A heterogeneous network switch system includes heterogeneous network switches having a first network switch having a first functionality and a second network switch having a second functionality, where the first functionality differs from the second functionality. In addition, the first network switch and the second network switch are configured to forward data to at least one common server. The system also includes a controller configured to receive data from at least one client and to select one of the first network switch and the second network switch to employ in forwarding the data from the at least one client to the at least one common network equipment.