Networking
Top Stories
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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
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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
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Tip
02 Oct 2019
Automation improves firewall migration and network security
Firewall migration is a compelling automation use case, as automation scripts can shorten the migration process, eliminate unused rules and bolster overall network security. Continue Reading
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Opinion
19 Sep 2019
The evolution of SDN and its role in networking
Has SDN run its course, or has the architecture simply evolved? In many current products, data centers and cloud environments, SDN may be closer than you think. Continue Reading
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Answer
31 Jul 2019
What is the difference between TCP/IP model vs. OSI model?
Use this expert advice to learn the differences between the TCP/IP model vs. the OSI model, and explore how they relate to each other in network communications. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Jun 2019
How products from leading campus LAN switch vendors compare
Before evaluating campus LAN switches, assess the organization's core needs as well as future requirements, such as capabilities for Wi-Fi 6 or high-end PoE to power IoT devices. Continue Reading
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Answer
19 Jun 2019
What roles are included in a network engineer job description?
What is a network engineer? The role can encompass several disciplines, especially as new technologies emerge. Software knowledge, in particular, is in high demand. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jun 2019
Cisco AI, machine learning network analytics head to the cloud
The new Cisco AI and machine learning platform, launched at Cisco Live, is a cloud-based network analytics service for the data center, campus and WAN. Continue Reading
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News
06 Jun 2019
New Arista campus switches, APs complete product portfolio
The latest Arista campus switches and Wi-Fi 6 APs meet enterprise requirements. But success against established rivals will depend on an effective sales and channel strategy. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 May 2019
Key factors to consider before evaluating campus edge switches
Before buying a campus edge switch, it's important to understand how technologies such as IoT could affect campus traffic and how you architect your network. Continue Reading
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Answer
15 May 2019
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
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News
15 May 2019
Extreme launches autonomous network strategy at Extreme Connect
Extreme unveils its building blocks for an autonomous network, called Elements. The company also introduces at the Extreme Connect show an IoT security tool. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 May 2019
Wireless capacity more important than fast Wi-Fi 6 speed
Wi-Fi 6 speed may be getting all the attention, but the most compelling advantages of the new standard are techniques engineered to increase wireless capacity. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Apr 2019
The future of VPN will reflect the need for flexibility
The future of VPN services reflects the industry's trend toward software networking, evident in developments like SD-WAN and public cloud. The need for flexible technology is a main driver. Continue Reading
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Opinion
04 Apr 2019
Skip the wireless site survey cost and invest in more wireless APs
A wireless site survey simply provides a one-time snapshot of a work environment's wireless coverage. But Wi-Fi requires ongoing management based on several changing variables. Continue Reading
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Feature
03 Apr 2019
How cloud network architecture can redesign the enterprise edge
Networks are changing at the edge, and maintaining edge connectivity is crucial. Cloud network advancements are transforming connectivity options, as well as WANs and SD-WANs. Continue Reading
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News
02 Apr 2019
Aruba ClearPass Device Insight IDs more IoT devices
Aruba ClearPass Device Insight discovers more IoT devices on the IP network than the company's previous product. The software collects better data from the network to ID hardware. Continue Reading
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Answer
18 Mar 2019
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
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News
14 Mar 2019
Facebook Minipack joins other advancements at OCP 2019
Facebook launches the power-saving Minipack switching platform, and Arista unveils the 7368X4 for hyperscalers at the OCP 2019 Global Summit. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Mar 2019
Network visibility challenges in modern networks
To tackle current visibility issues, you must first understand the nature and sources of the problems. Learn why visibility is essential but so tough to achieve. Continue Reading
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Answer
06 Mar 2019
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
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Feature
01 Mar 2019
Forward Networks' software enables intent-based networking
