The simple answer to this question is that the only thing you will be giving up is higher cost if you decide to go with 3rd party optics like GigOptics over brand optics like Cisco, Juniper, HP, or any other.
What are brand optics and 3rd party optics?
Before going any further, let's explain the difference between the two types of optical transceivers. Brand optics refers to transceivers that are sold directly by manufacturers such as Cisco, Juniper, HP, etc. to be used with network equipment supplied by that same manufacturer. These will have the manufacturer label and logo placed on them. On the other hand, the term 3rd party optics refers to optical transceivers sold by companies other than these manufacturers such as GigOptics.
Are 3rd party optics compatible with brand optics?
Yes. Most 3rd party optics including GigOptics transceivers are guaranteed to be 100% compatible with a wide range of brand optics such as Cisco, Juniper, HP, etc. and offer the same functionality at a fraction of the cost and with comparable quality.
How can 3rd party optics offer same performance at a fraction of the cost?
The main reason brand optics cost much higher is that the manufacturer performs a series of tests on these optics to guarantee they will work with their network equipment and for that they charge a massive premium. However, 3rd party optics suppliers including GigOptics also now offers transceivers that have been tested with the network equipment from these same manufacturers and that's how they can guarantee the same performance and compatibility with these brand optics.
From a quality perspective, 3rd party optics are very similar to brand optics because in reality, most brand optics are actually contract manufactured by transceiver manufacturing companies and not by the network equipment manufacturer. So when you buy a Cisco branded transceiver (or Juniper or HP for that matter), it is most likely manufactured by another company for Cisco and then labeled as a Cisco device after testing.
Why chose GigOptics transceivers?
At GigOptics, we are guarantee that our optics will be compatible with most major brands of networking equipment and we do so through a rigorous testing process. Furthermore, as a US based company, we are always available to support our customers whenever required.
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