Cloud infrastructure design and management
Cloud computing delivers numerous benefits, but only if an IT organization is prepared to manage a cloud environment. Proper cloud infrastructure design and management entails an understanding of automation, orchestration, monitoring, compliance, pricing, availability, and other key elements of cloud services.
Top Stories
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Tip
18 Apr 2025
Try these strategies to modernize Windows workloads
Legacy applications create tough choices for admins who must balance business needs and security. This article covers these challenges and modernization strategies. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Apr 2025
10 cloud programming languages developers need to know
Cloud programming languages are not one-size-fits-all. Learn about the top cloud programming languages, and use our expert criteria to choose the best language for your workloads. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Aug 2024
What is an AWS landing zone?
An AWS landing zone is a scalable, secure Amazon Web Services environment that enables AWS users and organizations to launch and deploy workloads and applications in the AWS cloud. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Aug 2024
What is cloud automation?
Cloud automation is a broad term that refers to processes and tools that reduce or eliminate manual efforts used to provision and manage cloud computing workloads and services. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Aug 2024
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
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Video
08 Aug 2024
An explanation of serverless computing
Serverless computing simplifies app development by eliminating server management, streamlining coding for cloud platforms. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Aug 2024
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
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Video
06 Aug 2024
An explanation of private cloud
Private clouds cater to a single organization, offering enhanced security and compliance, unlike multi-tenant public clouds. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Jul 2024
7 steps to migrate ECM systems to the cloud
Enterprise content management systems can become outdated, prompting a migration to cloud-based options. Follow these seven steps to ensure a smooth migration. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Jul 2024
What is AWS PrivateLink?
AWS PrivateLink is a networking feature from Amazon Web Services (AWS) that eases and secures connectivity between AWS Virtual Private Clouds (VPCs) and other services while protecting data from exposure to the internet. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Jul 2024
What are availability zones?
Availability zones (AZs) are isolated or separated data centers located within specific regions in which public cloud services originate and operate. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Jul 2024
What is infrastructure as a service (IaaS)?
Infrastructure as a service (IaaS) is a form of cloud computing that provides virtualized computing resources over the internet. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Jul 2024
What is an Amazon EC2 Instance? Types, features and pricing
An Amazon EC2 instance is a virtual server in Amazon's Elastic Compute Cloud (EC2) scalable compute platform for running applications on the Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Jul 2024
Explore options for FinOps certifications and training
Receiving a FinOps certification helps individuals develop their cloud financial management skills. Discover training and certification options that can help your resume stand out. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
24 Jul 2024
Boost Exchange Online automation with Azure Functions
Admins can use the event-driven functionality in Microsoft's serverless offering and build event-driven workflows for a more efficient management approach. Continue Reading
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News
18 Jul 2024
Aviatrix CEO pitches cloud networking to 'underserved buyer'
Doug Merritt has been in the multi-cloud networking business for a year, but still draws on his experience as CEO of Splunk to steer Aviatrix toward a new phase of growth. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
15 Jul 2024
Manage Microsoft 365 users and groups with Azure Functions
This Microsoft service performs large-scale admin jobs and also automatically reacts to certain conditions to execute predefined tasks with speed and consistency. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Jul 2024
6 tips to plan a digital transformation budget
Formulating budgets for digital transformation projects is fraught with complexities, expectations and unknowns that differentiate it from traditional IT and business planning. Continue Reading
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News
26 Jun 2024
Broadcom faces challenges with latest VMware releases
CIOs are taking a hard look at the VMware portfolio as the number of alternatives rises in the hybrid cloud infrastructure market. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Jun 2024
What is multi-tenancy (multi-tenant architecture)?