TechTarget has named Forward Networks a winner of its Network Innovation Award. Learn how the company's visibility and verification software supports intent-based networking. Continue Reading
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Answer
07 Feb 2019
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
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Tip
29 Jan 2019
6 steps to troubleshoot Wi-Fi network issues
In a business setting, as you troubleshoot Wi-Fi network issues, these six steps provide a foundation to get you started and keep you grounded when wireless problems hit. Continue Reading
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Infographic
18 Jan 2019
Network management and monitoring top of mind for IT teams
Network management and monitoring will take center stage in 2019, as IT professionals feel the pressure to monitor network devices, traffic and performance. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Jan 2019
Consider these 5 factors of DCI technology
This feature showcases five pieces of advice that detail what you need to know about data center interconnect, its pros and cons, and its relationship with other networking areas. Continue Reading
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Answer
08 Jan 2019
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
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Tip
07 Jan 2019
SD-WAN features lacking, but offer differentiation opportunity
Most available SD-WAN products focus on a few main features, which risks making SD-WAN a commodity offering. But vendors are starting to combat that with feature differentiation. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Jan 2019
Data center interconnects rife with application challenges
Avoid pushing complexity into your network. This is especially true with data center interconnect design, Layer 2 mobility and application requirements. Continue Reading
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Opinion
27 Dec 2018
6 emerging trends in wireless networking technology for 2019
In 2019, expect to see some interesting trends in wireless networking technology, including a surge in millimeter waves, the budding potential for end-to-end network analytics and, of course, the ongoing development of 5G services. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Dec 2018
What to consider when integrating SD-WAN and ITSM tools
We haven't really heard a lot about SD-WAN integration with IT service management. But getting SD-WAN to work with existing ITSM tools is a big priority for enterprises. Continue Reading
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Answer
26 Dec 2018
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
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Answer
13 Dec 2018
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
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News
12 Dec 2018
'Best-of-breed' SD-WAN option supersedes big boxes, expert says
When it comes to SD-WAN technology, deployment options vary, largely dependent on business requirements. But a multiple-vendors strategy might be better than all-in-one SD-WAN. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Oct 2018
How to select a CDN provider that addresses your specialized needs
Leading CDN services offer a wide range of traffic management functionality, including application load balancing, and provide a variety of network security services. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Oct 2018
SD-WAN and SLAs: Why crafting internal SLAs is a smart move
IT teams can use SD-WAN to keep track of network performance, upping the possibility to create and enforce internal SLAs that better reflect business requirements. Continue Reading
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News
19 Oct 2018
VMware faces strong challengers in cloud systems management
VMware topped IDC's latest vendor ranking in the cloud systems management market. But the analyst firm said the market is too young to declare any vendor a winner. Continue Reading
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News
17 Oct 2018
Cato SD-WAN adds 'self-healing' capabilities to product portfolio
Cato Networks hones Cato SD-WAN with 'self-healing' features designed to fight against network failures. Also, Kaloom unveils Software Defined Fabric to improve data center programmability. Continue Reading
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Answer
20 Sep 2018
How do I begin network infrastructure planning for SD-WAN?
When gearing up for SD-WAN upgrades, enterprises should take their time with network infrastructure planning. These three steps can help get them started. Continue Reading
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News
19 Sep 2018
Nuage Networks, Talari SD-WAN tack on multi-cloud connectivity
With their respective SD-WAN platform updates this week, Nuage Networks and Talari took a page from Oprah: You get multi-cloud connectivity, and you get multi-cloud connectivity. Continue Reading
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Opinion
12 Sep 2018
4G LTE or 5G could be your branch office backup internet connection
As of May, Citrix has entered this space, too. Continue Reading
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Answer
06 Sep 2018
Does software networking fit modern data center requirements?
Software networking can support modern data center requirements, private clouds and accompanying applications. But IT teams need to wade through components and suppliers to get there. Continue Reading
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Answer
13 Aug 2018
Which SD-WAN security concerns should I tackle first?
