Ryu SDN Framework review
A free, open-source Python framework for building OpenFlow controller applications.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Ryu SDN Framework is a free, open-source, Python-based framework for developers building network management and control applications. It is designed for teams that need reusable components and APIs to control network devices through OpenFlow, NETCONF, and OF-Config. The framework is distributed under the Apache 2.0 license and supports on-premises deployment on Linux. Its application examples cover switching hubs, firewalls, routing, quality of service, traffic monitoring, and topology.
There is no paid tier to compare: Ryu is open-source software with a free plan. Installation is available from source or with pip, and the framework exposes network management and control application APIs. REST API integration is available through WSGI. Its protocol coverage includes OpenFlow 1.0, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, and 1.5, along with NETCONF, OF-Config, Nicira Extensions, BGP, and Zebra. A BGP speaker application further supports controller development involving routing functions.
Ryu’s main strength is breadth within controller development: it combines protocol support, northbound API capability, policy segmentation, monitoring, topology tools, and examples for common network functions. That breadth comes with a development-oriented operating model rather than a ready-made platform experience. The project is not currently maintained, and OpenStack os-ken is recommended as a maintained alternative. Choose Ryu when an open-source framework and broad protocol support fit the development goal; choose an alternative when ongoing maintenance is a central requirement.
Ryu SDN Framework pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Supports OpenFlow 1.0 through 1.5, plus NETCONF and OF-Config
- Includes APIs, REST integration, monitoring, topology, and network examples
- Free, open-source, Apache 2.0 software for Linux and on-premises deployment
- Where it doesn't
- The project is not currently maintained
- Platform coverage is limited to Linux
- Requires development work to build and operate controller applications
Ryu SDN Framework fact sheet, pricing and score →
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