Tips

Tips

• Craft an integration testing plan with quality before quantity

  When it comes to integration testing, the end user is more important than the test volume. Increase test efficiency to please both application users and owners.  Continue Reading

• Software-defined access networks pose promise and pitfalls

  By implementing software-defined controls on the access layer, IT can centralize and unify network policies. However, any new technology is still rife with risk.  Continue Reading

• Grasp container basics to plan enterprise adoption

  To transition from virtualization that mimics hardware to a new level of portable, isolated workloads, absorb key tenets of containers and where container deployment differs from VMs and cloud instances.  Continue Reading

• How Java EE development has kept up with microservices

  Java EE is mature technology, but it will continue to evolve in ways that can fit nicely into a microservices architecture.  Continue Reading

• Serverless platforms limit programming language options

  Serverless computing can reduce infrastructure costs and streamline development processes, but don't assume that your programming language of choice will be available.  Continue Reading

• Access vCenter MOB and enable advanced troubleshooting

  The vCenter mobile object browser provides a vast amount of information. Follow these steps to make it navigable and useful for some of the most difficult troubleshooting cases.  Continue Reading

• How three new telecom services can compete with OTT services

  Network operators should embrace three new types of telecom services -- hosting, information processing and experiences -- to increase revenue and compete with OTT services providers.  Continue Reading

• Understand business logic to fortify microservices design

  Before software teams introduce microservices, they must take a critical look at the business logic that frames their architecture because, as contexts change, so does the logic.  Continue Reading

• Mulling a public folders migration? Weigh your options

  Should you stay or should you migrate? Microsoft offers a bevy of alternatives to public folders. This tip breaks down each option to help you make a decision.  Continue Reading

• 5 tips for making flash-based SSDs work with unstructured data

  Using flash storage effectively for unstructured data requires upfront analysis of cost, capacity and performance, as well as continued tracking of a rapidly changing flash market.  Continue Reading

• Avoid messy breakups with your AWS consulting partner

  Maintain control over cloud credentials and permissions to avoid a bad breakup with your AWS consultant, and structure your contract to safeguard against deals gone awry.  Continue Reading

• How to manage distributed apps built on microservices

  Distributed applications can clearly benefit from the architectural benefits of microservices, but that has traditionally come with certain drawbacks. Discover how it's become easier to manage distributed applications built on microservices due to ...  Continue Reading

• A fine-tuned change request template minimizes user discontent

  Change management is an essential ITSM practice, but it doesn't have to come at the expense of end users. Use templates to clarify expectations and set changes in motion without disruption.  Continue Reading

• Compare IaC tools for hybrid, multi-cloud environments

  Infrastructure-as-code tools come in two flavors: third-party and those native to a certain cloud provider. Keep these factors in mind to choose the right one.  Continue Reading

• Use VMware vSphere templates to manage VMs at scale

  VM templates in vSphere enable IT administrators to manage large environments by rapidly deploying fully configured VMs using the content library interface.  Continue Reading

• AWS bare-metal instances target a niche market -- for now

  AWS' addition of bare-metal instances runs counter to its heritage but is another example of how the vendor wants to keep users on its cloud and also attract new ones.  Continue Reading

• How a global file system interface eases data growing pains

  If reaching the storage limits of a file server is an imminent threat at your organization, a global system may be the answer to your data growth woes.  Continue Reading

• How to foster collaboration in software development

  App owners, developers and testers are friends -- not enemies. If it doesn't always feel that way on your collaborative team, use these techniques to foster better communication.  Continue Reading

• Consider storage backup devices for your data protection strategy

  A secondary storage device could be an important element of your data protection platform. Analyze accessibility, speed, scalability and cost before jumping in.  Continue Reading

• Avoid these VMware host profile mistakes

  VMware host profiles make it easy to deploy new hosts -- but it's also easy to make mistakes. Before you create a host profile, check this list of common errors.  Continue Reading

