This morning, Cumulus Networks announced Cumulus VX, a free virtual appliance devised to bring more users into the open networking fold. It lets users create, prototype, and test open networking methods on their own timeframes within their own environments, but without the need for bare metal switches.

"We've had the ask for a virtual appliance for quite some time now," says Mohit Mehta, Cumulus product manager. "Cumulus VX is primarily focused on people who want to engage in open networking. The market is expanding and there are a lot more people who want to get started."

Cumulus VX gives users the ability to overcome the barriers they've experienced when trying to dive into open networking in the past, Mehta says. While cost or lack of resources have deterred some organizations from exploring open networking options, Cumulus VX allows users to test and develop without having to consult a manager or sales team. The ability to do this without the commitment of a deadline or budget enables the open networking movement to flourish, he says.

Cumulus VX, which has been in the hands of a couple dozen users for the past month, doesn't require any specialized hardware. The VM can be downloaded and installed on your computer. It is also supported by popular hypervisors, Mehta says.

Alongside Cumulus VX's release, Cumulus Networks is also introducing an open networking community. Here, VX users have a platform to share what they've learned, ask questions for guidance, and build relationships with others interested in open networking.

"Software and communities go hand in hand," says Mehta. "The success of Cumulus VX won't only be what it's doing, but also what the community comes up with."

Cumulus VX is now available for download on Cumulus Networks' website.