Multi-tenancy is an architecture in which a single instance of a software application serves multiple customers. Continue Reading
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News
18 Jun 2024
HPE to offer KVM virtualization for GreenLake private cloud
HPE debuts its virtualization capability for HPE Private Cloud later this year as an integrated GreenLake alternative to third-party vendors such as VMware, Nutanix or Red Hat. Continue Reading
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News
18 Jun 2024
HPE GreenLake adds GenAI capabilities as on-premises PaaS
HPE GreenLake debuts a new PaaS offering for enterprise GenAI development, co-created with Nvidia. HPE also updated OpsRamp and server hardware refreshes for AI workloads. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Jun 2024
Azure Functions overview: A guide for Microsoft admins
With Azure Functions, admins can tap into advanced automation, enjoy enhanced security controls and create highly customized workflows catered to the organization's needs. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 May 2024
12 core Azure networking services you need to know
Network connectivity can make or break a cloud deployment. Discover the basics of Azure network services with this list of key offerings and terms. Continue Reading
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News
14 May 2024
VMware Cloud on AWS now sold exclusively by Broadcom
Broadcom discontinues AWS as a reseller of VMware Cloud on AWS, further evidence that it wants hands-on control of how the VM technology is sold, supported and distributed. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 May 2024
AWS Reserved Instances
AWS Reserved Instances (RIs) refer to compute capacity that can be reserved on Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud (Amazon EC2) and Amazon Relational Database Service (Amazon RDS) to take advantage of discounted pricing. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 May 2024
How to evaluate cloud certification training
Certifications and training courses help IT pros acquire the knowledge and skills to succeed in cloud. Learn what to look for in courses and how to choose the right program. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 May 2024
Compare NoSQL database types in the cloud
NoSQL systems are increasingly common in the cloud. Read about the different types of NoSQL databases that are available from major cloud providers and other vendors. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Apr 2024
XaaS (anything as a service)
XaaS is a collective term that refers to the delivery of anything as a service. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Apr 2024
6 best practices for a cloud-first strategy
Adopting a cloud-first strategy requires careful consideration to ensure affordability and optimal performance. Implement a successful strategy by following best practices. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Apr 2024
Troubleshooting 7 common errors in AWS CloudFormation
Errors can occur when an AWS developer builds a CloudFormation template, launches a stack or rolls back an update. Prevent and address common errors by following best practices. 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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Tip
17 Apr 2024
10 cloud vulnerabilities that can cripple your environment
Enterprises can be devastated by security-related weaknesses or flaws in their cloud environments. Find out where you are most vulnerable before an attacker comes knocking. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Apr 2024
cloud browser
A cloud browser is a cloud-based combination of a web browser application with a virtualized container that implements the concept of remote browser isolation. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Apr 2024
vertical cloud
A vertical cloud, also known as an industry cloud platform, is a set of cloud computing services optimized for use in a particular industry or for a specific business model. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Apr 2024
How to create a proof of concept with 6 free templates
What is a proof of concept and how does it help an organization? We dive into the importance of writing a PoC and provide a list of free template examples to help get you started. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Apr 2024
Thought leaders tips to obtain a secure cloud environment
Securing the cloud ecosystem is a multifaceted endeavor requiring both strategy and cooperation. Learn best practices and practical advice from leading speakers in this space. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Apr 2024
Best practices for cloud storage optimization vs. repatriation
While cloud storage repatriation grabs headlines, it's not for everyone. Sometimes, it's better to improve an organization's platform rather than make a wholesale change. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Mar 2024
cloud management platform (CMP)
A cloud management platform (CMP) is a suite of integrated software tools that an enterprise can use to monitor and control cloud environments. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Mar 2024
Ease multi-cloud governance challenges with 5 best practices
Establishing sound multi-cloud governance practices can mitigate challenges and enforce security. Review best practices and tools to help manage costs and risk. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Mar 2024
Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud (EC2)
Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud (EC2) is a web-based service that enables businesses to run application programs in the Amazon Web Services (AWS) public cloud. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Mar 2024
cloud load balancing
Cloud load balancing is the process of distributing workloads across computing resources in a cloud computing environment and carefully balancing the network traffic accessing those resources. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Mar 2024
cloud application
A cloud application, or cloud app, is a software program where cloud-based and local components work together. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
13 Mar 2024
How to monitor and deallocate Azure VMs to save money
Enterprises can save costs by deallocating Azure VMs during inactive periods. Teams can use log files and automation to monitor VM jobs and push deallocation when a job is complete. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Mar 2024
Top 6 soft skills in IT that cloud teams need
Soft skills play a bigger part in successful cloud deployments than you might think. Technical skills are obviously essential in IT, but a company must hire well-rounded employees. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Feb 2024
Compare CompTIA Cloud+ vs Cloud Essentials+ certifications
CompTIA Cloud+ and Cloud Essentials cover various areas and target different career paths. Find out which certification is right for you and how to prepare. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Feb 2024
AWS CloudFormation vs. Terraform: How to choose?