• Create VM templates without encountering errors

  Creating a VM template is a fairly straightforward process. Even so, it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with Microsoft's documentation to avoid common mistakes.  Continue Reading

• Improve hybrid cloud monitoring through automation, alerts

  To effectively monitor hybrid cloud infrastructure -- without being overloaded with data and alerts -- IT teams need to rethink some of their existing processes. Use these five best practices to get started.  Continue Reading

• Low-code tools showdown: PowerApps vs. Appian

  Low-code dev products, such as PowerApps and Appian, come with benefits and tradeoffs. See which option comes out on top in this faceoff, and plan your workflow accordingly.  Continue Reading

• Centralize AWS account management with native SSO tool

  Some third-party tools have longer track records, but AWS SSO offers an appealing alternative as a native service to handle cloud account management.  Continue Reading

• Explore the Cubic congestion control provider for Windows

  Microsoft made Cubic the default congestion control provider for Windows 10 and plans to do the same for Windows Server 2019. Learn what this means for your organization.  Continue Reading

• Discovery functions, FIPS compliance increase DCIM security

  Data center infrastructure management is one way to track security patches and unauthorized hardware access. There are a few features you can use to increase security.  Continue Reading

• Cloud-to-cloud migration tools offer comprehensive services

  In a multi-cloud environment, data migration can take on a new set of complications. Luckily, there are a number of technologies available aimed at cloud-to-cloud data migrations.  Continue Reading

• How Azure Cloud Shell can streamline resource management

  Azure Cloud Shell's browser-based model frees IT teams from installation headaches but presents some formatting and timeout issues that admins need to watch for.  Continue Reading

• Weave AWS CodePipeline into serverless app deployment

  CodePipeline brings a number of benefits to serverless app development and deployment, including the elimination of mundane tasks and deep integration with other AWS tools.  Continue Reading

• How to move beyond REST for microservices communication

  Despite its popularity, REST isn't always the best protocol for microservices communication. There are other options that may be a better fit.  Continue Reading

• Mix test and production environments with hyper-convergence

  Despite the enhanced separation that hyper-converged infrastructure can offer, it's better to mix environments and use rules to create a hardware-independent workload balance.  Continue Reading

• Docker and Kubernetes monitoring tools that work on microservices

  What does it take to manage your containers? Explore a wide range of monitoring tools specifically suited for Docker and Kubernetes.  Continue Reading

• VMware finds its way in cloud cost management tools market

  VMware is one of the numerous companies providing tools that help organizations manage cloud costs. Though the demand is real, the market and the tools require more maturity.  Continue Reading

• Anomaly detection methods unleash microservices performance

  When distributed applications run in containers, admins suddenly have a whirlwind of metrics to track instead of just a short list. These methods reach into the heart of the task.  Continue Reading

• What is carrier cloud's role in 5G and IoT transformation?

  Carrier cloud deployment is helping network operators respond to opportunities that will drive transformation, like 5G and IoT. The question is, where can carrier cloud help?  Continue Reading

• Implement these best practices to run Terraform with AWS

  Infrastructure as code on AWS can introduce a learning curve, but tools, such as Terraform, can help enterprises meet their IaC goals.  Continue Reading

• Windows troubleshooting tools to improve VM performance

  Fine-tune virtualized workloads and diagnose performance issues with help from these Windows troubleshooting tools every server administrator should know.  Continue Reading

• Ensuring P2P apps don't cause network performance issues with IPv6

  Peer-to-peer applications can cause performance issues with IPv6 branch-office networks. Universal Plug and Play might be an effective way to overcome access issues.  Continue Reading

• Overcome 9 microservices challenges for platform flexibility

  It's all well and good to tear apart your monolith, but a careless microservices approach can result in the same old problems. Watch out for these nine hurdles.  Continue Reading

• How to match microservices middleware to your mission

  Microservices middleware strategies require an understanding of goals, state control and other key factors. Discover everything you should consider and how it affects your needs.  Continue Reading

