Cisco utilizes several different operating system versions, each tailored for specific purposes. One distinction lies between operating systems used for internal development and testing purposes compared to those deployed on physical hardware and virtualized server platforms. Each serves a distinct role in the lifecycle and operation of Cisco network devices.
Internal development and testing require rapid iteration and resource efficiency, favoring lightweight and easily customizable environments. Conversely, production environments demand stability, feature richness, and comprehensive service offerings. Historical context reveals a shift towards specialized operating systems designed to optimize performance and scalability in diverse deployment scenarios.