OpenDaylight review
A broad, programmable controller for teams building self-hosted network automation.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
OpenDaylight is an open-source software-defined networking controller for centralized, programmable network control. It is aimed at teams managing enterprise networks, data centers, optical transport, carrier WANs, and telecom automation. Its model-driven approach uses YANG for network configuration and monitoring, while northbound REST APIs let network applications interact with the controller. The platform supports Linux, macOS, Windows, API access, and self-hosted deployment.
Its ecosystem fit is a major strength. OpenDaylight integrates with ONAP, OpenStack, Kubernetes, Open vSwitch, and SONiC, giving teams a foundation for network control across cloud, container, virtual switching, and telecom environments. Protocol plugins cover OpenFlow, NETCONF, RESTCONF, BGP-LS, PCEP, OVSDB, gNMI, OpenROADM, and SONiC. Topology management, network state data stores, and distributed data storage extend the controller beyond device configuration into broader network-state workflows.
The platform also has considerable functional breadth. Service function chaining and ordered network service paths support orchestrated service delivery, while optical transport path calculation and provisioning address specialized network requirements. NETCONF and RESTCONF simulation, stress, and performance testing add a testing layer, and clustered controller architecture supports distributed deployments. That scope makes OpenDaylight a strong fit for organizations that need programmable, extensible network control across multiple protocols and domains. Teams looking for a narrow, hosted scheduling or configuration tool may prefer a simpler product, while teams prepared to operate self-hosted controller software can use its modular architecture as a foundation for customized automation.
OpenDaylight pros and cons
- Where it wins
- YANG-driven configuration, monitoring, and model-based APIs
- Broad protocol support including NETCONF, RESTCONF, BGP-LS, and gNMI
- Topology, service chaining, path provisioning, and network testing
- Where it doesn't
- Requires self-hosted deployment and operational ownership
- Its broad architecture may exceed simple automation requirements
- Advanced capabilities depend on selecting and managing relevant plugins
OpenDaylight fact sheet, pricing and score →
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