• Calibrate your definition of 'done' in Scrum to meet requirements

  Get together with business leaders before software launches and find common ground to define done. One company's idea of perfect code is another's lurking disaster.  Continue Reading

• Build a secure Docker host environment on Linux systems

  In the cutting-edge technology world of containers, don't lose sight of the fundamental security best practices that protect workloads and minimize attack surfaces.  Continue Reading

• The developer's crash course to the application network

  Developers, we get it; you don't want to deal with the network. But hear us out, as a basic understanding of subnets, VPNs and IP addresses boost app stability and performance.  Continue Reading

• Learn the tricks for using Microsoft Teams with Exchange

  As Microsoft Teams gains prominence for business collaboration, administrators should investigate the integration options with their Exchange Online or on-premises Exchange setup.  Continue Reading

• Open source low-code platforms extend app dev capabilities

  Enterprises want their apps to go to market as fast as possible. Low-code platforms accelerate development processes, and with open source, these platforms are more customizable.  Continue Reading

• Prevent AI bias in predictive applications before it starts

  While AI offers predictive insights, developers must train AI models to ensure accurate results. These five types of input, in particular, can cause poor output from the finished app.  Continue Reading

• Accelerate API dev with documentation-driven development

  A missing cloud API doesn't mean all work needs to stop. Engineering and development teams can work with a mock API server until the real API is production-ready.  Continue Reading

• Dig into Azure Kubernetes Service networking options

  Enterprises that choose the wrong AKS networking option could face poor performance and higher costs. Evaluate the advantages and limitations of each option before you rush in.  Continue Reading

• Ensure AWS video file conversion doesn't break the bank

  Video file conversion can be a costly but necessary task for enterprises to reach their customers. Find the right mix of functionality and price with these services.  Continue Reading

• Hire a software testing team that fits your startup culture

  Albeit strapped for cash and time, software startups need testers as much as large companies. Advocate for a testing team, and find candidates who will excel in a startup culture.  Continue Reading

• Azure management groups ease policy enforcement

  It isn't easy to manage Azure subscriptions, but with management groups, admins can now simplify policy enforcement on a larger scale.  Continue Reading

• Application performance metrics and tools fit for modern architectures

  Distributed applications and cloud hosting have led to new application interactions and KPI categories -- and different performance concerns need different metrics.  Continue Reading

• Create a backup image in 7 easy steps

  Learn how to generate an image-based backup using our step-by-step instructions. Just remember to perform this activity in a test system to avoid wiping out source data.  Continue Reading

• Assess VMC on AWS benefits against possible tradeoffs

  AWS provides the types of benefits many VMware -- and Amazon -- users want, despite some tradeoffs for those more accustomed to vSphere on premises.  Continue Reading

• Composable architecture options versus CI and HCI

  While converged, hyper-converged and composable infrastructures all share some degree of similarity in convergence, important differences can affect your IT architecture choices.  Continue Reading

• Public snapshots pose significant Amazon EBS security risks

  Exposed EBS snapshots can leave volumes open to public intrusion or manipulation. Manage your snapshot settings carefully to protect your EC2 data.  Continue Reading

• Build an IT maintenance plan around infrastructure needs

  Don't delay maintenance reboots. It's easy to forget to reboot hosts, tools and drivers, so use a reboot schedule to ensure your infrastructure remains functional.  Continue Reading

• Plan ahead for app portability in multi-cloud deployments

  For dev teams who work primarily with AWS, multi-cloud presents some challenges. Explore these ways to ensure app portability and whether that flexibility is worth the effort.  Continue Reading

• Write your first Google Cloud Function with these three tips

  To build a serverless function, many developers require a shift in mindset. Use these three tips to create a cost-effective and high-performing function in Google Cloud Platform.  Continue Reading

• How startups can accelerate a software product launch

  At your software startup, product delivery must be top priority, even at the expense of some bells and whistles. Get creative with some shortcuts to deliver quality software.  Continue Reading

