Tips

Tips

• Guide to the advantages of using the Windows Terminal app

  Admins who manage a wide range of resources will want to try this Microsoft app that integrates with Windows machines, cloud services and Linux systems from a single interface.  Continue Reading

• Managed identity vs. service principal for Azure apps

  Managed identities automate identity management for Azure-native applications, while service principals are ideal for external applications that need access to Azure resources.  Continue Reading

• Top cloud migration service providers and how to choose one

  Tools, services and pricing vary widely, and often, the options are platform-specific. Here's a rundown of seven representative providers and advice on how to choose.  Continue Reading

• Data retention and destruction policy template: Free download

  The downloadable data retention and destruction policy template here will help with compliance. Use this structure to develop other IT data management policies.  Continue Reading

• Projections and feasibility of data centers in space

  Earth has a limited amount of land, and data centers occupy large amounts of it. Data centers in space would reduce land use and energy costs, while improving processing speeds.  Continue Reading

• Webhooks explained simply, with examples

  Webhooks make significant use of basic API call mechanisms and set event triggers in a few clicks of a button -- all without the overhead of heavy request-response structures.  Continue Reading

• 6 cloud migration challenges to prepare for and overcome

  A cloud migration can bring lots of risks, unexpected costs and inconveniences. You can minimize or avoid them with thorough assessment, planning and training.  Continue Reading

• Application refactoring: Best practices for cloud migrations

  Learn what application refactoring is, its role in cloud migration, typical challenges, the best ways to ensure success -- and when to not do it at all.  Continue Reading

• Solar shift: How data centers can embrace renewable energy

  Demand for electricity calls for integration of renewable resources. Solar power provides data centers with energy independence, cost predictability and a sustainable power source.  Continue Reading

• A guide to Li-Fi technology

  Li-Fi is an emerging wireless technology that uses visible light to transmit data instead of radio frequencies. Though still niche, Li-Fi has numerous advantages and use cases.  Continue Reading

• Selecting an AWS EC2 instance for machine learning workloads

  Certain workloads require specific EC2 instances. For AI and machine learning workloads, teams need to find instances that balance app requirements, performance needs and costs.  Continue Reading

• Ultimate Markdown guide: 5 rules to know

  Markdown is crucial to documentation writers. Learn the vendor-based variations and several basic formatting rules to get started with this potent markup language.  Continue Reading

• An introduction to a cross-cloud strategy

  A cross-cloud strategy enables enterprises to run the same workload in different cloud environments simultaneously. This is beneficial for resilience, flexibility and performance.  Continue Reading

• How to improve DevOps through collaboration

  Collaboration is key in DevOps, surpassing any one tool, product or individual. Discover why collaboration is crucial and tips for collaborating effectively in DevOps.  Continue Reading

• Top 6 network monitoring best practices

  Benchmark metrics, customizable dashboards and automation are all best practices in network monitoring. Network admins can use them to optimize performance and minimize threats.  Continue Reading

• Managing complexity: Event-driven architecture explained

  Event-driven architecture is complex, but so are today's data challenges. Discover ways to manage dynamic and distributed interactions in this EDA explainer.  Continue Reading

• 7 top software testing certifications in 2025

  Certifications validate the candidate's software testing skills and keep them current with industry trends. Learn which certs offer the most value in the testing job market.  Continue Reading

• How to navigate the network vendor selection process

  Effective vendor selection involves a thorough evaluation process to ensure optimal network performance. Factors to assess include service quality, reliability and security.  Continue Reading

• Is cloud-based network management right for your business?

  Many enterprises use on-premises network management, but some are transitioning to cloud-based management. Enterprises should evaluate both options before deciding which to use.  Continue Reading

• Why does DNS use TCP Port 53 and UDP Port 53?

