Data center ops, monitoring and management
Data center operations are the fundamental workflows that keep a data center operating. Monitoring and management of data center resources comprise the most central data center ops. Learn more about data center software and best practices for monitoring and managing devices and equipment across the data center.
Top Stories
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Tip
25 May 2023
Differences between Green Globes vs. LEED for data centers
Consider Green Globes and LEED certifications when building green data centers. Learn the differences in how the assessments are done, the costs and documentation needs. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 May 2023
Learn about the Azure Stack HCI benefits for admins
The hyper-converged infrastructure offering promises to reduce the headaches associated with running virtualized workloads on hardware sourced from multiple vendors. Continue Reading
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Opinion
18 May 2023
Nutanix lays out vision for multi-cloud PaaS
Organizations face challenges with complexity across IT infrastructure. Nutanix aims to simplify with a PaaS platform that extends across many locations. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 May 2023
Understand the uses of blockchain in data centers
Blockchain is most famous for its cryptocurrency applications, but data centers can employ it for a variety of business-related reasons -- including increased security. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 May 2023
Make mainframe operations efficient with these strategies
Mainframes affect organizational bottom lines. An expert outlines some key strategies to maintain reliability while keeping mainframe operation costs in check. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 May 2023
How to use ChatGPT for mainframe application management
ChatGPT can help IT admins manage mainframe applications by converting, optimizing and improving code. Also, it can create checklists and provide advice for mainframe management. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 May 2023
A primer on quantum computing storage and memory
Quantum computing storage and memory are quite different from traditional storage. The implications for storage capacity, for example, are extraordinary. Continue Reading
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Opinion
09 May 2023
Aruba Atmosphere '23 emphasizes agility matters
HPE Aruba Networking positioned its Atmosphere conference as looking at what comes next, but the subtext was all about agility as the company tightens its integration. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 May 2023
10 companies building quantum computers
Many companies big and small are building quantum computing capabilities in the software and hardware space. Here's what some offer and what they're building for the future. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 May 2023
What's involved in cloud repatriation cost calculation?
The costs associated with cloud repatriation go beyond the migration itself. IT managers must account for any new hardware, backup requirements and available skilled personnel. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 May 2023
5 steps for mainframe migration
The complicated task of migrating time-tested mainframe environments calls for careful assessment, attention to technical details and thorough project planning. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 May 2023
Understand top public cloud repatriation use cases
Cloud technology can pose billing, management and compliance issues. Here are five reasons why repatriating cloud workloads back on premises might be a better option. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 May 2023
Tips to use the Cockpit web consoles
Admins that use Cockpit to manage Linux servers can use the web consoles to add users, build firewalls and perform other tasks. Use these web consoles to oversee your servers. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
27 Apr 2023
How to install Cockpit for Linux
Linux admins will need to use some of these commands to install Cockpit and configure firewalls. Admins can also connect to one or more servers through Cockpit via these steps. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Mar 2023
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
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Feature
27 Mar 2023
2023 data storage conference lineup spotlights memory, cloud
While the previous three years featured a majority of virtual or hybrid events, in-person shows dominate the 2023 storage conference calendar. Emerging memory tech is a key focus. Continue Reading
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News
22 Mar 2023
ServiceNow's latest Now Platform focuses on AI, automation
ServiceNow doubles down on AI in its latest version of its Now Platform. Code-named Utah, the new version has several AI features intended to optimize business processes. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Mar 2023
Will data centers become obsolete?
Many organizations want to simplify or scale down their data centers -- but they won't disappear. Admins can examine as-a-service options and cloud to offload some applications. Continue Reading
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Answer
16 Mar 2023
Can composable infrastructure and computational storage mix?
'Composable' and 'computational' are often said in the same breath, but how exactly are they related -- or not? While there are differences, a combination could serve enterprises. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Feb 2023
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
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Tip
21 Feb 2023
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
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Feature
21 Feb 2023
10 important components of SDN controllers
SDN controller features include modularity, APIs, clustering and GUIs. Read more in this chapter excerpt from 'SDN-Supported Edge-Cloud Interplay for Next Generation Internet of Things.' Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Feb 2023
Words to go: 6 key data center sustainability metrics
When organizations go green in their data center, they will have to measure the facility's efficiency and environmental impact. Use sustainability metrics to get started. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Jan 2023
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
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Tutorial
25 Jan 2023
Everything you need to know about Linux man pages
Admins who aren't familiar with a command can use Linux man pages for better understanding. This tutorial outlines how to access Linux manuals and the value they provide. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Dec 2022
Quantum data centers might be the way of the future
Quantum computing has lots of potential for high compute applications. But the technology is still in the early stages, so it may be a while before more data centers adopt it. Continue Reading
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Answer
20 Dec 2022
NOC vs. data center: What's the difference?
