TL;DR
DENT, a Linux Foundation project, published its 3.2 release codenamed "Cynthia," promoting a standardized network operating system built directly on the Linux Kernel and Switchdev. The project aims to simplify drivers and APIs, treat silicon and ASICs uniformly, and foster an open ecosystem spanning vendors, ODMs, OEMs and end users.
What happened
The DENT project announced its 3.2 release, dubbed "Cynthia," and highlights its positioning as a Linux Foundation–hosted network operating system built on the Linux Kernel and Switchdev. DENT describes itself as attempting to remove unnecessary abstractions and overhead by simplifying existing APIs, drivers and low-level software, and by treating all underlying switching silicon and ASICs equally. The project frames its work as enabling a move to disaggregated networks and as creating a common foundation for vendors, ODMs, SIs, OEMs and end users to collaborate. Governance and planning documents — including a Project Charter, Technical Charter and EUSG Charter — are presented as available for download. The site also promotes community participation, lists recent community posts and events, and offers a Market Leadership Brief that positions DENT as placing configuration and design control in users’ hands.
Why it matters
- Signals a push for an open, Linux-native network OS that can reduce vendor lock-in by standardizing on common kernel and Switchdev components.
- Simplifying drivers and low-level APIs could lower integration overhead for hardware makers and systems integrators.
- A neutral, foundation-backed project can provide governance and infrastructure for cross-industry collaboration on disaggregated networking.
- Positioning users to choose configuration and management aims to shift control toward operators rather than a single vendor stack.
Key facts
- DENT 3.2 is released under the project codename "Cynthia."
- The project is hosted by the Linux Foundation and builds on the Linux Kernel and Switchdev.
- DENT’s stated approach is to eliminate extra abstractions and overhead while simplifying APIs, drivers and other low-level software.
- The project treats ASICs and switching silicon equally as part of its platform strategy.
- DENT seeks to unite silicon vendors, ODMs, SIs, OEMs and end users to enable disaggregated networks.
- Project Charter, Technical Charter and EUSG Charter documents are available for download from the project site.
- The site lists recent posts (including DENT at OCP EMEA Summit 2025, NRF Big Show 2025 Recap, and a hackathon recap) dated in 2025.
- A Market Leadership Brief is offered that promotes DENT as giving users control and as a way to lower costs for certain environments.
What to watch next
- Membership growth and any announced premier members — not confirmed in the source
- Vendor and silicon vendor commitments to ship or certify hardware with DENT — not confirmed in the source
- Public roadmap details for upcoming releases and integrations — not confirmed in the source
Quick glossary
- Linux Kernel: The core of the Linux operating system that manages hardware, processes, memory and device drivers.
- Switchdev: A Linux kernel framework that provides a standard interface for switch ASIC hardware, enabling kernel-based forwarding control.
- Network Operating System (NOS): Software that runs on networking hardware, providing forwarding, control and management functions.
- Disaggregated networking: An architecture that separates hardware and software components so operators can mix and match vendors for different layers of the stack.
- ASIC: Application-Specific Integrated Circuit, a custom chip designed for a particular use such as packet forwarding in network devices.
Reader FAQ
What is DENT?
An open network operating system project hosted by the Linux Foundation that builds on the Linux Kernel and Switchdev to provide a standardized NOS.
Who runs or governs the project?
The project is hosted by the Linux Foundation; Project, Technical and EUSG charters are available on the project site.
How can organizations participate?
The site invites participation and collaboration across the networking ecosystem; specific membership steps are not detailed in the source.
Are there named premier members or vendor partners?
No premier members are listed on the site; the general members section prompts inquiries about joining.
DENT 3.2 "Cynthia" Release Now Available Read AnnouncementDownload 3.2 As a Linux Foundation project, DENT utilizes the Linux Kernel, Switchdev, and other Linux based projects as the basis for building…
Sources
- DENT: A network operating system (NOS) for everyone else
- Press Releases
- 18th edition – 2025 tech trends report
- Proceedings of the 25th USENIX Security Symposium
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