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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Tip
30 Apr 2024
How SASE convergence affects organizational silos
Most enterprises have siloed departments, but SASE's convergence of network and security functions is disrupting those constructs and driving the need for more team communication. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Apr 2024
SASE reality check: What should organizations expect?
Enterprises interested in SASE must grapple with challenges and misinformation about the tool. Businesses should discern SASE's true benefits before adoption. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Apr 2024
Why GenAI infrastructure optimization starts with the network
GenAI deployment requires optimized infrastructure. The networking aspects, such as workload placement and the type of deployment model, could determine GenAI performance. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Apr 2024
networking (computer)
Networking, also known as computer networking, is the practice of transporting and exchanging data between nodes over a shared medium in an information system. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Apr 2024
What is SD-WAN (software-defined WAN)? Ultimate guide
Software-defined WAN is a technology that uses software-defined networking concepts to distribute network traffic across a wide area network, or WAN. Continue Reading
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News
19 Apr 2024
Cisco charts new security terrain with Hypershield
Initially, Hypershield protects software, VMs and containerized applications running on Linux. Cisco's ambition is to eventually broaden its reach. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Apr 2024
Is network automation adoption necessary?
Automation is not a one-size-fits-all strategy for every network problem. Enterprises must examine their network's needs to determine if automation is a worthwhile investment. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Apr 2024
How SD-WAN for home offices supports remote work
The market maturation of SD-WAN is leading companies to consider extending the technology to remote workers. Companies should ask three important questions before taking that step. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Apr 2024
The role of generative AI in networking
As networks grow more complex, generative AI emerges as a tool that can help network teams with a wide range of tasks, such as writing scripts, documentation and incident response. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Apr 2024
Common network licensing challenges
Network licensing is anything but straightforward nowadays. But network professionals can take steps to make sure their cost management strategies remain on track. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Apr 2024
local area network (LAN)
A local area network (LAN) is a group of computers and peripheral devices that are connected together within a distinct geographic area, such as an office building or campus. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Apr 2024
Building networks for AI workloads
Conventional and high-performance computing networks cannot adequately support AI workloads, so network engineers must build specialized networks to accommodate their massive size. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Apr 2024
The effects of network downtime and ways to fix it
Causes of network downtime include human error, misconfigurations and security threats. Experts weigh in on the consequences of network downtime, as well as ways to fix it. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Apr 2024
SASE vs. SD-WAN: What's the difference?
SASE and SD-WAN are two similar architectures administrators use to provide secure network access, but they differ in terms of deployment, security, connectivity and more. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Apr 2024
Infrastructure requirements for Kubernetes cluster networking
A well-architected network infrastructure is vital for Kubernetes cluster networking, providing seamless communication and resource orchestration across containerized workloads. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Mar 2024
How to handle environmental regulations and green networking
Green networking is achievable if network managers ensure devices and supporting systems are energy-efficient and comply with established environmental regulations. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Mar 2024
How cloud drives changes to network licensing
The cloud's effect on application management and licensing is expected to shift from end-user applications to SDN concepts. Say goodbye to perpetual licensing. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Mar 2024
How to avoid internet black holes for the network
Black holes in the network disrupt connectivity and compromise data integrity. Network monitoring, team collaboration and routing optimization help minimize the negative effects. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
14 Mar 2024
How to use the LFTP client to download files
The open source LFTP client supports multiple file transport types, such as FTP and HTTPS, enabling administrators to use a single interface to upload and download files. Continue Reading
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News
12 Mar 2024
Arista adds network change analysis to CloudVision
Arista's CloudVision Universal Network Observability analyses network changes to assess their impact on applications and workloads, including those on virtualization platforms. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Mar 2024
How to ensure optimal network workload placement
Network and cybersecurity requirements are the most important considerations when designing how to deploy new network workloads across the enterprise. Continue Reading
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Answer
08 Mar 2024
Cloud security vs. network security: What's the difference?
While network security focuses on solely protecting networks, cloud security provides protection for networks, servers, containers, apps and more. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Mar 2024
Using microservices and containers in network automation
Networking can benefit from the modularity of containers. This guide helps network teams navigate the integration of microservices and containers into network automation workflows. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Mar 2024
VPNs persist amid the rise of ZTNA, other VPN alternatives
VPN use continues despite its outdated status in the networking industry. But usage has declined as enterprises make room for remote access alternatives, like ZTNA, SASE and more. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
04 Mar 2024
SASE drives network and security team collaboration
Successful SASE implementation requires network and security team collaboration. Research from EMA reveals shared responsibilities and multivendor strategies enhance teamwork. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Mar 2024
How NetOps supports digital transformation
NetOps uses automation and intent-based networking tools to streamline digital transformation and ensure accurate and flexible network services. Continue Reading
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Answer
28 Feb 2024
Classical internet vs. quantum internet: How do they differ?
