Networking
Top Stories
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Tip
31 Jul 2026
Understanding the network-as-software transformation
Manual methods no longer cut it as enterprises adopt advanced architectural models. Instead, software-based approaches like NaaS and infrastructure as code are gaining traction. Continue Reading
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News
24 Jul 2026
NetScout doubles AI DDoS defenses after infrastructure buy
NetScout boosts its attack mitigation capacity to 33 Tbps and plans to strengthen integration between its on-premises and cloud-based tools. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
07 May 2021
Develop 5G ecosystems for connectivity in the remote work era
Adopting a 5G ecosystem could enable enterprises to better compete in offering edge computing and remote work options without sacrificing connectivity. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 May 2021
How to prepare networks for the return to office
Network teams should evaluate their UC strategies, VPN capacity and even air conditioning requirements as employees start to return to office environments. Continue Reading
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News
04 May 2021
Verizon media group sale brings cash for 5G network
Verizon's sale of the media group, which includes AOL and Yahoo, comes as it deals with a cash crunch and $129 billion in debt. Verizon competes with AT&T and T-Mobile. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Apr 2021
A glimpse into Python network automation and APIs
This chapter excerpt from 'Mastering Python Networking' dives into the importance of APIs and network state when working with Python network automation and intent-based networking. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Apr 2021
Advice on intent-based networking and Python automation
In his book, 'Mastering Python Networking,' Eric Chou provides network practitioners with the concepts they need to understand APIs, intent-based networking and automation. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Apr 2021
radio access network (RAN)
A radio access network (RAN) is a major component of a wireless telecommunications system that connects individual devices to other parts of a network through a radio link. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Apr 2021
Network-as-a-service business model options take shape
As network as a service gains traction, enterprises and service providers must consider multiple deployment models. SD-WAN, SASE, SDN and policy management could all play a role. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Apr 2021
4 attributes key to network-as-a-service model
For a network-as-a-service model to work for the enterprise, it needs to offer four key attributes: an application-specific, elastic, secure and personalized VPN. Continue Reading
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Answer
22 Apr 2021
Sometimes I get a message, 'specified port already open.' What does it mean?
Find out what error messages 'the specified port is already open' or 'the specified port is already in use' mean, and learn how to troubleshoot and fix them. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Apr 2021
Network capacity planning best practices for return to office
As workers grow comfortable enough to return to the office, network teams will need to plan in advance to make sure the network is ready and ensure proper performance. Continue Reading
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News
16 Apr 2021
Aruba product integrations advance its SASE strategy
Aruba's latest SASE-related integrations involve the Silver Peak-based SD-WAN, Threat Defense and the ClearPass Policy Manager. More product integrations are likely. Continue Reading
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Answer
15 Apr 2021
What does a network infrastructure upgrade project involve?
Explore the steps organizations must take to upgrade their network infrastructure, including how to tell if an upgrade is necessary and how to evaluate resources for the project. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Apr 2021
Wi-Fi 6 rollout requires careful review of network devices
Wi-Fi 6 is just one part of the overall enterprise network. Organizations need to evaluate several network components to ensure a smooth Wi-Fi 6 deployment. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Apr 2021
Network layer
Located at Layer 3 of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) communications model, the primary function of the network layer is to move data into and through other networks. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Apr 2021
How cloud-native networking will transform infrastructure
Cloud-native networking aims to prioritize business needs and enable networks to become more efficient. Learn more about the potential benefits and challenges in this expert Q&A. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Apr 2021
The role of network observability in distributed systems
Network observability sounds like a new term for an existing practice, but is that the case? This chapter excerpt lays out what observability is and everything you need to know. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Apr 2021
Common network vulnerabilities and how to prevent them
It's not possible to eliminate all network vulnerabilities, but network teams can implement best practices to limit potential attacks and protect their networks. Continue Reading
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News
08 Apr 2021
Arista simplifies network management in latest CloudVision
Arista's CloudVision 2021 has better analytics for spotting network congestion and a dashboard for monitoring Microsoft 365, Salesforce, Google Workspace and other applications. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Apr 2021
SASE options for the branch of one -- work from anywhere
More than ever, enterprises need to support individual employees that make up a branch of one. These setups require reliable connectivity, application performance and security. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Apr 2021
Modern network infrastructure design taps security, flexibility
As workers return to office settings, organizations may have to update their on-premises network infrastructure design to improve scalability and connectivity. Continue Reading
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News
06 Apr 2021
Verizon, AWS launch mobile edge computing platform
The AWS, Verizon mobile edge computing offering is a managed service that combines private 5G connectivity with AWS Outposts. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Apr 2021
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud optimizes edge device connectivity
VMware's SD-WAN product provides optimized edge device connectivity to deliver workloads and data to end users, but a few issues dampen its benefits. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Apr 2021
How cloud-based network monitoring tools expand visibility
Organizations have become even more distributed and virtual in the wake of COVID-19. Cloud-based network monitoring is well suited to keep tabs on network performance. Continue Reading
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Answer
02 Apr 2021
How are network operations center responsibilities changing?
