Networking
Top Stories
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Tip
25 Aug 2026
Why agentic AI needs network APIs to succeed
APIs are a foundational component for agentic AI to work properly across enterprise networks. Learn why autonomous agents depend on network APIs to monitor and manage systems. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Aug 2026
How AI workloads affect enterprise network design
Distributed AI workloads reshape the architectures and strategies that enterprises traditionally relied on to plan network work capacity, manage congestion and support east-west traffic. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Jun 2025
Overview of the AI maturity model in networking
A network maturity model outlines the path from manual to automated operations. As organizations move to AI-ready networks, adoption and AI capabilities remain in early stages. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Jun 2025
What is VMware NSX? Definition, features and use cases
VMware NSX is a network virtualization feature that allows VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) subscribers to replicate their entire network infrastructure with software. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Jun 2025
What is signal-to-noise ratio and how is it measured?
A signal-to-noise ratio compares the strength of a desired signal with any undesired signals created by background noise. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
02 Jun 2025
How to create a network monitoring system
Most organizations buy network monitoring systems from vendors, but those that choose to build in-house must follow a detailed set of steps to ensure a comprehensive platform. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 May 2025
What is the OSI model? The 7 layers of OSI explained
The OSI model (Open Systems Interconnection model) is a multilayered reference model that shows how computer systems and applications communicate over a network. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 May 2025
What is a rogue DHCP server?
Rogue DHCP servers can throw DHCP infrastructures out of balance. These servers cause numerous network problems but are easy to detect and remove with proper network management. Continue Reading
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Opinion
19 May 2025
How AIOps enables next-generation networking
As networks grow more complex, management becomes more difficult. AIOps can help network administrators transition to and manage next-generation networks. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 May 2025
BGP routing: A configuration and troubleshooting tutorial
BGP is the internet's core routing protocol, enabling communication between ISPs and large networks. This guide covers its functionality, configuration and troubleshooting essentials. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 May 2025
What is shielded twisted pair (STP) and how does it work?
Shielded twisted pair (STP) is a kind of cable made up of smaller wires where each small pair of wires is twisted together and has an outer coating to electrically shield it. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 May 2025
What is ping and how does it work?
Ping (Packet Internet Groper) is a basic internet program that enables a user to test and verify if a particular destination Internet Protocol (IP) address is reachable and can respond to network requests. Continue Reading
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News
13 May 2025
Customer experience and hybrid work highlights Webex news at Cisco Live
Cisco unveils a strong set of AI-powered features for Webex Contact Center and Webex Meetings. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 May 2025
12 remote access security risks and how to prevent them
Enterprises face myriad remote access security concerns, but training and clear communication can help bolster security programs for the long term. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 May 2025
What is 1000BASE-T (Gigabit Ethernet)?
1000BASE-T is a Gigabit Ethernet standard that operates at a speed of 1 gigabit per second (Gbps) over copper wiring. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 May 2025
What is DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol)?
DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) is a network management protocol used to dynamically assign an Internet Protocol (IP) address to any device on a network so it can communicate. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 May 2025
What is Routing Information Protocol (RIP)?
Routing Information Protocol (RIP) is a distance vector protocol that uses hop count as its primary metric. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Apr 2025
What is data center interconnect (DCI)?
Data center interconnect (DCI) technology links two or more data centers so they can share resources. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Apr 2025
What is streaming network telemetry?
Streaming network telemetry is a real-time data collection service in which network devices, such as routers, switches and firewalls, continuously push data related to the network's health to a centralized location. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Apr 2025
How to use Cilium Hubble for network observability
Cilium's Hubble tool provides network observability while working in Kubernetes. This guide explains how Hubble works and how to set it up in a Kubernetes cluster. Continue Reading
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News
29 Apr 2025
HPE Aruba deepens network security and OpsRamp visibility
A new 'digital circuit breaker' capability for HPE Private Clouds, increased visibility of third-party hardware with OpsRamp and new SASE capabilities arrive for HPE Aruba. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Apr 2025
GenAI prompt engineering tactics for network pros
The accuracy and relevance of AI responses are directly influenced by the quality of the prompt. Each tool performs differently based on its underlying training data and model architecture. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Apr 2025
What is network traffic?
Network traffic is the amount of data that moves across a network during any given time. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Apr 2025
What is network availability?
Network availability is how long a network system is in uptime over a specific time interval. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Apr 2025
What is NFV MANO (network functions virtualization management and orchestration)?