The quantum internet is a hypothetical secure network made of qubits. It differs from the classical internet with its use of quantum principles for enhanced security and computing. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Feb 2024
A network compliance checklist for remote work
This network compliance checklist for remote work provides best practices on establishing remote policies and procedures, help desk support and data backup, among other steps. Continue Reading
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News
15 Feb 2024
Declining revenues lead to 4,000 job cuts at Cisco
A 12% drop in networking revenue contributed to the company's overall revenue decline and its decision to cut 5% of its workforce. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Feb 2024
firewall as a service (FWaaS)
Firewall as a service (FWaaS), also known as a cloud firewall, is a service that provides cloud-based network traffic analysis capabilities to customers as part of an overall cybersecurity program. Continue Reading
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News
07 Feb 2024
Latest Cisco products show measured approach to AI
Cisco has launched a SaaS product for applying policy controls to AI model-bound data and an Nvidia partnership to bolster Cisco UCS servers for AI at the edge and data centers. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Feb 2024
NetSecOps best practices for network engineers
Network engineers increasingly need to align their duties with security, such as implementing continuous monitoring, deploying threat intelligence and collaborating with security. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Feb 2024
How ZTNA protects against internal network threats
ZTNA has grown in popularity as a method to enable remote access and mitigate security risks, but businesses can also use ZTNA to protect against internal threats inside a network. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Feb 2024
4 key SD-WAN trends to watch
Managed services, secure remote access, AI applications and 5G wireless network connectivity are four important trends that should propel the SD-WAN market. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Feb 2024
Private LTE vs. Wi-Fi: What's the difference?
Enterprises have a lot of options when designing networks for specialized uses. Wi-Fi supports high-volume environments, but private LTE also provides important benefits. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Feb 2024
How to close the networking skills gap
The networking skills gap stems from tech shifts, generational turnover and hiring complexities. Bridge the gap with skills gained through study, training and employer support. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Feb 2024
Hyperscalers use 5G to make an edge play into space
As telecom providers struggle to monetize 5G, hyperscalers like AWS, Google Cloud and Microsoft Azure are betting big on LEO satellites to extend 5G connectivity. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jan 2024
Effective soft skills for network engineers
Soft skills such as empathy, active listening and problem-solving can be valuable assets to network engineers who interact with nontechnical business stakeholders. Continue Reading
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News
29 Jan 2024
Juniper adds data center networks to Mist AI
Juniper's Mist AI update will include using the Marvis virtual network assistant to obtain information on data center cabling, configurations and connectivity issues. Continue Reading
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Opinion
29 Jan 2024
Juniper goes AI-native with its networking platform
Juniper Networks' recent announcements point to its overarching plans to provide end-to-end network context and support GenAI strategies with its networking platform. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Jan 2024
private 5G
Private 5G is a wireless network technology that delivers 5G cellular connectivity for private network use cases. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Jan 2024
Automation, cloud drive network and security convergence
Network and security teams are unifying due to automation, cloud and SASE. Successful unified teams receive insights that support management, monitoring and troubleshooting. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Jan 2024
NFVi (network functions virtualization infrastructure)
NFVi (network functions virtualization infrastructure) encompasses all of the networking hardware and software needed to support and connect virtual network functions in carrier networks. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Jan 2024
Beam division multiple access features and their effect on 5G
BDMA, a new multiple access technology, has the potential to boost the efficiency of 5G networks through its use of beam formation and orthogonality. Continue Reading
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Opinion
19 Jan 2024
What HPE-Juniper tells us about the future of infrastructure
HPE's planned $14 billion acquisition of Juniper Networks stands to add to its power in the market, and can have long-term implications for the entire infrastructure industry. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
19 Jan 2024
How to use TFTP to transfer files across the network
Trivial File Transfer Protocol is one of the oldest and simplest TCP/IP file exchange protocols. Here are use cases and best practices for installation and security. Continue Reading
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News
18 Jan 2024
Equinix Fabric adds multi-cloud routing
Equinix markets its Fabric Cloud Router as a monthly subscription service that organizations can access and configure quickly. It includes an SLA for 99.999% uptime. Continue Reading
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Quiz
16 Jan 2024
8 practice network hardware questions for CCST exam
Prepare for the CCST Networking exam with this network hardware quiz from Chapter 10 of 'Cisco Certified Support Technician CCST Networking 100-150 Official Cert Guide.' Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Jan 2024
Introduction to network hardware components
This excerpt from 'Cisco Certified Support Technician CCST Networking 100-150 Official Cert Guide' provides beginners with knowledge and best practices on network hardware. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Jan 2024
Best practices to install network hardware
Network practitioners might get tangled in the confusion of wires, switches and other hardware components. A networking expert offers best practices for network hardware. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Jan 2024
tunneling or port forwarding
Tunneling or port forwarding is the transmission of data intended for use only within a private -- usually corporate -- network through a public network in such a way that the public network's routing nodes are unaware that the transmission is part of a private network. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Jan 2024
Evolved Packet Core (EPC)
Evolved Packet Core (EPC) is a framework for providing converged voice and data services on a 4G Long-Term Evolution (LTE) network. Continue Reading
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Opinion
11 Jan 2024
Security implications of HPE's plan to buy Juniper Networks
While networking is the main driver of HPE's plan to acquire Juniper Networks, security is a big part of the strategy as well. Continue Reading
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Opinion
11 Jan 2024
Why HPE plans to acquire Juniper Networks
With its blockbuster acquisition of Juniper Networks, HPE gains more data center networking and AI technologies as well as other important advantages. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Jan 2024
baseboard management controller (BMC)
A baseboard management controller (BMC) is a specialized service processor that remotely monitors the physical state of a host system, such as a computer, network server or other hardware devices. Continue Reading
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News
09 Jan 2024
HPE to acquire Juniper Networks for $14 billion
HPE plans to use Juniper's hardware and software to make networking a 'core business and architecture foundation' for HPE's GreenLake hybrid cloud and AI platform. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Jan 2024
OpenRoaming vs. Passpoint: What's the difference?