  DNS uses both TCP and UDP ports to maintain consistent and reliable network performance. TCP provides zone transfers, while UDP handles name resolution queries and responses.  Continue Reading

• 8 microservices best practices to remember

  From integrating domain-driven design to securing APIs, explore a range of microservices best practices for building a resilient and scalable application.  Continue Reading

• Logical vs. physical topology: What's the difference?

  A complete network topology is a network map that provides a look into the network's hardware components and data flow using physical and logical topologies.  Continue Reading

• Use this EC2 instance type comparison to power your AWS apps

  To get the most out of AWS, organizations need to get the most out of their EC2 instances. Use this comparison to help choose the right AWS instance type and pricing plan.  Continue Reading

• Continuous delivery vs. continuous deployment: Which to choose?

  Continuous delivery and continuous deployment both compress and de-risk the final stages of production rollout. Learn how to choose the proper path for your organization.  Continue Reading

• Rust vs. Python: Strengths, challenges and use cases

  This Rust vs. Python faceoff breaks down how the two programming languages stack up against each other in terms of performance, speed, memory management and more.  Continue Reading

• Basic network management interview questions and answers

  Job interviews should be a two-way conversation. Hiring managers and job applicants should review common network management interview questions before an interview.  Continue Reading

• A guide to network lifecycle management

  Network pros should use a network lifecycle management process to monitor, manage and implement changes in their network, regardless of if they use PPIDOO or another framework.  Continue Reading

• How to implement an effective cloud governance framework

  To ensure their cloud environments deliver expected benefits while keeping costs and risks under control, organizations need a process for adhering to key cloud governance pillars.  Continue Reading

• CI/CD pipeline security: Know the risks and best practices

  Rapid release cycles need not compromise the security of an application and supporting infrastructure. Follow these guidelines to ensure security throughout the CI/CD pipeline.  Continue Reading

• 5 open source cloud monitoring tools to consider

  IT teams need visibility into their cloud environments. If your team wants more than its cloud providers offer, see if an open source monitoring tool is a better fit.  Continue Reading

• Hydrogen fuel cells advantages, disadvantages in data centers

  Hydrogen fuel cells are sustainable energy sources that produce low to zero carbon emissions. Explore the pros and cons of hydrogen fuel use and the likelihood of its future use.  Continue Reading

• Understand AWS Regions vs. Availability Zones

  It's easy to forget about data centers when you run workloads in the cloud. Learn how AWS Regions and Availability Zones differ, and how they affect cloud costs and configurations.  Continue Reading

• Overview of network management tasks and best practices

  Network management encompasses a range of tasks and processes. Explore 10 crucial tasks and accompanying best practices to ensure a resilient and functional network.  Continue Reading

• The benefits of network asset management software

  Network asset management software helps network teams keep track of network devices and software to ensure timely upgrades, accurate inventory and updated documentation.  Continue Reading

• How to evaluate AI for Windows Server environments

  Organizations tasked with assessing AI workloads on Windows Server must weigh all the variables to determine the best approach to adopt this budding technology.  Continue Reading

• Cloud licensing explained: What businesses need to know

  Businesses vacating the premises and setting up their data and applications in a distributed environment must consider cloud licensing's options, advantages and disadvantages.  Continue Reading

• RAID 5 vs. RAID 10

  RAID is a staple for backup and storage administrators who want to create redundancy and protect data. RAID 5 and RAID 10 offer similar benefits, but is one better than the other?  Continue Reading

• Rust vs. C++: Differences and use cases explained

  C++ was mature before Rust even existed. Does that mean developers should switch from C++ to Rust? Not always.  Continue Reading

• HCL vs. JSON: Configuration language uses, pros and cons

  HCL and JSON are similar configuration languages. These languages are meant for specific IaC scenarios, so companies should understand the syntax and editing tools for each.  Continue Reading

• RAID 1 vs. RAID 5

  Neither RAID 1 nor RAID 5 is clearly better than the other, but there are several areas to compare the two to find the right option for your organization.  Continue Reading

• What's new in System Center 2025?

