Networking
Top Stories
-
News
23 Apr 2026
Cisco unveils quantum network advancements
Cisco's quantum switch prototype operates like a data center switch and supports four encoding modalities. It marks a step forward in making quantum computing 'broadly viable.' Continue Reading
-
Answer
27 Mar 2026
Network security management challenges and best practices
Threat actors are using increasingly sophisticated tools to make their attacks more costly. It's time for organizations to craft a comprehensive security management strategy. Continue Reading
-
Answer
10 Mar 2026
9 common network issues and how to fix them
Common home and office network issues include poor Wi-Fi, slow speeds and hardware problems. Fixes involve upgrading equipment, reducing congestion and updating systems. Continue Reading
-
Tip
27 Feb 2026
5 principles of change management in networking
Network change management includes five principles, including risk analysis and peer review. These best practices can help network teams reduce failed network changes and outages. Continue Reading
-
Tip
25 Feb 2026
How to build a private 5G network architecture
A private 5G network can provide organizations with a powerful new option for their wireless environments. Here are the major requirements to consider before building one. Continue Reading
-
Tip
24 Feb 2026
5G security: Everything you should know for a secure network
5G has better security than 4G, including stronger encryption, privacy and authentication. But enterprises need to know the challenges of 5G's complex, virtualized architecture. Continue Reading
-
Tip
18 Feb 2026
5G fixed wireless access use cases continue to grow
FWA delivers wireless broadband internet to remote regions, temporary setups and other locations not suitable for wired networking. 5G has supercharged its growth. Continue Reading
-
Tip
20 Jan 2026
How 5G and SD-WAN work together to empower enterprises
5G's performance advantages and improved integration with SD-WAN make the combination an increasingly powerful and affordable networking option for distributed enterprises. Continue Reading
-
Feature
07 Jan 2026
Advanced skills drive networking job market in 2026
Hiring for networking jobs will remain strong in 2026, but will favor niche skilled positions over lower-level or generalist roles. Learn in-demand skills for networking pros this year. Continue Reading
-
Answer
07 Jan 2026
U.S. 5G fixed wireless access market: What leaders need to know
FWA continues to grow globally, especially in the U.S. and India, as more companies learn its advantages for extending broadband to rural areas. Continue Reading
-
Tip
05 Jan 2026
5G and AR/VR: Industry use cases and impacts, explained
Many industries will reap major benefits from integrating augmented and virtual reality technology with 5G. But beware of limitations in 5G coverage and mobile device capabilities. Continue Reading
-
Feature
29 Dec 2025
Licensed vs. unlicensed spectrum: Key differences
Licensed spectrum is reliable and has better performance than unlicensed, which is low cost, easy to deploy and subject to interference. Lightly licensed spectrum offers a balance. Continue Reading
-
Feature
22 Dec 2025
Macrocell vs. small cell vs. femtocell: A 5G introduction
Macrocells, small cells and femtocells each play distinct roles in 5G, balancing coverage, speed, cost and indoor connectivity across different deployment scenarios. Continue Reading
-
Tip
22 Dec 2025
What are the features and benefits of 5G technology?
Increased cellular speed, bandwidth and capacity at lower latencies have made wireless VR and AR practical for business use, enabling vertical industry apps and boosting IoT. Continue Reading
-
Feature
19 Dec 2025
Wi-Fi 6 vs. 5G: What's the difference?
Wi-Fi 6 and 5G both boost speed and performance, but differ in cost, coverage and use cases. Together, they provide flexible connectivity for modern enterprises. Continue Reading
-
Tip
18 Dec 2025
Top 5G limitations and challenges for businesses
5G continues to expand to more areas, but reliance on older infrastructure, a new security model and variations in cost and performance mean businesses should choose carefully. Continue Reading
-
Feature
17 Dec 2025
Enterprise 5G: Guide to planning, architecture and benefits
An enterprise 5G deployment requires extensive planning. This guide helps you understand 5G use cases and deployment options as well as the latest advances in wireless technology. Continue Reading
-
Feature
16 Dec 2025
Three types of 5G technology explained for enterprise networks
5G spans low-, mid- and high-band spectrum plus NSA and SA deployments, each balancing speed, coverage, cost and complexity as enterprises evaluate use cases from IoT to low-latency networks. Continue Reading
-
Feature
12 Dec 2025
5G NSA vs. SA: How do the deployment modes differ?
