Cisco vs Huawei vs Juniper: Comparative Analysis
Cisco vs Huawei vs Juniper: Comparative Analysis 17
May

Cisco vs Huawei vs Juniper: Comparative Analysis

Introduction

In the world of computer networks, there are big companies like Cisco, Huawei, and Juniper. Their key products include switches, routers, accessories, and more, which help computers communicate with each other. This comparative analysis goes through the specifications, features, cost comparisons, and more. Let's break down the differences between these three companies switches, specifically the Cisco IOX XR, Juniper JUNOS, and Huawei HVRP, to help you find the best fit for your business or organization.

But first, let’s understand each brand and some of their well-known products and series.

Cisco

Cisco is a powerhouse in the networking industry, renowned for its robust and reliable infrastructure solutions. Its product range encompasses a wide array of switches, with the Cisco Catalyst series being a popular choice among businesses. The Cisco Catalyst 9200 series switches and 9400 series switches are widely acclaimed for their advanced features, security enhancements, and scalability. Let's focus on two popular series: the Cisco Catalyst 9200 and the Cisco Catalyst 9400 series switches.

Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series Switches:

Specification

Catalyst 9200

Ports

24 to 48

Speed

1G to Multi-Gigabit

PoE/PoE+ Support

Yes

Stackable

Yes

Security Features

MACsec, Trustworthy

Management Interface

Cisco DNA Center


Cisco Catalyst 9400 Series Switches:

Specification

Catalyst 9400

Ports

Up to 384

Speed

10G to 100G

PoE/PoE+ Support

Yes

Stackable

Yes

Security Features

Trustworthy, Cisco Tetration

Management Interface

Cisco DNA Center


Huawei

Huawei has rapidly gained traction in the networking arena, offering a diverse portfolio of products ranging from switches to routers. Known for its innovative technology and competitive pricing, Huawei switches boast high performance and flexibility. Customers can find a range of Huawei accessories to complement their networking setups. Let's explore some features of Huawei switches.

Huawei Switches:

Specification

Huawei Switches

Ports

24 to 48

Speed

1G to 100G

PoE/PoE+ Support

Yes

Stackable

Yes

Security Features

MACsec, Huawei Security

Management Interface

eSight Network Management


Juniper

Juniper Networks is synonymous with networking excellence, providing cutting-edge solutions that address today's issues. Juniper switches and routers, which run the acclaimed JUNOS operating system, are known for their dependability, scalability, and advanced functionality. Let's consider Juniper switches in comparison.

Juniper Switches:

Specification

Juniper Switches

Ports

24 to 48

Speed

1G to 100G

PoE/PoE+ Support

Yes

Stackable

Yes

Security Features

MACsec, Juniper Sky ATP

Management Interface

Junos Space


Comparitive Analysis

To facilitate a comprehensive comparison, let's examine the specifications and features of each brand's flagship operating systems: Cisco's IOX XR, Juniper's JUNOS, and Huawei's HVRP. Each brand is briefly described below:

Overview of Cisco’s IOX XR

Cisco's IOX XR is a flagship operating system known for its reliability and extensive functionality, making it a popular choice for businesses that rely on Cisco switches such as the Catalyst 9200 and 9400 series. Built on a modular architecture, IOX XR provides unprecedented scalability, allowing networks to grow effortlessly as demand increases. Its feature-rich CLI provides administrators with various command options, making configuration and administrative jobs easier. Furthermore, IOX XR provides extensive support for routing protocols like BGP, OSPF, and ISIS, assuring maximum connectivity and routing efficiency. Cisco's IOX XR improves network security by including built-in security features such as Control Plane Policing and Access Control Lists. This operating system's mix of dependability, scalability, and security makes it a cornerstone of Cisco's networking solutions, allowing enterprises to create durable and high-performance networks designed to their specific requirements.

Overview of Juniper's JUNOS

Juniper's JUNOS is the foundation of its networking systems, powering its highly regarded switches and Juniper routers. JUNOS, known for its dependability and versatility, includes a highly intuitive Command Line Interface (CLI) that simplifies configuration and administrative duties. JUNOS has significant support for routing protocols such as BGP, OSPF, and ISIS, ensuring smooth connectivity and maximum network performance. Juniper switches and routers, powered by JUNOS, provide outstanding value to enterprises seeking scalable and secure networking solutions. Despite the market's rivalry, Juniper's offerings demonstrate a dedication to innovation and client pleasure. Customers can browse Juniper's networking price list to find reasonably priced solutions tailored to their specific needs, making Juniper an appealing option for enterprises that value performance and dependability in their network infrastructure.