IT teams thinking about software-defined WAN technology should assess a few SD-WAN security concerns before deployment to make sure it's worth the investment. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Aug 2018
Assess technology and products from top SD-WAN vendors
SD-WAN products and services offer a variety of features and deployment options. Learn how top SD-WAN vendors stack up when it comes to addressing your key considerations. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Aug 2018
Benefits of wireless networks extend to disaster recovery plans
In a business continuity and disaster recovery plan, IT resilience is key. Find out how the benefits of wireless networks can help keep businesses running. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Aug 2018
Network performance metrics pose data center challenges
Currently, network performance metrics are not fully formed and offer just a generic view of the network. Plus, metrics produce reams of data that are difficult to digest. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Aug 2018
What networking automation tools should you consider?
When launching network automation projects, do you craft custom scripts or buy off-the-shelf networking automation tools? It probably depends on your team's capabilities. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Jul 2018
Compare leading on-premises and cloud-managed WLAN products
In order for your organization to select the WLAN architecture that will best meet its needs, you must compare product types, deployment options and capabilities. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jul 2018
SR-IOV specification poses promise and pitfalls in virtualized networks
The SR-IOV specification gives network administrators another tool for workload optimization. While SR-IOV could offer many benefits, it does have its drawbacks. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Jul 2018
What you need to know about managed SD-WAN services
This guide offers easy access to information on five major topics related to managed SD-WAN services and directs you toward the latest advice, tips and recommendations. Continue Reading
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Answer
25 Jul 2018
How can network analytics tools benefit IT staff?
Network analytics tools can help IT managers proactively pinpoint network performance issues and trends -- even before the underlying problem is revealed. Continue Reading
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News
12 Jun 2018
ONAP Beijing release targets deployment scenarios
With its ONAP Beijing release, the Linux Foundation turns its attention to what makes a system deployment ready to go: usability, stability and security, among others. Continue Reading
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Opinion
11 Jun 2018
Challenges of blockchain muddle understanding of the technology
There is a lot of hype about blockchain and how it might be used within networking operations. But just understanding the technology and what it actually does might be among the biggest challenges of blockchain. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Jun 2018
Network edge switch upgrades hinge on WLAN deployments
Network edge switch upgrades depend on a variety of factors, but one of the most critical is taking a look at your future WLAN deployment strategies. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 May 2018
A refresher course on white box networking equipment
This white box networking review sheds some light on the variations, as it's all too easy to confuse the intricacies of white boxes, universal CPEs and brite boxes. Continue Reading
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Answer
21 May 2018
How can network analytics tools be used to improve performance?
With pressure and expectations for network and enterprise performance rising, IT professionals are turning to network analytics tools that use machine learning to remain ahead of the game. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 May 2018
The role of SDN in 5G technology and the WAN: Can it scale?
Network operators have a narrow window to figure out if SDN in 5G technology can scale well enough to move it beyond the data center and into the WAN. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Apr 2018
How data center interconnect technologies shape WAN performance
Latency, congestion and sluggish TCP stacks can plague application performance, but understanding data center interconnect technologies is key. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Apr 2018
Cisco advances Network Assurance Engine, network verification tech
The Cisco Network Assurance Engine, a network verification tool, will add support for more third-party devices and platforms. Cisco's Sundar Iyer shares plans. Continue Reading
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Answer
10 Apr 2018
Despite WLAN speed growth, do we really need mGig?
Networking vendors introduced mGig to support 802.11ac Wave 2 devices within enterprise networks. But do you really need to upgrade to accommodate the new WLAN speed? Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Apr 2018
Improvements and features of the new POE standard, IEEE 802.3bt
The new IEEE 802.3bt standard focuses on Power over Ethernet to improve efficiency and support the proliferation of edge devices, from lighting systems to point-of-sale. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Mar 2018
Examine CORD architecture's benefits and challenges
CORD architecture offers service providers a compelling way to combine open hardware and software in the central office, boost service delivery and enable NFV capabilities. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Mar 2018
The on-premises vs. cloud-managed WLAN architecture debate
Although on-premises WLANs and cloud WLANs both offer significant advantages, determining which approach will provide the best return depends on several factors. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Mar 2018
The future of SDN in 2018 moves toward increased automation
Future SDN trends could show variations of the technology becoming more prominent among enterprises, as organizations look increasingly toward programmability and automation. Continue Reading
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Answer
22 Mar 2018
Which is better for WLAN support: Mac or Windows?
