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What Is PicOS-V and How to Use It?

SheldonUpdated at Jan 12th 20241 min read

What is PicOS-V?
Are you looking for better software for your network switch? If you are used to using Cisco or Juniper CLI or Linux, Pica8 is a good choice.
Now you have the opportunity to test the PicOS switching software from Pica8 with PicOS-V.
PicOS-V is a free virtual machine (VM) provided by Pica8 to help users familiarise themselves with the PicOS software switch. The VM is used to validate PicOS configurations at no cost to the user. PicOS-V is capable of running on VMware, VirtualBox and the GNS3 hypervisor without the need for a bare-metal switch or dedicated hardware.
PicOS-V is available now and emulates the PicOS software switch running in hardware with 48 10G ports and four 100G ports. You can test the L2 and L3 functionality at your own pace and easily explore the powerful features of PicOS without worrying about the associated costs.
PicOS-V Benefits
What advantages does PicOS-V offer you as a free virtual machine? Read on to find out:
You don't have to wait for the hardware to change
Free of charge and no licence required
Familiarise yourself with the PicOS software switches
Validate the configuration of PicOS switches
Test network operation before you commit
Test features without any risk - L2, L3 and upgrade
Test automation with PicOS-V
Simulate open network switch hardware by simply changing models (and serial numbers)
What is the difference between PicOS-V and PicOS?
PicOS-V VM is the same PicOS Network Operating System (NOS) software that is supported on open network switches and contains all the same software features, but in a VM format. Unlike PicOS, PicOS-V is not intended to run on production switches or carry production traffic.
PicOS-V provides full data plane functionality with Layer 2 and Layer 3 capabilities at no associated cost. Due to the specific implementation of the hardware, PicOS-V does not support some functions. Hardware-centred functions such as PoE are not supported. OpenFlow, CrossFlow and EVPN are not supported in the current version, but will be supported in the next version.
So while you wait for the hardware, you can test the CLI of Pica8 and find out if it is suitable for your use cases on the corporate campus, in the data centre and at distributed locations.
How do you test PicOS-V?
Setting up PicOS-V is a quick process. Once you have imported the virtual machine (VM) into the hypervisor, access the VM console to log in to PicOS-V and you are ready to go.
Configure the Ethernet management port (eth0) by assigning a static IP address. Carry out the steps described below:
Once you have configured the Ethernet management interface on the console, you can easily connect to the PicOS-V VM via SSH and use its functions. No additional software licences are required. It's a straightforward setup that allows you to access and utilise all functions immediately after the initial configuration.
How FS can help
FS and Pica8 have entered into a strategic partnership. FS is now licensed to sell the full range of Pica8 products, including the PicOS® family, PicOS-V and AmpCon™ Network Manager.
You can try PicOS-V online at FS or sign up for a free trial. Try it out now!