Vyatta开源软件软件使用评测

　　To try out the Web interface, I opened a browser and put in the IP address I had configured on the Ethernet interface. I was surprised at the number of tools the Web interface featured and how user-friendly it seemed. It boasts performance graphs on the screen--and even a subnet calculator in the Tools section. Figure C shows a screenshot from the Web site.

　　Figure C

　　By using VMware, I was able to get this new router up in less than 30 minutes--as promised by the evaluation guide. In fact, half of that time came from downloading the file. In addition, I ended up reading some of the guide to learn the default login and the basics of the user interface.

　　In my opinion, Vyatta shows a lot of promise. While I'm not recommending throwing out Cisco routers in favor of Vyatta just yet, spending 30 minutes to familiarize yourself with what it can do is a smart idea.

　　Are you familiar with the Vyatta open source router? What's your take on open source? Would you use an open source router on your network? Share your thoughts in this article's discussion.

　　David Davis has worked in the IT industry for 12 years and holds several certifications, including CCIE, MCSE+I, CISSP, CCNA, CCDA, and CCNP. He currently manages a group of systems/network administrators for a privately owned retail company and performs networking/systems consulting on a part-time basis.