cilium

The premium Open Source alternative to Calico

🎯 Best for:Kubernetes platform teams needing high-performance networking and security.
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Apache-2.0License

What is cilium?

Replaces traditional iptables-based kube-proxy for high-performance Kubernetes networking. Leverages eBPF to provide identity-aware security and deep observability without modifying application code.

Tech Stack
GoInfrastructure & Cloud

Why cilium?

  • High-performance eBPF data plane
  • Identity-aware security policies
  • Deep API-level observability

Limitations

  • High learning curve
  • Requires modern Linux kernel
  • Complex K8s integration
3/5/2026
Last Update
3,636
Forks
940
Issues
Apache-2.0
License
Financial Leak Detected

Stop the "SaaS Tax"

Your team could be burning cash. Switching to cilium instantly boosts your runway.

Competitor Cost
-$1,440
/ year (est. based on Calico)
Self-Hosted
$0
/ year
Team Size10 Users
150+
SAVE 100%

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