apache cloudstack
featuring

Integration with Netris

Netris integrates with Apache CloudStack via a native network plugin introduced in version 4.21. The plugin allows CloudStack administrators to manage L2/L3 networks, NAT, DHCP, ACLs, load balancing, and VPCs directly through the CloudStack interface — all orchestrated via Netris.

About Netris

Netris is a modern Software-Defined Networking platform that enables automated, intent-based management of network infrastructure for cloud-native, virtualized, and bare-metal environments. Built to bridge the gap between traditional networking and modern DevOps practices, Netris delivers a “Network-as-Code” experience through APIs, Kubernetes CRDs, and intuitive interfaces. It transforms traditional networking hardware (switches, routers, firewalls) into an agile and programmable infrastructure, making it ideal for dynamic cloud environments. Netris focuses on making operations easier by automating network provisioning, configuration, and monitoring — without sacrificing visibility or control.

Netris's Integration with Apache CloudStack

Netris integrates with Apache CloudStack via a native network plugin introduced in version 4.21. The plugin allows CloudStack administrators to manage L2/L3 networks, NAT, DHCP, ACLs, load balancing, and VPCs directly through the CloudStack interface — all orchestrated via Netris. This integration supports full VPC lifecycle management, including creation of subnets, gateways, and services such as firewalls and load balancers. Netris translates CloudStack networking primitives into real-time configurations applied to physical or virtual networking equipment, significantly reducing manual work and eliminating configuration drift. It also integrates with Kubernetes clusters deployed on CloudStack, enabling consistent network policies across VM and container-based workloads.

Pros

  • True “Network-as-Code” experience with API-first design.
  • Automates L2/L3 networking, VPC creation, ACLs, NAT, and load balancing in CloudStack.
  • Integrates with both VM and Kubernetes environments.
  • Enhances agility and operational consistency while maintaining control over network behavior.
  • Reduces time-to-delivery and human error in complex network topologies.

Cons

  • Initial learning curve for network engineers unfamiliar with SDN concepts.
  • Requires deploying and managing the Netris controller and agents.
  • Commercial product (not open source); licensing costs may apply depending on deployment size.
implementation

Ease of Implementation

Moderate.
use

Ease of Use

Easy.
total cost

Total Cost of Ownership

Moderate to high, depending on licensing and infrastructure scale.
support

Support

Netris offers full commercial support, including onboarding assistance, configuration help, updates, and direct access to engineering teams. The integration with Apache CloudStack is documented and officially maintained, with support for updates aligned to CloudStack releases.
integrations

Supported Integrations

Netris integrates with Apache CloudStack to provide fully automated SDN capabilities. Supported features include: – Layer 2 and Layer 3 network orchestration – VPC creation and management – ACLs, NAT, DHCP, IPAM – Load balancers (internal/external) – Support for shared and isolated networks – Kubernetes-aware networking integration It enables seamless networking across VM-based and container-based workloads in CloudStack-managed environments.

Resources

Blog

Scalable Automated Networking for Apache CloudStack

ShapeBlue
top 5 VMware Replacements

Compare the top VMware alternatives for 2025 – Apache CloudStack, OpenStack, Proxmox, OpenNebula, and Nutanix