Tips

Tips

• How to choose IT operations metrics that deliver real value

  The sheer volume of data collected in today's IT environments can be overwhelming. But by focusing on the user experience, IT ops teams can pinpoint the metrics that matter most.  Continue Reading

• 4 best practices to avoid cloud vendor lock-in

  Without proper planning, an organization could end up feeling trapped in its relationship with a cloud provider. Follow these tips to avoid vendor lock-in.  Continue Reading

• Self-healing networks goals, benefits and how they work

  With help from automation and AI, self-healing networks promise to detect, remediate and even predict network problems. But can these systems be trusted?  Continue Reading

• 5 common SD-WAN challenges and how to prepare for them

  SD-WAN technology has its fair share of risk factors, some of which include cost reduction and management. Find out how your IT team can prepare for these challenges.  Continue Reading

• Deploy WebJEA to empower your users with PowerShell

  Give your automation scripts a GUI that makes it easier for end users to get the information they need with a more streamlined approach.  Continue Reading

• 4 PowerShell modules every IT pro should know

  Find out how to use four of the most popular PowerShell community modules in the PowerShell Gallery to help better manage your data center and automate certain tasks.  Continue Reading

• Test frameworks and examples for unit testing Python code

  Unit testing is a crucial aspect of software development. Teams can adopt Python for unit testing to optimize Python's advantages and built-in framework options.  Continue Reading

• The raw -- yet burgeoning -- potential of coreless banking

  While coreless banking is still a novel concept, it shows strong potential to liberate banks from the rigid software systems that have dominated the industry for decades.  Continue Reading

• The attributes of an effective database testing strategy

  Teams need to implement a proper database testing strategy to optimize results. Explore effective database testing attributes here.  Continue Reading

• How to build an SD-WAN RFP to evaluate vendors

  There are key questions that belong in your SD-WAN request for proposal. Use them to better assess vendor features and capabilities, architecture, cost savings and PoCs.  Continue Reading

• How network perimeters secure enterprise networks

  Network perimeters serve as essential network security to block unwanted traffic. Find out how they differ from the network edge and how they help secure enterprise networks.  Continue Reading

• The fundamentals of achieving high cohesion and low coupling

  It's easy to say, 'high cohesion, low coupling,' but is it as easy to put into practice? We examine some of the basics behind cohesion, coupling and the right balance between them.  Continue Reading

• Improve IT efficiency with a PowerShell self-service portal

  You can jump over the technical barriers that impede automation efforts in your organization by exploring how to deploy a web-based portal that hosts your scripts.  Continue Reading

• 5 steps to migrate from MPLS to SD-WAN

  To migrate from MPLS to SD-WAN, you need a plan. Use these five steps as a guideline to avoid MPLS contract disasters, unexpected costs and delayed installation.  Continue Reading

• Boost cluster security with Kubernetes vulnerability scanning

  Performing vulnerability scans on Kubernetes clusters can help keep container environments secure and running smoothly. Learn what risks to look out for and compare tool options.  Continue Reading

• Follow these 9 steps for SD-WAN testing before deployment

  Before an SD-WAN implementation, you'll want to run the system through a battery of tests to check for things like failover, packet delivery and traffic segregation.  Continue Reading

• How to prepare for the next version of Exchange Server

  The Exchange Server roadmap charts several twists and turns that shows Microsoft deviating from its typical course with the server-based email platform.  Continue Reading

• Configure NIC teaming in Windows Server

  NIC teaming maximizes network bandwidth and provides redundancy benefits. These steps guide users through NIC teaming configuration in Windows Server with GUI and PowerShell.  Continue Reading

• How to detect and control the spread of shadow APIs

  Now that infiltration via APIs has become a favored method for hackers, IT teams need to take additional steps to safeguard those important interfaces.  Continue Reading

• PowerShell vs. Bash: Key differences explained

  Windows admins have the option to use Bash, a Linux shell, but the command-line tool doesn't stack up one to one with PowerShell for Windows deployments.  Continue Reading