If your network operations center responsibilities haven't changed yet due to evolutions like DevOps and edge computing, they likely will soon. Here's what you need to know. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Apr 2021
Best practices for VPN traffic monitoring
VPNs are still a critical part of many enterprise remote access strategies. Networks teams that monitor VPN traffic should look at factors like application usage and overhead. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Apr 2021
5 basic steps for effective cloud network security
In hybrid infrastructures, old network security systems won't work. Enterprises must adopt effective cloud network security strategies to keep their assets safe. Continue Reading
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News
01 Apr 2021
Cisco integrates ThousandEyes with AppDynamics, Catalyst
The latest Cisco ThousandEyes integration adds internet intelligence to the AppDynamics application performance dashboard, a plus for AppOps and NetOps teams in Cisco shops. Continue Reading
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News
30 Mar 2021
Cisco network as a service for hybrid clouds on the horizon
Cisco's first network-as-a-service product will deliver hybrid cloud infrastructure. The company plans to start selling the NaaS offering and an all-in-one SASE product this year. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Mar 2021
Black network engineers juggle building networks, being seen
2020 didn't transform diversity and inclusion in companies, according to some Black network engineers. But diversity in their careers and networks goes beyond hiring practices. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Mar 2021
Perform a network health check with network testing
Network engineers can use myriad network testing approaches to ensure their networks are efficient and reliable. The key is incorporating them into a regular maintenance cycle. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Mar 2021
Why 5G will redefine WWAN and SD-WAN
The nexus of 5G, WWAN and SD-WAN promises to usher in an array of custom tools and services for enterprises. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Mar 2021
Pandemic pushes enterprise connectivity to take a new path
COVID-19 delivered a connectivity shock to businesses. But savvy network execs were primed -- and are now showing the way forward in 2021 with SD-WAN, 5G and Wi-Fi 6. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Mar 2021
Key tasks in a network maintenance checklist
Network technologies and devices might change over time, but certain maintenance tasks, such as data backup and device inventory, will always be essential for network teams. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Mar 2021
What to expect at Cisco Live 2021: Future of work, networks
At Cisco Live 2021, attendees will hear about the future of work and what that means for the future of networks and network technologies, like SASE, 5G and cloud networks. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Mar 2021
Cisco's future banks on security, service providers, 5G
A big part of Cisco's future strategy will be enhancing its global presence and service provider customer base. For networking, it still pursues software and subscription models. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Mar 2021
3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project)
The 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) is a collaborative project between a group of telecommunications associations with the initial goal of developing globally applicable specifications for third-generation (3G) mobile systems. Continue Reading
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News
16 Mar 2021
Nokia to cut up to 10,000 jobs over two years
The job cuts stem from a major restructuring that formed four business groups, including two focused on emerging technologies like cloud-delivered network infrastructure. Continue Reading
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News
16 Mar 2021
Nokia partners with largest cloud providers on 5G RAN
Nokia's RAN-related partnership with AWS, Microsoft and Google solidifies its strategy of delivering cloud-based 5G infrastructure to service providers and major enterprises. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Mar 2021
CDMA (Code-Division Multiple Access)
CDMA (Code-Division Multiple Access) refers to any of several protocols used in second-generation (2G) and third-generation (3G) wireless communications. Continue Reading
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News
10 Mar 2021
News briefs: Koch Industries picks Alkira, Palo Alto
Koch industries combines Alkira networking and Palo Alto security for remote office connectivity; Cisco promotes three women on International Women's Day; AT&T, Fortinet partner. Continue Reading
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Quiz
10 Mar 2021
Test your knowledge of socket programming in Python
In this quiz, review the fundamentals of socket programming in Python, including port scanning, TCP and UDP, and how to enable different methods from the socket module. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Mar 2021
How to get started with socket programming for beginners
To understand socket programming for beginners, basic network and security concepts are critical -- and having Python skills won't hurt, either. Learn more in this expert Q&A. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Mar 2021
Explore this ultimate socket programming guide for beginners
In this socket programming guide preview, learn how sockets work, the role of socket programming in enterprise networks and the ins and outs of socket programming in Python. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
08 Mar 2021
Will enterprises adopt SONiC OS and disrupt proprietary WAN?
