Features

Features

• The role of network observability in distributed systems

  Network observability sounds like a new term for an existing practice, but is that the case? This chapter excerpt lays out what observability is and everything you need to know.  Continue Reading

• 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

• Black network engineers juggle building networks, being seen

  2020 didn't transform diversity and inclusion in companies, according to some Black network engineers. But diversity in their careers and networks goes beyond hiring practices.  Continue Reading

• Pandemic pushes enterprise connectivity to take a new path

  COVID-19 delivered a connectivity shock to businesses. But savvy network execs were primed -- and are now showing the way forward in 2021 with SD-WAN, 5G and Wi-Fi 6.  Continue Reading

• What to expect at Cisco Live 2021: Future of work, networks

  At Cisco Live 2021, attendees will hear about the future of work and what that means for the future of networks and network technologies, like SASE, 5G and cloud networks.  Continue Reading

• Cisco's future banks on security, service providers, 5G

  A big part of Cisco's future strategy will be enhancing its global presence and service provider customer base. For networking, it still pursues software and subscription models.  Continue Reading

• The complete Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) guide

  SASE helps organizations manage and secure external traffic. But is it the best choice for your environment? Find out how to buy, deploy and manage SASE in this adoption guide.  Continue Reading

• Explore this ultimate socket programming guide for beginners

  In this socket programming guide preview, learn how sockets work, the role of socket programming in enterprise networks and the ins and outs of socket programming in Python.  Continue Reading

• How to get started with socket programming for beginners

  To understand socket programming for beginners, basic network and security concepts are critical -- and having Python skills won't hurt, either. Learn more in this expert Q&A.  Continue Reading

• Get started with network penetration testing for beginners

  Authentication, patching and configuration are among the most common vulnerabilities found through network penetration testing. Learn more in this free chapter excerpt.  Continue Reading

• Advice on how to learn network penetration testing skills

  As beginners learn network penetration testing skills, they should remember these expert tips: Pay attention to what the client wants, and stick to offense, not defense.  Continue Reading

• 3 SASE case studies exploring real-world deployments

  Three case studies demonstrate how SASE technology helps organizations securely connect geographically distributed workforces.  Continue Reading

• Future of NOC transformation unifies IT teams

  NOC transformation could lead to unified IT operations with cross-domain teams, but not all enterprises need radical change when smaller upgrades and modernization do the job.  Continue Reading

• SASE vs. SD-WAN comparison: How are they related?

  SASE and SD-WAN both connect geographically separate endpoints to each other and an organization's network resources, but the methods in which they do so differ in various ways.  Continue Reading

• SASE market emerges and grows as the 'wave of the future'

  Secure Access Service Edge is the latest technology to garner industry buzz in networking and security. Although it's still relatively new, the technology is making waves.  Continue Reading

• An overview of 3GPP 5G releases and what each one means

  3GPP has standardized features and specifications for all cellular technology generations since 3G. Learn about 3GPP's 5G timeline and notable features each 5G release introduces.  Continue Reading

• Cloud networking complexity includes visibility and security

  Enterprises are deploying more workloads in cloud environments. But the visibility, security and management required for those extensions of IT infrastructure can get complicated.  Continue Reading

• How to understand networking and the internet for beginners

  For beginners, learning how networking and the internet truly work can feel overwhelming. One expert encourages patience, practice and assurance that networking isn't unknowable.  Continue Reading

• How to learn networking fundamentals, from a software pro

  Networking basics include protocols, network layers and processes that must happen for computers to communicate across a network. Here's how to start learning these basics.  Continue Reading

• IT groups abandon DIY SD-WAN; prefer managed, hybrid model

  Enterprises don't want DIY SD-WAN. Instead, they prefer managed SD-WAN, but they also don't want to outsource all SD-WAN operations to a service provider.  Continue Reading

• SolarWinds: Lessons learned for network management, monitoring

  In this roundup of networking blogs, experts reveal the critical lessons learned from the SolarWinds hack in regard to network management and monitoring capabilities.  Continue Reading

• VPN vs. VLAN: What's the difference?

