutions before production rollout. Using virtual lab frameworks and repeatable test scenarios, customers can evaluate controller behavior, Virtual Network Function (VNF) chaining, scalability characteristics, and integration with existing IP/MPLS, data center, or cloud environments. These services align with enterprise and carrier use cases such as data center modernization, network function consolidation, and multi-cloud connectivity planning.
From a marketplace categorization perspective, Criterion Networks aligns with network automation and programmability training (IT training / enablement), SDN/NFV consulting (network consulting), and virtual lab platforms for network engineering (network lab / test environment). Its solutions are typically positioned as enablement and validation capabilities that complement production networking hardware and software from multiple vendors, rather than as a replacement for core switching, routing, or security platforms. The company’s focus on SDN, NFV, and programmable networks places it within the broader domain of modern network architecture adoption, where organizations seek to reduce manual configuration, introduce software control layers, and standardize on API-driven network operations.
Our description of Criterion Networks. Updated December 2025.