As a cloud-native modular architecture focused on network disaggregation, the SONiC OS can offer several benefits for enterprises, especially at the network edge. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
08 Mar 2021
Enterprise edge is telecom operators' new frontier
Network operators have an opportunity to sell new bundles of dynamic enterprise edge services that include SASE, SD-WAN and virtual security if they size it and price it well. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Mar 2021
NOC performance metrics for optimal operation
NOC best practices include using standardized network designs and automation. But don't forget to identify performance metrics that help track and measure operational success. Continue Reading
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News
03 Mar 2021
Cisco completes $4.5 billion Acacia deal
Cisco said it will sell and support Acacia's optical networking products separately. Cisco will also continue selling the technology with its switches and routers. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Mar 2021
orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM)
Orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) is a method of data transmission where a single information stream is split among several closely spaced narrowband subchannel frequencies instead of a single wideband channel frequency. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Feb 2021
5 steps to conduct network penetration testing
Enterprises that want to ensure competent network security strategies should look at how they can implement penetration testing, considering red teams and physical pen tests. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Feb 2021
5 benefits of Wi-Fi 6 for enterprise networks
In a perfect world, Wi-Fi 6 could introduce several benefits to business networks. But real-world conditions could curb the wireless technology's true potential. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Feb 2021
Get started with network penetration testing for beginners
Authentication, patching and configuration are among the most common vulnerabilities found through network penetration testing. Learn more in this free chapter excerpt. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Feb 2021
Advice on how to learn network penetration testing skills
As beginners learn network penetration testing skills, they should remember these expert tips: Pay attention to what the client wants, and stick to offense, not defense. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Feb 2021
radio frequency (RF, rf)
Radio frequency (RF) is a measurement representing the oscillation rate of electromagnetic radiation spectrum, or electromagnetic radio waves, from frequencies ranging from 300 GHz to as low as 9 kHz. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Feb 2021
Open RAN architecture gives operators options, challenges
Open RAN architecture could give telecom operators more flexibility as they deliver enterprise-grade 5G services. But making the RAN a virtual function takes careful planning. Continue Reading
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News
24 Feb 2021
Juniper adds Mist AIOps to its 128 Technology-based SD-WAN
Juniper has brought Mist's cloud-based analytics to the 128 Technology SD-WAN that the company acquired late last year. Juniper also launched Mist integration with the SRX gateway. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Feb 2021
metropolitan area network (MAN)
A metropolitan area network (MAN) is a computer network that is larger than a single building local area network (LAN) but is located in a single geographic area that is smaller than a wide area network (WAN). Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Feb 2021
3 SASE case studies exploring real-world deployments
Three case studies demonstrate how SASE technology helps organizations securely connect geographically distributed workforces. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Feb 2021
Future of NOC transformation unifies IT teams
NOC transformation could lead to unified IT operations with cross-domain teams, but not all enterprises need radical change when smaller upgrades and modernization do the job. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Feb 2021
How to build a private 5G business case
As you build a private 5G business case, be sure to include private 5G's benefits and challenges, as well as how to prove its ROI. Here's everything you need to know. Continue Reading
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News
19 Feb 2021
News briefs: Cisco investigates embezzlement scheme in China
Cisco has started an investigation of employees in China who allegedly made payments to workers at state-owned enterprises. Cisco disclosed the probe in an SEC filing. Continue Reading
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News
17 Feb 2021
Palo Alto to buy Checkov creator, Bridgecrew
Palo Alto said it will acquire Bridgecrew, the developer of the static code analysis tool Checkov. DevOps teams use the open source tool to build cloud applications. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Feb 2021
7 steps for a network and IT security foundation
Enterprises should make it a habit to review their IT security systems, following steps that include network segmentation, multifactor authentication and security education. Continue Reading
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Answer
12 Feb 2021
DevNet vs. CCNA: What's the difference?
