Cisco FabricPath Reviews

Name: Cisco FabricPath
Brand: Cisco
Rating: 4.2 (31 reviews)

Vendor: Cisco

4.2 out of 5

31 reviews
96% willing to recommend

What is Cisco FabricPath?

Cisco FabricPath is a Cisco NX-OS software innovation combining the plug-and-play simplicity of Ethernet with the reliability and scalability of Layer 3 routing. Using FabricPath, you can build highly scalable Layer 2 multipath networks without the Spanning Tree Protocol. Such networks are particularly suitable for large virtualization deployments, private clouds, and high-performance computing (HPC) environments. The benefits of Cisco FabricPath include: Minimal commands per switch ease configuration and operation, Autodiscovery simplifies addition of new links and switches, Provision additional network bandwidth without impacting network, Supports one-, two-, or three-tier architectures, VLAN extensibility across the data center.

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Cisco FabricPath is the #6 ranked solution in top LAN Switching solutions. PeerSpot users give Cisco FabricPath an average rating of 8.4 out of 10. Cisco FabricPath is most commonly compared to Cisco Nexus: Cisco FabricPath vs Cisco Nexus. The top industry researching this solution are professionals from a manufacturing company, accounting for 15% of all views.

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Featured Cisco FabricPath reviews

SanjitAchary

Program Manager at a computer software company with 10,001+ employees

This solution satisfies business requirements by offering a comprehensive assessment covering pricing, cost, and technical capability aspects. Some vendors may offer equipment at a lower cost, but Cisco distinguishes itself with superior service post-procurement and robust features. Although other vendors might claim to offer many features, these features could compromise the overall quality. Cisco is the best choice in terms of cost, quality, and post-procurement services.

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MarioCeribelli

Senior Network Specialist & Project Manager at Elmec Informatica Spa

For us, there is a change between a single data center with different IP addresses to a spam data center, where the VLAN could be extended between the two, so we are able to grant the service with high availability. We can also enhance our service line with disaster recovery.

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OusaidAbaz

Security Network Architect at Inmac

Cisco FabricPath is very fast, stable, extendable, and scalable. It doesn't have issues with patches or problems because it's built on the stable NXOS operating system. In a scenario using FabricPath, the spin and leaf architecture is beneficial. For example, we can use two separate spine switches like 9980s and multiple leaf switches as access switches. These leaf switches are connected using VPC between them, with each switch separated and not directly connected to the spine. This setup improves data center architecture by allowing two ways to arrange destinations, connecting the first connection to the first spine and the second to the second spine. The spines are configured as a virtual chassis. In FabricPath, we can enhance VXLANs, VPNs, and integrate with Cisco ISE for user authentication. It can also be configured with WLC to manage wireless technology, depending on the client's architecture.

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Cisco FabricPath mindshare

As of July 2025, the mindshare of Cisco FabricPath in the LAN Switching category stands at 2.7%, up from 1.3% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.

LAN Switching

PeerResearch reports based on Cisco FabricPath reviews

Type	Title	Date
Category	LAN Switching	Jul 31, 2025	Download
Product	Reviews, tips, and advice from real users	Jul 31, 2025	Download
Comparison	Cisco FabricPath vs Cisco Catalyst Switches	Jul 31, 2025	Download
Comparison	Cisco FabricPath vs Aruba Instant On Switches	Jul 31, 2025	Download
Comparison	Cisco FabricPath vs Cisco Nexus	Jul 31, 2025	Download

Title	Rating	Mindshare	Recommending
Cisco Nexus	4.2	8.5%	96%	106 interviews Add to research
HPE ProCurve	4.3	12.6%	97%	39 interviews Add to research

Valuable Features

Cisco FabricPath's valuable features include VM migration between data centers, multi-VLAN implementation, high levels of security, scalability, stability, integration ease, protocol flexibility, multipath routing in virtual environments, minimal errors, dynamic Layer 2 multipath routing, traffic control, user authentication, spine-leaf architecture, and wireless technology management. Its robust documentation and technical support enhance usability while efficiently balancing traffic priorities and providing reliable network performance ensuring enterprises' operational needs are effectively met.

