Follow the yellow brick route?

We are using routers as default gateways and for segmenting out the network. I also anticipate using them for controlling access between these VLANs the near future. They are used throughout the network rather than just a portion of it. They are also used for connecting to partner networks and controlling access to resources on both ends of the link. They help us avoid using host-based routing like what was in use a few years ago.

Going with Cisco Routers was made easier since they were so complimentary with the extensive existing switch infrastructure we already had. This gives us numerous administrative and maintenance advantages. We also have Cisco Aironet WAPs that integrate nicely into this infrastructure. Also, by having the same vendor, we have end to end visibility for better troubleshooting and monitoring.

We don't specifically use Cisco Routers for protecting internal and external (public) traffic, we have another firewall for that (non-Cisco). Instead, we use it for controlling lateral movement on our network, which is the best practice, especially with the proliferation of internal attacks and malware. We also use it for controlling the wireless client access to internal network resources and internet access.

These routers do a good enough job for what we are asking them to do. We are not a terribly large enterprise, nor considerably complicated, but since the networking end is a department of two and I am the only one Cisco trained it made sense to go with Cisco all the way. I have heard good things about Extreme Networks and Arista, but can't speak authoritatively on their products.