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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Feature
29 Jun 2020
Why network configuration templates are useful in automation
If a network team automates network configuration templates, it can save time and eliminate redundant activities in order to focus more on data collection and analysis. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Jun 2020
An automation-first approach enables network predictability
For an organization to prioritize network automation, it needs an automation-first approach. This strategy involves understanding automation workflows and enabling proper training. Continue Reading
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News
26 Jun 2020
COVID-19 tech will fail without employee privacy
Businesses can choose from a growing number of mobile apps and Wi-Fi software to protect workers from COVID-19. But tech won't succeed without top-of-the-line privacy protection. Continue Reading
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Answer
26 Jun 2020
What's the difference between OFDMA vs. MU-MIMO in Wi-Fi 6?
Is there a difference between OFDMA and MU-MIMO? The two important Wi-Fi 6 features are complementary but distinct. Here's why. Continue Reading
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Answer
25 Jun 2020
Compare the 2 common types of technical debt
While enterprises often incur technical debt inadvertently through inexperience or poor management, sometimes, developers will plan technical debt to establish a market presence. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Jun 2020
Gain SD-branch benefits through automation, orchestration
SD-branch technology is evolving, but don't put off learning about what this tool can do now and the advantages it will deliver in the near future. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Jun 2020
What to know about VPN termination
Network teams make several decisions when designing a secure VPN. One of those is where in the network, logically, they will terminate the VPN tunnels. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Jun 2020
Edge computing and 5G bring the edge to remote workers
As remote work increases, edge computing services must extend to employees' homes. While 5G could help, internet connectivity must improve to enable edge access before 5G prevails. Continue Reading
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Answer
16 Jun 2020
Is Wi-Fi 6 backward-compatible? Yes and no
With the advent of a new wireless standard, some users may wonder: Is Wi-Fi 6 backward-compatible? The answer is yes. But do you want full backward compatibility? Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Jun 2020
Network traffic pattern shifts reflect COVID-19 changes
The novel coronavirus pandemic spurred initial changes in network traffic patterns, but other trends are playing important roles in perpetuating permanent traffic shifts. Continue Reading
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News
09 Jun 2020
Aruba Central touches more devices, gets better analytics
A new version of Aruba Central will include features for managing as many as 50,000 network devices from the cloud. The upgrade also includes better analytics for troubleshooting. Continue Reading
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Answer
08 Jun 2020
Wi-Fi vs. Ethernet: What's the difference and which is better?
When assessing Wi-Fi vs. Ethernet, each connection type has its benefits and drawbacks. Find out why one standard might be more reliable for your network. Continue Reading
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News
03 Jun 2020
Cisco DNA Center's new features may mean more user headaches
Cisco continues to add features to DNA Center to centralize more network control within the software. But as the product grows more complex, users struggle to deploy it. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Jun 2020
MLB uses NetBox automation for network configuration backup
Major League Baseball used NetBox in tandem with its network automation project to streamline its configuration backup process and keep its infrastructure systems in sync. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Jun 2020
A glossary of home network basics for the networking novice
A remote employee's home network requires basics such as routers, modems and VPN services. For the networking novice, this glossary explains and defines these terms and more. Continue Reading
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News
29 May 2020
Cisco acquisition of ThousandEyes has many user benefits
Cisco's acquisition of ThousandEyes could benefit companies using Cisco's SD-WAN, AppDynamics, Duo Security and AnyConnect. Cisco plans to close the deal by the end of October. Continue Reading
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News
29 May 2020
Wi-Fi vendors pitch people tracking for COVID-19 safety
Wi-Fi vendors Aruba and Juniper Networks work with partners to offer in-office people tracking to defend against a COVID-19 outbreak. Cisco focuses on managing gatherings in physical spaces. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 May 2020
5 things to know about MU-MIMO technology in Wi-Fi networks
'Multiuser multiple input, multiple output' might not roll off the tongue, but MU-MIMO technology is increasingly important in modern wireless networks. Here's what you should know. Continue Reading
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News
21 May 2020
Small vendors that stand out in network automation
When incumbent vendors fall short, enterprises should consider these small vendors for new approaches to analytics and network automation. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 May 2020
Top 5 VPN myths and misconceptions for IT organizations