• When to use the Windows command prompt vs. PowerShell

  The Windows command prompt and PowerShell can accomplish similar tasks, but how they do so might push users toward one option over the other. Check out these examples to see why.  Continue Reading

• How to approach data loss prevention in virtual servers

  As security risks evolve, organizations are turning to data loss prevention tools and methods to combat external and internal risks. Learn how to get started with DLP.  Continue Reading

• ASHRAE standard 90.4 updates emphasize green energy

  New addenda to ASHRAE 90.4 simplify mechanical load component calculations and modify the definition of UPS, among other changes. Use the updates to guide green data center design.  Continue Reading

• Top 9 SD-WAN benefits for businesses

  Make the case for an SD-WAN implementation, and explore the benefits and main use cases for SD-WAN in enterprises, beyond traditional hybrid WANs.  Continue Reading

• When to use AWS Compute Optimizer vs. Cost Explorer

  AWS Compute Optimizer and Cost Explorer monitor, analyze and optimize your cloud costs. Compare the two tools to choose which is best for VM rightsizing.  Continue Reading

• What developers need to know about open banking

  Open banking has made financial transactions easier and more secure for those with multiple banking accounts; however, vulnerabilities within open APIs raise security concerns.  Continue Reading

• White box networking use cases and how to get started

  Rising cloud costs have prompted organizations to consider white box switches to lower costs and simplify network management. Here's what to know about white box networking.  Continue Reading

• How to upload and download files with PowerShell FTP script

  By using the .NET WebClient class and PowerShell, Windows admins can upload and download files to FTP. Review the general process and corresponding examples to get started.  Continue Reading

• How to test PowerShell code with Pester

  PowerShell's Pester troubleshooting tool lets users write and run tests. Learn how to install the tool and examine a step-by-step Pester test example.  Continue Reading

• Why you should plan to migrate to Exchange 2019 soon

  An upgrade to the latest Exchange version will bring added functionality for end users and security enhancements. But it will also help ease the transition to Exchange vNext.  Continue Reading

• SD-WAN comparison chart: 10 vendors to assess

  This SD-WAN vendor comparison chart is a useful starting point to evaluate information about deployment options, pricing, security, cloud connectivity and more.  Continue Reading

• 6 alternatives to Heroku's defunct free service tiers

  Though the end of Heroku's free-tier services has left many developers and software teams in the cold, a flock of cloud platform providers seem determined to fill the void.  Continue Reading

• Get to know the Azure resource hierarchy

  Azure management groups, subscriptions, resource groups and resources are not mutually exclusive. Businesses can -- and often do -- use all of these scopes simultaneously.  Continue Reading

• What details to include on a software defect report

  Teams that can write clear and detailed defect reports will increase software quality and reduce the time needed to fix bugs. Here's what to know about getting reports right.  Continue Reading

• Use Cockpit for Linux remote server administration

  Linux admins can use Cockpit to view Linux logs, monitor server performance and manage users. Use the tool to help admins manage servers, regardless of experience level.  Continue Reading

• Compare Azure DevOps vs. Jira for IT ops project management

  Azure DevOps and Jira can both be effective project management tools for software development and IT ops teams, but the two differ in terms of benefits, features and limitations.  Continue Reading

• 3 important SD-WAN security considerations and features

  Device onboarding, control plane security and data plane security are three crucial SD-WAN security considerations enterprises should research when choosing an SD-WAN vendor.  Continue Reading

• Tips for building a DevOps knowledge-sharing culture

  The DevOps spirit of openness and collaboration makes knowledge sharing a necessity. Explore best practices for documenting and communicating knowledge within your organization.  Continue Reading

• How to test the PowerShell pending reboot module

  Learn how to check if your machines have pending reboots with a simple PowerShell module to ensure changes to files do not cause stability issues.  Continue Reading

• Understanding Windows PowerShell function parameters

  Parameters in Windows PowerShell can help admins better customize their functions, leading to improved input testing and more extensible commands.  Continue Reading