OpenRoaming and Passpoint both provide users with internet access outside of their coverage area via Wi-Fi, but they differ in terms of use cases, implementation, cost and more. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Dec 2023
How AI in Wi-Fi will shape wireless connectivity
AI will become an integral technology in networks in the next few years. Find out what an automated Wi-Fi network can do for businesses and learn best practices to get started. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Dec 2023
Introduction to IP addressing and subnetting
IP addresses and subnets are necessary for effective network communications. Learn how IP addresses and subnets work, and compare classful and classless IP addresses. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Dec 2023
Best practices for secure network automation workflows
It's not enough to build network automation workflows. It's important to secure those workflows, as well. Access control, encryption and collaboration all play important roles. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Dec 2023
top-of-rack switching
Top-of-rack switching is a data center architecture design in which computing equipment like servers, appliances and other switches located within the same or adjacent rack connect to an in-rack network switch. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Dec 2023
Wi-Fi 7 development grows but adoption interest lags
Despite early discussions about the potential of Wi-Fi 7, many enterprises are still catching up with the rapid pace of Wi-Fi development for new standards. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Dec 2023
edge device
An edge device is any piece of hardware that controls data flow at the boundary between two networks. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Dec 2023
6 types of quantum network topologies
Quantum networks require efficient architectures to optimize communication and enable large-scale quantum information processing. Learn about the main quantum network topologies. Continue Reading
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Answer
08 Dec 2023
Network simulation vs. emulation: What's the difference?
Network engineers use simulation and emulation to test changes, which ensures reliable post-change performance. Network simulators create models, while emulators mimic networks. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Dec 2023
8 network tasks administrators can do quicker from the CLI
Admins can use the command-line interface to manage network tasks. Learn how to streamline automation, troubleshoot networks and manage services on Linux, macOS and Windows. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Dec 2023
big-endian and little-endian
The term endianness describes the order in which computer memory stores a sequence of bytes. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Dec 2023
Address Resolution Protocol (ARP)
Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) is a protocol that maps dynamic IP addresses to permanent physical machine addresses in a local area network (LAN). Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Dec 2023
single-user multiple input, multiple output (SU-MIMO)
Single-user multiple input, multiple output (SU-MIMO) is a multitransmitter and receiver technology that lets a wireless access point send multiple, simultaneous data streams to one compatible endpoint at a time. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Nov 2023
ternary content-addressable memory (TCAM)
Ternary content-addressable memory (TCAM) is a specialized type of high-speed memory that searches its entire contents in a single clock cycle. Continue Reading
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Opinion
22 Nov 2023
Palo Alto Networks SASE Converge updates boost security, UX
With the announcement of its latest SASE portfolio updates and the acquisition of Talon, Palo Alto Networks connects the dots between security and performance. Continue Reading
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Answer
22 Nov 2023
SASE vs. NaaS: What's the difference?