Although VPN technology has its challenges, various misconceptions exist that can muddle IT teams' understandings of VPNs. Here are five common VPN misconceptions debunked. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 May 2020
How to build a network monitoring business case
As network teams construct a business case for a new network monitoring tool, they should include a cost comparison of alternative tools and a strong defense for the selected tool. Continue Reading
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News
15 May 2020
Cisco says IT spending uptick possible despite pandemic
Cisco CEO Chuck Robbins said some industries could resume IT spending soon, despite the pandemic. Robbins' comments came after the company reported an 8% drop in quarterly revenue. Continue Reading
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News
14 May 2020
Enterprises struggle to learn Microsoft Sonic networking
Problems with Microsoft Sonic include a lack of management tools, weak support from hardware vendors and a steep learning curve for engineers, companies said at the OCP Virtual Summit. Continue Reading
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Feature
14 May 2020
Explore real-world edge computing examples for network teams
Developed out of a necessity to handle increasing amounts of data, edge computing will disrupt traditional computing and benefit various modern use cases. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 May 2020
Edge computing book introduces edge laws and techniques
In this book excerpt, discover the three laws of edge computing, as well as how to use edge computing techniques to solve common IT problems within organizations. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 May 2020
COVID-19 speeds SD-WAN evolution to elastic infrastructure
The next phase of SD-WAN requires elastic infrastructure and distributed edge access to better support remote workers. The COVID-19 pandemic is accelerating that evolution. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 May 2020
Network engineer career advice amid the COVID-19 pandemic
As COVID-19 dramatically affects the global economy, people may ask, 'What's next for my career?' No one is sure, but these tips can help network engineers feel and stay secure. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 May 2020
Pair programming pros and cons for network automation
Pair programming is an Agile software development technique that reduces bugs and produces better software. Can pair programming work between networking experts and programmers? Continue Reading
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News
07 May 2020
Nvidia acquisitions open up AI opportunities
Nvidia's recent acquisition of Cumulus Networks and Mellanox provide the components for building systems to power future AI applications. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 May 2020
Remote access best practices emphasize security, ease of use
COVID-19 has forced companies to determine the best way to keep remote employees supported. Not sure which way to proceed? Consider these remote access best practices. Continue Reading
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Answer
04 May 2020
What are the differences between VPN and VDI services?
With a common denominator of 'virtual,' both VPNs and VDI are common in remote work strategies. However, the technologies differ in terms of cost, use cases and performance. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 May 2020
The true cost of network downtime for your business
Network brownouts could be the biggest under-the-radar threat to your network. Calculate the potential costs of downtime to save your organization's productivity and money. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 May 2020
The pros and cons of SD-WAN and remote access
SD-WAN could be a compelling option for enterprises that require remote access for mission-critical jobs. But IT teams should be aware of cost, training and implementation barriers. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 May 2020
Remote work infrastructure requires on-prem network changes
Demilitarized zone, network access control and VPN termination points are some of the on-premises components that need to be addressed in a remote work infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Answer
01 May 2020
What is the difference between a socket and a port?
Sockets, ports and port numbers have functional overlap, but the terms are distinct. A socket is part of a port, while a port number is part of a socket. We explain. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Apr 2020
VSphere Standard Switch vs. Distributed Switch: The differences
Explore the differences between vSphere's two virtual switches: vSS and vDS. One works best on a small scale, while the other can help manage networking across a large business. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Apr 2020
Open Systems' SASE tech wins TechTarget innovation award
Open Systems' SASE platform helped tens of thousands of workers gain secure remote access during the COVID-19 crisis. Learn more about our new Network Innovation Award winner. Continue Reading
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News
28 Apr 2020
How telemedicine, SD-WAN helped two firms get back to work
COVID-19 is forcing companies to rethink their workplaces. Medical companies TrialCard and Vohra have turned to SD-WAN and telemedicine, respectively, to keep employees productive. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Apr 2020
Network automation book shares recipes for success
In this network automation book excerpt, discover how automation frameworks NAPALM and Ansible can provide network teams with vendor-agnostic network management capabilities. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Apr 2020
Network pros need NAPALM, Ansible network automation skills