As 5G continues to mature, technology leaders must weigh NSA's lower cost and faster rollout against SA's latency, efficiency and long-term ROI to guide their network investment strategy. Continue Reading
-
Feature
10 Dec 2025
Wireless security: Differences between WEP, WPA, WPA2, WPA3
As wireless networks have evolved, so have the protocols for securing them. Get an overview of WLAN security standards, and learn the differences among WEP, WPA, WPA2 and WPA3. Continue Reading
-
Feature
09 Dec 2025
What are the pros and cons of 5G?
Enterprises that seek the benefits of 5G's speed, capacity and low latency must consider the costs, complexities and security issues of getting coverage where they need it. Continue Reading
-
Feature
08 Dec 2025
The essential 5G glossary of key terms and phrases
5G offers enterprises new features and capabilities that promise to transform traditional networking. Continue Reading
-
Definition
05 Dec 2025
What is multi-access edge computing? Benefits and use cases
Multi-access edge computing (MEC) is a network architecture concept that brings cloud computing capabilities and IT services closer to the edge of the network, where data is generated and consumed. Continue Reading
-
Definition
05 Dec 2025
What is 5G?
Fifth-generation wireless or 5G is a global standard and technology for wireless and telecommunications networks. Continue Reading
-
Tip
05 Dec 2025
Indoor 5G gets a boost as small cells come to the rescue
Indoor small cells are becoming more common in consumer and enterprise markets. Along with distributed antenna systems and Wi-Fi networks, small cells increasingly enable RF coverage. Continue Reading
-
Definition
03 Dec 2025
What is a small cell in wireless networks?
A small cell is a type of low-power cellular radio access point or base station that provides wireless service within a limited geographic area. Continue Reading
-
Tip
24 Nov 2025
5G-Advanced features: Pervasive AI, broader reach, precision
The interim standard brings a boatload of major improvements to 5G on the way to 6G's planned release in 2030. Learn what they do, their benefits and use cases, and what's next. Continue Reading
-
Feature
21 Nov 2025
Private 5G for utilities: Benefits, use cases and deployment
Utilities increasingly choose private over public 5G for its superior control, flexibility and security, enabling applications like automated metering and remote monitoring. Continue Reading
-
Definition
21 Nov 2025
What is 6G? Overview of 6G networks & technology
6G (sixth-generation wireless) is the successor to 5G cellular technology and is expected to be globally available by around 2030. Continue Reading
-
Feature
20 Nov 2025
5G for public safety: Improved networks for first responders
The drones, surveillance systems and monitoring devices favored by public safety agencies aren't feasible without 5G's high bandwidth and low latency, especially in remote areas. Continue Reading
-
Feature
18 Nov 2025
Top 5G infrastructure companies to consider in 2025
Organizations that are expanding their data centers and networks to support wireless applications need reliable 5G infrastructure. Compare the offerings from five key vendors. Continue Reading
-
Definition
18 Nov 2025
What is time-sensitive networking (TSN) via 5G?
Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN) is a set of IEEE 802.1 standards that transform traditional Ethernet into a deterministic, real-time communication platform. Continue Reading
-
Definition
18 Nov 2025
What is millimeter wave (mmWave)?
Millimeter wave (mmWave) is a range of electromagnetic frequencies that exist between microwaves and infrared light. Continue Reading
-
Definition
17 Nov 2025
What are eMBB, URLLC and mMTC in 5G? Use cases explained
eMBB, URLLC and mMTC are three important primary service categories related to 5G technology. Continue Reading
-
Definition
13 Nov 2025
What is Open RAN (ORAN)? Benefits and use cases
Open RAN, or ORAN, is a type of mobile network architecture where the radio access network -- the system that connects an end user's device to other parts of the network -- is built from non-proprietary components. Continue Reading
-
Feature
13 Nov 2025
5G in the automotive industry: Real-world uses and benefits
5G's speed and bandwidth enable numerous applications, from smart manufacturing to autonomous driving, route optimization, predictive maintenance and in-vehicle entertainment. Continue Reading
-
Feature
12 Nov 2025
5G driving IoT innovation: Key use cases and applications
5G's low latency, massive device density, energy efficiency and flexibility are tailor-made for the networking demands of a future IoT-connected world. Continue Reading
-
Feature
10 Nov 2025
7 private 5G vendors for businesses
Learn about the different private 5G deployment options and how they differ from Wi-Fi, get a quick overview of top private 5G vendors and know the questions to ask before buying. Continue Reading
-
Feature
06 Nov 2025
5G and AI: What enterprises need to know
5G speeds up and extends wireless applications in manufacturing, healthcare and other industries. AI adds unprecedented levels of automation, decision-making and analytics. Continue Reading
-
Feature
02 Nov 2025
10 ways 5G is transforming manufacturing
5G's bandwidth, latency and capacity advantages are essential to a vision of manufacturing that exploits AI, IoT and data analytics for greater flexibility and efficiency. Continue Reading
-
Feature
30 Oct 2025
5G in edge computing: Benefits, applications and challenges
5G and edge computing need each other to reach their full potential. Learn the benefits and challenges of decentralizing compute power and data on ultra-fast wireless networks. Continue Reading
-
Tip
14 Oct 2025
What 5G skills are most in demand?