SASE and NaaS are network models with different goals. SASE combines SD-WAN with cloud-based security, while NaaS lets businesses outsource network management via a subscription model. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Nov 2023
5G standalone (5G SA)
5G standalone (5G SA) is a cellular infrastructure built specifically for 5G services by implementing 5G standards and protocols in the radio network and controller core. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Nov 2023
Cisco IOS (Cisco Internetwork Operating System)
Cisco IOS (Internetwork Operating System) is a collection of proprietary operating systems (OSes) that runs on Cisco hardware devices, including Cisco Systems network devices, routers and network switches. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Nov 2023
carrier cloud
A carrier cloud is a cloud computing environment that is owned and operated by a traditional telecommunications service provider. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Nov 2023
How to simplify network operations
Network challenges include visibility, scalability and security. NetOps teams should follow management best practices and consider cloud networking to simplify operations. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Nov 2023
CPRI (Common Public Radio Interface)
CPRI (Common Public Radio Interface) is a specification for wireless communication networks that defines the key criteria for interfacing transport, connectivity and control communications between baseband units (BBUs) and remote radio units (RRUs), which are also called remote radio heads (RRHs). Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Nov 2023
network hub
A network hub is a node that broadcasts data to every computer or Ethernet-based device connected to it. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Nov 2023
An introduction to cloud network architecture
Enterprises have three main options when it comes to cloud network architecture: Use built-in CSP tools, buy virtual networking appliances or use a multi-cloud management platform. Continue Reading
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Opinion
09 Nov 2023
Red Hat Analyst Day vision focuses on AI and automation
Organizations are embracing modern distributed cloud environments. At its analyst day, Red Hat advised taking a platform approach to simplify operations and speed innovation. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Nov 2023
network assurance
Network assurance is the method of validating whether services and policies configured on and across network appliances appropriately align with operational goals. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Nov 2023
5 network requirements for cloud computing
Network and cloud teams should consider factors such as bandwidth and latency optimization, security, network redundancy, QoS and network automation in their cloud strategies. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Nov 2023
Enterprise 5G deployment options and how to procure them
The two main types of 5G deployment options are standalone and non-standalone. Find out how they're different, how to procure them and some helpful 5G tips. Continue Reading
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Feature
03 Nov 2023
GSK unifies networking and security for cloud migration
Sessions at ONUG Fall 2023 emphasized the value of a unified networking and security approach. GSK integrated the two to begin its digital transformation journey to the cloud. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Nov 2023
NaaS use cases include hardware refreshes, pop-up sites
NaaS is an Opex-based consumption model that simplifies deployment, policy configuration and purchasing. The model is beneficial for small and large enterprises alike. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
31 Oct 2023
APIs integral to a successful DDI strategy
Research showed DDI success correlated with successful APIs, but few organizations feel satisfied with their API quality. Learn how to mitigate the challenges of DDI APIs. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Oct 2023
Private 5G, NaaS, automation among top networking trends
Presentations at ONUG Fall 2023 focused on private 5G, network as a service and network automation, which have all become more important as network complexity intensifies. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Oct 2023
application delivery controller (ADC)
An application delivery controller (ADC) is a network component that manages and optimizes how client machines connect to web and enterprise application servers. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Oct 2023
Open Shortest Path First (OSPF)
Open Shortest Path First, often shortened to OSPF, is an IP routing protocol used to find the best path to distribute packets as they pass through IP networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Oct 2023
Ethernet
Ethernet is the traditional technology for connecting devices in a wired local area network (LAN) or wide area network. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Oct 2023
data plane
The data plane -- sometimes known as the user plane, forwarding plane, carrier plane or bearer plane -- is the part of a network that carries user traffic. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Oct 2023
fiber optics (optical fiber)
Fiber optics, or optical fiber, refers to the technology that transmits information as light pulses along a glass or plastic fiber. Continue Reading
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Answer
20 Oct 2023
What to know about UDP vulnerabilities and security
UDP is a simple protocol, but it has inherent vulnerabilities that make it prone to attacks, such as limited packet verification, IP spoofing and DDoS attacks. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Oct 2023
Open RAN revenue falls but 5G remains on track
New research showed the market for Open RAN, a once-promising 5G enabler, has slowed down. Challenges persist, but experts expect 5G to continue to grow with Open RAN involvement. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
13 Oct 2023
Use cURL and Wget to download network files from CLI
Web browsers aren't the only tools that use HTTP to download files. Command-line tools, such as cURL and Wget, can download resources like VM images, configuration files and updates. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Oct 2023
network engineer
A network engineer is a technology professional who has the necessary skills to plan, implement and oversee the computer networks that support in-house voice, data, video and wireless network services. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Oct 2023
mean time to innocence
Mean time to innocence is the average elapsed time between when a system problem is detected and any given team's ability to say the team or part of its system is not the root cause of the problem. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Oct 2023
jumbo frames
A jumbo frame is an Ethernet frame, or data packet, with a payload greater than the standard size of 1,500 bytes. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Oct 2023
How a DDI platform supports IP-based network management
A DDI platform simplifies IP network management in the cloud networking era. But collaboration among networking and other IT teams is crucial amid ongoing challenges. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Oct 2023
OFDMA (orthogonal frequency-division multiple access)
Orthogonal frequency-division multiple access (OFDMA) is a technology of Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) that lets access points serve multiple clients at the same time. Continue Reading