• Why upgrading to a Gen 6 Fibre Channel network is a good idea

  Upgrading to a next-gen Fibre Channel network provides the added performance needed to meet the demands of evolving technologies and workloads, along with other benefits.  Continue Reading

• Continuous delivery pipeline tools build IT efficiency

  The range of CD tools available is as varied as the organizations that need them. Choose between three primary tool set constructions to suit your organization's structure.  Continue Reading

• Right-size a cloud VM for better performance, lower costs

  Most companies don't pay enough attention to VM selection during cloud app deployment -- which can drive up costs. Follow these steps to right-size a VM and stay within budget.  Continue Reading

• What the CI process can and can't do for software delivery

  Continuous integration, software delivery and deployment are distinct software lifecycle stages, but they are far more complementary than competitive in modern dev methodologies.  Continue Reading

• Weigh Amazon SageMaker ease of use against needed AI skills

  SageMaker shouldn't be viewed as the AWS machine learning cure-all but, instead, as a potential option for developers with some AI and data analysis background.  Continue Reading

• Azure Stack growing pains could weigh on enterprise appeal

  Microsoft's hybrid cloud platform continues to pique the interest of enterprise IT shops but still lacks the maturity and breadth of the Azure public cloud.  Continue Reading

• Optimize serverless function performance for faster deployments

  Serverless computing offers numerous benefits, but poor performance can negatively affect deployment time. Follow these strategies to fine-tune and optimize serverless functions.  Continue Reading

• Getting started with Linux containers

  Linux-based containers allow you to run applications in the data center without modifying OSes. If you're not sure how to get started, options such as Docker and CoreOS can help.  Continue Reading

• Note these Amazon Lex chatbot integrations, limits

  Amazon Lex opens the door for conversational interactions with apps. But, while it's easy to create a chatbot, you must have the right pieces in place to take advantage of Lex.  Continue Reading

• Open source microservices management trends alter software delivery

  Open source trends and projects have shaken up the software delivery landscape by aiming to run and manage microservices in cloud-native environments.  Continue Reading

• 6 features your multi-cloud management tools should have

  When evaluating cloud management platforms, IT decision-makers should make sure they have these key functions and that they meet their organization's specific requirements.  Continue Reading

• Sustain high quality in low-code app development

  Organizations can keep their standards high and their programming low if they follow these guidelines for a low-code, model-driven approach to software development.  Continue Reading

• How has software-defined networking security evolved?

  Software-defined networking security means more than just microsegmentation. Enterprises can also use SDN to assign security zones, improve monitoring and help with automation.  Continue Reading

• Enlist AWS IoT security tools to defend your network

  The internet of things offers great promise but introduces some unique risks. Research common vulnerabilities and follow best practices to secure your AWS IoT deployment.  Continue Reading

• Find network security vulnerabilities by assessing risk

  IT staff needs to regularly review network security vulnerabilities and security gaps to battle rising cybersecurity breaches and keep costs under control through risk assessments.  Continue Reading

• Learn the basics of Amazon EFS to find the right storage fit

  While EFS offers features that S3 doesn't, Elastic File System isn't necessarily the right AWS storage service for all enterprise needs. Use this overview to weigh your options.  Continue Reading

• Incorporate virtual private clouds in a hybrid IT environment

  Don't let the added complexity of VPCs deter you from integrating them with your hybrid cloud. Simply keep these configuration factors in mind to ensure seamless interoperability.  Continue Reading

• How a domain-specific language affects configuration management

  Learn a domain-specific language -- it's easier than French! A DSL's programming style enables administrators to operate with more precision and flexibility, but don't write off YAML yet.  Continue Reading

• SCVMM PowerShell commands for server health checks

  Perform regular SCVMM health checks -- such as monitoring clustered shared volume utilization and host participation in SCVMM placement -- using simple PowerShell commands and scripts.  Continue Reading

• Compare cloud API management tools from AWS, Azure and Google

  While the API management tools from top cloud providers share some functionality, there are key differences that developers -- especially those in a multi-cloud model -- should know.  Continue Reading

