[ Thanks to js61351 for these links.
]
From Part 1:
Linux and open-source routers are the right fit for any network
manager whose motto is, ‘Don’t fence me in,’ according to Tony
Mancill, author of ‘Linux Routers: A Primer for Network
Administrators’ from Prentice Hall PTR. In this first installment
of a three-part Q&A, Mancill explains the benefits of using
Linux routers, suggests tips for choosing the right routers and
offers his views of next-generation networking technologies.“Why did you turn away from using traditional
routers?“Tony Mancill: Traditional router solutions can
often fence you in, either in terms of support for new technologies
(‘No, you have to buy chassis XYZ to use interface B’) or in terms
of software and features (‘This unit will only do X; buy our fancy
Y unit if you need Y.’) In theory, you should be able to sit down
and design a network, work with the vendor to map out a solution,
implement it and forget it. However, this isn’t the reality for
most environments. If things aren’t moving and changing constantly,
either your business isn’t growing, or you’re ignoring the advances
in technology going on around you. The former can place
extraordinary demands on a network admin, especially one who has to
work within a budget. The latter is simply the name of the game. If
you’re upset with the idea of technological change, perhaps network
administration isn’t a good fit for you…”