Choosing the right laptop for WLAN support usually boils down to Macintosh versus Windows. But of the two, there is only one OS clearly up to the task, our expert maintains. Continue Reading
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Answer
19 Mar 2018
What exactly is a digital business transformation strategy?
What do you need for a digital business transformation strategy that will actually work to boost business value and change the enterprise operations model? Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Mar 2018
How to plan for network disaggregation with APIs
Network disaggregation is a lot of work for engineers, and it's fraught with potential hurdles posed by sourcing hardware, a control plane, network operating system and how you manage necessary APIs. Continue Reading
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Opinion
07 Mar 2018
SDN marketplace sows confusion on network infrastructure upgrades
The ever-evolving SDN marketplace continues to confuse IT departments as they determine what steps they should take with their network infrastructure upgrades. Continue Reading
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Opinion
02 Mar 2018
Millimeter wave spectrum has key role in 802.11ay wireless
IEEE 802.11ay Wi-Fi is getting closer to final ratification. The new standard relies on millimeter wave spectrum to deliver stronger and more robust services. Continue Reading
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Answer
01 Mar 2018
What security is needed for digital assistant devices?
How should cybersecurity-enforcement efforts adapt as digital assistant devices become more pervasive in business enterprise networking to safeguard corporate data? Continue Reading
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Answer
26 Feb 2018
How can IT asset management tools aid in virtualization era?
IT asset management tools allow businesses to track resources effectively. Platform organization is increasingly necessary in a virtualized enterprise. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Feb 2018
Considerations for buying an application delivery controller
Before you buy an ADC device, learn which features you should look for and what questions you should ask prospective application delivery controller vendors. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Feb 2018
SD-WAN vs. MPLS: The quality-of-service comparison
Quality of service is often top of mind for IT leaders when debating SD-WAN vs. MPLS -- especially when it comes to using internet links for SD-WAN connectivity. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Feb 2018
How networking can prepare for 5G mobile technology
An 'average Joe' engineer discusses the impact 5G mobile technology may bring to his operation as developments around the standard heat up. Continue Reading
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News
09 Feb 2018
Is machine learning needed for network traffic routing?
This week, bloggers assess the role of machine learning for network traffic routing, new hurdles for identity management due to the cloud and what to ask AI vendors. Continue Reading
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Answer
05 Feb 2018
What's automation's role in network provisioning resources?
IT is embracing network automation, but complications with integration disrupt the process. Using automation for provisioning resources can improve efficiency, but reduce the need for IT personnel. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Jan 2018
Fog computing architecture posing challenges for IT
Fog computing architecture designs are gaining traction, as users demand accessibility to apps and services. But the approach can cause challenges for IT. Continue Reading
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Answer
29 Jan 2018
How can cloud management apps organize data across clouds?
If you need to pull together different data sets, cloud management apps can track information workloads across multiple clouds and present the data in a simplified way. Continue Reading
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News
23 Jan 2018
Talari adds SD-WAN appliance for smaller edge sites
With its recently added SD-WAN appliance, Talari aims for smaller branch locations, like retail and remote sites; Cradlepoint introduces subscription-based networking packages. Continue Reading
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Answer
22 Jan 2018
How can you use perfect forward secrecy for mobile security?