In the evolving 5G job market, service providers, systems integrators and enterprises are looking for applicants who have experience and aspirations in five broad areas. Continue Reading
-
Feature
14 Oct 2025
5G vs. 4G: Learn the key differences between them
5G and 4G network architectures have some significant differences. See how the two technologies differ and what the new capabilities mean for business communications. Continue Reading
-
Tip
14 Oct 2025
7 top 5G enterprise use cases and business opportunities
As 5G cellular networking continues to roll out, some key business use cases have emerged. Fixed wireless access, for example, could improve office connectivity. Continue Reading
-
Feature
07 Oct 2025
5G in healthcare: 9 benefits and use cases
5G cellular's low latency and broad scalability have huge implications for healthcare, from real-time patient monitoring, to remote diagnosis and surgery, to fast medical imaging. Continue Reading
-
Definition
19 Sep 2025
What is artificial intelligence-radio access network (AI-RAN)?
An artificial intelligence-radio access network (AI-RAN) is an evolving technology that integrates AI into the conventional radio access networks (RANs) used to operate mobile networks and support network devices. Continue Reading
-
Definition
17 Sep 2025
What is 5G-Advanced (5GA or 5.5G)?
5G-Advanced -- dubbed 5GA or 5.5G -- represents the latest iteration of 5G technology. Continue Reading
-
Definition
16 Sep 2025
What is 5G infrastructure?
5G infrastructure is the combination of hardware and software elements used to construct the fifth generation (5G) of the broadband cellular communication network. Continue Reading
-
Definition
28 Jul 2025
What is a content delivery network?
A content delivery network (CDN), also called a content distribution network, is a group of geographically distributed and interconnected servers. Continue Reading
-
Definition
08 Jul 2025
What is the domain name system (DNS)?
The domain name system (DNS) is a naming database in which internet domain names are located and translated into Internet Protocol (IP) addresses. Continue Reading
-
Definition
07 Jul 2025
What is a network management system?
A network management system (NMS) is an application or set of applications that enable network engineers to manage a network's independent components inside a larger network management framework and perform several key functions. Continue Reading
-
News
10 Jun 2025
Cisco beefs up AI, security in new networking products
The networking giant released a slew of products leveraging the capabilities of last year's Splunk acquisition and touting a focus on AI adoption support. Continue Reading
-
Definition
22 May 2025
What is the OSI model? The 7 layers of OSI explained
The OSI model (Open Systems Interconnection model) is a multilayered reference model that shows how computer systems and applications communicate over a network. Continue Reading
-
Feature
15 May 2025
BGP routing: A configuration and troubleshooting tutorial
BGP is the internet's core routing protocol, enabling communication between ISPs and large networks. This guide covers its functionality, configuration and troubleshooting essentials. Continue Reading
-
Tip
08 May 2025
12 remote access security risks and how to prevent them
Enterprises face myriad remote access security concerns, but training and clear communication can help bolster security programs for the long term. Continue Reading
-
Definition
07 May 2025
What is DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol)?
DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) is a network management protocol used to dynamically assign an Internet Protocol (IP) address to any device on a network so it can communicate. Continue Reading
-
News
29 Apr 2025
HPE Aruba deepens network security and OpsRamp visibility
A new 'digital circuit breaker' capability for HPE Private Clouds, increased visibility of third-party hardware with OpsRamp and new SASE capabilities arrive for HPE Aruba. Continue Reading
-
Definition
25 Mar 2025
What is software-defined networking (SDN)?
Software-defined networking (SDN) is a networking approach in which software is used to easily configure and centrally manage IT networks. Continue Reading
-
Definition
17 Mar 2025
What is User Datagram Protocol (UDP)?
