Side by side
CacheGuard-OS vs Wanos
Both stand on wan optimization software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxSelf-hostedWeb
Choose CacheGuard-OS if you need a free Linux network appliance combining traffic protection, VPN, filtering, caching, and WAN controls. Check the optional subscription and support terms if you need extended antivirus signatures, URL blacklists, or paid support across managed Gateways.
Visit CacheGuard-OS
Free plan LinuxSelf-hostedWeb
Wanos combines traffic optimization with QoS and deployment options for appliances or virtual machines. Account for the Express edition limits, outbound-traffic licensing, and the stated two-appliance guidance when evaluating it.
Visit WanosThe facts
| CacheGuard-OS | Wanos | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | No |
| Runs on | Linux, Self-hosted, Web | Linux, Self-hosted, Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Central Manager 10 devices: $750 a year |
| Plans published | 1 | 18 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | cacheguard.com | wanos.co |
| On wan optimization software | #1 of 19 | #4 of 19 |
CacheGuard-OS: what it does well
- Combines firewall, VPN, WAF, caching, antivirus inspection, and traffic shaping.
- Installs on bare-metal or virtual x86 and x64 machines.
- Offers CLI and browser-based Web GUI configuration.
- Manager can centrally manage multiple Gateways.
- Free editions include a 10-user Gateway and a two-Gateway Manager.
What to know first
- URL blacklists and extended antivirus signatures require optional subscriptions.
- Standard and Premium support require paid subscriptions.
- Support contracts cover one appliance serial number; a Manager contract excludes its Gateways.
Wanos: what it does well
- Includes TCP acceleration, deduplication, and compression.
- Offers Layer 7 QoS and traffic shaping.
- Supports physical appliances and several virtual formats.
- Plus includes SD-WAN path selection.
What to know first
- Free Express is limited to version 3.2.3 and earlier.
- Express allows at most two licenses per client.
- Express excludes professional support.
- Plus 10 / 100 costs $970 a year.
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