While CCNA certification concentrates on foundational network engineering knowledge, DevNet certification focuses on modern networking concepts, like automation and software. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Feb 2021
SASE market emerges and grows as the 'wave of the future'
Secure Access Service Edge is the latest technology to garner industry buzz in networking and security. Although it's still relatively new, the technology is making waves. Continue Reading
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News
10 Feb 2021
Cisco expects revenue to grow as people return to offices
Cisco forecasts revenue growth between 3.5% and 5.5% this quarter, driven by increased sales of wireless networking products and video conferencing hardware and software. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Feb 2021
How to secure remote access for WFH employees in 4 steps
The global pandemic caused mayhem on network security environments. Enterprises need to bring rigor back to their systems and tighten security for remote workers. Continue Reading
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News
05 Feb 2021
News briefs: Dell, partners to deliver OneBox MEC
OneBox MEC is a 5G-enabled mobile edge computing platform. The hardware will contain turnkey technology for deploying a private 5G network and application services. Continue Reading
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News
04 Feb 2021
Arista launches zero-trust security with a Forescout option
Arista's zero-trust security framework segments devices into groups and sets policies for network access. Forescout integration is available for dynamic device identification. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Feb 2021
An overview of 3GPP 5G releases and what each one means
3GPP has standardized features and specifications for all cellular technology generations since 3G. Learn about 3GPP's 5G timeline and notable features each 5G release introduces. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Feb 2021
Weighing the advantages of private 5G vs. carrier 5G
Considering private 5G vs. carrier 5G for your interior networking? No single option fits all, but here are some factors you should consider. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Feb 2021
SASE hype includes SD-WAN, but does it need to?
Much of the hype around Secure Access Service Edge features the importance of SD-WAN with SASE, but do the two need each other to thrive? Research says probably not. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Feb 2021
How to monitor home network traffic for added security
When addressing home network monitoring, track all connected devices, and take advantage of open source tools, like packet capture, to sniff out malicious traffic. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Feb 2021
The tradeoffs and cost of network redundancy
Network redundancy costs vary depending on enterprise use cases, but the determining tradeoff usually depends on how long a company can sustain network downtime. Continue Reading
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News
29 Jan 2021
Cisco adds lower-end routers to Catalyst 8000 line
The 8200 and 8500L are for branch and aggregation use cases, respectively. The 8200 is for companies requiring an entry-level device for running a Cisco SD-WAN in the branch. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Jan 2021
Cloud networking complexity includes visibility and security
Enterprises are deploying more workloads in cloud environments. But the visibility, security and management required for those extensions of IT infrastructure can get complicated. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Jan 2021
How the SolarWinds vulnerability affects networking
The SolarWinds attack resulted in a bevy of network vulnerabilities, like masked traffic and backdoor access. Network teams should take the time to review their security strategies. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Jan 2021
How to understand networking and the internet for beginners
For beginners, learning how networking and the internet truly work can feel overwhelming. One expert encourages patience, practice and assurance that networking isn't unknowable. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Jan 2021
How to learn networking fundamentals, from a software pro
Networking basics include protocols, network layers and processes that must happen for computers to communicate across a network. Here's how to start learning these basics. Continue Reading
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News
28 Jan 2021
Network startup DriveNets reaches unicorn status
DriveNets' latest round of funding drove its valuation to $1 billion. The company's plans include developing network services that service providers run as microservices. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Jan 2021
IT groups abandon DIY SD-WAN; prefer managed, hybrid model
Enterprises don't want DIY SD-WAN. Instead, they prefer managed SD-WAN, but they also don't want to outsource all SD-WAN operations to a service provider. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Jan 2021
SolarWinds: Lessons learned for network management, monitoring
In this roundup of networking blogs, experts reveal the critical lessons learned from the SolarWinds hack in regard to network management and monitoring capabilities. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Jan 2021
10 network security tips in response to the SolarWinds hack
From perimeter protection to persistent patching, enterprises should regularly review, update and test their network security plans, especially in response to the SolarWinds hack. Continue Reading
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Answer
20 Jan 2021
VLAN vs. subnet: What's the difference?
