SDN and other network strategies
The data center networking topic center offers expert advice and in-depth explanations of data center networks, including new architectures and management tools and technologies. With increasing traffic on data center networks, strategies such as SDN, network functions virtualization and new architectures are stepping in to prevent jams.
Top Stories
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Answer
29 Mar 2023
Traditional WAN vs. SD-WAN: How do they compare?
While comparing traditional WAN vs. SD-WAN, network professionals can see the many benefits of SD-WAN, including centralized control and dynamic traffic management. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Feb 2022
Assessing colocation vs. cloud for hybrid IT infrastructure
When transforming operations to a hybrid IT environment, there's one other option to consider beyond the premises, public cloud and hybrid. Learn the many advantages of colocation. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Dec 2021
DHCP client configuration for Linux, Windows and macOS
Network and system admins can use command-line and GUI tools to configure DHCP clients in Linux, Windows and macOS. Here's a breakdown of which commands to use for each OS. Continue Reading
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News
21 Sep 2021
Nutanix Cloud Platform, AOS 6 improve networking, security
Nutanix debuted a new version of its AOS operating system along with new networking features, looking to boost its chances in the increasingly crowded hybrid cloud market. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Aug 2021
Learn the major types of server hardware and their pros and cons
Servers protect data, centralize resources and enable remote worker productivity, but buyers must understand which server types works best for their data center. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Apr 2021
Understand top SD-WAN advantages and disadvantages
Cost, complexity, security, training, troubleshooting and software bugs are some top SD-WAN challenges. Discover more on the advantages that SD-WAN can usher into an enterprise. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Nov 2020
Your guide to avoiding server rack setup issues
Not all data center servers are created equal. Before you attempt a server racking project, double-check size specifications and account for fastening hardware and cabling needs. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Nov 2020
Microsegmentation networking: Nutanix Flow vs. VMware NSX HCI
Explore how microsegmentation improves network security and the differences in how Nutanix and VMware bring the technology to their software-defined hyper-converged infrastructures. Continue Reading
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News
22 Oct 2020
Dell: VMware spinoff would have 'no change for customers'
Dell CEO Michael Dell says customers aren't concerned about his company's plan to possibly spin off VMware shares; VMware's CEO says the companies will continue to 'R&D together.' Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Mar 2020
Build up your knowledge of leaf-spine network technology
As organizations deal with challenges of single tree path networks, many admins are considering leaf-spine architectures. Learn the ways its topology helps latency and data flow. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Feb 2020
A look at software-defined networking upgrade guidelines
SDN brings the benefit of a mostly software-based update process. However, admins still must consider which updates are necessary and if a hardware refresh is required. Continue Reading
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Answer
07 Feb 2020
What are some Windows Server 2019 SDN security features?
Microsoft continued to refine the software-defined networking capabilities in its latest server operating system by developing several new security features. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Jan 2020
12 network automation ideas to incorporate in your network
What's your path to network automation? Here are 12 automation ideas that span different levels of expertise to help your network team get comfortable with network automation. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Dec 2019
Aaron's deploys CloudGenix SD-WAN after issues with Meraki
Before Aaron's could improve its real-time network visibility and VoIP performance with CloudGenix SD-WAN, the retailer had to transition from Cisco Meraki. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Nov 2019
Why Secure Access Service Edge is the future of SD-WAN
Secure Access Service Edge -- or SASE -- architecture transitions from network designs that revolve around the data center to a model based on identity and user context. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Oct 2019
Learn the basics of ACI network technology
Application-centric infrastructure is one way to support an SDN setup. By learning the basics, admins can manage networks with automation and data abstraction. Continue Reading
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Answer
03 Oct 2019
How do I create proper documentation of network automation?