NFV MANO (network functions virtualization management and orchestration), or just MANO, is an architectural framework used to manage and orchestrate virtual network functions (VNFs) and other software components. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Apr 2025
A look at low Earth orbit use cases
LEO offers an alternative to traditional connectivity, especially in remote or underserved areas. While it has some limitations, it's quickly becoming an option in enterprise WAN. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Apr 2025
What is traffic shaping (packet shaping)?
Traffic shaping, also known as packet shaping, is a congestion management method that regulates network data transfer by delaying the flow of less important or less desired packets. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Apr 2025
What is dynamic and static?
In general, dynamic means 'energetic or forceful,' while static means 'stationary.' Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Apr 2025
The pros and cons of quantum networking
Quantum networking promises secure, high-speed communication -- someday. There are huge practical challenges, including fragility, cost and integration with traditional networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Apr 2025
What is open networking?
Open networking describes a network that uses open standards and commodity hardware. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Apr 2025
AI adoption in networks is the norm despite its infancy
AI adoption has become the norm in enterprise networking, but the industry hasn't yet reached a consensus on standard use cases. Continue Reading
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Opinion
03 Apr 2025
Palo Alto Networks pushes platformization, AI for security
At Ignite in New York, the vendor laid out plans to use AI and platformization to consolidate cybersecurity tools and data to combat increasingly sophisticated attacks. Continue Reading
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Answer
03 Apr 2025
Application vs. network load balancing: What's the difference?
Network load balancing and application load balancing both handle traffic requests. However, they process and direct requests with different levels of speed and efficiency. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Apr 2025
What is Border Gateway Protocol (BGP)?
BGP (Border Gateway Protocol) is the protocol that enables the internet's global routing system. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Apr 2025
How to set up a VLAN for enterprise networks
Network administrators configure VLANs to enhance network security and performance. Learn how to set up a VLAN, from configuration steps and best practices to troubleshooting tips. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Apr 2025
What is multiplexing and how does it work?
Multiplexing, or 'muxing,' is a way of sending multiple signals or streams of information over a communications link at the same time in the form of a single, complex signal. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Mar 2025
What is a programmable network (network programmability)?
A programmable network is one in which software that operates independently of network hardware handles the behavior of network devices and flow control. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Mar 2025
What is port address translation (PAT)?
Port address translation (PAT) is a type of network address translation (NAT) that maps a network's private internal IPv4 addresses to a single public Internet Protocol address by using network ports. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Mar 2025
What is the data link layer in the OSI model?
The data link layer is the protocol layer in a program that handles how data moves in and out of a physical link in a network. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Mar 2025
How multi-cloud networking can ensure reliability
Networking services enhance multi-cloud network reliability by reducing configuration errors, adding redundancy and ensuring seamless connectivity across cloud environments. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Mar 2025
12 network automation ideas to implement in your network
What's your path to network automation? Here are 12 automation ideas that span different levels of expertise to help network teams get comfortable with network automation. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Mar 2025
What is software-defined networking (SDN)?
Software-defined networking (SDN) is a networking approach in which software is used to easily configure and centrally manage IT networks. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Mar 2025
How to ensure network performance and reliability
Network reliability is critical to network performance. Network administrators should follow reliability best practices to understand how to build and maintain reliable networks. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Mar 2025
Wi-Fi 6 vs. Wi-Fi 6E vs. Wi-Fi 7: What are the differences?
Wi-Fi standards continue to evolve. The three most recent standards -- Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 -- build on each other's capabilities, but all have their own unique features. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Mar 2025
What is QAM (quadrature amplitude modulation) and how does it work?
QAM (quadrature amplitude modulation) is a method of combining two amplitude modulation (AM) signals into a single channel. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Mar 2025
What is network topology?
A network topology is the physical and logical arrangement of nodes and connections in a network. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Mar 2025
How to avoid duplicate IP addresses in a network
Duplicate IP addresses can cause serious network issues. Learn how to avoid duplicate IP addresses with effective IP tracking, DHCP management and network mapping techniques. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Mar 2025
What is User Datagram Protocol (UDP)?
User Datagram Protocol (UDP) is a communications protocol primarily used to establish low-latency and loss-tolerating connections between applications on the internet. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Mar 2025
What is the Server Message Block (SMB) protocol? How does it work?
The Server Message Block (SMB) protocol is a client-server communication protocol used for sharing access to files, printers, serial ports and other resources on a network. Continue Reading
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Opinion
14 Mar 2025
MWC 2025: Enterprise networking in a jungle of mobility
The latest private 5G, FWA and several DAS/neutral host choices were on display at this year's Mobile World Congress event. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Mar 2025
What are managed network services?