Once you decide that IaC is the best approach for your AWS environment, it is time to choose a tool. Assess your needs when it comes to stack management, failure and support. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Feb 2024
Google Transfer Appliance
Google Transfer Appliance is a high-capacity storage server that enables enterprises to transport large volumes of data to Google Cloud Storage. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Feb 2024
Upskill your cloud team for success
An investment in people is an investment in the company. See how a trained and upskilled staff can have a positive impact on productivity and profits. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Feb 2024
cloud modernization
Cloud modernization is a multistep process where existing on-premises applications, infrastructure and data sources are migrated, updated and transformed into a cloud-based architecture and environment. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Feb 2024
consumption-based pricing model
A consumption-based pricing model is a service provision and payment scheme in which customers pay according to the resources they use. Continue Reading
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Video
26 Jan 2024
What is Cloud Computing? An Introduction
This short video explains the essentials of cloud computing and its three major types. Learn the difference between public and private cloud and the top benefits. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Jan 2024
Chaos Monkey
Chaos Monkey is a software tool Netflix engineers developed to test the resiliency and recoverability of their Amazon Web Services (AWS) infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
24 Jan 2024
How to build a successful FinOps team
A successful FinOps team relies on clear team structure and roles, shared accountability and baseline measures of success. Use these best practices to build a FinOps team. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Jan 2024
data center modernization
Data center modernization includes updating and improving a data center to meet the requirements of the current and the next generation of workloads. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Jan 2024
On premises vs. cloud pros and cons, key differences
Immersed in the 'should I stay or should I go' cloud migration debate? Before vacating the premises and moving 'up there,' ponder these advantages and disadvantages. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Jan 2024
The pros and cons of containerized 5G workloads
Deploying containerized 5G workloads in a cloud environment offers benefits like portability, optimized resource usage and orchestration. But the strategy creates security risks. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Jan 2024
What is hybrid cloud? The ultimate guide
A hybrid cloud is a cloud computing environment that uses a mix of on-premises, private cloud and third-party public cloud services with orchestration among these platforms. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Jan 2024
cloud data management
Cloud data management is a way to manage data across cloud platforms, either with or instead of on-premises storage. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Jan 2024
hybrid cloud architecture
Hybrid cloud architecture is a type of cloud computing architecture that combines public cloud, private cloud and on-premises resources. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Jan 2024
7 keys to an effective hybrid cloud migration strategy
Cloud readiness, storage costs, network lag and metrics can make or break the choice to move data, applications and workloads to today's more complex hybrid cloud environment. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Jan 2024
8 hybrid cloud security challenges and how to manage them
Hybrid cloud's benefits are many and varied but so are the security issues surrounding integration, compatibility, governance, compliance, APIs, visibility and responsibility. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Jan 2024
hybrid cloud management
Hybrid cloud management characterizes the processes and tools for managing applications that span public and private cloud computing infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Jan 2024
Pros and cons of 10 common hybrid cloud use cases
For businesses contemplating the advantages and disadvantages of their applications living in a distributed cloud infrastructure, take a cue from these hybrid cloud use cases. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Dec 2023
The relationship between cloud FinOps and security
True FinOps maturity isn't achievable without FinOps and cybersecurity team collaboration. The first step is building the relationship between those teams. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 Dec 2023
Top enterprise hybrid cloud management tools to review
The techniques used to build hybrid cloud architectures have come a long way, but managing these environments long term is plenty more complex without the right software. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Dec 2023
Top 8 benefits of hybrid cloud for business
Why choose between public cloud and private systems when you can have both? With hybrid cloud, enterprises can address workload requirements, business demands and budgetary needs. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Dec 2023
hybrid cloud security
Hybrid cloud security is the combination of technologies and practices that protect a hybrid cloud user's sensitive data, infrastructure and applications. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
19 Dec 2023
How to survive a cloud service outage
Outages might be rare, but they are rarely cheap -- any amount of downtime can cost you money. Learn how to minimize the risks and survive a cloud service outage. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Dec 2023
Multi-cloud vs. hybrid cloud: The main difference
As businesses digitally transform across increasingly distributed environments, know the benefits, challenges, similarities and differences between hybrid cloud and multi-cloud. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Dec 2023
Compare Azure Blueprints vs. Terraform
Azure Blueprints helps companies with strict compliance needs in Azure environments, while Terraform is a versatile tool that suits multi-cloud strategies. Evaluate the tools here. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Dec 2023
How to implement AI into cloud management and operations
AI is becoming a transformative feature of cloud, but it means nothing if you don't have a proper strategy. Find out how to fold AI into management practices. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Nov 2023
Hybrid cloud connectivity best practices and considerations
Private and public clouds stress networks in different ways and don't always play well together. Here's what to know to set up a cost-effective hybrid cloud network architecture. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
27 Nov 2023
Use resource tagging to optimize cloud costs
When it comes to cost management in cloud computing, tags and additional metadata can help with reporting, allocation and optimization recommendations. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
27 Nov 2023
Craft a data protection strategy for multi-cloud