"I have experienced operational efficiencies with Cisco FabricPath that are 200% better than the old legacy equipment and protocols."
"Cisco is the best choice in terms of cost, quality, and post-procurement services."
"One of the most valuable features of Cisco FabricPath is its protocol freedom, which allows me to use multiple protocols at a time, such as Spanning Tree to prevent loops in the network."

Room for Improvement

Cisco FabricPath faces challenges such as interoperability with other IT solutions, high cost, inconsistent technical support, and complex setup. Integrating management features in Layer 3 and improving documentation are needed. Enhancing the graphical user interface and adding AI would benefit users. The role of Cisco FabricPath compared to other Cisco products is sometimes unclear to customers, and delivery times in regions like Indonesia and Malaysia are lengthy. Better integration with SIEM and additional security features are suggested.

"There is room for improvement in terms of pricing for the Cisco solution. They are somewhat good at the starting point, but when you get the license and such, it becomes very expensive."
"In Southeast Asian countries like Indonesia and Malaysia, and in the Latin America region, delivery times can be quite lengthy. This is challenging in terms of logistics and customs."
"The main issue I face is the cost."

ROI

Cisco FabricPath enhanced cost efficiency and network management ROI. It was easy to set up and integrate with existing infrastructure. During two-year upgrade cycles, Cisco offers cost-effectiveness by eliminating switch replacement expenses. Operational stability and ease of deployment are improved, making it beneficial for network resilience and management.

Pricing

Cisco FabricPath pricing is perceived as high, often considered expensive compared to other brands. Licensing options include perpetual, subscription-based, and tier-based models, with costs varying based on architecture and additional features. While some users find value in its performance and technology, others express concerns about high setup and maintenance expenses, particularly due to currency exchange rates and yearly fees. Despite its cost, Cisco's quality and technical capabilities are appreciated.

"The pricing of Cisco FabricPath can be quite high depending on the architecture, but it's justified by the stability it offers."
"Cisco is expensive but offers good-quality features, so I would rate it high on the pricing scale."
"I rate it seven out of ten on pricing as it's a bit expensive. It would be better if the price were lower, but we prioritize quality over cost."

Popular Use Cases

Organizations primarily use Cisco FabricPath for large enterprise data centers to support hybrid cloud infrastructures, manage Layer 2 connectivity, and enhance network performance. They benefit from the elimination of STP, allowing active-active links and improved bandwidth. It aids in secure wireless networking, VLAN management, and integrating with virtualization technologies. Cisco FabricPath enables efficient switching and reliable connectivity in multiple environments, making it suitable for complex data center deployments and infrastructure modernization.

Service and Support

Cisco FabricPath's customer service is widely regarded as excellent, with many users giving high ratings. Support is typically fast and responsive, especially for critical issues. While some regions report limited availability, options to engage different engineers exist. The support service is highly dependable if an active contract is maintained, though geographical restrictions can affect access. Technical support is described as fundamental and better than others, often praised for speed and meeting deadlines.

Deployment

Most users find Cisco FabricPath easy to set up, appreciating available documentation and support. Deployment duration varies, ranging from a few hours to several weeks, depending on network complexity and prerequisites. Some encounter intricate configurations, especially with larger networks. Experience levels among engineers significantly influence ease and speed. While some find the setup straightforward, others note challenges requiring careful planning, particularly for large-scale or complex networks. Familiarity with Cisco's features aids in smoother deployment.

Scalability

Cisco FabricPath is recognized for excellent scalability, easily accommodating expansion. Users have praised its ability to manage varying numbers of servers, storage devices, and data centers efficiently. Many organizations report no issues with scalability while handling hundreds to thousands of users. Rated highly for seamless growth, it's considered effective in supporting both small and expanding networks. Coders and architects regularly find it adaptable, rating its scalability between eight and nine out of ten.

Stability

Cisco FabricPath exhibits exceptional stability with rare issues reported. Users consistently praise its reliability and performance, noting no crashes, freezes, or loops. It maintains resilience, preventing collisions. It can run for extended periods without needing reboots. Users frequently give high ratings, often between eight and ten out of ten, emphasizing its impressive stability. Any issues with latency are typically attributed to external factors such as deployment specifics and load management, not to Cisco FabricPath itself.

These insights are based on the in-depth reviews provided by peers to help you make a better buying decision.

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