Managed network services are networking applications, functions and services that a managed service provider (MSP) remotely operates, monitors and maintains for an enterprise. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Mar 2025
What is a network interface card (NIC)?
A network interface card (NIC) is a hardware component, typically a circuit board or chip, installed on a computer so it can connect to a network. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Mar 2025
The 4 different types of wireless networks
The four types of wireless networks -- wireless LAN, wireless MAN, wireless PAN and wireless WAN -- differ in size, range and connectivity requirements. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Mar 2025
What is a network node?
A network node is a connection point in a communications network. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Mar 2025
What is Telnet?
Telnet is a network protocol used to remotely access a computer for a text-based communication channel between two machines. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Mar 2025
What are port numbers and how do they work?
A port number is a way to identify a specific process to which an internet or other network message is to be forwarded when it arrives at a server. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Mar 2025
802.11 standards: How do 802.11ac, 802.11ax, 802.11be differ?
Wi-Fi standards -- 802.11ac, 802.11ax and 802.11be -- differ based on frequency bands, spatial streams and maximum data rates, with 802.11be offering the most significant improvements. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Mar 2025
What is a router?
A router is a physical or virtual appliance that passes information between two or more packet-switched computer networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Mar 2025
What is east-west traffic?
East-west traffic refers to the transfer of data packets that move from server to server within a network's data center. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Feb 2025
4 phases to build a network automation architecture
The implementation of a network automation architecture involves several elements, including a core orchestration engine, assorted databases and proper network testing. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Feb 2025
What is FCAPS (fault, configuration, accounting, performance and security)?
FCAPS (fault, configuration, accounting, performance and security) is a network management framework and model created by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Feb 2025
15 common network protocols and their functions explained
Networking makes the internet work, but it needs several key protocols. These common network protocols make communication and connection across the internet possible. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Feb 2025
What is network analytics?
Network analytics is the application of big data principles and tools to the data used to manage and secure data networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Feb 2025
What is modulation?
Modulation is the process of converting data into radio waves by adding information to an electronic or optical carrier signal. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Feb 2025
Use network standardization to facilitate automation
Network teams can automate and standardize network designs to improve configurations, simplify operations and more easily implement changes within their networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Feb 2025
What is a network packet?
A network packet is a basic unit of data that is transferred over a computer network, typically a packet-switched network, such as the internet. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Feb 2025
What is network visibility?
Network visibility is an awareness of the components and data within an enterprise computer network. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Feb 2025
What is a wireless mesh network (mesh WiFi)?
A wireless mesh network (WMN) is a mesh network created through the connection of wireless access point (wireless AP) nodes installed at each network user's location. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Feb 2025
What is Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP)?
Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) is an application-layer protocol for monitoring and managing network devices on a local area network or wide area network. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
20 Feb 2025
Zero-trust strategies leave networks open to lateral threats
Zero trust assumes a network is already compromised. However, new EMA research shows enterprises are more concerned with securing remote access than internal lateral threats. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Feb 2025
What is a cloud-native network function (CNF)?
A cloud-native network function (CNF) is a service that performs network duties in software, as opposed to purpose-built hardware. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
19 Feb 2025
How to troubleshoot IP settings with Windows ipconfig
Ipconfig is a vital tool for network troubleshooting. It displays key network information to help administrators diagnose and fix connectivity issues efficiently. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Feb 2025
What is a protocol data unit (PDU)?
A protocol data unit (PDU) is the basic unit of exchange between entities that communicate with a specified networking protocol. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Feb 2025
What is the Nessus vulnerability scanning platform?
Nessus is a platform developed by Tenable that scans for security vulnerabilities in devices, applications, operating systems, cloud services and other network resources. Continue Reading
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News
13 Feb 2025
Cisco rides the AI boon
Cisco reported a 9% revenue increase, driven by AI demand. The company plans to launch new AI infrastructure products, focusing on enterprise data center trends. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
12 Feb 2025
How network engineers can prepare for the future with AI
The rapid rise of AI has left some professionals feeling unprepared. GenAI is beneficial to networks, but engineers must have the proper tools to adapt to this new change. Continue Reading
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News
11 Feb 2025
Cisco launches Smart Switches with AMD DPUs for security
Cisco introduces the Smart Switch series, as enterprises refresh networks in preparation for running AI models and applications. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Feb 2025
What is throughput?
