Open Network Install Environment

Open network install environment ( ONIE ) is an open source "install environment", that acts as an enhanced boot loader utilizing facilities in a Linux/BusyBox environment. This small Linux operating system allows end-users and channel partners to install the target network OS as part of data center provisioning, in the fashion that servers are provisioned.

ONIE enables switch hardware suppliers, distributors and resellers to manage their operations based on a small number of hardware SKUs. This in turn creates economies of scale in manufacturing, distribution, stocking, and RMA enabling a thriving ecosystem of both network hardware and operating system alternatives.