Ask the Experts

Ask the Experts

• How is service mesh architecture different from SDN and NFV?

  Service mesh separates itself from SDN and NFV approaches with its clear focus on managing the communication and forwarding between multiple microservices.  Continue Reading

• AWS Storage Gateway performance depends on resource placement

  Senior technology editor Stephen Bigelow breaks down how AWS Storage Gateway can trip up users' hybrid cloud strategies. Beware these issues with latency and security.  Continue Reading

• Can you run an enterprise workload on VMware Cloud on AWS?

  There is a small list of enterprise-class deployments and integrations known to run on VMware Cloud on AWS, but not all complex workloads are suited to the cloud yet.  Continue Reading

• What's the difference between a router, switch and hub?

  Although a router, switch and hub all help direct network traffic, the devices transmit packets in different ways. Discover the differences among these network devices.  Continue Reading

• Stay up to date with the VMware Cloud on AWS roadmap

  Upcoming features on the VMware Cloud on AWS roadmap include two SDKs, disaster recovery testing improvements and increased VMware Site Recovery protection.  Continue Reading

• Learn about VMware Cloud on AWS pricing and availability

  VMware Cloud on AWS offers three pricing tiers for different types of businesses and is available in most major global AWS regions. Learn which tier works best for your business.  Continue Reading

• What's the difference between an edge router vs. core router?

  Clearly, an edge router and core router are placed in different parts of the network, but their routing roles are more complex than their physical locations.  Continue Reading

• What is Kubernetes CSI and how is it being used?

  A recently released CSI-compliant plugin from Kubernetes could help simplify the process of connecting containerized workloads with storage systems.  Continue Reading

• Take advantage of these 4 VMware Cloud on AWS features

  VMware features, such as Site Recovery, vSphere vMotion, vSAN stretched clusters and Elastic Distributed Resource Scheduler, are available on VMware Cloud on AWS.  Continue Reading

• Will 5G networks require new network engineer skills?

  The 5G network will likely affect network engineer skills in areas such as security, physical appliances and software. But enterprise teams won't see too much change, for now.  Continue Reading

• What are private 5G networks and could they emerge as a major trend?

  In some network environments, businesses may need broader connection options for devices and automation. Private 5G networks, at some point, might be the answer.  Continue Reading

• What QLC NAND products are available?

  QLC NAND flash drives started appearing on the market in the last nine months. If your business is ready to try them out, you'll want to know about these options.  Continue Reading

• What is network traffic analytics and how does it enhance security?

  Network traffic analysis has evolved to incorporate machine learning techniques that help identify network security threats in real time and expedite a response.  Continue Reading

• What are the limitations of free ESXi?

  VMware's ESXi hypervisor is free to license and use, but its capabilities are limited without vSphere. You get what you pay for.  Continue Reading

• Why should I use Exchange Server maintenance mode?

  When applying security updates or cumulative updates to Exchange Server, it's important to take your time and use maintenance mode to avoid disruption and data corruption.  Continue Reading

• What are viable Open19 use cases and hardware options?

  Open19 is working with vendors to make hardware for its open source infrastructure. The goal is to support a growing number of off-premises use cases, such as edge computing.  Continue Reading

• Why is composable infrastructure important and what are its uses?

  The ideal function of composability is to make IT infrastructure more flexible, manageable and scalable than ever. It isn't for everyone, however; at least, not yet.  Continue Reading

• SD-WAN with IoT enables the enhanced network edge

  In a world teeming with IoT devices -- and the resulting data -- SD-WAN and SD-branch can provide the security, visibility and connectivity the IoT edge requires.  Continue Reading

• What are the 5 types of network firewalls and how are they different?

  As they monitor and filter network traffic, some firewalls can provide some pretty advanced security controls. But added packet inspection can slow network performance.  Continue Reading

• What's the difference between Open19 and the Open Compute Project?

  Though the Open19 initiative and Open Compute Project seem to have a similar goal, they do differ in type of support, hardware requirements and licensing practices.  Continue Reading

• What is a programmable data plane and where does P4 fit in?

  A programmable data plane presents a versatile way to forward packets and supports various formats and protocols. The P4 language is used to configure the forwarding actions.  Continue Reading

• What service does the Microsoft WSSD program provide?

  A do-it-yourself approach with hyper-converged infrastructure can lead to trouble when software-defined features just won't work. See how the WSSD program can prevent issues.  Continue Reading

• These VMware and third-party VM backup tools make your job easier

  With the right tools and resources, VM backup and recovery can be easier. Consider factors such as product compatibility and future business needs before deciding what to use.  Continue Reading

• 6 VMware VM backup best practices you should know

  Understand these six crucial best practices for backing up and restoring VMs on your ESXi host. These strategies will ensure backups are protected and restoration is successful.  Continue Reading

• VMware VM backup strategies combine tradition with new methods

  Different VM backup and restoration approaches can favor consistency, speed or simplicity. Consider which you value most, and tailor your methodology to that.  Continue Reading

• Use the command line for ESXi host backup and restoration

  Backing up and properly restoring VMs are essential tasks for workload protection. Use a command-line interface, such as vSphere CLI or PowerCLI, to back up and restore the ESXi host.  Continue Reading

• How do I avoid Exchange security certificate issues?

