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BIG-IP

by F5, Inc. · Since 1997
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ActiveAvailable globallyCloud
Quick facts
VendorF5, Inc.
Year launched1997
StatusActive
Location801 5th Ave Seattle, WA 98104
Countries servedGlobal
Languages8
Integrations
Free tier
Free trial
Contact salesYES

About BIG-IP

F5 BIG-IP is an advanced application services platform from F5, Inc. that ensures the security, availability, and performance of the mission-critical workloads across hybrid and multi-cloud environments. It provides Web Application and API Protection, Hybrid Multicloud Application Delivery, and Secure Multicloud Networking so organizations can manage their applications and data effectively. With the integration of post-quantum cryptography readiness, BIG-IP prepares applications for the future of cybersecurity threats. This platform is designed to support complex application delivery needs while maintaining reliable security measures. Key capabilities: Web Application Protection API Protection Multicloud Application Delivery Secure Networking Post-Quantum Cryptography Readiness Best for: enterprises that need reliable application delivery and comprehensive security across multiple cloud environments.

F5 BIG-IP stands out as one of the most robust and comprehensive platforms for application delivery and security, offering enterprise-grade capabilities that address the demands of modern hybrid and multicloud environments. Its ability to consolidate multiple L4–L7 services into a single solution makes it highly appealing for organizations looking to simplify complex infrastructures while maintaining high performance and reliability. Features such as advanced load balancing, application and API security, and identity-based access controls ensure that applications remain fast, available, and protected from evolving threats. Combined with flexible licensing and strong compliance support, BIG-IP delivers the versatility needed for mission-critical workloads. However, its extensive functionality also introduces operational complexity that may require experienced administrators and careful planning. Advanced programmability and traffic orchestration offer powerful customization, but they can also increase administrative overhead for teams without deep expertise. Additionally, the transition between BIG-IP TMOS and BIG-IP Next may present challenges for organizations navigating mixed environments. Despite these considerations, BIG-IP remains a top-tier solution supported by a strong global support network and a proven innovation roadmap.

Pros & Cons

What users like
  • +Ensures consistently fast and highly available application performance even during heavy traffic.
  • +Consolidates multiple L4–L7 services into one platform, reducing infrastructure complexity and improving efficiency.
  • +Provides hybrid and multicloud flexibility for secure and seamless application delivery.
  • +Supports regulatory compliance standards like FIPS, PCI-DSS, and HIPAA to meet governance requirements.
  • +Offers flexible licensing models that align costs with usage and scale according to business needs.
What users flag
  • Deployment and management can be complex due to the extensive enterprise-grade features.
  • Skilled administrators are needed to fully use advanced functions like iRules, traffic orchestration, and custom logic.
  • High upfront and operational costs may make it expensive compared to simpler load balancers.
  • Multicloud setups require careful planning to maintain consistent policies and performance.
  • Transitioning between legacy BIG-IP TMOS and new BIG-IP Next environments may present challenges.

Features

Key features

Industry-leading performance
Ensures high availability and fast responsiveness for critical applications.
Extensive functionality
Consolidates multiple L4–L7 application services into one enterprise-grade platform.
Hybrid and multicloud versatility
Delivers secure and consistent app services across on-prem, cloud, and edge environments.
Integration and ecosystem support
Connects seamlessly with CI/CD pipelines, DevOps tooling, analytics, and third-party ecosystems.
Regulatory compliance
Simplifies adherence to standards such as FIPS, PCI-DSS, and HIPAA.
Flexible licensing
Offers subscription, utility, perpetual, and flex consumption program options.
Support and expertise
Backed by F5’s robust global support and application services specialists.
Innovation
Provides an evolving roadmap designed to meet future application and security requirements.

Additional features

Load balancing and traffic management
Improves speed and availability by directing traffic using dynamic and policy-based logic.
App and API security
Protects against zero-day threats, L7 DoS attacks, bot attacks, and emerging threat campaigns.
Secure app access controls
Simplifies access using identity- and context-based mechanisms for any app and any location.
Network and DDoS protection
Shields networks from large-scale and complex DDoS and other inbound attacks.
Encrypted traffic visibility and orchestration
Enables policy-based decryption, encryption, and steering through inspection tools.
DNS security and scale
Protects DNS infrastructure and sustains performance during high-volume queries and DDoS attacks.
Carrier Grade NAT (CGNAT)
Facilitates IPv4-to-IPv6 transition while supporting both device types transparently.
Traffic programmability
Allows custom traffic behavior using F5 iRules for performance and security optimization.

Pricing

Free trial
Free version
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Countries & Languages

Global
Countries served
8
Interface languages
7
Billing currencies

Interface languages

EnglishSpanishFrenchPortugueseDeutschJapaneseKoreanChinese

Billing currencies

🇺🇸USD🇪🇺EUR🇬🇧GBP🇭🇺HUF🇯🇵JPY🇨🇦CAD🇦🇺AUD

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