Network operations centers and data centers are two facilities organizations use to store IT devices and manage operations. But they differ significantly in terms of purpose and operations. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Dec 2022
Classical vs. quantum computing: What are the differences?
Classical and quantum computers have many differences in their compute capabilities and operational traits. Know their differences to help prepare data centers. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Dec 2022
How to fix Active Directory account lockouts with PowerShell
With more apps and credentials to juggle, users can get blocked from their accounts after too many login attempts. Learn to use PowerShell to find and fix these issues. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Dec 2022
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
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Feature
09 Dec 2022
Top 5 colocation providers of 2023
Colocation companies offer a wide range of facilities and services that can help organizations reduce or eliminate the costs associated with managing their data centers. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Dec 2022
Top data center infrastructure management software in 2023
DCIM tools can improve data center management and operation. Learn how six prominent products can help organizations control costs, manage energy and track assets. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Dec 2022
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
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Tutorial
30 Nov 2022
How to check an IP address in Linux
In a Linux system, IP addresses correspond with a public or private network. This tutorial outlines how to find public and private IP addresses with Linux commands. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Nov 2022
16 PowerShell commands for network troubleshooting
These 16 Windows PowerShell cmdlets, including Get-NetIPAddress and Test-Connection, help network administrators troubleshoot their network environments. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Nov 2022
Kusto Query Language primer for IT administrators
Administrators who use Microsoft cloud services, such as Microsoft Sentinel and Microsoft 365, can learn how to pull information from those products with KQL queries. Continue Reading
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News
01 Nov 2022
HPE updates ProLiant servers bundled with GreenLake license
HPE added another software and service option with the new ProLiant servers featuring GreenLake, improved security software and Nextpoint services. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Oct 2022
A primer on CXL technology uses
The Compute Express Link, an open source memory interconnect, is gaining traction. Take a deep dive into why it's important and how it improves performance. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Oct 2022
Consider ethical technology issues with data center growth
Authors Harry Lewis and Ken Ledeen discuss ethical issues organizations should consider when expanding data center, data collection and technological capabilities. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Oct 2022
How to perform an AD group membership backup and restore
You can fix some problems with Active Directory with a few clicks, but things get difficult when they involve many layers of group membership. Here's a few ways to avoid trouble. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Oct 2022
Tips to build a data center airflow management strategy
Airflow in data centers is crucial for equipment health. While the hot aisle/cold aisle is popular, examine other options like side-to-side airflow and top-of-rack switches. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Oct 2022
How to avoid common GPO backup and restore problems
Group Policy Objects help admins maintain control of the enterprise environment, but it takes some planning to understand how to properly protect and recover GPOs to avoid trouble. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Oct 2022
DPUs vs. SmartNICs: What storage admins need to know
To determine whether a SmartNIC or DPU is right for their organization, admins must understand the capabilities of different kinds of NICs and DPUs. Continue Reading
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News
06 Oct 2022
ServiceNow buys Era Software to unify observability strategy
ServiceNow's acquisition of Era Software looks to strengthen the company's position in the observability market and make digital transformation projects easier to implement. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
28 Sep 2022
How to use file server reporting in FSRM
File server reporting within File Server Resource Manager can help admins identify problems and then troubleshoot Windows servers. This tutorial outlines how to generate reports. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Sep 2022
Cloud storage vs. data center: How to choose
It's essential to have efficient and cost-effective data storage. Both cloud and data center storage offer good options, so understand your needs before you choose. Continue Reading
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News
21 Sep 2022
ServiceNow Now Platform 'Tokyo' delivers AI, automation
ServiceNow doubled down on its commitment to take the complexity out of digital transformation projects with a new version of its ServiceNow platform sporting new AI capabilities. Continue Reading
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News
07 Sep 2022
IBM iSeries subscription plan aims to simplify IT budgets
Following the lead of competitors including Dell and HPE, IBM has debuted an all-in-one subscription plan for iSeries that bundles hardware, software and technical services. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
30 Aug 2022
Learn to monitor group memberships with PowerShell
Use PowerShell automation to build reports in local group memberships on a server and security groups in Active Directory to keep tabs on any irregular behavior. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
25 Aug 2022
How to build a vulnerability scanner with PowerShell
What do you do if there's a zero-day threatening your organization? When you need to act fast, use PowerShell to uncover vulnerabilities hiding in your environment. Continue Reading
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Opinion
26 Jul 2022
Quantum computing market sees new partnerships, progress
From Infineon and Oxford Ionics' partnership to Cambridge and Honeywell's merger and QCI's new Entropy Quantum Computing, explore the major new leaps in the quantum market. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Jul 2022
Create file server screens and quotas in FSRM
File Server Resource Manager can help data center admins keep track of what files get stored on their servers and how much space users take up. Learn to use key FSRM features. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Jul 2022
These Azure Logic Apps examples assist with your admin needs
Admins can get some automated assistance with provisioning and monitoring by learning how to work with triggers in Microsoft's integration platform as a service. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Jun 2022
Words to go: Learn basic Linux terminology
What is a distro? What does swappiness mean? How are Xen and KVM different from one another? Familiarize yourself with basic Linux terminology for beginner users. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Jun 2022
Send automated messages with this Azure Logic Apps tutorial
Learn to use the Microsoft cloud-based product to automatically send an email or a message from Microsoft Teams when you need to know if a task completed properly. Continue Reading
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Opinion
22 Jun 2022
Notes from Lenovo's ISG analyst summit
Lenovo is more than just a PC company. In its recent analyst summit, the company revealed its goals with AI, edge, cloud services, HCI as well as growth in foreign markets. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Jun 2022
How to set up automated log collection with PowerShell
Gathering logs from on-premises Windows Server systems or Office 365 cloud services is a necessary but tedious job. Try a PowerShell script to ease the pain. Continue Reading
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Opinion
14 Jun 2022
SUSECON 2022 highlights include container management, edge
SUSECON featured several key product launches and trends, including business-critical Linux, containers and the edge. But how will SUSE impact the market? Continue Reading
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Opinion
08 Jun 2022
What's the current state of quantum computing?