• The role of IT ops in digital employee experience management

  Automated tools for measuring and analyzing employees' digital experience satisfaction can help IT ops predict problems, identify areas for improvement and cut costs.  Continue Reading

• Get familiar with who builds 5G infrastructure

  Organizations that build 5G data centers may need to upgrade their infrastructure. These 5G providers offer products like virtual RAN options, wireless access routers and others.  Continue Reading

• 25 basic PowerShell commands for Windows administrators

  Getting started with PowerShell or just need a quick refresher? This tip lists the most common PowerShell commands, with details on when to use them.  Continue Reading

• How to filter Security log events for signs of trouble

  Certain accounts, such as company executives, will draw unwanted attention from hackers. Learn how to catch these targeted attacks by checking Windows event logs.  Continue Reading

• Top cloud performance issues that bog down enterprise apps

  Workloads with rigid latency, bandwidth, availability or integration requirements tend to perform better -- and cost less -- if you host them on private infrastructure.  Continue Reading

• Strategies for Kubernetes multi-cluster management

  Running multiple Kubernetes clusters has numerous advantages, but it also introduces technical complexity. Keeping these tips in mind can simplify multi-cluster management.  Continue Reading

• How to run an ADA-compliant website test

  Digital accessibility benefits both developers and website users alike. By following WCAG guidelines and using testing tools, teams can ensure that their websites are ADA-compliant.  Continue Reading

• Explore Google Cloud Storage classes

  For organizations that use Google Cloud Storage, it's crucial to store data in the optimal class. Understand top uses, benefits and drawbacks of Google Cloud's assorted services.  Continue Reading

• The role of automation in SD-WAN

  API integration, machine learning and AIOps are vital to achieve the benefits of SD-WAN automation, which include better network performance and faster operations.  Continue Reading

• Considerations when getting started with distributed tracing

  Distributed tracing has advantages over traditional logging and monitoring, especially for microservices, but it can also affect application performance through added complexity.  Continue Reading

• 4 ways to reduce network power consumption

  A heavy reliance on the network can increase energy use across businesses. Here are some best practices network teams can follow to reduce power consumption.  Continue Reading

• Vendor SD-WAN labs offer hands-on testing and learning

  Software-defined WANs can be confusing. Fortunately, networking vendors offer SD-WAN labs to help organizations learn about the technology.  Continue Reading

• What to keep in mind when securing virtual environments

  Virtual environments can contain numerous vulnerabilities for attackers to exploit -- with potentially devastating results. Use these tips to select security tools and strategies.  Continue Reading

• Speed up onboarding with Active Directory user templates

  Active Directory account templates are not difficult to make. But it helps to know how to use certain shortcuts, like variables, to create home directories and roaming profiles.  Continue Reading

• What's new with the EXO v3 module for Exchange admins?

  Microsoft made several significant improvements in the Exchange Online PowerShell v3 module for added reliability and performance when managing the hosted email platform.  Continue Reading

• Azure Logic Apps: How it compares to AWS Step Functions

  Developers can use Microsoft Azure Logic Apps to build, deploy and connect scalable cloud-based workflows. Learn how it measures up to other cloud platforms and AWS Step Functions.  Continue Reading

• 5 ways to survive the challenges of monolithic architectures

  Those unable to make the jump to microservices still need a way to improve architectural reliability. Here are five ways software teams can improve a monolith's reliability.  Continue Reading

• EDR tools for Windows Server compared

  Windows Server 2022 comes with native security technologies to protect the enterprise. But endpoint detection and response tools can be worth the price of admission.  Continue Reading

• Compare 6 major network certifications

  Network certifications can span networking fundamentals to product-specific knowledge. Evaluate six certifications, and weigh factors like job roles, cost, prerequisites and skills.  Continue Reading

• Reduce Kubernetes spend with these 10 Kubecost alternatives

  IT teams have several options other than Kubecost to monitor Kubernetes spending, from dedicated Kubernetes-specific tools to full-fledged cloud management platforms.  Continue Reading