While VLANs are a type of subnet, they have their own unique capabilities and characteristics that differentiate them from subnets. However, the OSI model plays a major role in both. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Jan 2021
Considerations for SASE management and troubleshooting
SASE opens new territory for network and security management and troubleshooting. Ultimately, teams should look for system usability and visibility into traffic flows and policies. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Jan 2021
SASE challenges include network security roles, product choice
Secure Access Service Edge blends network and security functions. While this integration has its benefits, enterprises still need to address some SASE challenges. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Jan 2021
VPN vs. VLAN: What's the difference?
VPNs and VLANs are different technologies with some similarities. VPNs connect authorized users to corporate network resources, while VLANs connect geographically separate devices. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Jan 2021
Myths and realities of a Wi-Fi 6 upgrade
Despite the promise of high data rates, longer client battery life and more efficient radio techniques, enterprises need to weigh Wi-Fi 6's limitations. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Jan 2021
How to calculate SASE return on investment and costs
SASE return on investment will vary for each organization, depending on use cases and architecture requirements. But the metrics used to determine ROI and cost factors are the same. Continue Reading
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Answer
12 Jan 2021
Broadband vs. Wi-Fi: What's the difference?
Broadband and Wi-Fi are common technical terms often used interchangeably -- although they shouldn't be. Both provide connectivity, but they do so in different ways. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Jan 2021
Top 5 SASE use cases balance network connectivity, security
Secure Access Service Edge can enhance network performance and security controls for remote sites. Discover some of the other top SASE use cases and deployment options. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Jan 2021
Setting up and using a home VLAN to segment network traffic
Virtual LANs can help homeowners segment their network traffic for enhanced control and security. Network analyst John Fruehe takes you inside his home VLANs. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Dec 2020
VMware enhances NSX-T 3.0 to ease networking
Version 3 of NSX-T gets new alarms, security features and admin tools, as well as new and improved integrations to provide VMware admins with better networking capabilities. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Dec 2020
5 networking startups helping enterprises adapt and prepare
Even in a global pandemic, these five networking startups continue to impress. Learn how their innovative technologies can help enterprises prepare for unforeseen challenges. Continue Reading
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News
29 Dec 2020
Private 5G networks to gain momentum in 2021
Enterprises using industrial IoT devices are among the early adopters of private 5G networks, which could become an $8 billion market by 2027. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Dec 2020
Ensure network resilience with redundancy and skills
Ensuring network resilience doesn't just mean building redundancy in network infrastructure. It should also include planning contingencies for people and skills. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Dec 2020
Gluware automation tech shines in brownfield networks
Gluware's intelligent network automation technology helps enterprises outgrow manual configurations, even in technically complex, multivendor brownfield environments. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Dec 2020
What experts say to expect from 5G in 2021
In this roundup of networking blogs, experts explore 5G's potential in 2021, including new business and technical territories 5G may explore and features to transform enterprises. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 Dec 2020
Top network attacks of 2020 that will influence the decade
You've heard of phishing, ransomware and viruses. Now, keep them in mind because one cybersecurity expert says these threats and more may cause IT headaches for the next decade. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 Dec 2020
Advice for an effective network security strategy
Security audits, evaluations of tools and looking realistically at trending technologies are some ways an organization can ensure its network security is the best it can be. Continue Reading
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Quiz
21 Dec 2020
Test your network threats and attacks expertise in this quiz
Network security is an ever-changing subject, but many of its common threats have plagued IT pros for years -- and will likely continue to do so. See what you know in this quiz. Continue Reading