  VPNs and VLANs are different technologies with some similarities. VPNs connect authorized users to corporate network resources, while VLANs connect geographically separate devices.  Continue Reading

• 5 networking startups helping enterprises adapt and prepare

  Even in a global pandemic, these five networking startups continue to impress. Learn how their innovative technologies can help enterprises prepare for unforeseen challenges.  Continue Reading

• Ensure network resilience with redundancy and skills

  Ensuring network resilience doesn't just mean building redundancy in network infrastructure. It should also include planning contingencies for people and skills.  Continue Reading

• Gluware automation tech shines in brownfield networks

  Gluware's intelligent network automation technology helps enterprises outgrow manual configurations, even in technically complex, multivendor brownfield environments.  Continue Reading

• What experts say to expect from 5G in 2021

  In this roundup of networking blogs, experts explore 5G's potential in 2021, including new business and technical territories 5G may explore and features to transform enterprises.  Continue Reading

• Top network attacks of 2020 that will influence the decade

  You've heard of phishing, ransomware and viruses. Now, keep them in mind because one cybersecurity expert says these threats and more may cause IT headaches for the next decade.  Continue Reading

• Advice for an effective network security strategy

  Security audits, evaluations of tools and looking realistically at trending technologies are some ways an organization can ensure its network security is the best it can be.  Continue Reading

• Network performance issues are IT pain point amid COVID-19

  Network performance is a top issue among IT teams and remote workers amid the pandemic and can correlate with other technical issues, such as cybersecurity and hardware problems.  Continue Reading

• New Celona 5G platform nets TechTarget innovation award

  Celona 5G technology uses Citizens Broadband Radio Service spectrum to bring private mobile networking to the enterprise, enabling mission-critical automation and IoT.  Continue Reading

• Network pros share Cisco DevNet certification advice

  Cisco DevNet certifications require a lot of time investment, but network pros who pursue the certifications say the gained skills and knowledge are worth it.  Continue Reading

• A look inside the official Cisco DEVASC 200-901 guidebook

  In this book excerpt, readers can explore the Cisco DEVASC 200-901 official guide and get a flavor of one of Cisco's newest exams and its blend of networking and software topics.  Continue Reading

• Is Cisco DevNet worth it? Experts say yes, it's the future

  Any IT professional who's heard the hype for Cisco's newest certification track may wonder, 'Is Cisco DevNet worth it?' Some experts say it's the future. Find out more in this Q&A.  Continue Reading

• Network engineer vs. software engineer: What’s the difference?

  Network and software engineering are two different fields, and the roles of network engineers vs. software engineers vary, despite potential overlaps in software skills.  Continue Reading

• SmartNIC market capitalizes on advances in programmability

  Traditional NICs are getting an upgrade, thanks to smartNICs and function accelerator cards that add programmability. But this doesn't really change things for enterprises -- yet.  Continue Reading

• Growth of enterprise Wi-Fi at home spotlights digital divide

  Remote enterprise workers need a reliable internet connection. Learn how the digital divide can touch workers and how companies can help bridge this gap.  Continue Reading

• The role of SD-WAN templates before and during deployment

  SD-WAN deployments require knowledge of network design and trust in software to take over some network maintenance duties. This is where SD-WAN templates come into play.  Continue Reading

• Learn to onboard, provision devices in Cisco's SD-WAN book

  Here's a look inside Cisco's SD-WAN book, which details design and deployment for network teams looking to deploy SD-WAN and insights for SD-WAN certification hopefuls.  Continue Reading

• Explore 5 SASE vendors to cut through the truth vs. hype

  Secure Access Service Edge can address common networking and security dilemmas, but it's still a new technology. Learn more about five leading platforms in this in-depth roundup.  Continue Reading

• The power and plights of female network engineers

  Impostor syndrome burdens female network engineers, due to discrimination, as well as a lack of representation and education. But many of these women are working to change that.  Continue Reading

• US-China 5G competition hinges on enterprise apps, services

  In the U.S.-China competition over 5G, the infrastructure deployment race sets the stage for a larger struggle over the application layer. Here's why enterprise IT teams should care.  Continue Reading

• The 3 different types of 5G technology for enterprises

  5G isn't a single flavor of cellular technology; it's three flavors, and each one can enable advanced capabilities, such as ultrareliable low latency and IoT connectivity.  Continue Reading

• Teleworkers need enhanced home internet access in the US

  The COVID-19 pandemic has increased reliance on home networks and highlighted the need in marginalized communities for dedicated resources to enable reliable internet access.  Continue Reading

• Network monitoring market converges with security analytics

  As cyber attacks increase and enterprise networks require threat detection and protection, network monitoring and security analytics are converging for more comprehensive visibility.  Continue Reading