  The key management tool for enterprises with a heavy investment in on-premises infrastructure is set for its next major release to coincide with the arrival of Windows Server 2025.  Continue Reading

• How to plan a cloud strategy: Complete guide and template

  A cloud strategy document is a mission statement, not a design document. It should capture the what and why of a company's cloud strategy, without delving into the minutiae of how.  Continue Reading

• Examine the top benefits of private cloud

  There's more to private clouds than control over infrastructure and security. Consider the benefits of private cloud services before jumping on the public cloud bandwagon.  Continue Reading

• 14 top multi-cloud management platforms for 2025

  Dig into the benefits -- and drawbacks -- of the top tools and services designed to help enterprises manage their hybrid and multi-cloud environments  Continue Reading

• An introduction to TypeSpec, a new API definition language

  Standardizing API descriptions and converting API definitions into different formats can be challenging. TypeSpec, a new API definition language, aims to solve that.  Continue Reading

• The role of network sandboxing and testing

  Network sandboxing provides network teams with a risk-free environment to test changes and run potential threat scenarios. This helps prevent outages and other unexpected issues.  Continue Reading

• The basics, benefits and risks of cell-based architecture

  Cell-based architecture adds a new twist to enterprise infrastructure by speeding deploys, improving uptime and maybe even reducing the test effort.  Continue Reading

• How to tackle network automation challenges and risks

  Automation makes networks more efficient, but engineers must first mitigate the risks. With planning and training, enterprises can take advantage of automation's capabilities.  Continue Reading

• 3 takeaways from the CompTIA Cloud+ certification exam

  The author of The Official CompTIA Cloud+ Instructor Guide and Student Guide shares his most interesting takeaways from the recent version of the CompTIA Cloud+ certification.  Continue Reading

• 8 key steps of a cloud exit strategy

  If your cloud-based workloads and applications need to move back on premises, you'll need a plan. Start your reverse migration with this step-by-step guide.  Continue Reading

• Is cloud repatriation the only answer?

  Cloud repatriation should be a last resort, not a repudiation of the cloud. Do you know how to fully optimize cloud workloads to avoid costly in-house investment?  Continue Reading

• Amazon Bedrock vs. SageMaker JumpStart for AI apps

  Amazon Bedrock and Amazon SageMaker JumpStart both provide AI models for applications. Bedrock offers readily available models, while JumpStart supports more customization.  Continue Reading

• 9 cloud cost management tools you should know about

  There's a whole category of tools dedicated to managing cloud costs. Here's how they optimize cloud resources and improve bottom lines, plus descriptions of nine of the best ones.  Continue Reading

• Calculate UPS battery backup time to prepare for power failure

  Extreme heat and inadequate cooling systems can lead to power failures in data centers. Calculate the duration of your UPS battery supply to prepare for backup power needs.  Continue Reading

• Cloud change management: What you need to plan for

  Traditional change management and frameworks like ITIL are usually too slow and bureaucratic. You need to adapt them for the speed, and agility -- and risks -- of the cloud.  Continue Reading

• Compare 5 Ceph alternatives for storage

  This list of Ceph alternatives can provide a good starting point for better understanding what's available and the issues to look for during the storage decision-making process.  Continue Reading

• How to implement CI/CD in network automation

  CI/CD processes help deploy code changes to networks. Integrating a CI/CD pipeline into automation makes networks more reliable, reducing configuration errors and downtime.  Continue Reading

• 6 FinOps KPIs and metrics to optimize cloud expenditures

  IT leaders who adopt FinOps metrics can identify underutilized resources, improve cost allocation and build a tighter connection between cloud investment and business value.  Continue Reading

• Compare Box vs. Dropbox enterprise storage platforms

  Both Box and Dropbox offer features and integrations that any modern enterprise could use for its cloud storage. Choosing between Box vs. Dropbox depends on various factors.  Continue Reading

• How does predictive analytics help network operations?

