Escape proprietary VMs with cloud native virtualization, introducing Advanced Networking flexibility & security

At KubeCon North America 2025, we’re proud to unveil SUSE Virtualization Advanced Networking Preview, introducing NSX-like capabilities powered by Kube-OVN, and supported by over 7 enterprise CSI storage partners. Expanding your choice with Advanced Networking Preview, software-defined networking flexibility, and new NSX-like capabilities through an open, cloud native platform.

Built on Kube-OVN, this SUSE Virtualization Preview introduces open source microsegmentation, overlay networking, and software-defined virtual switching to modernize securely while reducing cost and complexity. Kube-OVN follows the same declarative design philosophy as Kubernetes, deeply integrating Open Virtual Network (OVN) with Kubernetes to deliver flexible, software-defined networking capabilities. This Preview delivers the flexibility, control, and performance enterprises expect but unexpectedly completely open source. Kube-OVN allows users to manage networking like they manage clusters, with consistency, transparency, and the openness expected from the cloud native community. 

At the same time, SUSE continues to grow its CSI storage ecosystem with an extended list of certifying storage partners, including Dell Technologies, Hitachi, HPE Alletra MP, Lenovo  (ONTAP), NetApp, Oracle, Portworx by Pure Storage, and with more onboarding. Together, these advancements demonstrate SUSE’s commitment to openness, interoperability, and enterprise-grade reliability.

 Gain the freedom to choose the right technology for your nodes

Enterprises are under pressure to modernize to Kubernetes, yet legacy virtualization vendors continue to penalize them. IT leaders face increasing costs and operational risk with rigid vendors that limit choice. Break free with SUSE Virtualization, a platform built on open source Harvester. It delivers a reliable, open platform that unifies VMs and containers under one control plane, enabling organizations to modernize on their own terms. By combining Rancher Manager, SUSE Virtualization, and Longhorn storage, SUSE provides a complete, enterprise-ready stack for cloud native virtualization.

Get NSX-like networking flexibility and broad CSI partner support

With SUSE Virtualization, enterprises can finally manage containers and VMs together and stop overpaying for foundational features. The new Advanced Networking Preview introduces NSX-like flexibility with open source innovation and enterprise reliability. It enables network microsegmentation to decouple network functions from physical hardware, bringing true software-defined networking with the scale and control modern workloads require.

Migrating from proprietary, segmented environments has historically been complex and risky due to the lack of open networking options. SUSE removes that barrier with key capabilities such as:

• Open source microsegmentation that applies zero trust security to both VM and container workloads, offering fine-grained control previously available only in proprietary systems.
• Overlay networking (VXLAN) for seamless workload mobility across data centers and hybrid clouds.
• Software-defined virtual switching powered by Kube-OVN, offering enterprise-grade functionality without vendor lock-in.

Together, these capabilities allow organizations to migrate confidently from legacy NSX-like infrastructures while maintaining flexibility and performance. SUSE Virtualization delivers open innovation without compromise.

Broad CSI storage support with partners validating SUSE compatibility

Enterprise infrastructure depends on dependable storage and a predictable migration path. SUSE eliminates the complexity that has kept organizations tied to legacy hypervisors. With CSI support, SUSE offers seamless storage integration validated by leading partners including Dell Technologies, Hitachi, HPE Alletra MP, Lenovo  (ONTAP), NetApp, Oracle, Portworx by Pure Storage.

For enterprises ready to escape cost penalties, SUSE provides intuitive migration tools that simplify transitions to a unified Kubernetes and KubeVirt control plan.

The unified, future-ready platform

Get the features enterprises need with proven reliability, greater choice, and measurable ROI, offering a solid foundation for cloud native operations backed by IDC-validated 258% ROI and multimillion-dollar annual benefits with SUSE Virtualization.

SUSE Virtualization gives you a complete cloud native stack. It integrates Rancher Manager for orchestration, KubeVirt for virtualization, and Longhorn for persistent storage. This unified, open source foundation replaces legacy systems with an efficient, scalable platform built for modern operations.

IDC research confirms the value: organizations modernizing with Rancher Prime achieve 258% ROI and $3.4 million in annual benefits, thanks to three defining freedoms:

• Unified VM and container management through a single Kubernetes control plane that simplifies hybrid operations and reduces skill gaps.
• Freedom from vendor lock-in, built entirely on open source Kubernetes and KubeVirt, eliminating the cost and restrictions of proprietary solutions.
• Optimization for AI/ML and edge workloads with streamlined GPU and resource management for both containers and VMs, plus broad ARM architecture support for next-generation compute.

Choose SUSE Virtualization

SUSE Virtualization provides the open, future-ready alternative enterprises have been waiting for. It combines the agility of Kubernetes with the governance, performance, and security required for mission-critical workloads.

The time to modernize is now. Gain NSX-like flexibility with open source innovation, lower your costs, and end vendor lock-in for good. 

Choose freedom. Choose SUSE Virtualization.

Explore how SUSE Virtualization delivers 258% ROI, seamless storage certification with industry leaders, and open innovation without lock-in.

• Talk to a SUSE expre

• Read the ROI Study (258% ROI)

• View Storage Certifications 

Start your journey to freedom today

The SUSE Rancher Developer Access Early Access program is the definitive bridge between developer freedom and enterprise necessity. By starting every project on secure, trusted, and consistent foundations, we help your teams reduce risk, simplify compliance, and achieve unparalleled acceleration.

Want to hear more about how SUSE can support you to modernize your business with cloud native and AI solutions?

• Sign up for the Early Access Program to pioneer SUSE Developer Access

Get in touch with your local SUSE sales team and read about all the KubeCon + CloudNativeCon North America 2025 announcements.

Explore how SUSE Rancher Prime is redefining enterprise Kubernetes operations:

• Learn how SUSE Rancher Prime was recognized in the Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Container Management
• Discover insights from the Forrester Wave™ Report on Kubernetes and hybrid cloud strategy
• Read IDC’s ROI study showing 258% ROI and multimillion-dollar benefits for SUSE Rancher Prime customers

Unify your identity. Secure your fleet. Choose Rancher Prime.