• Telecommunications book highlights spectrum, fiber cabling

  5G touts faster download speeds and new application types, but other major 5G changes will be in spectrum and fixed wireless. Learn more in this telecommunications book excerpt.  Continue Reading

• Multimedia data and 5G drive network transformation

  Emerging networking trends and touted innovations always showcase faster speeds and new use cases. Yet, new challenges keep pace, too, such as security and privacy issues.  Continue Reading

• 12 common network protocols and their functions explained

  Networking makes the internet work, but neither can succeed without protocols. Common network protocols and functions are key for communication and connection across the internet.  Continue Reading

• Enterprises prefer private 5G networks over network slicing

  Large enterprises are wary of network slicing within public 5G networks because of potential security risks. But SMBs see network slicing as a viable 5G option.  Continue Reading

• 8 network diagramming tools for architects

  Network design tools help architects map out the company infrastructure but only with the right product. Explore these eight vendors and their tools to make the right buy.  Continue Reading

• 5G for enterprises requires other tech to reap full benefits

  5G won't solve all an organization's problems or fully replace existing 4G LTE architecture. In fact, 5G needs other technology for it to truly succeed and be useful.  Continue Reading

• What IT pros can expect from 5G core network architecture

  5G is the first 'G' in the cloud, which means its network architecture can enable functions, services and capabilities past cellular generations couldn't. Here's what to expect.  Continue Reading

• 5 edge computing basics you need to know

  Edge computing is forcing IT teams to rethink legacy architectures. In this guide, explore edge computing basics, including its pros and cons and its effect on enterprise networks.  Continue Reading

• Network security in 2020 highlights zero trust, SD-branch

  In this roundup of networking blogs, experts explore various aspects of network security -- from old and evergreen to new and innovative -- and the roles they play in 2020.  Continue Reading

• 5G enterprise market will overtake consumer cellular by 2036

  5G is the first cellular technology generation that enterprise use cases will play a larger role than consumer use cases. Learn more from ABI Research's 5G Technology Summit.  Continue Reading

• IT spending priorities in 2020 shift to network management, UC

  The global pandemic has temporarily slowed SD-WAN and campus network spending, but enterprises are still investing in network infrastructure, focusing on network management and UC.  Continue Reading

• Evolution of WLAN technology improves data rates, security

  WLAN technology has evolved dramatically -- most notably, in terms of network speeds and security. Innovations in Wi-Fi 6 show that the WLAN evolution isn't slowing, either.  Continue Reading

• Future of wireless communications unifies 5G and Wi-Fi 6

  The future of cellular, Wi-Fi and other wireless communication networks will see these technologies unify to support faster network speeds and real-time communications.  Continue Reading

• How the cloud fractures application delivery infrastructure ops

  Within a single IT organization, traditional network teams may clash with cloud teams over application delivery infrastructure operations and management.  Continue Reading

• Why network configuration templates are useful in automation

  If a network team automates network configuration templates, it can save time and eliminate redundant activities in order to focus more on data collection and analysis.  Continue Reading

• An automation-first approach enables network predictability

  For an organization to prioritize network automation, it needs an automation-first approach. This strategy involves understanding automation workflows and enabling proper training.  Continue Reading

• Edge computing and 5G bring the edge to remote workers

  As remote work increases, edge computing services must extend to employees' homes. While 5G could help, internet connectivity must improve to enable edge access before 5G prevails.  Continue Reading

• MLB uses NetBox automation for network configuration backup

  Major League Baseball used NetBox in tandem with its network automation project to streamline its configuration backup process and keep its infrastructure systems in sync.  Continue Reading

• A glossary of home network basics for the networking novice

  A remote employee's home network requires basics such as routers, modems and VPN services. For the networking novice, this glossary explains and defines these terms and more.  Continue Reading

• 5 things to know about MU-MIMO technology in Wi-Fi networks

  'Multiuser multiple input, multiple output' might not roll off the tongue, but MU-MIMO technology is increasingly important in modern wireless networks. Here's what you should know.  Continue Reading

• Top 5 VPN myths and misconceptions for IT organizations

  Although VPN technology has its challenges, various misconceptions exist that can muddle IT teams' understandings of VPNs. Here are five common VPN misconceptions debunked.  Continue Reading

• Explore real-world edge computing examples for network teams

  Developed out of a necessity to handle increasing amounts of data, edge computing will disrupt traditional computing and benefit various modern use cases.  Continue Reading

• Edge computing book introduces edge laws and techniques

  In this book excerpt, discover the three laws of edge computing, as well as how to use edge computing techniques to solve common IT problems within organizations.  Continue Reading