Network pros need network automation skills in NAPALM and Ansible because the two modules together can enhance multivendor environments and streamline network management tasks. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Apr 2020
ISPs rely on capacity for COVID-19 internet traffic spikes
As COVID-19 causes surges in internet traffic, internet and network providers have responded by increasing capacity and installing more fiber. So far, it's worked. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Apr 2020
5 needed product features to fix network management issues
Virtualization and public cloud monitoring are among five top network management issues facing companies as they assess tools designed to oversee increasingly complex networks. Continue Reading
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News
22 Apr 2020
Cisco SD-WAN to use Google Cloud backbone
Cisco plans to launch next year SD-WAN technology that improves WAN performance by directing traffic over Google Cloud's low-latency network backbone. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Apr 2020
SD-WAN, 5G remote work technologies enable future networks
In this roundup of networking blogs, learn how SD-WAN and 5G can benefit business continuity plans for network infrastructure and whether split tunneling is necessary -- or safe. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Apr 2020
Dental group slashes downtime by 99% with Meraki SD-WAN
In this SD-WAN case study, a dental group with chronic network outages deployed Cisco Meraki to eliminate downtime. Learn more about the software-defined win. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Apr 2020
How ISPs and operators ensure network quality in a pandemic
COVID-19 has caused a spike in remote workers, increased internet usage and traffic surges. Here's how ISPs and telecom operators plan for continuity and quality during the pandemic. Continue Reading
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News
17 Apr 2020
Cisco online certification tests are now available
Cisco online certification testing launched April 15. To prevent cheating, the Pearson VUE testing software commandeers the video cameras and microphones on candidates' home PCs. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Apr 2020
National Instruments SD-WAN case study: Bandwidth up 1,500%
In this SD-WAN case study, learn how Cisco Viptela technology transformed one enterprise WAN for the better -- from decreased costs to increased performance. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Apr 2020
A glossary of the VPN terminology you need to know
For organizations with remote workforces, VPNs can be an essential part of daily life. This VPN glossary explores the essential terms and phrases that constitute VPN services. Continue Reading
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News
16 Apr 2020
Cisco, HPE counter COVID-19 impact with tech financing
Cisco and HPE are offering special tech financing to businesses struggling to keep IT projects going in an economy rocked by the COVID-19 crisis. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Apr 2020
Tips to improve network visibility and security
Network visibility and security can be tricky, especially with the range of products available. These tips help teams pinpoint potential vulnerabilities and gauge the tools they need. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Apr 2020
Wi-Fi 6 explained: Speed, range, latency, frequency and security
Wi-Fi 6 is more than just another wireless upgrade, boasting substantial gains over Wi-Fi 5. Learn how frequency, speed, range, latency and security change with the new standard. Continue Reading
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News
15 Apr 2020
Short-depth Supermicro SuperServer targets 5G telecoms
New 2U Supermicro SuperServer provides compute in micro data centers. The vendor said it aims to help telecommunications firms adopt open systems to support edge computing. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Apr 2020
Why configuration management is important for networks
Configuration management is essential to keep accurate network configuration records and to help organizations avoid potential challenges or problems within their networks. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Apr 2020
Evolution of cellular 5G backhaul architecture faces challenges
Backhaul has become trendy again and for good reason. 5G backhaul architecture means network architects will have to reconsider how their networks can handle 1 Gbps speeds. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Apr 2020
What to include in an SD-WAN security checklist
SD-WAN security encompasses more than integrated security functionality. Find out which capabilities enterprises should look for when evaluating SD-WAN and security. Continue Reading
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News
10 Apr 2020
NSX-T 3.0 enriches VMware's hybrid IT offering
VMware's new NSX-T 3.0 brings important tools to customers modernizing data centers for the cloud era. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Apr 2020
Zoom, Netflix discuss remote network management challenges
COVID-19 forces IT teams to manage company networks remotely. Here are common issues IT teams of all sizes -- like those at Zoom and Netflix -- face and ways to solve them. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Apr 2020
How Wi-Fi experts can help during times of crisis management
When faced with disaster response, wireless network professionals can volunteer their Wi-Fi skills and advise friends and family about home network security. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Apr 2020
How SASE architecture integrates with network infrastructure
