Cisco Catalyst Center
6.2#5 in microsegmentation softwareWebAPILinuxmacOS
VisitCisco Catalyst Center vs Scale Computing Platform
Scale Computing Platform
5.7#6 in hyperconverged infrastructure (hci) solutionsWebAPILinuxSelf-hosted
VisitWhat both publish
| Fact | Cisco Catalyst Center | Scale Computing Platform |
|---|---|---|
| Automation | It supports network discovery, zero-touch provisioning, software image management, configuration compliance checks, and remediation. | The platform offers a full SC//HyperCore REST API and a Red Hat Certified Ansible Collection for automation and lifecycle management. |
| Deployment | Cisco describes hardware and virtual appliance deployments, including current guides for VMware ESXi and Ubuntu KVM. | Scale describes the platform as a fit for edge locations and distributed enterprises, including deployments with few or no on-site IT staff. |
| Headquarters | San Jose, California, United States | Indianapolis, Indiana, USA |
| Purpose | Cisco Catalyst Center is a centralized network controller and management dashboard for enterprise network operations. | Scale Computing Platform combines virtualization, servers, storage, backup and disaster recovery, and fleet management for edge and distributed infrastructure. |
| Security | Catalyst Center supports FIPS 140-2-compliant cryptography modules, and Cisco recommends deploying it behind a firewall on a private internal network. | SC//Fleet Manager uses HTTPS public key infrastructure to authenticate nodes, encrypts connections, and restricts user access by tenant and role. |
| Support | Cisco says Catalyst and Cisco DNA software subscriptions include embedded software support and downloads; opening a support case requires a Cisco Service Contract. | ScaleCare's answer line is available by phone 24 hours a day, 365 days a year; email support is listed Monday through Friday, 2 AM to 10 PM ET. |
Cisco Catalyst Center plans
- Cisco DNA AdvantagePriced on request
- Cisco DNA EssentialsPriced on request
Scale Computing Platform plans
- StandardPriced on request
- Standard—
- ProfessionalPriced on request
- Professional—
- Professional EssentialsPriced on request
- Professional Essentials—
Pick Cisco Catalyst Center if…
It suits enterprise network teams that need centralized operations, automation, and assurance across managed devices. Teams should be prepared for substantial virtual-appliance requirements and subscription-based licensing.
Pick Scale Computing Platform if…
The platform may suit distributed enterprises and edge sites, particularly locations with few or no on-site IT staff. Its management and automation features are aimed at teams overseeing multiple clusters.