Despite network automation's advantages, organizations can face disadvantages if they have improper network documentation. These four components can help enable proper documentation. Continue Reading
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Video
25 Sep 2019
The pros and cons of SD-WAN vs. MPLS
This video discusses the differences between SD-WAN and MPLS and explains why a hybrid WAN architecture -- that uses both technologies -- might be the best fit. Continue Reading
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Opinion
19 Sep 2019
The evolution of SDN and its role in networking
Has SDN run its course, or has the architecture simply evolved? In many current products, data centers and cloud environments, SDN may be closer than you think. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Sep 2019
4 steps for a smooth SDN installation
Software-defined infrastructure can be tricky to implement. Automation, vendor-supported hardware and skilled developers are essential for smooth updates. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Aug 2019
Top enterprise network challenges include agility, product hype
Product hype and network agility are some of the primary network challenges for modern enterprises, according to networking experts. Read up on their insights and advice. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Jul 2019
Cloud exchange provider deploys Blue Planet orchestration
In this case study, a Denver-based colocation and cloud exchange provider explains how Ciena's Blue Planet orchestration technology has helped make over its cloud exchange. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jul 2019
Prepare your organization for 100G data center Ethernet
Leaf-spine topologies, Ethernet and optics research are driving the next generation of data center networking infrastructure. Stay ahead of the curve with these technologies. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Jun 2019
F5 Super-NetOps initiative wins Network Innovation Award
The F5 Super-NetOps training initiative has won TechTarget's Network Innovation Award for its efforts to help today's networking pros develop skills for tomorrow. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 May 2019
4 criteria to consider in your cloud migration strategy
Organizations that are evaluating a workload migration to the cloud should use this workload placement process to build a consistent cloud migration strategy. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 May 2019
The status of white box networking in the enterprise
Despite the benefits of white box networking, most enterprises are cautious about deployment. Use these five questions to determine when white box implementation is a smart move. Continue Reading
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Answer
22 May 2019
How is service mesh architecture different from SDN and NFV?
Service mesh separates itself from SDN and NFV approaches with its clear focus on managing the communication and forwarding between multiple microservices. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 May 2019
Expectations about SDN cost savings don't match reality
While most enterprises prepare for Opex and Capex increases during the initial stages of SDN deployment, many don't expect a continued delay in SDN savings, according to IHS Markit. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 May 2019
The benefits of open source networking for enterprise IT
The benefits of open source are proved among large providers. But enterprises are less inclined to use open source networking, due to its limited functionality and support. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 May 2019
How to tackle network automation risks and tasks
Automation can make networks more efficient, but network engineers must first mitigate the risks. A good way to start is by setting up simple tasks that deliver operational value. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Apr 2019
Drawbacks of open source networking could impede full growth
IT teams have increasingly accepted the use of open source within their organizations. But open source networking continues to lag behind -- and it may not catch up. Continue Reading
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Answer
24 Apr 2019
SD-WAN with IoT enables the enhanced network edge
In a world teeming with IoT devices -- and the resulting data -- SD-WAN and SD-branch can provide the security, visibility and connectivity the IoT edge requires. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Apr 2019
The future of VPN will reflect the need for flexibility
The future of VPN services reflects the industry's trend toward software networking, evident in developments like SD-WAN and public cloud. The need for flexible technology is a main driver. Continue Reading
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Guide
19 Apr 2019
Latest Microsoft SDDC updates improve security, performance
Microsoft enhanced Windows Server 2019 software-defined networking and other virtualization facets of its latest server OS to improve security and increase workload performance. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Apr 2019
IT directors share SD-WAN advantages and advice
Enhanced access to internet applications, streamlined network connectivity and faster deployments at new offices are just some common SD-WAN advantages. Continue Reading
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Answer
17 Apr 2019
What is a programmable data plane and where does P4 fit in?
A programmable data plane presents a versatile way to forward packets and supports various formats and protocols. The P4 language is used to configure the forwarding actions. Continue Reading
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Answer
17 Apr 2019
What service does the Microsoft WSSD program provide?
A do-it-yourself approach with hyper-converged infrastructure can lead to trouble when software-defined features just won't work. See how the WSSD program can prevent issues. Continue Reading
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Answer
21 Mar 2019
What are some Microsoft SDDC integration challenges?
Microsoft added a number of new software-defined features in Windows Server 2019, but deploying a fully virtualized data center remains a challenge for several reasons. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Mar 2019
How to monitor CPU usage in SDN environments
Monitoring CPU usage in a software-defined network is necessary to determine adequate network capacity and compute capacity, especially if workloads are competing for resources. Continue Reading
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Answer
19 Mar 2019
How is the Microsoft SDDC concept becoming a reality?