  Predictive analytics can project network traffic flows, predict future trends and reduce latency. However, tools continue to evolve, so teams should use caution in their selection.  Continue Reading

• FinOps tools to consider for your organization

  FinOps tools help organizations optimize cloud spending and use. Review the different native and third-party options to find the best fit for your needs.  Continue Reading

• A beginner's guide to cloud-native application development

  Cloud-native applications have become ubiquitous in IT environments. Review key principles, patterns and developmental factors to keep in mind before creating a cloud-native app.  Continue Reading

• Understanding the role of AI in cloud computing

  AI is bringing previously unimagined capabilities in automation, optimization and predictive analytics to cloud management while posing new challenges for IT departments.  Continue Reading

• 10 dying or 'dead' programming languages

  In a rapidly evolving landscape, these 10 programming languages are becoming increasingly obscure. Learn how programming languages die despite their former prominence.  Continue Reading

• FinOps best practices to fully optimize your cloud costs

  While there's no one-size-fits-all approach to a FinOps initiative, these established principles and practices get you started on the right path.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft Purview Audit helps IT flush out bad behavior

  The auditing tool gives enterprises a way to find problems by examining logs from Microsoft 365 cloud services, such as Exchange Online, to see what actions were taken and where.  Continue Reading

• Backup strategy for small businesses 101

  Small businesses must review data protection needs and choose a backup strategy accordingly. This ensures that they meet requirements without going over budget.  Continue Reading

• QAOps vs. DevOps: Important differences

  QAOps represents an extension of DevOps that can help enterprises mature their software QA practices. Learn how QAOps can help DevOps-driven organizations zero in on quality.  Continue Reading

• Why observability is important in multi-cloud environments

  Increased use of multi-cloud environments is creating a need for specialized observability methods and tools for tracking and measuring cloud performance.  Continue Reading

• Stop phishing with help from updated DMARC policy handling

  Exchange admins got a boost from Microsoft when it improved how it handles DMARC authentication failures to help organizations fight back from email-based attacks on their users.  Continue Reading

• Prepare for the CompTIA Cloud+ CV0-004 certification exam

  Don't be caught unprepared for the exam. Take advantage of these study tips from the author of 'The Official CompTIA Cloud+ Certification Self-Paced Study Guide.'  Continue Reading

• How to subnet in cloud network environments

  Cloud and on-premises subnets use IP ranges, subnet masks or prefixes, and security policies. But cloud subnets are simpler to set up, while on-prem configuration is still manual.  Continue Reading

• Should I outsource FinOps or build my own team?

  FinOps strategies can help enterprises manage cloud costs and monitor cloud usage patterns. But is it better to outsource or build a FinOps team in-house?  Continue Reading

• Building an infrastructure-as-code pipeline in the cloud

  There are key stages to manage infrastructure as code, from source control to deployment. Here's how these functions can be accomplished through cloud services.  Continue Reading

• UX design principles: Why should testers know them?

  Usability is key to the success of an application. Learn what developers and testers should look for to optimize usability and maximize the business value of an application.  Continue Reading

• What's new in the updated CompTIA Cloud+ certification exam

  Wondering what to study to prepare for the CompTIA Cloud+ exam? Read about the new exam content from the author of 'The Official CompTIA Cloud+ Certification Self-Paced Study Guide.'  Continue Reading

• Get to know the archive bit and its role in data backup

  Good data management is key to protecting critical files. A tool like the archive bit can help ensure backup administrators know what data needs to be backed up at a glance.  Continue Reading

• Windows Server 2025 Hyper-V updates promise speed boost

  Will the new and improved features in the upcoming Hyper-V release come at the perfect time for Microsoft to capitalize on a series of unpopular changes from VMware?  Continue Reading

• What is cloud cost optimization? 16 best practices to embrace

  Cloud pricing is complex, and there are lots of ways to waste money on services you don't need. Here's how to ensure you have just the right amount of cloud resources.  Continue Reading

• How to create subnets in IPv4 and IPv6 networks

  Network administrators subnet networks into segments for improved control and efficiency. IPv4 uses subnet masks, while IPv6 uses prefixes, and each has its own unique steps.  Continue Reading

• Speed vs. quality in software testing: Can you have both?