Overview of Huawei’s HVRP

Huawei's proprietary routing system, HVRP (Huawei Versatile Routing Platform), is a key component of its networking products. HVRP, which is designed to complement Huawei switches and routers, guarantees seamless communication across complicated networks. With support for a variety of routing protocols such as BGP, OSPF, and MPLS, HVRP provides enterprises with the flexibility and scalability they need to react to changing demands. Huawei's commitment to innovation is obvious in the powerful security features built into HVRP, such as ACLs and DDoS protection, which defend networks from potential threats. Furthermore, Huawei provides a broad ecosystem of products and accessories, ensuring that customers have access to everything they require to enhance their network infrastructure. Whether it's improving efficiency, increasing performance, or strengthening security, Huawei switches, devices, and accessories, together with HVRP, offer a comprehensive solution for enterprises looking to achieve networking excellence.

Specifications and Features Comparison

Table 1 lists the feature differences between Cisco's IOX XR, Juniper's JUNOS, and Huawei’s HVRP down below:

Feature

Cisco - IOX XR

Juniper - JUNOS

Huawei - HVRP

Operating System

IOS XR

JUNOS

VRP

Modular Architecture

Yes

Yes

No

CLI (Command Line Interface)

Feature-rich CLI with extensive commands

Highly intuitive CLI, user-friendly

Comprehensive CLI with easy navigation

Routing Protocols

Support for a wide range of protocols including BGP, OSPF, ISIS

Extensive support for BGP, OSPF, ISIS, MPLS

Comprehensive support for BGP, OSPF, ISIS, MPLS

Security Features

Robust security mechanisms with features like Control Plane Policing, ACLs

Advanced security features including firewall filters, MACsec

Enhanced security with features like ACLs, DDoS protection

High Availability

Built-in redundancy and failover mechanisms

Active/Active and Active/Passive redundancy options

Active/Standby redundancy with fast failover

Scalability

Highly scalable architecture to accommodate growing networks

Scalable architecture suitable for large-scale deployments

Scalable design to meet evolving network demands

Virtualization Support

Extensive support for virtualization with features like VRF-lite, MPLS VPN

Robust virtualization capabilities with support for logical systems, virtual routers

Virtualization support including VRF and MPLS VPN

Ease of Management

Centralized management with tools like Cisco DNA Center

User-friendly management interface with tools like Junos Space

Intuitive management interface with eSight Network Management System


Command-Line Differences

Configuration Command Line Differences

Table 2 highlights the key differences and similarities in the configuration command line interfaces of Cisco's IOX XR, Juniper's JUNOS, and Huawei's HVRP, aiding users in understanding their respective functionalities and usage paradigms.

Feature

Cisco - IOX XR

Juniper - JUNOS

Huawei - HVRP

Enter Configuration Mode

configure

configure

system-view

Exit Configuration Mode

exit

exit

quit

Save Configuration

commit

commit

N/A (Configurations saved automatically)

View Configuration

show running-config

show configuration

display current-configuration

Interface Configuration

interface [interface_name]

edit interfaces [interface_name]

interface [interface_name]

Add IP Address to Interface

ipv4 address [ip_address] [subnet_mask]

set unit [unit_number] family inet address [ip_address]

ip address [ip_address] [subnet_mask]

Enable Interface

no shutdown

set unit [unit_number], enable

undo shutdown

Routing Protocol Configuration

router [protocol]

edit protocols [protocol]

router [protocol]

Add Neighbor

neighbor [ip_address]

set neighbor [ip_address]

peer [ip_address]

Apply Access Control List

access-list [acl_name] permit/deny [source] [destination]

set firewall family inet filter [acl_name] term [term_name] from source-address [source] destination-address [destination] then [action]

acl [number] rule [rule_number] [permit/deny] source [source_address] destination [destination_address]

Save Configuration

commit

commit

N/A (Configurations saved automatically)


TSHOOT Command-Line Differences

Table 3 provides a quick reference for troubleshooting commands on Cisco's IOX XR, Juniper's JUNOS, and Huawei's HVRP operating systems, aiding network administrators in efficiently diagnosing and resolving issues across different platforms.

