Cisco Catalyst Center vs LibreMesh
Cisco Catalyst Center
cisco.comLibreMesh
libremesh.orgSide by side
| Figure | Cisco Catalyst Center | LibreMesh |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | — | Free |
| Free plan | — | Yes |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | Yes | Yes |
| Windows | Yes | — |
| macOS | Yes | — |
| Linux | Yes | — |
| API | Yes | — |
| Self-hosted | Yes | Yes |
| Plans published | 2 | 1 |
| Spec score · Wireless Network Management Software | 7.8 (#10) | 7.5 (#14) |
| Security | Catalyst Center supports FIPS 140-2-compliant cryptography modules, and Cisco recommends deploying it behind a firewall on a private internal network. | The 2024.1 release announcement says the release is compatible with ujail, which OpenWrt introduced for additional security. |
| Support | Cisco says Catalyst and Cisco DNA software subscriptions include embedded software support and downloads; opening a support case requires a Cisco Service Contract. | The documentation links to community communication, contributors, and meetings, and describes a LimeApp remote-support feature in its guide navigation. |
Plans
Cisco Catalyst Center
- Cisco DNA AdvantagePriced on request
- Cisco DNA EssentialsPriced on request
In their own words
Cisco Catalyst Center
Cisco Catalyst Center has no write-up on Specifiction yet; its figures are above.
LibreMesh
LibreMesh is a free, modular framework for creating OpenWrt-based firmware for wireless mesh nodes. It is intended for decentralized, community-run networks and is available for self-hosted and web deployment. The code provides defaults for Babel, B.A.T.M.A.N. advanced, BMX7 and OLSR. Its default design combines BATMAN-adv at layer 2 with Babel at layer 3 for roaming and network segmentation. A default flavor is described as working without manual configuration, while the project aims to support setup through a smartphone-usable web interface. Users can request customized builds through the online ImageBuilder, build on a host or use archived precompiled releases. Recommended hardware has at least 16 MB flash and 128 MB RAM, although installation is possible on 8/64 MB routers. Configuration uses OpenWrt UCI or manual editing. The software can be used, copied, modified and distributed under AGPL. The project advises customizing builds to preserve space and RAM and warns against direct package upgrades.