Data protection is harder when you have multiple clouds in the mix. Manage this challenge by crafting a data protection strategy and following these best practices. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Nov 2023
cloudlet
A cloudlet is a small-scale data center or cluster of computers designed to quickly provide cloud computing services to mobile devices, such as smartphones, tablets and wearable devices, within close geographical proximity. 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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Tip
09 Nov 2023
3 cost optimization strategies for multi-cloud environments
Cloud environments can become costly especially across multiple cloud providers. Read about these cost optimization strategies to bring down your bill. Continue Reading
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Opinion
08 Nov 2023
Red Hat shares vision for open source at Analyst Day
At Analyst Day, Red Hat focused on RHEL, OpenShift, Ansible, CentOS migration and automation, reflecting its commitment to deliver open source offerings to enterprise customers. 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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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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Tip
27 Oct 2023
9 tips to measure and improve digital transformation ROI
Amid a rapidly changing business landscape and competing priorities, a compelling ROI is all the more critical to justify and secure funding for digital transformation projects. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Oct 2023
5 cloud asset management best practices to optimize performance
Cloud billing, application deployments and security and governance are all important steps of cloud asset management. These best practices can help optimize cloud performance. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
24 Oct 2023
How to use ChatGPT with PowerShell to write code for admins
Use of artificial intelligence tools is on the rise in many industries, and administrators can tap into these digital helpers to improve their scripting attempts. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Oct 2023
Generative AI's sustainability problems explained
Generative AI tools and LLMs such as ChatGPT have exploded onto the tech scene. Here's a look at what that costs the environment and how to decrease the negative impact. Continue Reading
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Opinion
13 Oct 2023
Multi-cloud data storage becomes a 'must-have'
Enterprises typically have data spread across multiple locations, including multiple clouds. Vendors in turn should look to provide hybrid, multi-cloud and on-premises storage. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Oct 2023
Compare file storage options in the cloud
In the hot market of file storage in the public cloud, many options are available across some of the largest vendors, with performance a major consideration. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Oct 2023
Look beyond AI and ML buzzwords for the cloud
AI and machine learning are more than buzzwords, they can have serious impact to your business when applied correctly. Learn how to identify the true cost savings of these tools. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Sep 2023
What is iPaaS? Guide to integration platform as a service
This guide explains all about integration platform as a service (iPaaS), a set of automated tools that integrate software applications that are deployed in different environments. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Sep 2023
3 factors that influence multi-cloud cost optimization
Without careful oversight, multi-cloud deployments can be expensive. These data management and security practices can help IT teams control and reduce monthly costs. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Sep 2023
Cloud backup and disaster recovery evolve toward maturity
Christophe Bertrand, of TechTarget's Enterprise Strategy Group, discusses survey results on data protection initiatives in the cloud and challenges for organizations. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Sep 2023
3 rules to avoid high multi-cloud integration costs
When using multiple cloud providers, integration costs can grow quickly. To prevent billing surprises, enterprises must carefully plan application deployments and workflows. Continue Reading
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News
19 Sep 2023
Oracle databases in OCI now run on Microsoft Azure
A new partnership between two enterprise technology giants adds Oracle's hardware and software for Microsoft Azure customers, as former rivals unite to compete against AWS. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Sep 2023
Is the metaverse bad for the environment? Exploring a VR world
While the metaverse has negative impacts on the environment, some believe it can also aid in sustainability efforts. Take a look at these complex issues. Continue Reading
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Feature
14 Sep 2023
Are NFTs bad for the environment? Carbon, energy and more
Like blockchain, NFTs have a negative reputation when it comes to the environment. Learn why and whether that negative impact has changed in the last few years. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Sep 2023
Manage cloud waste and high costs with automation
Once you apply automation to a cloud waste strategy, it's continuously on guard and working in real time. See what manual tasks you can replace and available automation tools. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Sep 2023
Cloud budgeting for a multi-cloud strategy
A multi-cloud strategy can quickly become costly, especially with different providers. What you need is a cloud accountant to control the budgeting and billing processes. Continue Reading
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Opinion
29 Aug 2023
VMware Explore on generative AI and multi-cloud innovation
VMware Explore 2023 kicked off with big announcements surrounding generative AI and multi-cloud innovation. Read up on the latest key updates and what this means for VMware. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Aug 2023
Avoid overprovisioning in cloud computing with tracking
A lack of visibility means organizations can easily lose unused resources which rack up costs. However, there are tools and best practices that can help set up a tracking system. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Aug 2023
Cloud vs. traditional data center: Which is right for you?
Enterprises can choose to place workloads in the cloud vs. on-premises data centers, or take a hybrid approach. Check out the factors that can help make the decision. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Aug 2023
Reduce cloud waste with proper provisioning best practices
Don't pay for resources you don't use. Implement these best practices to avoid overprovisioning through access controls, policies and right-sizing. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Aug 2023
What to know about ESG data across ERP, enterprise systems
No single enterprise systems holds the key to ESG reporting. Instead, data is spread across ERP and other software systems. Here's what IT and sustainability leaders should know. Continue Reading