As quantum computing comes closer to being a reality, learn how this style of computing can coexist with traditional computing. Discover major players and key use cases. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 May 2022
20 systemctl commands for system and service management
System and service management are vital to ensure customer satisfaction and service delivery. These systemctl commands can help ease those management tasks for admins. Continue Reading
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Opinion
24 May 2022
Key takeaways from Red Hat Summit 2022
At Red Hat's 2022 Red Hat Summit, the organization announced changes to edge strategy, Linux admin skill gaps and hardware and software modernization. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
17 May 2022
Query event logs with PowerShell to find malicious activity
Every action on a Windows Server system gets recorded, so don't get caught by an avoidable security incident. Learn how to find potential security problems in event logs. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 May 2022
Why admins should learn how to use Azure Logic Apps
In an increasingly cloudy IT world, the iPaaS offering from Microsoft can bridge management gaps with automated workflows that require little technical expertise. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 May 2022
Data center cooling systems and technologies and how they work
Extreme heat and cold can keep equipment from operating at peak efficiency. Explore cost-efficient and cost-effective cooling technologies and smart options for your facility. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Apr 2022
Data center temperature and humidity guidelines
ASHRAE maintains a recommended list of humidity and temperature level standards for data centers. Discover how to keep your data center environment in tiptop shape. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Apr 2022
5 basic network commands for Linux and Windows
Linux and Windows use different network commands to run tasks that are common in both environments, such as network connectivity testing. But the commands often share similarities. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
28 Apr 2022
Avoid clock skew issues with external time source setup
Configure Active Directory domain controllers to use an external NTP server to avoid Kerberos authorization issues and other problems in your Windows environment. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Apr 2022
Windows Server 2022 security hardening guide for admins
Emerging threats continue to target the Windows ecosystem, but there are multiple methods to make it tougher to be the victim of a malicious hack attempt. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Apr 2022
How to set up a MySQL database in Linux
Learn to prepare for a SQL-based Linux database, create a new database and create database users with permissions. This enables you to work with many other services. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Apr 2022
Use these PowerShell add-ons to supercharge your experience
These PowerShell new features and modules introduce several customization and functionality features to the popular automation tool to ease coding tasks for administrators. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Apr 2022
6 ways to perform microservices load testing
While it's not easy to conduct load testing in hectic microservices environments, certain best practices can help testing teams ensure fair and equal distribution of workloads. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Apr 2022
Advice for data centers looking to change operating systems
When you swap out a data center's primary OS, first, consider the purpose of your replacement OS and its optimal workloads. Then, you can create an OS migration plan. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Mar 2022
Discover disaster recovery and backup for edge networks
Proper backup and DR at the edge requires an awareness of the specific challenges edge devices present, and appropriate plans and tooling to help ease management. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Mar 2022
The global state of data center sustainability
Review green initiatives in the world of data centers: sustainable designs and practices, what other organizations are doing and where IT falls short. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Mar 2022
How to work with an SCCM technical preview lab
System Center Configuration Manager technical previews give Microsoft customers a way to test and provide feedback to the company for its device management product. Continue Reading
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News
23 Mar 2022
ServiceNow adds new RPA features to San Diego release
Doubling down on its RPA initiative, ServiceNow unveiled the San Diego version of its Now Platform that contains an RPA Hub and a complete overhaul of the product's interface. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Mar 2022
8 things to know when switching from Windows to Linux
Switching to Linux from Windows can present new challenges for beginner Linux admins. Here are eight tips to keep in mind when adopting a Linux OS if you've only used Windows. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Mar 2022
Businesses building data center network automation internally
Companies develop their own data center network automation software for security compliance, and they need tools closely aligned with their specific networks. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Mar 2022
Strategies, benefits of data center network automation
Data center networks aren't new, but ways of managing them are -- such as with data center network automation. Strategies include cloud automation, DevOps automation and more. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Mar 2022
3 colocation trends to consider in 2022
Key developments in the data center services market include smaller, more flexible deployments, AI optimization and a continuing focus on sustainability. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Feb 2022
Automation brings NetOps to the next level
Automation and AI can help enterprise NetOps teams attain the data insights they need to deliver services more efficiently and create a more agile, proactive network. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Feb 2022
Key data center trends in 2022
In 2022, data centers will introduce a variety of new technologies. Expect a focus on hybrid cloud, solid-state storage, DCIM and sustainability measures. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Feb 2022
11 key considerations prior to a data center upgrade
When you upgrade your data center, know the 11 key steps you must take to ensure neat migrations, good availability, continued security and limited downtime. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
14 Feb 2022
How to use PowerShell with the Azure REST API
With PowerShell automation coupled with the Azure REST API, it's easy to build a script to create, power on and remove virtual machines in Microsoft's cloud platform. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Feb 2022
How can data centers support a remote workplace?