User Datagram Protocol (UDP) is a communications protocol primarily used to establish low-latency and loss-tolerating connections between applications on the internet. Continue Reading
-
Tip
10 Mar 2025
The 4 different types of wireless networks
The four types of wireless networks -- wireless LAN, wireless MAN, wireless PAN and wireless WAN -- differ in size, range and connectivity requirements. Continue Reading
-
Tip
05 Mar 2025
802.11 standards: How do 802.11ac, 802.11ax, 802.11be differ?
Wi-Fi standards -- 802.11ac, 802.11ax and 802.11be -- differ based on frequency bands, spatial streams and maximum data rates, with 802.11be offering the most significant improvements. Continue Reading
-
Definition
04 Mar 2025
What is a router?
A router is a physical or virtual appliance that passes information between two or more packet-switched computer networks. Continue Reading
-
Definition
28 Feb 2025
What is FCAPS (fault, configuration, accounting, performance and security)?
FCAPS (fault, configuration, accounting, performance and security) is a network management framework and model created by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Continue Reading
-
Definition
20 Feb 2025
What is network visibility?
Network visibility is an awareness of the components and data within an enterprise computer network. Continue Reading
-
Definition
20 Feb 2025
What is Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP)?
Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) is an application-layer protocol for monitoring and managing network devices on a local area network or wide area network. Continue Reading
-
Definition
20 Feb 2025
What is a wireless mesh network (mesh WiFi)?
A wireless mesh network (WMN) is a mesh network created through the connection of wireless access point (wireless AP) nodes installed at each network user's location. Continue Reading
-
Definition
10 Feb 2025
What is network configuration management (NCM)?
Network configuration management (NCM) is the process of organizing and maintaining information about all the components in a computer network. Continue Reading
-
Definition
31 Jan 2025
What is network monitoring?
Network monitoring, also frequently called network management, is the practice of consistently overseeing a computer network for any failures or deficiencies to ensure continued network performance. Continue Reading
-
Answer
24 Jan 2025
Cloud networking vs. cloud computing: What's the difference?
Businesses might see cloud computing and cloud networking as interchangeable due to similarities, but the two strategies dictate different processes and fulfill different goals. Continue Reading
-
Tip
10 Jan 2025
Evaluate 7 cloud monitoring tools for networks
Organizations use cloud monitoring tools to manage on-premises, hybrid and cloud networks. Discover the features of seven cloud monitoring tools that can enhance performance. Continue Reading
-
Definition
02 Jan 2025
What is network management?
Network management is a multifaceted discipline that provides network administrators with the tools, protocols and processes to maintain and optimize network operations. Continue Reading
-
Definition
26 Dec 2024
What is network downtime?
Network downtime refers to inaccessibility to part or all of a network due to the failure of hardware, software or some combination of both. Continue Reading
-
Feature
23 Dec 2024
Compare 7 network automation tools and their capabilities
Network automation tools automate repetitive tasks, provision devices and manage configurations. Evaluate seven tools to discover the benefits each option provides for efficiency. Continue Reading
-
Answer
09 Dec 2024
What are the 5 types of network management?
Despite the changes in how organizations optimize network performance, the five foundational elements of network management -- also known as FCAPS -- remain the same. Continue Reading
-
News
03 Dec 2024
Arista simplifies switching to its campus network
Arista says companies can switch to its campus network while holding on to legacy stacked switches. Continue Reading
-
Tip
03 Dec 2024
How to monitor network traffic in 7 steps
Effective network monitoring is an ongoing process that requires the right tool set to gain visibility into infrastructure service quality. These steps can help network teams fine-tune network monitoring strategies. Continue Reading
-
Answer
21 Nov 2024
Compare network management vs. network monitoring
Network monitoring is a vital part of network management. Both are essential to help network operations teams streamline operations and address potential issues. Continue Reading
-
Tip
05 Nov 2024
Top 6 network monitoring best practices
Benchmark metrics, customizable dashboards and automation are all best practices in network monitoring. Network admins can use them to optimize performance and minimize threats. Continue Reading
-
Tip
28 Oct 2024
Is cloud-based network management right for your business?
Many enterprises use on-premises network management, but some are transitioning to cloud-based management. Enterprises should evaluate both options before deciding which to use. Continue Reading
-
Answer
21 Oct 2024
Telemetry vs. SNMP: Which is better for network management?