How can companies increase data protection in mobile communications environments and enhance perfect forward secrecy to safeguard user activity? Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Jan 2018
NFV disaggregates firewall appliance to increase scalability
A traditional firewall appliance can incorporate many services, but NFV can virtualize firewalls to offer individual services that scale for application requirements. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Jan 2018
Looking ahead to the biggest 2018 tech trends in networking
The year ahead will force IT professionals to break out of their comfort zones and embrace 2018 tech trends that are reshaping the enterprise networking field. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Jan 2018
Four telecom infrastructure trends driving network of the future
Four telecom infrastructure trends -- SDN, NFV, IoT and 5G -- are driving the network of the future, but telecom networks are more likely to transform in 2020, not 2018. Continue Reading
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News
26 Dec 2017
Recapping 2017's biggest trends in networking technology
In 2017 trends in networking technology, network management software got more intelligent, switches more versatile and vendor consolidation accelerated. Continue Reading
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Answer
26 Dec 2017
How can network management systems boost troubleshooting?
What can IT teams do to combine network management systems and application performance management tools to boost troubleshooting in enterprise infrastructure? Continue Reading
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News
22 Nov 2017
Why device upgrade strategies fail
The industry is built on 30-year-old code, writes one analyst, and that is one reason why device upgrade strategies often fall short. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Oct 2017
Network validation a first step to intent-based architecture
Network validation is an important first step for enterprises evaluating intent-based networking. Unless you know how things really work, you won't succeed. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Sep 2017
Comparison of popular technical SD-WAN service models
Two main SD-WAN service model options exist for users to choose from, but more could be on the way due to regulatory and industry development efforts. Find out what works for you in this comparison. Continue Reading
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News
01 May 2017
Nyansa premieres new Voyance network analytics tools
This week, Nyansa premieres new Voyance network analytics tools, espionage takes off as a security threat and the midmarket struggles with cybersecurity. Continue Reading
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News
14 Feb 2017
Riverbed bolsters SteelHead WAN optimization appliance with SD-WAN
Riverbed cloaks its SteelHead SD-WAN optimization appliance with SteelConnect features to provide security and application acceleration. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Feb 2017
Cloud security tips to consider when mulling external data centers
The old security rules don't apply when moving workloads to the cloud. These cloud security tips will help you make the right decision. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Feb 2017
New telecom transformation goals require service automation
Restarting a telecom transformation means putting business goals first and technology choices second, and making the service process more efficient through automation. Continue Reading
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News
02 Feb 2017
Aerohive eyes small firms with APs, cloud-based management software
Aerohive shifts gears with Wi-Fi for small businesses that feature cloud-based management software, Cisco considers the true cost of a data breach and Arista beefs up visibility. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Jan 2017
API growth forcing vendors to take notice or risk losing out
The API is fast becoming a must-have in modern networking. But API growth is forcing vendors to rethink how they want their devices to be configured and managed. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Oct 2016
Intent-driven networking reshaping network service delivery
When configuring a network, engineers often focus on individual tasks to enable network service delivery. Intent-driven networking transfers the focus to the overall network. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Sep 2016
The white box switching market gets a closer look
Following years of development, is the potential of the white box switching market finally being realized? Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Aug 2016
ScienceLogic EM7: Network performance monitor overview
ScienceLogic EM7 is still a newcomer to the network performance monitoring market, but it offers flexible deployment options, including VMs and software-as-a-service installations. Continue Reading
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News
11 Jul 2016
Cisco lifts branch security with latest software release
Cisco introduced at its Live conference branch security software for the ISR router. The networking company also improved malware protection in the Meraki MX appliance. Continue Reading
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News
08 Jun 2016
Avi software ADC gets Innovation Award
Avi Networks' software ADC brought new features and capabilities to the load balancing and application delivery market. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 May 2016
When will SD-WANs 'cross the chasm'?
It can be difficult to separate hype from reality, especially when it comes to SDN technology. Here, analyst Jim Metzler explores when software-defined WANs might go mainstream. Continue Reading
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News
29 Apr 2016
Networking panels at Interop conference cover gamut
Interop networking track chair Tom Hollingsworth talks about the topics he believes are most important to today's networking engineers. Continue Reading
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News
26 Apr 2016
Riverbed SD-WAN design goes beyond optimization
The Riverbed SD-WAN strategy blends optimization, orchestration, management and other services in a single platform, called SteelConnect. Continue Reading