• Make the shift-left testing approach work for your team

  Developers test to find defects and correct flaws before an application reaches release. But the ever-quickening pace of development puts pressure on testing.  Continue Reading

• Use ISO 50001:2018 as a guide for green data centers

  Data centers use a lot of energy, and it can be difficult to navigate how to reduce energy use. ISO 50001:2018 provides guidance to create energy-saving plans and use targets.  Continue Reading

• Evaluate Wi-Fi mapping tools and best practices

  As Wi-Fi is now a critical component of enterprise network connectivity, Wi-Fi mapping helps teams evaluate their wireless coverage. Learn the basics of Wi-Fi mapping.  Continue Reading

• How cloud-managed Wi-Fi simplifies policy and AP controls

  Cloud-managed Wi-Fi provides IT groups with several benefits, including policy enforcement, network management and consistent AP configuration across multiple sites.  Continue Reading

• 3 software developer goals that are top of mind in 2023

  Like many people, software professionals have their own goals in mind for 2023, including a focus on project management, software accessibility and data structure decisions.  Continue Reading

• IaaS vs. PaaS options on AWS, Azure and Google Cloud Platform

  Looking to shift your organization's workloads to the cloud? Understand the advantages and disadvantages of IaaS and PaaS options on AWS, Azure and Google Cloud Platform.  Continue Reading

• Rust vs. Go: A microservices-based language faceoff

  Rust and Go both offer language features geared toward microservices-based development, but their relative capabilities make them a better fit for some scenarios than others.  Continue Reading

• 8 tips for building a multi-cloud DevOps strategy

  DevOps practices and tools have many benefits for application development, deployment and monitoring in complex IT environments that span multiple clouds.  Continue Reading

• Testing infrastructure as code: A complete guide

  IaC, when implemented correctly, can benefit enterprises' CD pipelines. But, when the code isn't tested before deployment, things can go awry. Follow these strategies for success.  Continue Reading

• A guide to network APIs and their use cases

  An API enables communication between two applications, while a network API provides communication between the network infrastructure -- and its protocols -- and applications.  Continue Reading

• Demystify the DevOps process, step by step

  While varying definitions and vendor marketing spins can make the meaning of DevOps tough to nail down, there are concrete principles and processes that underpin the methodology.  Continue Reading

• Advantages and disadvantages of storing data in the cloud

  Organizations that want to reduce on-site storage costs can consider cloud for easy pricing models and scalability. However, take note of drawbacks such as lack of data control.  Continue Reading

• Mob programming benefits for Agile development teams

  Mob programming brings the whole team together for simultaneous code creation and review. If they specify roles and engage, Agile teams can benefit from mobbing practices.  Continue Reading

• How architects can use napkin math to forecast performance

  Although modern software systems can be inordinately complex, architects can still use simple napkin math to glean quick overviews of system performance and architecture alignment.  Continue Reading

• 5 tips for creating an IT ops application migration plan

  Migrating applications can be complex, especially for IT teams dealing with sprawling legacy systems, but devoting time to planning and testing can avoid hassles down the road.  Continue Reading

• Compare Go vs. Python: What are the differences?

  Golang and Python are both versatile, popular languages, but they have some important differences that developers should take into account when planning software projects.  Continue Reading

• Wireless network capacity planning and requirements

  When planning wireless network capacity needs, tally your total endpoints, monitor application bandwidth usage and consider future growth.  Continue Reading

• How to use Microsoft Sentinel with Office 365 to find risks

  The security product attempts to ferret out threats that originate from apps and services then assists the enterprise with an automatic response to head off trouble.  Continue Reading

• Interpret and apply AWS Compute Optimizer recommendations

  It is challenging to find the right balance between performance, availability and cost. Learn how to enable and apply AWS Compute Optimizer to monitor your metrics.  Continue Reading