Remote work presents a variety of challenges to businesses. Here's what an organization can do to provide adequate resources for its at-home workers and admins. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Jan 2022
Create data center electrical safety guidelines
Compose a comprehensive electrical safety strategy and keep your data center staff safe from electrical hazards. Learn what best practices and standards you should consider. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Jan 2022
How to choose the right DCIM tool for better configuration
DCIM tools can ensure your data center runs efficiently by keeping track of hardware, software and the physical environment. Here's what you should consider before choosing one. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Jan 2022
Protect your data center from ransomware attacks
Consider how best to protect your data center from ransomware attackers: Keep safe, air-gapped backups; consolidate your infrastructure and prioritize critical assets. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Jan 2022
Evaluate GPU vs. CPU for data analytics tasks
As data analytics becomes more commonplace, you might wonder what processor best suits such complex tasks. The CPU and GPU specialize in different tasks but excel together. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Jan 2022
Hidden colocation cost drivers to look out for in 2022
These unexpected charges and fees can balloon colocation costs for enterprise IT organizations. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
13 Jan 2022
What to consider when selecting an IaaS provider
A good IaaS should act like a partner, tailored to your infrastructure. Keep these criteria in mind when selecting a provider for your organization's IaaS. Continue Reading
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News
11 Jan 2022
LG Electronics, IBM partner on quantum computer research
Looking to expand software available for its quantum computers, IBM has added LG Electronics to its Quantum Network to explore offerings for the AI and IoT markets. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Jan 2022
Foster health and safety in the post-pandemic data center
Data centers adapted to a new set of circumstances during the COVID-19 pandemic. As work and the pandemic continue to change, here's how data centers can continue to evolve. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Dec 2021
What you should consider when right-sizing a data center
How does an organization decide the appropriate size and density for its data centers? Consider factors such as rack layout and available power first. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Dec 2021
Data center backup generators for mission-critical loads
To select the correct backup generator for your mission-critical data, learn the fuel, cost and efficiency considerations you should take into account. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Dec 2021
Monitor edge latency for IoT devices
Latency in edge devices can have several sources, stemming from software, network issues or old hardware. Here's how you can monitor and troubleshoot latency at the edge. Continue Reading
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News
30 Nov 2021
Honeywell, Cambridge Quantum form new quantum computing firm
Honeywell is merging its internal quantum computing divisions with Cambridge Quantum, forming a new company that promises to deliver a complete quantum computing software stack. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Nov 2021
Best practices for data center risk assessment
Data centers contain risks such as height, environmental and electrical hazards. Keep your staff safe by assessing the level of risk and creating a comprehensive safety plan. Continue Reading
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News
18 Nov 2021
MemVerge to help balance HPC resources more efficiently
Partnering with the DMTCP Project, MemVerge supports the open source distributed multithreaded checkpointing technology, which could change the high-performance computing game. Continue Reading
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News
04 Nov 2021
Kyndryl CTO talks strategy for the '$19 billion startup'
Kyndryl, the IBM services spinoff, debuted this week amidst varying analyst opinions as to how it would fare. Kyndryl CTO Antoine Shagoury lays out why he thinks it can succeed. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Nov 2021
Top Unix commands: 50 must-know commands with examples
Use these 50 Unix commands to manage and modify files, navigate directories, monitor your network and users, gather data, and automate system tasks and processes. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Nov 2021
What to know about managing power for edge devices
Keeping edge devices powered constantly can present challenges in sourcing and managing it. Learn the basics of getting and keeping power at the edge. Continue Reading