Command

Cisco - IOX XR

Juniper - JUNOS

Huawei - HVRP

Display Interface Status

show interfaces status

show interfaces terse

display interface brief

View Routing Table

show route

show route

display ip routing-table

Check Interface Configuration

show running-config interface [interface]

show configuration interfaces [interface]

display interface [interface]

Troubleshoot OSPF

show ospf neighbor

show ospf neighbor

display ospf peer

Verify BGP Peers

show bgp summary

show bgp summary

display bgp peer

View ARP Table

show arp

show arp

display arp

Inspect MPLS LSPs

show mpls ldp neighbor

show mpls lsp

display mpls ldp session

Check System Logs

show logging

show log messages

display logbuffer

Ping Test

ping [destination]

ping [destination]

ping [destination]

Traceroute

traceroute [destination]

traceroute [destination]

tracert [destination]

Check System Resources

show platform

show chassis hardware

display device

Verify VLAN Configuration

show vlan brief

show vlans

display vlan

Troubleshoot ACLs

show access-list

show configuration firewall family inet filter

display acl

Inspect NAT Configuration

show running-config nat

show configuration security nat

display nat session


CLEAR Command-Line Differences

The below given CLEAR commands in Table 4 serve similar functions across the three operating systems, allowing administrators to clear configurations, interfaces, ARP cache, BGP neighbors, OSPF processes, and VLAN configurations as needed.

Command

Cisco - IOX XR

Juniper - JUNOS

Huawei - HVRP

Clear Configuration

clear configuration

load override default

reset saved-configuration

Clear Interface

clear interface <interface>

clear interfaces <interface>

clear interface <interface>

Clear ARP Cache

clear arp

clear arp

clear arp

Clear BGP Neighbors

clear bgp <neighbor>

clear bgp neighbor <neighbor>

reset bgp neighbor <neighbor>

Clear OSPF Process

clear ospf process <pid>

clear ospf neighbor <neighbor>

reset ospf process <pid>

Clear VLAN

clear vlan <vlan-id>

clear vlans <vlan-id>

undo vlan <vlan-id>


OSFP Command-Line Differences

Table 5 provides a quick reference guide for configuring OSPF on Cisco's IOX XR, Juniper's JUNOS, and Huawei's HVRP platforms, showcasing the differences in command syntax and configuration methods across the three brands.

Command

Cisco - IOX XR

Juniper - JUNOS

Huawei - HVRP

Enter OSPF Configuration Mode

router ospf <process-id>

edit protocols ospf

ospf <process-id>

Specify Router ID

router-id <router-id>

set router-id <router-id>

router-id <router-id>

Enable OSPF on an Interface

interface <interface> <br> ospf <process-id> area <area-id>

set interfaces <interface> unit <unit-number> family inet address <address> ospf area <area-id>

interface <interface> <br> ospf enable

Specify OSPF Area

area <area-id>

set area <area-id>

area <area-id>

Specify OSPF Network Type

network <ip-address> <wildcard-mask> area <area-id>

set interfaces <interface> unit <unit-number> family inet address <address> ospf network <network-type>

network type <network-type>

Enable OSPF Authentication

authentication <authentication-type>

set authentication <authentication-type>

authentication-mode <authentication-type>

Set OSPF Hello/Dead Intervals

timers { hello <seconds> dead <seconds> }

set hello-interval <seconds> <br> set dead-interval <seconds>

timer hello <seconds> <br> timer dead <seconds>

Configure OSPF Area Range

area <area-id> range <start-ip> <end-ip> <cost>

set area <area-id> range <start-ip> <end-ip> <cost>

area <area-id> range <start-ip> <end-ip> cost <cost>

Redistribute Routes into OSPF

redistribute <source> <process-id>

set redistribute <source> <process-id>

redistribute <protocol> <process-id>

View OSPF Configuration

show ospf

show configuration protocols ospf

display ospf

View OSPF Neighbor Information

show ospf neighbor

show ospf neighbor

display ospf peer


ISIS Command-Line Differences

Table 6 lists the ISIS (Intermediate System to Intermediate System) command line commands for Cisco's IOX XR, Juniper's JUNOS, and Huawei's HVRP:

Command

Cisco - IOX XR

Juniper - JUNOS

Huawei - HVRP

Enable ISIS

router isis <instance>

set protocols isis

isis

Set Router ID

router-id <ID>

set system isis router-id <ID>

isis router-id <ID>

Configure Interface

interface <interface>

edit interfaces <interface>

interface <interface>

Set Interface Level

level <level>

set level <level>

level <level>

Set Network Type

network-type <type>

set network-type <type>

network-type <type>

Set Metric

metric <metric>

set metric <metric>

metric <metric>

Set Authentication

authentication <type>

set authentication <type>

authentication-mode <type>

Set Area ID

area <area-id>

set area <area-id>

area <area-id>

Set SPF Interval

spf-interval <interval>

set spf-interval <interval>

spf-interval <interval>

Enable Adjacency Check

adjacency-check

set adjacency-check

adjacency-check

Set Maximum Paths

maximum-paths <paths>

set maximum-paths <paths>

maximum-paths <paths>


MULTICAST Command-Line Differences

Table 7 outlines the basic commands to enable, disable, configure IGMP (Internet Group Management Protocol), configure PIM (Protocol Independent Multicast), join and leave multicast groups for Cisco's IOX XR, Juniper's JUNOS, and Huawei's HVRP.