Throughput is a measure of how many units of information a system can process in a given amount of time. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Feb 2025
What is network configuration management (NCM)?
Network configuration management (NCM) is the process of organizing and maintaining information about all the components in a computer network. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Feb 2025
What's the difference between internet and Ethernet?
Internet and Ethernet both enable connectivity and communication, but they differ in scope, purpose, reliability and medium. Use this guide to learn about the concepts. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Feb 2025
What is a thin client (lean client)?
A thin client (lean client) is a virtual desktop computing model that runs on the resources stored on a central server instead of a computer's resources. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Jan 2025
What is network monitoring?
Network monitoring, also frequently called network management, is the practice of consistently overseeing a computer network for any failures or deficiencies to ensure continued network performance. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Jan 2025
How to troubleshoot DHCP issues
DHCP server troubleshooting steps vary depending on the DHCP error. Some of the most common errors include DHCP server failure, lack of available IP addresses and network failures. Continue Reading
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News
30 Jan 2025
HPE-Juniper deal hits DOJ roadblock
The Department of Justice sues to block the $14 billion deal. HPE and Juniper call its analysis 'substantially disconnected from market realities.' Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Jan 2025
What is network automation?
Network automation is a process that uses intelligent software to automate the management, configuration, deployment, testing and operation of both physical and virtual devices. Continue Reading
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Answer
24 Jan 2025
Cloud networking vs. cloud computing: What's the difference?
Businesses might see cloud computing and cloud networking as interchangeable due to similarities, but the two strategies dictate different processes and fulfill different goals. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Jan 2025
What is the Universal Service Fund (USF)?
The Universal Service Fund (USF) is a United States government program that supports telecommunications access and affordability in rural and low-income communities. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jan 2025
Evaluate 7 cloud monitoring tools for networks
Organizations use cloud monitoring tools to manage on-premises, hybrid and cloud networks. Discover the features of seven cloud monitoring tools that can enhance performance. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jan 2025
The steps and benefits of DNS service audits
Network administrators should perform DNS audits periodically and after major network changes. Routine checks can help teams to plan for future upgrades. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jan 2025
How to configure networks using CI/CD pipelines
The CLI is the common tool for many network engineers who manage network devices. But DevOps is changing the landscape, and network pros should understand network CI/CD deployment. Continue Reading
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Opinion
09 Jan 2025
5 resolutions for enterprise networking in 2025
Had your fill of “best-of” and “top ten” 2024 lists? Instead of looking back or predicting the future, blend what you know with what to prioritize going forward. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Jan 2025
The role of container networking in DevOps
Containerization isn't just for DevOps teams. Network engineers often set up container networks, ensure connectivity between containers and work with container networking tools. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Jan 2025
What is network management?
Network management is a multifaceted discipline that provides network administrators with the tools, protocols and processes to maintain and optimize network operations. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Dec 2024
How to use network automation to ease cloud integration
Cloud network automation can ease the integration of networking and cloud resources. Set clear objectives and standardize tools to make the process smoother. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Dec 2024
What is network downtime?
Network downtime refers to inaccessibility to part or all of a network due to the failure of hardware, software or some combination of both. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Dec 2024
What is PSTN (public switched telephone network)?
PSTN (public switched telephone network) is the world's collection of interconnected voice-oriented public telephone networks via traditional circuit-switched networks. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Dec 2024
Compare 7 network automation tools and their capabilities
Network automation tools automate repetitive tasks, provision devices and manage configurations. Evaluate seven tools to discover the benefits each option provides for efficiency. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Dec 2024
Network design principles for effective architectures
It's important for network architects to consider several factors for an effective network design. Top principles include flexibility and scalability, redundancy and security. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Dec 2024
The business case for AI-driven network orchestration
Organizations that are considering AI-driven network orchestration will find it has many business cases -- chief among them are reduced Opex and efficient resource use. Continue Reading
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Answer
09 Dec 2024
What are the 5 types of network management?
Despite the changes in how organizations optimize network performance, the five foundational elements of network management -- also known as FCAPS -- remain the same. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Dec 2024
What is Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) certification?
Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) certification is a series of technical certifications for senior networking professionals who design, build, implement, maintain and troubleshoot complex enterprise networking infrastructures. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Dec 2024
The purpose of route poisoning in networking
Route poisoning is an effective way of stopping routers from sending data packets across bad links and stop routing loops. This limits delays and creates a more stable network. Continue Reading