The promise of a software-defined infrastructure and its ability to pool resources require the right administrative tool to keep the virtualized fabric from fraying. Continue Reading
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News
14 Mar 2019
AI-enabled network automation supports milliseconds response time
Enterprises need to respond to network and security events in milliseconds, not seconds. Network automation coupled with artificial intelligence tools can help. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Mar 2019
What is service chaining and where does VNF onboarding fit in?
Service chaining and VNF onboarding aren't easy. Companies interested in these processes need to understand the challenges involved, as well as various requirements for onboarding. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Mar 2019
How to strategize for WAN and SD-WAN performance monitoring
The importance of WAN performance monitoring hasn't decreased with the introduction of SD-WAN and other technologies. Enterprises still need to enforce proper monitoring strategies. Continue Reading
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News
11 Mar 2019
Nvidia acquires Mellanox against growing AI, data competition
Nvidia acquires Mellanox for $6.9 billion, as competition increases for platforms that can handle AI and other data-intensive platforms. Continue Reading
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Quiz
08 Mar 2019
How much do you really know about intent-based networks?
Break through the intent-based networking hype and take the time to evaluate what you know about the architecture. This quiz covers IBN basics, the benefits of IBN and beyond. Continue Reading
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Answer
07 Mar 2019
What Windows Server 2019 SDN features should I know about?
Administrators in highly virtualized environments can tap into enhanced Windows Server 2019 SDN functionality to run Hyper-V VMs more efficiently. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Mar 2019
Forward Networks' software enables intent-based networking
TechTarget has named Forward Networks a winner of its Network Innovation Award. Learn how the company's visibility and verification software supports intent-based networking. Continue Reading
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Answer
25 Feb 2019
How does security for intent-based networking work?
Monitoring plays an essential role when it comes to security in intent-based networking environments, as it ensures policies are met and detects network anomalies. Continue Reading
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Infographic
21 Feb 2019
NetOps by design: How data center pods enable network agility
To bring a DevOps approach to the network, one expert suggests enterprises take a page from the cloud-provider playbook. Here's how data center pods can support a NetOps evolution. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Feb 2019
What you need to know about intent-based networks
This compilation explores five pertinent questions about intent-based networking, including those about its benefits, why organizations move to it and where it stands in 2019. Continue Reading
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Answer
20 Feb 2019
How do SDN protocols compare to those used in SD-WAN?
Traditional SDN controllers use northbound and southbound APIs to communicate. But software-defined WAN controllers don't rely on those same SDN protocols. Continue Reading
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Answer
19 Feb 2019
What are some common Windows Server 2019 SDN errors?
The complexity of setting up and managing Microsoft SDN can increase the risk of administrators facing common networking errors that are difficult to troubleshoot. Continue Reading
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Answer
15 Feb 2019
Why would an organization move to intent-based networking?
Intent-based networking doesn't use any magical commands. But it does use a heavy dose of automation, which might cause some network teams to be wary of the new approach. Continue Reading
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Infographic
12 Feb 2019
What is intent-based networking and how does it work?
Intent-based networking might be the future of networking, but it needs to be more than just another networking strategy that offers advanced automation and simplified provisioning. Continue Reading
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Answer
12 Feb 2019
What key SDN features are in Windows Server 2019?
Microsoft SDN capabilities got a boost in Windows Server 2019 to wrap more security around VMs and make networking tasks less painful to execute. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Feb 2019
Intent-based networking reality check for 2019
The transition to intent-based networking won't happen overnight. But organizations can study up on different IBN approaches now to plan for future intelligent deployments. Continue Reading
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News
30 Jan 2019
Automation potential outweighs SDN deployment risks
SDN deployment varies among service providers and enterprises due to risks, costs and use cases. But, when it comes to SD-WAN, both groups appear to agree about the potential. Continue Reading
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Answer
21 Jan 2019
What are some Microsoft SDN features in Windows Server?
SDN functionality helps administrators shape network traffic to reduce congestion and boost security. Discover what other SDN features Microsoft added to its Windows Server offerings. Continue Reading
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Infographic
18 Jan 2019
Network management and monitoring top of mind for IT teams
Network management and monitoring will take center stage in 2019, as IT professionals feel the pressure to monitor network devices, traffic and performance. Continue Reading
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Answer
17 Jan 2019
Intent-based networking vs. SDN: How do they differ?