  Testing can slow development and quick releases can come at the price of quality. Teams should not have to choose. Learn to efficiently pursue quality in development and testing.  Continue Reading

• User mode vs. kernel mode: OSes explained

  Kernel mode exists to keep user applications from disrupting critical system functions. Learn how each state works and what can happen when an error occurs in kernel mode.  Continue Reading

• 8 best practices for configuration file management

  Configuration files are vital for system deployment and management. Consider improving file management with proper planning, centralization, automation and testing.  Continue Reading

• A guide to Microsoft Azure storage pricing

  Take a deep dive into the costs of Microsoft Azure cloud storage across several different types, including Blob Storage and Files. Compare pricing with AWS and Google Cloud.  Continue Reading

• Follow these 8 best practices for cloud-native app development

  The better your cloud-native development process is, the more efficient and reliable your application is likely to be. Follow these tips to bring your development practices to the next level.  Continue Reading

• Use diskpart to create, delete and modify disk partitions

  Diskpart is one of the oldest disk management tools in Windows, but it remains useful for its advanced capabilities in automation and granular control compared to other utilities.  Continue Reading

• The pros and cons of optical wireless communication

  OWC transfers data using highly directional light in free space. While OWC delivers high-speed data transfers, it is susceptible to multipath dispersion and interference.  Continue Reading

• How Puppet works: Using the configuration management tool

  With Puppet, organizations can manage configurations and simplify the DevOps process. Learn how it works, and see if it's the right choice for your organization.  Continue Reading

• 10 benefits of containers for AI workloads

  IT organizations face a daunting onslaught of new AI projects. Containers offer key benefits to ease the burden throughout an AI workload's lifecycle.  Continue Reading

• How to plan and start a network upgrade

  Network architects face challenges when considering a network upgrade, but enterprises can keep problems to a minimum by following a careful plan and listening to end users.  Continue Reading

• How AI can automate IT patch management

  AI-based patch automation can take pressure off the process of scanning, testing, deploying and producing a report. Is AI the right way to go for your organization?  Continue Reading

• Explore underwater data centers' viability, sustainability

  Tests off coastlines around the world are measuring the feasibility of underwater data centers. With proper maintenance and security, 40% of the population could use them.  Continue Reading

• How to weigh the benefits and challenges of CI/CD

  Many organizations begin their DevOps journey with a continuous integration and delivery pipeline. Before getting started, understand some fundamental benefits of CI/CD.  Continue Reading

• Compare the 3 types of private cloud

  The different types of private cloud offer varying levels of control, customization and convenience. These factors affect the benefits, challenges and use cases for each model.  Continue Reading

• How to deploy a LAMP stack

  Examine the components and deployment options of a LAMP stack, which provides web hosting, database and scripting platforms that are found in many data centers.  Continue Reading

• 12 CI/CD best practices for DevOps teams

  Building and maintaining a CI/CD pipeline requires more than just chains of automation. Adopt these CI/CD approaches to maximize your development and deployment efforts.  Continue Reading

• 6 best practices to manage private cloud costs

  Private cloud doesn't have to break the bank. Use these best practices to implement an intentional cost management strategy that meets private cloud's unique challenges.  Continue Reading

• How to calculate a subnet mask from hosts and subnets

  IP addressing and subnetting are important and basic elements of networks. Learn how to calculate a subnet mask based on the required number of subnets and hosts.  Continue Reading

• How to use Linux package managers

  There are many different package managers for Linux distributions. Linux admins should know what to expect from these distributions and how to tackle software maintenance.  Continue Reading

• Epics, features and user stories explained

  Epics, features and user stories are all uniquely important work products in Agile product management. Learn the difference between them and how they work together to create value.  Continue Reading