Cilium
by Isovalent (Cisco)
eBPF-powered networking, security and observability for k8s
Reviewed by the Softwares.com Editorial Team · Last updated June 2026 · How we rate
Key facts
- Vendor
- Isovalent (Cisco)
- Pricing
- Open source - Free
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Self Hosted, Api
- Best for
- Platform Engineers, Devops
- Editor rating
- 4.6 / 5
- Founded
- 2015
- Headquarters
- Mountain View, USA
What is Cilium?
Cilium is a development it tool from Isovalent (Cisco). An open-source, eBPF-based networking, security and observability layer for Kubernetes, providing CNI, network policy, load balancing and the Hubble UI.
Cilium uses open source pricing and offers a free tier you can start on without a credit card. Free.
It's best suited to platform engineers, devops and runs on Self Hosted, Api.
Standout strengths include high-performance ebpf dataplane, deep network observability, identity-based security. Worth weighing: requires modern kernels, operational learning curve.
Cilium pricing
Pros
- High-performance eBPF dataplane
- Deep network observability
- Identity-based security
Cons
- Requires modern kernels
- Operational learning curve
Cilium vs alternatives
Ready to try Cilium?
Start free and see if it fits your workflow.
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Frequently asked questions
What is Cilium?
An open-source, eBPF-based networking, security and observability layer for Kubernetes, providing CNI, network policy, load balancing and the Hubble UI.
How much does Cilium cost?
Cilium is open-source-priced. It has a free tier.
Does Cilium have a free trial?
Cilium offers a free tier rather than a time-limited trial.
What platforms does Cilium support?
Cilium is available on Self Hosted, Api.