When it comes to the primary differentiators between intent-based networking and SDN, abstraction and administrator commands are at the top of the list. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Jan 2019
Consider these 5 factors of DCI technology
This feature showcases five pieces of advice that detail what you need to know about data center interconnect, its pros and cons, and its relationship with other networking areas. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Jan 2019
A rundown of server hardware vendors and the server options
There is no shortage of server options available on the market today. Discover the leading vendors in these in-depth overviews of the blade, rack and mainframe computers available. Continue Reading
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Answer
08 Jan 2019
Which core network functions are being virtualized?
Network functions virtualization can virtualize both data center and branch office network services. But a couple of special cases, like virtual switches, require clarification. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Jan 2019
Buy server hardware with these key functions in mind
Find the right server hardware for your data center by evaluating what leading vendors offer in terms of processors, memory, storage, connectivity, hot swapping and security features. Continue Reading
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Answer
31 Dec 2018
Which KPIs should I measure for security in SDN?
KPIs provide useful guidelines to measure how network performance and security align with business objectives. Here are some KPIs to help keep track of an SDN environment. Continue Reading
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News
17 Dec 2018
A recap of notable 2018 networking trends and news
Before the final days of 2018 fade into history like so last-generation 4G, spend some time reviewing the news and trends that graced the networking industry this year. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Nov 2018
Reality check: How has data center SDN evolved?
Considering the twists and turns in SDN technology and adoption, it's easy to wonder about future development. Learn what three industry analysts think about the evolution of SDN and its drawbacks. Continue Reading
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Answer
26 Nov 2018
Where does SDN fit in edge computing architecture?
SDN and edge computing can work together to apply data processing decisions that make better use of network links and bandwidth, especially when it comes to edge versus cloud. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Nov 2018
A quick guide to important SDN security issues
Lock down your knowledge of SDN security issues using this compilation that includes expert advice, common pain points and helpful best practices. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Nov 2018
How 3 benefits of SDN can help small businesses
As SDN matures and evolves from its original definition, it's getting harder for small businesses to ignore the benefits of SDN, like better visibility, security and efficiency. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Sep 2018
Software-defined networking security involves 3 factors
Software-defined networking security requires IT teams to ensure data confidentiality, the integrity of the network and the availability of network services, along with compliance. Continue Reading
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Answer
06 Sep 2018
Does software networking fit modern data center requirements?
Software networking can support modern data center requirements, private clouds and accompanying applications. But IT teams need to wade through components and suppliers to get there. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Aug 2018
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
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Opinion
01 Aug 2018
Social concept points to an SDN model with two control planes
It might not seem like control planes and SDN models have a lot in common with a social concept, but together, they could highlight how business intent and operations inform network design. Continue Reading
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Answer
25 Jul 2018
Does software-defined networking architecture need network overlays?
Network overlays and software-defined networking architecture share a history. But while overlays offer flexibility, they also bring extra overhead and troubleshooting complications. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Jun 2018
SDN, machine learning could lead to intelligent networks
The next step for SDN is to integrate network analytics and machine learning to result in automated, intelligent networks. But first, humans need to trust the technology. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Jun 2018
Clarifying network disaggregation and related technologies
Trying to explain network disaggregation and related trends -- like SDN, NFV and white boxes -- can be complicated. Our expert pins the terms down and explains the tradeoffs. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 May 2018
A refresher course on white box networking equipment
This white box networking review sheds some light on the variations, as it's all too easy to confuse the intricacies of white boxes, universal CPEs and brite boxes. Continue Reading
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News
30 May 2018
Cato's network security feature on the hunt for threats
Cato Networks added a network security feature that detects and identifies threats within customer networks. The capability is built into Cato's SD-WAN platform, Cato Cloud. Continue Reading
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News
15 May 2018
HPE to acquire hyper-converged networking company Plexxi
Plexxi bolstered its hyper-converged networking fabric to further support VMware vSAN and NSX amid the news of HPE's acquisition intent. Continue Reading
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News
09 May 2018
Telefonica uses Nuage Networks to software-define data centers
Following Telefonica's existing Nuage Networks' SD-WAN deployment, the service provider announced it's in the process of using Nuage to deploy software-defined data centers. Continue Reading
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Answer
02 May 2018
How do I choose between open source and commercial SDN?
