Edgecore Networks has launched the Z1, a programmable, open-source edge gateway powered by VyOS that’s designed to extend OpenLAN management from the WAN edge through to wireless clients. The Z1 joins Edgecore’s OpenWiFi access points, OpenLAN switches, and CloudSDK-compatible controller so operators can manage the network stack under a unified management platform.
The Z1 runs VyOS and supports routing protocols including BGP, OSPF, OSPFv3, and RIP, along with OpenVPN and WireGuard for VPN connectivity. On the hardware side, it supports dual-WAN connectivity via GbE or SFP interfaces, VRRP high availability, and WAN load-balancing. Edgecore lists 1 Gbps SPI firewall throughput, packaged in a 670 g desktop form factor.
A key platform feature is support for the Cloud Package Manager (CPM) defined in the OpenLAN specification. CPM lets an OpenLAN-compliant controller remotely deploy versioned feature packages to Z1 devices without requiring full firmware updates or on-site maintenance. For MSP-style operations, that packaging model can reduce the operational risk and change-window friction that comes with frequent gateway updates across distributed sites.
Edgecore is aiming Z1 at MSPs managing distributed deployments such as multi-dwelling units (MDUs), campus buildings, and enterprise branch locations. In those environments, the Z1 is intended to operate as the centralized WAN edge gateway for a site, providing multi-WAN failover, building-wide DHCP, and VPN tunneling back to the MSP data center. And the practical implication is simple: if an operator is already standardized on OpenLAN, the Z1 is meant to avoid running separate management stacks for gateways versus access and switching.
“Operators have been looking for a gateway that integrates seamlessly into the OpenLAN ecosystem and can be managed alongside the APs and switches through the same platform, without introducing another management tool,” said Teng Tai Hsu, VP of Product at Edgecore Networks.
The Z1 is centrally managed through Edgecore ecCLOUD and supports monitoring through SNMP, NetFlow, sFlow, and Syslog. The platform is certified to FCC, CE, LVD, and IC. Edgecore says the Z1 is now available.
Source: Edgecore Networks