SASE architecture offers a compelling value proposition, as it converges networking and security services onto a single cloud platform. Explore how it works with existing infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Apr 2020
Software-based routing on its way to become the new normal
SD-WAN took the networking world by storm, and software-based routing aims to do the same in the router market. Here's what to expect from the move to software. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Apr 2020
How SD-WAN and cloud exchanges benefit multi-cloud settings
As more organizations move IT workloads outside of company walls, SD-WAN services can help ease the shift to cloud environments and secure cloud connections, like cloud exchanges. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Apr 2020
Why SASE adoption requires a paradigm shift
Enterprises preparing to adopt Secure Access Service Edge should understand how the architecture presents organizational and architectural challenges for network and security teams. Continue Reading
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News
08 Apr 2020
Fluidmesh-Cisco deal fills gap in Cisco IIoT
The recently announced Fluidmesh-Cisco deal would fill a gap in Cisco's industrial IoT portfolio. It would provide onboard Wi-Fi for high-speed public transportation systems. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Apr 2020
How to manage the surge in remote video internet traffic
As more people work from home and create more internet traffic, enterprise network managers should adjust bandwidth levels and consider connectivity upgrades. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Apr 2020
Take a look at 6 top VPN service providers for remote work
The right VPN connection ensures workers can do their jobs with an efficient and secure connection. Explore the leading options and their pricing and protection details. Continue Reading
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Opinion
06 Apr 2020
How free Wi-Fi hotspots help in emergency response situations
Emergency and disaster response require teamwork among businesses, governments and community groups. In these times, free Wi-Fi hotspots help people feel connected. Continue Reading
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News
03 Apr 2020
Tech users weigh in on upcoming approval of more Wi-Fi 6 spectrum
Technology users say the pending Federal Communications approval of additional spectrum for Wi-Fi 6 should bring much higher wireless performance than available today. Continue Reading
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News
01 Apr 2020
CloudGenix-Palo Alto buy combines SD-WAN with cloud security
The CloudGenix-Palo Alto Networks acquisition will combine the Prisma cloud security suite with CloudGenix's software-defined WAN. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Mar 2020
DriveNets' disaggregated router tech wins innovation award
Networking startup DriveNets is bringing cloud principles to carrier networks with disaggregated router technology that could change how providers manage their infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Mar 2020
What you should know about host profiles in VMware
Use VMware Host Profiles to keep configuration consistent between hosts and clusters across your vSphere, and avoid common errors and mistakes to maintain stability. Continue Reading
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News
26 Mar 2020
U-turn in network market forecast amid coronavirus pandemic
IDC predicts the global market for switches and wireless LAN products will fall in 2020, with revenues from switches below last year and wireless LAN sales rising less than 1%. Continue Reading
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Answer
26 Mar 2020
What's the latest on NFV and VNFs for enterprises?
As virtualized network functions become more and more common, will that change NFV and VNF roles in businesses? Probably not, but other roadblocks may hinder further results. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Mar 2020
802.3cg standard extends single-pair Ethernet range and speed
IEEE 802.3cg is a single-pair Ethernet standard that aims to support speeds up to 10 Mbps, extend Ethernet range up to 1,000 meters and offer multidrop capabilities. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Mar 2020
4 lasting effects of growing remote workforces on networks
In this roundup of network blogs, explore expert advice on increasing remote workers' efficiency, potential lasting effects of COVID-19 on networks and the future of networking. Continue Reading
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News
20 Mar 2020
Coronavirus: VPN hardware becomes a chokepoint for remote workers
VPN hardware has become a bottleneck for companies with a high number of employees working from home as a result of efforts to combat the coronavirus. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Mar 2020
Discover key OpenStack deployment methods for networks
In this book excerpt, explore best practices for OpenStack deployment methods, and glean expert advice on how to achieve an efficient OpenStack network deployment. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Mar 2020
Business culture is key in OpenStack network requirements
Network teams should expect a shift in their day-to-day routines if their organization embraces OpenStack. However, if the business culture is flexible, changes will be positive. Continue Reading
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Answer
19 Mar 2020
How is SD-WAN as a service different from managed SD-WAN?
SD-WAN technology is available in a variety of business models, including SD-WAN as a service and managed SD-WAN. But how do the different consumption models compare? Continue Reading
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Answer
18 Mar 2020
What do the 6 GHz band and Wi-Fi 6E mean for wireless networking?