Commercial SDN offers vendor-backed support, while open source platforms can be upgraded more quickly. Whether an enterprise chooses one over the other depends on its preferences. Continue Reading
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News
01 May 2018
VMware NSX portfolio aims to unify local and cloud workloads
VMware's NSX strategy aims to help enterprises stitch together data centers and cloud environments, though it could be overkill for IT shops with simpler needs that are more specific. Continue Reading
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News
19 Apr 2018
128 Technology delivers routing software, SD-WAN on white box
128 Technology integrated its routing software and SD-WAN capabilities with white box CPEs from Lanner. Arrow Electronics will preconfigure the software onto the CPEs. Continue Reading
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News
04 Apr 2018
IDC names four SDN providers to watch
An IDC report named Apstra, Big Switch Networks, Plexxi and Pluribus Networks as SDN providers to watch; Martello aims to validate Elfiq-based SD-WAN; and Aryaka extends to China. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Mar 2018
SD-WAN benefits emerge as public cloud adoption climbs
Public cloud computing is driving more interest in the SD-WAN market as IT departments look to streamline management of network traffic leaving the data center. Continue Reading
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Opinion
23 Mar 2018
VMware microsegmentation in NSX trumps going sans SDN
Software-defined networking can help plug security holes and minimize microsegmentation management tasks; it's worth a look for companies that haven't virtualized their networks yet. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Mar 2018
The future of SDN in 2018 moves toward increased automation
Future SDN trends could show variations of the technology becoming more prominent among enterprises, as organizations look increasingly toward programmability and automation. Continue Reading
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News
14 Mar 2018
ONF puts focus on white box switches with Stratum project
The Open Networking Foundation formed Stratum, an open source networking project intended to create more interoperability among white box switches and network operating systems. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Sep 2017
The story of SDN: Control planes, OpenFlow protocol and disaggregation
When discussing SDN, control planes and programmability are often lumped into the conversation -- along with a dose of OpenFlow protocol and disaggregation. Continue Reading
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News
17 Mar 2017
Barefoot Networks' Ethernet switch chip wins Network Innovation Award
Tofino, a high-speed programmable chip that brings software-defined networking capabilities to the forwarding plane, aims to revolutionize the network. Continue Reading
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Quiz
16 Jan 2017
Test yourself on modern data center networking architecture
Evolving business needs demand a new approach to data center networking. Keep yourself updated on SDN, VXLAN and other technologies with this quiz. Continue Reading
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Quiz
03 Oct 2016
Test your knowledge of fiber optic cables
When it comes to data center networking, fiber optic cables are becoming the standard rather than copper. Take this quiz to see how much you know about fiber optic technology. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Mar 2016
Draw up a data center network diagram you'll actually use
Creating a data center network diagram is time-consuming but necessary work. Keep the scope narrow and know the priorities of your diagram to save time and energy. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Mar 2016
Software-defined applications and infrastructure explained
The inner mechanics of today's software-defined applications and infrastructure reveal an interconnected web of isolated components and scalable resources, supervised by automated management. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Nov 2015
A who's who of white box switch vendors
White box networking gives IT organizations more freedom of choice for network hardware and OSes. It's a young and changing market, with a mix of vendor involvement. Continue Reading
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Answer
10 Aug 2015
Can I use Mikrotik vs. Cisco switches in a data center?
I'm purchasing rack-level access switches for an enterprise data center, and weighing Cisco vs. Mikrotik, which is less expensive. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Jun 2015
What are data center-class switches?
Choosing the right switch for your data center can be a difficult task. This article looks at how data center-class switches are evolving in the enterprise to offer flexibility and speed for new traffic flows. Continue Reading
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Answer
26 Mar 2015
What's the effect of network switch buffer in a data center?
What's causing buffer? How much buffer should ideally be available in a network switch? Is there any standard available for buffer? Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Mar 2015
Resolve a network bottleneck with these techniques
Data center network performance problems will disappear with fixes from a simple reorganization through a strategic overhaul. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Jan 2015
SDN for IoT supports networking devices
SDN and IoT are two terms flourishing in the IT industry, so organizations must prepare to combine them while the technology keeps developing. Continue Reading
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Answer
16 Sep 2014
What's the best data center network topology?
You need to know these most common data center network topologies, and check out a host of alternative topologies waiting in the wings. Continue Reading