  Exchange SSL certificates keep communications secure, so it's important avoid the bargain bin when shopping for them.  Continue Reading

• What are TOGAF benefits for large enterprises' architectures?

  Enterprise architects should value a standardized architecture framework, especially during microservices adoption. Here's how TOGAF helps control enterprise software development processes.  Continue Reading

• What is Cisco Smart Licensing and how might it benefit my business?

  Cisco Smart Licensing, the networking vendor's fairly new approach to software licensing, aims to provide customers with more visibility and control over their licenses.  Continue Reading

• How do I integrate cloud AI APIs into existing apps?

  Learn how to build AI into your apps with the help of cloud services and prepare for some of the challenges you can expect to face along the way.  Continue Reading

• When will enterprises adopt the new Wi-Fi 6 standard?

  Networking vendors have unveiled Wi-Fi 6 devices, yet the wireless standard is not ratified. Don't expect Wi-Fi 6 to flow into the mainstream anytime soon.  Continue Reading

• What are common uses for cloud AI APIs?

  Curious about AI? See top use cases of how cloud-based AI APIs and services can boost application functionality.  Continue Reading

• What is the purpose of an SD-WAN gateway?

  Software-defined WAN architecture has adapted with the growth of cloud services, resulting in a cloud-based model that uses SD-WAN gateways to handle traffic and control.  Continue Reading

• Evaluate these hyper-converged infrastructure features

  There are six things you should consider when reviewing HCI platform features and functionality: optimizations, storage, hypervisors, management, expandability and integrations.  Continue Reading

• When should I choose between serverless and microservices?

  Serverless and microservices work well together, but they still have their unique qualities. We review their main differences and where one might accomplish goals the other can't.  Continue Reading

• How hyper-converged infrastructure benefits virtual workloads

  Realize the many advantages that HCI offers, such as streamlined virtual resource management and enhanced security and compliance practices.  Continue Reading

• Hyper-converged infrastructure explained

  HCI breaks down traditional IT silos by bundling compute, storage, networking and virtualization, which helps to streamline resource provisioning and management.  Continue Reading

• Which 802.11ax features support IoT adoption?

  A handful of key 802.11ax features could help accelerate widespread internet-of-things adoption, according to networking experts familiar with the new standard.  Continue Reading

• What hardware can I use in an Open19 rack?

  Open19 is a partnership that guides organizations to use open source rack servers. The organization's cages, power shelves and network switches make upgrades easy.  Continue Reading

• How are automated network configuration and management changing?

  Could a new generation of network testing and verification tools combine with automated network configuration to mimic intent-based networking systems?  Continue Reading

• What tools can reinforce network edge security?

  Firewalls, intrusion prevention systems and cloud-based threat intelligence are just a few of the many ways that organizations can bolster network edge security.  Continue Reading

• What are some potential Windows Server cluster set snags?

  Windows Server 2019 cluster sets bring some Azure-like capabilities into the data center, but new features also bring new challenges for administrators.  Continue Reading

• What are some Microsoft SDDC integration challenges?

  Microsoft added a number of new software-defined features in Windows Server 2019, but deploying a fully virtualized data center remains a challenge for several reasons.  Continue Reading

• Where is QLC NAND the most useful in the enterprise?

  Quad-level NAND has its benefits, but is it right for enterprise-level companies? While it can be plagued by performance and durability issues, the technology still has its uses.  Continue Reading

• How is the Microsoft SDDC concept becoming a reality?

  The promise of a software-defined infrastructure and its ability to pool resources require the right administrative tool to keep the virtualized fabric from fraying.  Continue Reading

• What does a zero-trust model mean for network security?

  A zero-trust model limits access and permissions according to a defined set of parameters that enterprises specify for each application. Learn what this means for network security.  Continue Reading

• What is HPE SimpliVity hyper-converged with Composable Fabric?

  SimpliVity with Composable Fabric incorporates HPE's software-defined networking technology for implementing, managing and automating a fully connected and composable mesh fabric.  Continue Reading

• How do you build Windows Server 2019 cluster sets?

  Microsoft debuted cluster sets in its Windows Server 2019 release. Here's a rundown on how to deploy this high availability feature in your organization.  Continue Reading

• What 5 items should be on your network monitoring checklist?

  Device monitoring, visual performance tools and a deep understanding of network data are just a few of the items that should be on your network monitoring checklist.  Continue Reading

• What are the benefits of ADCs with per-application functionality?