The FCC is expected to approve the 6 GHz band for Wi-Fi, which should improve speed and capacity for wireless networks. But make sure your devices can use the 6 GHz band. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Mar 2020
How supporting a remote workforce stresses the network
Make sure your network can support a remote workforce by analyzing 12 potential issues that can cause stress on your network, including VPN concentrator capacity and traffic routing. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Mar 2020
Remote work tests corporate pandemic plans
IT leaders share what's working and how they are supporting remote work mandates for employees as part of their corporate pandemic plans, as well as social distancing among IT. Continue Reading
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News
17 Mar 2020
Dell warns of order delays; tech buyers worry about IT supply chain
Tech buyers feared the coronavirus pandemic could rattle IT supply chains. Meanwhile, Dell warned customers of delays in fulfilling orders on time. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Mar 2020
AI, analytics, automation fuel the future of network management
Advances in automation, AI and analytics should help IT administrators overcome new challenges in virtualized network environments, but some obstacles will surface. Continue Reading
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Answer
16 Mar 2020
What does 'network on demand' mean for enterprises?
Following the on-demand trend, network on-demand options provide enterprises with more flexible consumption models, such as managed network services and cloud-based networking. Continue Reading
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News
13 Mar 2020
HPE touts pricing, tech flexibility of 5G Core Stack
HPE has unveiled carrier software for the 5G Core. HPE touts flexibility in pricing and tech in its 5G Core Stack, which would compete in a market dominated by six vendors. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Mar 2020
Before deploying SD-WAN, assess your underlay network components
If enterprises are to reap the benefits of SD-WAN, they better pay attention to the SD-WAN underlay network. Learn what you should take into consideration. Continue Reading
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Answer
12 Mar 2020
What are some of the weaknesses of SD-WAN?
Cost, complexity and interoperability issues with existing network components are some of the weaknesses of SD-WAN that organizations need to consider. Continue Reading
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News
11 Mar 2020
Cisco restructuring follows Goeckeler departure
The Cisco restructuring that follows the departure of executive VP David Goeckeler has reshuffled the company's executive team among five newly created product groups. Continue Reading
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Answer
11 Mar 2020
Can WPA2 be upgraded to WPA3?
A migration from WPA2 to WPA3 is not simple. Organizations may need to update their hardware extensively to accommodate the newer Wi-Fi encryption standard. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Mar 2020
How to handle vendor code bugs in enterprise Wi-Fi networking
Too many features in Wi-Fi devices can breed some serious code bugs. One coping mechanism is to seek help from fellow customers and network integrators. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Mar 2020
The convergence of networking and security at the edge
Networking and security are converging with offerings like SD-WAN and SD-branch. But enterprises and vendors must overcome IT silos that delay innovation and decision-making. Continue Reading
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News
06 Mar 2020
COVID-19 depresses 5G smartphone shipments
Omdia is the latest analyst firm to lower its projections for 5G smartphone shipments because of the COVID-19 outbreak. The firm expects 20% fewer phones in 2020. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 Mar 2020
A roundup of the Cisco certification changes in 2020
The network industry is changing and so are required network engineer skills. Here's how Cisco redesigned its certification programs to keep up with industry goals. Continue Reading
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Answer
04 Mar 2020
What is the difference between LoRa and LoRaWAN?
LoRa is a modulation technique for specific wireless spectrum, while LoRaWAN is an open protocol that enables IoT devices to use LoRa for communication. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Mar 2020
Plan a VPN and remote access strategy for pandemic, disaster
Disasters and pandemics occur unexpectedly, affecting companies, workers and networks alike. Plan a remote access strategy that covers VPN requirements, bandwidth demands and licenses. Continue Reading
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Feature
03 Mar 2020
WAN transformation sparked by 5G, cloud and SD-WAN technologies
In a modern world, legacy WAN architecture is rife with shortcomings. But 5G features and use cases could help jump-start a WAN transformation for many organizations. Continue Reading
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Answer
03 Mar 2020
What is network verification and do enterprises need it?
Network verification can help organizations gain critical network performance insight and alleviate network complexity. But aspects of the concept are new and not yet mainstream. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Mar 2020
Ansible limitations for network automation
Ansible can be a powerful tool for network automation, but users should be aware of its limitations with debugging, performance, complex data structures and control flow. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Mar 2020
What is USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data)?
USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) is a GSM (Global System for Mobile) communications protocol that is used to send text messages. Continue Reading