• Wireless-first networks verge on wireless-only, but concerns remain

  A wireless-first strategy could spread among enterprises and proceed toward wireless-only. IT staff, however, should heed concerns around capacity, management and cost.  Continue Reading

• Use API gateways to aid microservices communication, security

  Discover where API gateways fit into microservices architectures to help manage interactions between client applications and users.  Continue Reading

• How network operators can differentiate SD-WAN services

  Providers' SD-WAN services currently compete largely on cost, but network operators hope to gain market share with network-based SD-WAN feature differentiation.  Continue Reading

• What IPv6 features can be found in the latest specification?

  The IPv6 specification is now becoming a full-fledged internet standard. New IPv6 features focus on enterprise reliability and operational and security considerations.  Continue Reading

• Blockchain-microservices pairing not an enterprise reality yet

  Despite some specific use cases, experts don't expect to see many enterprises combine blockchain and microservices -- at least, not yet.  Continue Reading

• Establish a data classification model for cloud encryption

  Not all data requires the same level of encryption. Use data classification to gauge your security needs, including for workloads that span on-premises and cloud environments.  Continue Reading

• Datrium open converged infrastructure makes HCI flexible

  Datrium calls its less rigid form of converged infrastructure open convergence to highlight its greater scaling flexibility versus converged or hyper-converged infrastructures.  Continue Reading

• Best tools and methods for designing RESTful APIs

  Approaches to RESTful API design may differ, but five essential elements to API design exist to help guide your tool selection conundrum and solve your RESTful API design problems.  Continue Reading

• IT incident management best practices -- and myths that scare you away

  When IT activity inevitably goes awry, admins need to know the best course of action to take to ensure accountability, efficiency and accuracy -- and not get lost in myths.  Continue Reading

• XCP-ng offers new hypervisor option for cost-conscious shops

  A new open source fork of Citrix XenServer includes many features proprietary hypervisors offer, but it's not likely to displace market leaders any time soon.  Continue Reading

• Active-active data centers key to high-availability application resilience

  Enterprises dependent upon a high-availability application should investigate active-active data center designs to ensure reliability and resiliency.  Continue Reading

• Set up Office 365 alerts to keep threats at bay

  Office 365 offers administrators integrated tools to warn the IT staff about potential attacks or breaches of conduct. Find out what the options are and how to configure them.  Continue Reading

• Converged data center migration practices to avoid data loss

  Refreshing data center hardware is no simple task, especially for organizations with multiple workflows. Before completing an upgrade, make a plan for backups and workload management.  Continue Reading

• Legacy roots still hinder Oracle and IBM cloud strategies

  As IBM and Oracle look to shift away from legacy systems and hone in on IaaS, it won't be a clean cut. Still, each vendor has its sweet spot in the overall cloud market.  Continue Reading

• Network capacity planning in the age of unpredictable workloads

  When you manage network spaces carefully and make informed choices, the flexible, easily scaled workloads of distributed public and hybrid cloud applications become manageable.  Continue Reading

• Manage VMM library servers with PowerShell

  Using PowerShell commands can save you time when searching for all the shares on a VMM library server, exporting and importing VMM library resources, and checking for VMM templates.  Continue Reading

• Troubleshoot common VM live migration errors

  VM live migration errors in Hyper-V include connection issues, virtual switch mismatches and incompatible hardware. Learn more about these common errors and how to resolve them.  Continue Reading

• Map application dependencies to prepare for cloud migration

  The practices a development team puts in place to manage dependencies before a move to the cloud will determine how smoothly apps run long after they get there.  Continue Reading

• AWS IoT Analytics churns device data into insights

  To tap into the business value of IoT data, organizations first need the right set of tools. Compare these AWS analytics services and the features they bring to the table.  Continue Reading

• ITSM automation helps advance network automation

  IT service management helps close the gap between IT staff and business needs, as artificial intelligence and machine learning work with ITSM automation to usher in network automation.  Continue Reading