The Fall of a Once-Great Company - Senior Software Engineer F5 Employee Review

1.0
7 Apr 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Nothing positive at the moment, it has worsened over time.

Cons

- The company has shifted from being excellent to increasingly disappointing. - Frequent reorganizations—occurring almost every quarter—have created instability, with ongoing pressure on engineers to exit. - There are growing concerns around “silent layoffs,” happening on a near-regular basis. While many companies are restructuring due to AI-driven changes, here the challenge appears to stem from a lack of clarity in positioning and selling the next version of existing products. - BIG-IP Next: After nearly five years of development, the product was discontinued just before launch, leading to the layoff of around 200 engineers (Aug 2025). This was reportedly due to difficulties in convincing customers to adopt the new modular architecture. - Leadership appears to lack a clear, consistent vision, with frequent shifts in direction and experimentation. - Reorganizations and layoffs often seem to follow these missteps. - Overall, the company currently feels unstable and lacking in long-term strategic clarity.

Explore other reviews about F5

5.0
5 Jan 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

they are serious about creating a great work culture.

Cons

none that I can think of

3.0
16 June 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Decent Views Decent Benefits Stock Options and 401k matching ORCA and pandaride Thirsty Thursday

Cons

Lower than standard industry pay Corporate culture weeds out those who don't toe the line Weak management with little to no mentorship High turnover, downsizing regularly No direction or accountability within or across teams No advancement opportunity / only senior positions ever available

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