Command

Cisco - IOX XR

Juniper - JUNOS

Huawei - HVRP

Enable Multicast

interface <interface><br>ipv4 pim sparse-mode

set protocols pim interface <interface> mode sparse

interface <interface><br>igmp enable

Disable Multicast

interface <interface><br>no ipv4 pim sparse-mode

delete protocols pim interface <interface>

interface <interface><br>undo igmp enable

Configure IGMP

interface <interface><br>igmp version <version>

set protocols igmp interface <interface> version <version>

interface <interface><br>igmp version <version>

Configure PIM

router pim<br>address-family ipv4 unicast<br>interface <interface><br>mode sparse

set protocols pim interface <interface> mode sparse

interface <interface><br>pim sm

Join Multicast Group

interface <interface><br>ipv4 igmp join-group <group_address>

set protocols igmp interface <interface> static group <group_address>

igmp join-group <group_address>

Leave Multicast Group

interface <interface><br>no ipv4 igmp join-group <group_address>

delete protocols igmp interface <interface> static group <group_address>

undo igmp join-group <group_address>


Price Comparisons

Table 8 shows the price ranges of the various series offered by Cisco, Huawei, and Juniper below:

Brand

Series

Price Range (USD)

Cisco

Catalyst 9200 Series Switches

$1,000 - $10,000

 

Catalyst 9400 Series Switches

$5,000 - $50,000

Huawei

S5700 Series Switches

$500 - $5,000

 

S6700 Series Switches

$1,000 - $10,000

Juniper

EX Series Switches

$1,000 - $7,000

 

QFX Series Switches

$2,000 - $20,000

These price ranges are approximate and may vary depending on factors such as configuration, features, and additional services bundled with the products. Customers are advised to consult with vendors or resellers for accurate pricing information.

Performance

Cisco, Huawei, and Juniper all offer high-performance networking solutions tailored to meet the demands of modern enterprises. With cutting-edge hardware and software optimizations, these brands deliver superior speed, throughput, and reliability, ensuring smooth operation even under heavy workloads. Whether it's handling data-intensive tasks or supporting mission-critical applications, businesses can rely on the performance prowess of these networking giants to keep their operations running smoothly.

Table 9 provides a concise overview of the performance aspects of Cisco, Huawei, and Juniper networking solutions, aiding businesses in making informed decisions based on their specific requirements and priorities.

Performance 

Cisco

Huawei

Juniper

Reliability

Highly reliable hardware and software, backed by extensive testing and support

Reliable hardware with advanced fault tolerance mechanisms

Renowned for reliability, with robust hardware and software resilience

Scalability

Highly scalable architecture, suitable for networks of all sizes

Scalable solutions to accommodate network growth, with options for expansion

Scalable platforms designed to handle increasing traffic and evolving network demands

Performance

High-performance switches and routers capable of handling heavy workloads

High-performance hardware optimized for speed and efficiency

High-performance devices engineered for demanding networking environments

Security

Advanced security features to protect against cyber threats and unauthorized access

Comprehensive security measures, including threat detection and prevention

Robust security features to safeguard network infrastructure and data

Ease of Management

User-friendly management interfaces and centralized management tools

Intuitive management interfaces with comprehensive monitoring and control capabilities

Easy-to-use management interfaces and robust automation tools for streamlined operations

Innovation

Continual innovation in networking technologies and solutions

Known for innovation in networking and telecommunications

Innovative solutions addressing modern networking challenges

Support and Maintenance

Extensive support offerings include technical assistance, updates, and warranties

Comprehensive support services with options for maintenance and upgrades

Comprehensive support options with access to technical expertise and resources


Management Interfaces

Table 10 provides an overview of the management interfaces offered by Cisco, Huawei, and Juniper, highlighting their respective strengths and capabilities for network management and administration.