Now that networks have become more complex, network management has become a challenge of its own. Enterprises can compare telemetry vs. SNMP to see which better suits their needs. Continue Reading
-
Tip
21 Oct 2024
Basic network management interview questions and answers
Job interviews should be a two-way conversation. Hiring managers and job applicants should review common network management interview questions before an interview. Continue Reading
-
Tip
21 Oct 2024
A guide to network lifecycle management
Network pros should use a network lifecycle management process to monitor, manage and implement changes in their network, regardless of if they use PPIDOO or another framework. Continue Reading
-
Tip
16 Oct 2024
Overview of network management tasks and best practices
Network management encompasses a range of tasks and processes. Explore 10 crucial tasks and accompanying best practices to ensure a resilient and functional network. Continue Reading
-
Tip
15 Oct 2024
The benefits of network asset management software
Network asset management software helps network teams keep track of network devices and software to ensure timely upgrades, accurate inventory and updated documentation. Continue Reading
-
News
27 Aug 2024
VMware VeloCloud SD-WAN gets satellite support
Satellite connectivity lets Broadcom offer the VeloCloud SD-WAN as an option for linking IoT devices to the global network from environments without reliable internet access. Continue Reading
-
Definition
15 Aug 2024
What is a VPN (Virtual Private Network)? Definition, Benefits & How It Works
A virtual private network (VPN) is a service that creates a safe, encrypted online connection. Continue Reading
-
Answer
11 Jul 2024
CASB vs. SASE: What's the difference?
CASB and SASE enhance network and SaaS application security. CASB acts as a security layer for cloud services, while SASE integrates networking and security into one framework. Continue Reading
-
Feature
02 Jul 2024
The complete secure access service edge (SASE) guide
SASE helps organizations manage and secure traffic across locations. But is it the best choice for your environment? Use this guide to learn about SASE architecture and providers. Continue Reading
-
Feature
01 Jul 2024
Compare 5 single-vendor SASE providers
SASE has broad enterprise appeal because it combines security and connectivity. With so many vendor options available, enterprises might need help narrowing the search. Continue Reading
-
Definition
24 Jun 2024
subnet (subnetwork)
A subnet, or subnetwork, is a segmented piece of a larger network. More specifically, subnets are a logical partition of an IP network broken into multiple, smaller network segments. Continue Reading
-
Definition
13 Jun 2024
secure access service edge (SASE)
Secure access service edge (SASE), pronounced sassy, is a cloud architecture model that bundles together network and cloud-native security technologies and delivers them as a single cloud service. Continue Reading
-
News
07 Jun 2024
Cisco makes Splunk the center of observability
Cisco is integrating Splunk, AppDynamics and ThousandEyes to create a critical differentiator in the observability market. Networking integration will come later. Continue Reading
-
Opinion
06 Jun 2024
First thoughts from Cisco Live: Generative AI, Splunk and more
During its annual conference, Cisco shined up ThousandEyes, added Splunk integrations and shared details regarding its generative AI strategy. Continue Reading
-
Definition
10 May 2024
SD-WAN security
SD-WAN security refers to the practices, protocols and technologies protecting data and resources transmitted across software-defined wide area network infrastructure. Continue Reading
-
Tip
30 Apr 2024
How SASE convergence affects organizational silos
Most enterprises have siloed departments, but SASE's convergence of network and security functions is disrupting those constructs and driving the need for more team communication. Continue Reading
-
Definition
23 Apr 2024
networking (computer)
Networking, also known as computer networking, is the practice of transporting and exchanging data between nodes over a shared medium in an information system. Continue Reading
-
Definition
23 Apr 2024
What is SD-WAN (software-defined WAN)? Ultimate guide
Software-defined WAN is a technology that uses software-defined networking concepts to distribute network traffic across a wide area network, or WAN. Continue Reading
-
Definition
11 Apr 2024
local area network (LAN)
A local area network (LAN) is a group of computers and peripheral devices that are connected together within a distinct geographic area, such as an office building or campus. Continue Reading
-
Feature
02 Apr 2024
SASE vs. SD-WAN: What's the difference?
SASE and SD-WAN are two similar architectures administrators use to provide secure network access, but they differ in terms of deployment, security, connectivity and more. Continue Reading
-
Answer
08 Mar 2024
Cloud security vs. network security: What's the difference?
While network security focuses on solely protecting networks, cloud security provides protection for networks, servers, containers, apps and more. Continue Reading
-
Definition
15 Feb 2024
firewall as a service (FWaaS)
Firewall as a service (FWaaS), also known as a cloud firewall, is a service that provides cloud-based network traffic analysis capabilities to customers as part of an overall cybersecurity program. Continue Reading
-
Tip
07 Feb 2024
4 key SD-WAN trends to watch
Managed services, secure remote access, AI applications and 5G wireless network connectivity are four important trends that should propel the SD-WAN market. Continue Reading