  DevOps development has driven the need for application delivery controllers to adapt. The result is per-application functionality, which enables customization for each application.  Continue Reading

• Is HCI but a stop on the road to composable architecture?

  Find out if composable infrastructure is the next step in the evolution of HCI, if it is a completely different type of IT infrastructure or if the truth is somewhere in between.  Continue Reading

• How does a WAN-cloud exchange work?

  WAN-cloud exchanges provide private and secure connectivity to cloud environments, making them beneficial for software-defined WAN and SaaS platforms.  Continue Reading

• What Windows Server 2019 SDN features should I know about?

  Administrators in highly virtualized environments can tap into enhanced Windows Server 2019 SDN functionality to run Hyper-V VMs more efficiently.  Continue Reading

• What features make up Windows Server 2019 cluster sets?

  Windows Server 2019 takes clustering to a new level with the cluster sets feature that wraps another layer of high availability around critical VMs.  Continue Reading

• The pros and cons of hyper-converged flash storage

  Find out why and for what use cases and application workloads 100% solid-state flash may not be the best storage choice for hyper-converged infrastructure.  Continue Reading

• How do cloud data centers affect network bandwidth requirements?

  When deciding which applications to move to a cloud data center, enterprises should consider network bandwidth requirements and latency, among other factors.  Continue Reading

• How do I successfully install server GPU cards?

  Adding GPUs to your data center requires testing and research. To get the most out of the hardware, upgrade cooling resources and confirm software compatibility.  Continue Reading

• Is QLC NAND the right choice for you?

  QLC drives can offer high storage capacity and low cost per gigabyte, but speedier alternatives may hold more appeal for some organizations. When does a switch to QLC make sense?  Continue Reading

• What advantages do Windows Server cluster sets offer?

  Administrators don't need to stress about workload uptime with a new Windows Server 2019 clustering feature, which makes sharing resources and moving VMs easier.  Continue Reading

• Wi-Fi 6: How does OFDMA work?

  The new Wi-Fi 6 standard works harder but also smarter, thanks to a game-changing feature called orthogonal frequency-division multiple access.  Continue Reading

• How does security for intent-based networking work?

  Monitoring plays an essential role when it comes to security in intent-based networking environments, as it ensures policies are met and detects network anomalies.  Continue Reading

• How do SDN protocols compare to those used in SD-WAN?

  Traditional SDN controllers use northbound and southbound APIs to communicate. But software-defined WAN controllers don't rely on those same SDN protocols.  Continue Reading

• What are some common Windows Server 2019 SDN errors?

  The complexity of setting up and managing Microsoft SDN can increase the risk of administrators facing common networking errors that are difficult to troubleshoot.  Continue Reading

• Why would an organization move to intent-based networking?

  Intent-based networking doesn't use any magical commands. But it does use a heavy dose of automation, which might cause some network teams to be wary of the new approach.  Continue Reading

• What key SDN features are in Windows Server 2019?

  Microsoft SDN capabilities got a boost in Windows Server 2019 to wrap more security around VMs and make networking tasks less painful to execute.  Continue Reading

• Which GPU specs are most important?

  When selecting GPUs, look at processing power, memory and OS support. These factors ensure hardware compatibility and effective performance in the data center.  Continue Reading

• How do network virtualization and network abstraction compare?

  Network virtualization and network abstraction share similarities, like supporting the creation of virtual resources, but the two approaches vary in complexity and outcome.  Continue Reading

• What are the pros and cons of machine learning in network security?

  The predictive nature of machine learning can benefit network security strategies. But it can also benefit those looking to break through secure network barriers.  Continue Reading

• What 4 questions can help prepare your network for IoT?

  Increasingly, organizations are seeing a marriage of IoT and networking for more efficiency and enhanced services. Here's what you need to know to prepare your networks for IoT.  Continue Reading

• How much does Azure Update Management cost?

  The Azure Update Management cost is free, but organizations that require the tool's advanced features might have to contend with additional fees.  Continue Reading

• What network tools are available for hybrid cloud monitoring?

  As hybrid cloud adoption ramps up, businesses should consider hybrid cloud monitoring tools that provide network performance insight across the entire environment.  Continue Reading

• What are the pros and cons of open source network monitoring tools?

  They're usually free and customizable, but can lack customer support. Take a look at the best and worst features of open source network monitoring tools.  Continue Reading

• What tools help with microservices Salesforce development?

  It's not always easy to develop Salesforce apps with microservices. Developers and admins should evaluate CI/CD tools that support microservices development in the Salesforce world.  Continue Reading

• What are some Microsoft SDN features in Windows Server?

  SDN functionality helps administrators shape network traffic to reduce congestion and boost security. Discover what other SDN features Microsoft added to its Windows Server offerings.  Continue Reading

• Intent-based networking vs. SDN: How do they differ?