Management Interface

Cisco

Huawei

Juniper

Centralized Management

Cisco DNA Center provides a centralized platform for network management, offering features like automation, assurance, and analytics.

eSight Network Management System offers centralized management with comprehensive tools for monitoring, configuration, and troubleshooting.

Junos Space provides a centralized management platform with features for network provisioning, monitoring, and troubleshooting.

Graphical User Interface (GUI)

Cisco Prime Infrastructure offers a user-friendly GUI with intuitive dashboards and workflows for managing network devices.

Huawei's eSight NMS features a modern GUI with customizable dashboards and visualizations for efficient network management.

Junos Space Network Director offers a GUI with a user-friendly interface for device configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting.

Command Line Interface (CLI)

Cisco devices feature a robust CLI with extensive command sets for configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting.

Huawei switches and routers have a CLI with a comprehensive set of commands, providing granular control over device configurations.

Juniper devices are known for their CLI, offering a powerful and intuitive interface with hierarchical command structure for efficient configuration and management.

Automation

Cisco DNA Center includes automation capabilities for provisioning, policy enforcement, and network optimization through features like Cisco Software-Defined Access (SD-Access).

Huawei eSight NMS supports automation through scripting and API integration, enabling tasks like configuration deployment and network provisioning.

Junos Automation enables automation of repetitive tasks through scripting, APIs, and Junos automation tools, streamlining network operations and management.

Integration with Third-party Tools

Cisco devices integrate seamlessly with third-party tools and platforms through APIs and SDKs, enabling interoperability and customization.

Huawei eSight NMS offers integration with third-party systems through open APIs, facilitating interoperability and ecosystem expansion.

Junos Space provides integration capabilities with third-party tools and systems, allowing for customized workflows and ecosystem integration.


Where to Buy?

For businesses seeking great deals on switches from Cisco, Huawei, and Juniper, ORM Systems is a recommended destination. They offer a wide range of networking products, including refurbished options, ensuring affordability without compromising quality.

Contact us now and get a discounted price.

  • Tel: +1 (281) 747-5957 (USA), (+44) 800 3688 330 (UK), (+971) 4 323 8318 (UAE)

About Us

ORM Systems is a global IT hardware and software solution provider. Our core focus is providing authentic, reliable, and cost-effective IT hardware products along with enterprise software solutions. Our superior customer service team has built a strong correlation between our customers and suppliers. We have laid out our physical presence by having operational branches and warehouses in the UK, USA, Europe and the Middle East. We stock huge inventory globally and provide fast delivery, an absolute supply chain and logistics for our consumers all around the world, with a guarantee of meeting your standard requirements.

Final Thoughts

In short, the decision between Cisco, Huawei, and Juniper ultimately depends on factors such as budget, specific requirements, and existing infrastructure. By carefully considering the features and specifications outlined in this analysis, businesses can make an informed choice that aligns with their goals and objectives. Whether it's the reliability of Cisco, the innovation of Huawei, or the excellence of Juniper, each brand brings unique strengths to the table, empowering businesses to build resilient and efficient networks.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Which brand offers the most cost-effective networking solutions among Cisco, Huawei, and Juniper?
A. Cost-effectiveness depends on various factors, such as the specific requirements of your network, budget constraints, and long-term goals. While Huawei is often recognized for its competitive pricing, Cisco and Juniper also offer value-driven options tailored to different budget ranges.

Q. Are refurbished networking products a reliable option for businesses?
A. Refurbished networking products can be a viable option for businesses seeking cost savings without compromising on quality. Reputable providers like ORM Systems thoroughly test and refurbish equipment to ensure it meets industry standards and performs reliably.

Q. How do I choose between Cisco Catalyst switches and Juniper switches for my network?
A. The choice between Cisco Catalyst switches and Juniper switches depends on factors such as the specific needs of your network, preferred features, scalability requirements, and budget considerations. It's advisable to conduct a thorough assessment of your requirements and consult with networking experts to make an informed decision.

Q. What advantages does Cisco's IOX XR offer over Juniper's JUNOS and Huawei's HVRP?
A. Cisco's IOX XR offers advantages such as modular architecture for enhanced scalability, comprehensive support for routing protocols, robust security mechanisms, and centralized management capabilities. However, the best choice depends on your network's unique requirements and preferences.

Q. Where can I find more information about the products mentioned in the blog?
A. For more information about Cisco Catalyst switches, Juniper switches, Huawei products, and refurbished networking equipment, you can visit reputable vendors like ORM Systems or refer to the official websites of Cisco, Juniper Networks, and Huawei. Additionally, you can consult with networking professionals for personalized recommendations.


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