• Learn different data lake vs. data warehouse uses

  Data lakes and data warehouses both store big data. When choosing a lake or warehouse, consider factors such as cost and what insights or analytics you need to gain from the data.  Continue Reading

• How to use Nmap to scan a network for documentation

  Nmap might be more common for security tasks, but it's also useful for network documentation and inventory. Follow these best practices to make the most of Nmap scan results.  Continue Reading

• Tools and techniques to test Kubernetes objects

  Kubernetes manifests and objects represent the baseline of code development on the platform. Here's why and how to test these integral elements of Kubernetes.  Continue Reading

• Best practices for low-code integration within dev pipelines

  When a nontechnical team leads the charge on application development, it still falls to developers and testers to integrate low-code tools and apps into the pipeline.  Continue Reading

• Carefully weigh these DevOps pros and cons

  DevOps can help organizations gain a competitive edge through fast and iterative software development cycles. Still, there are tradeoffs to consider.  Continue Reading

• Weigh the benefits and drawbacks of a hybrid data warehouse

  Among other benefits, a hybrid cloud data warehouse can offer enhanced flexibility and scalability, as well as on-demand access to emerging analytics services.  Continue Reading

• When not to use Docker and how to choose an alternative

  Docker might be the default for container orchestration, but what if it doesn't meet your needs? Explore why Docker might not be the right fit and what might be.  Continue Reading

• What makes a good IT operations manager?

  Making the jump to management can be challenging for IT ops professionals; leadership positions often require a different skill set than technical roles.  Continue Reading

• An overview of wireless WAN

  Hybrid work, modernized cellular networks, and the convergence of 5G and software-defined networking are driving factors in the maturation of wireless WAN.  Continue Reading

• Ensure network resilience in a network disaster recovery plan

  A network disaster recovery plan doesn't always mean network resilience. Learn how factors like funding, identifying potential risks and constant updates make a difference.  Continue Reading

• Compare these PowerShell front-end GUI tools

  These offerings provide portals to avoid security issues and other stumbling blocks that hamper organizations from providing more wide-ranging use of PowerShell.  Continue Reading

• A primer on core development team structure concepts

  To establish the right development team size, managers must look at each member's responsibilities and communication paths, as well as know when to split teams.  Continue Reading

• Key differences between BICSI and TIA/EIA standards

  Data center standards help organizations design facilities for efficiency and safety. Organizations can use BICSI and TIA standards as guidance for data center design.  Continue Reading

• How to compare acceptance criteria vs. definition of done

  Acceptance criteria and the definition of done both measure quality in product development, but the ways teams calculate and achieve these features vary dramatically.  Continue Reading

• How to set up a business Wi-Fi network

  A Wi-Fi network is a business necessity, but setting it up takes skill and effective troubleshooting. Learn how to make Wi-Fi work and keep it running smoothly.  Continue Reading

• Manage application storage with Kubernetes and CSI drivers

  Container Storage Interface drivers offer IT ops teams increased autonomy and flexibility in deploying and managing persistent storage on Kubernetes clusters.  Continue Reading

• Use NFPA data center standards to help evade fire risks

  A fire in a data center can damage equipment, cause data loss and put personnel in harm's way. Look to NFPA fire protection guidelines to hedge your risk against data center fires.  Continue Reading

• 5 most valuable wireless network certifications

  Wireless networking skills are in high demand. Having a top-notch wireless network certification can help networking newbies and pros stand out among job candidates.  Continue Reading

• A history of wireless for business and a look forward

  This history of enterprise wireless takes you from WLAN development inside the enterprise to cellular data services outside the walls to make wireless-first a possibility.  Continue Reading

• Compare Azure Key Vault vs. Kubernetes Secrets

  Secrets require a certain level of upkeep such as storage, delivery and management. Compare services in these criteria and learn how to use Key Vault for AKS.  Continue Reading

• 5 tips for reaching full-stack observability

  Achieving full-stack observability remains fraught with challenges, but it's a necessary move for enterprises running complex multi-cloud and hybrid environments.  Continue Reading