  When it comes to the primary differentiators between intent-based networking and SDN, abstraction and administrator commands are at the top of the list.  Continue Reading

• How does Azure Update Management handle integration?

  Azure Update Management works with other Microsoft administrative tools to give IT pros a more complete offering to patch operating systems.  Continue Reading

• What is a software-defined perimeter, and do I need it?

  An evolving network world requires evolving network security. Learn how software-defined perimeter offers a compelling answer to network vulnerabilities.  Continue Reading

• What OSes does Azure Update Management handle?

  Azure Update Management supports a large number of Windows and Linux systems on premises and in the cloud, but there are certain requirements to meet to utilize the service.  Continue Reading

• Which core network functions are being virtualized?

  Network functions virtualization can virtualize both data center and branch office network services. But a couple of special cases, like virtual switches, require clarification.  Continue Reading

• What roles do vCPE and uCPE have at the network edge?

  As service providers look to virtualize the edge and deliver network services faster, they're turning to vCPE and uCPE that run services as software on generic hardware.  Continue Reading

• What's the best multi-cloud storage strategy for minimizing risks?

  Find out the steps to take to construct a unified multi-cloud security strategy where components work together to provide a single, comprehensive approach.  Continue Reading

• Which KPIs should I measure for security in SDN?

  KPIs provide useful guidelines to measure how network performance and security align with business objectives. Here are some KPIs to help keep track of an SDN environment.  Continue Reading

• How can I course-correct my testing career path?

  Don't get stuck in QA monotony. Show your technical knowhow and expand your horizons to boost your career -- even if it means throwing out the map.  Continue Reading

• What makes for a quiet developer work environment on the road?

  Developers run into distractions when they work out of a hotel or Airbnb. Here's how to fight back against subpar accommodations that halt productivity -- and how to avoid them next time.  Continue Reading

• How might NFV in IoT enhance network edge security?

  The emergence of IoT devices has considerable network security implications. An NFV architecture, however, could add another layer of network defense.  Continue Reading

• What is a service mesh, and how does it relate to networking?

  A service mesh can ease the deployment of microservices and container-based applications, while supporting the delivery of network services, like load balancing and authentication.  Continue Reading

• How does Azure Update Management handle patching?

  Microsoft built Azure Update Management for administrators who require a centralized tool to automate patches for systems both on premises and in the cloud.  Continue Reading

• Manage SCVMM logical networks with PowerShell

  Use System Center Virtual Machine Manager and PowerShell to make logical network management easy. Execute a script to display network virtualization information in a simple chart.  Continue Reading

• What are the top 3 benefits of NFV technology?

  The use of standard hardware, consolidation of network functions and machines, and flexible system upgrades are some of the key benefits of NFV technology.  Continue Reading

• How can organizations improve their network change management?

  Organizations can optimize their network change management processes with dedicated change management services for improved planning, monitoring and communication capabilities.  Continue Reading

• What containerization technology do I need for my data center?

  Containers in the data center can help maximize server capacity, but there are a few things to consider before a Docker or Kubernetes implementation.  Continue Reading

• What are the differences between network security vs. cybersecurity?

  IT groups need to consider varying layers of security. For instance, the similarities and differences between cybersecurity and network security are closely entwined.  Continue Reading

• What can admins use as a data center GPU?

  There is no formal standard to differentiate consumer and data center GPUs. Still, you should evaluate processing speeds and hardware requirements before GPU installation.  Continue Reading

• What's the best way to achieve Hyper-V security for hosts?

  Hyper-V security is complicated, but you can set the foundation of your security strategies by following a few best practices, such as simplification and encryption.  Continue Reading

• Hyper-V 2016 security comes down to VM considerations

  Secure guest VMs and OSes to ensure Hyper-V security  Continue Reading

• What are the pros and cons of deploying containers?

  Containers can reduce a company's OS licensing costs and required CPU usage, while acting as a bridge to serverless computing. But IT teams need to evaluate the potential drawbacks.  Continue Reading

• Is read-only mode a viable approach to container hardening?

  Can containers work in read-only mode, and how does this setup make a difference in security hardening?  Continue Reading

• Use shielded VMs, guarded fabric to enable Hyper-V encryption

  Enable Hyper-V encryption using guarded fabric, the Host Guardian Service and shielded VM technologies. Host systems must be proven trustworthy before operating protected VMs.  Continue Reading

• How does Linux Secure Boot affect Hyper-V 2016 VMs?

  Linux Secure Boot can help ensure you're booting trusted OSes, but navigating different distributions and digital signatures can be challenging without these considerations.  Continue Reading

• Where does SDN fit in edge computing architecture?

  SDN and edge computing can work together to apply data processing decisions that make better use of network links and bandwidth, especially when it comes to edge versus cloud.  Continue Reading