Software-defined networking (SDN) is a key focus for network equipment providers as it has a significant potential to reduce service provider capex and opex. SDN is having a major impact on the architecture of data center and other networks. The deployment of SDN requires significant investment and is driving a new ecosystem including switch silicon, embedded software and systems. This report analyzes switch devices, embedded SDN software and innovative SDN switch systems identifying the key requirements and highlighting the advantages they hold for equipment manufacturers and service providers. The report also reviews vendor strategies and surveys component features, performance and flexibility in this important market.