• NetOps-SecOps collaboration has its benefits and challenges

  Companies are forming formal partnerships between their network and security teams. While this collaboration reaps benefits, some significant roadblocks remain.  Continue Reading

• COVID-19 speeds SD-WAN evolution to elastic infrastructure

  The next phase of SD-WAN requires elastic infrastructure and distributed edge access to better support remote workers. The COVID-19 pandemic is accelerating that evolution.  Continue Reading

• The true cost of network downtime for your business

  Network brownouts could be the biggest under-the-radar threat to your network. Calculate the potential costs of downtime to save your organization's productivity and money.  Continue Reading

• Open Systems' SASE tech wins TechTarget innovation award

  Open Systems' SASE platform helped tens of thousands of workers gain secure remote access during the COVID-19 crisis. Learn more about our new Network Innovation Award winner.  Continue Reading

• Network automation book shares recipes for success

  In this network automation book excerpt, discover how automation frameworks NAPALM and Ansible can provide network teams with vendor-agnostic network management capabilities.  Continue Reading

• Network pros need NAPALM, Ansible network automation skills

  Network pros need network automation skills in NAPALM and Ansible because the two modules together can enhance multivendor environments and streamline network management tasks.  Continue Reading

• ISPs rely on capacity for COVID-19 internet traffic spikes

  As COVID-19 causes surges in internet traffic, internet and network providers have responded by increasing capacity and installing more fiber. So far, it's worked.  Continue Reading

• SD-WAN, 5G remote work technologies enable future networks

  In this roundup of networking blogs, learn how SD-WAN and 5G can benefit business continuity plans for network infrastructure and whether split tunneling is necessary -- or safe.  Continue Reading

• Dental group slashes downtime by 99% with Meraki SD-WAN

  In this SD-WAN case study, a dental group with chronic network outages deployed Cisco Meraki to eliminate downtime. Learn more about the software-defined win.  Continue Reading

• National Instruments SD-WAN case study: Bandwidth up 1,500%

  In this SD-WAN case study, learn how Cisco Viptela technology transformed one enterprise WAN for the better -- from decreased costs to increased performance.  Continue Reading

• A glossary of the VPN terminology you need to know

  For organizations with remote workforces, VPNs can be an essential part of daily life. This VPN glossary explores the essential terms and phrases that constitute VPN services.  Continue Reading

• Wi-Fi 6 explained: Speed, range, latency, frequency and security

  Wi-Fi 6 is more than just another wireless upgrade, boasting substantial gains over Wi-Fi 5. Learn how frequency, speed, range, latency and security change with the new standard.  Continue Reading

• What to include in an SD-WAN security checklist

  SD-WAN security encompasses more than integrated security functionality. Find out which capabilities enterprises should look for when evaluating SD-WAN and security.  Continue Reading

• Zoom, Netflix discuss remote network management challenges

  COVID-19 forces IT teams to manage company networks remotely. Here are common issues IT teams of all sizes -- like those at Zoom and Netflix -- face and ways to solve them.  Continue Reading

• How SD-WAN and cloud exchanges benefit multi-cloud settings

  As more organizations move IT workloads outside of company walls, SD-WAN services can help ease the shift to cloud environments and secure cloud connections, like cloud exchanges.  Continue Reading

• Take a look at 6 top VPN service providers for remote work

  The right VPN connection ensures workers can do their jobs with an efficient and secure connection. Explore the leading options and their pricing and protection details.  Continue Reading

• DriveNets' disaggregated router tech wins innovation award

  Networking startup DriveNets is bringing cloud principles to carrier networks with disaggregated router technology that could change how providers manage their infrastructure.  Continue Reading

• 4 lasting effects of growing remote workforces on networks

  In this roundup of network blogs, explore expert advice on increasing remote workers' efficiency, potential lasting effects of COVID-19 on networks and the future of networking.  Continue Reading

• Discover key OpenStack deployment methods for networks

  In this book excerpt, explore best practices for OpenStack deployment methods, and glean expert advice on how to achieve an efficient OpenStack network deployment.  Continue Reading

• Business culture is key in OpenStack network requirements

  Network teams should expect a shift in their day-to-day routines if their organization embraces OpenStack. However, if the business culture is flexible, changes will be positive.  Continue Reading

• Remote work tests corporate pandemic plans

  IT leaders share what's working and how they are supporting remote work mandates for employees as part of their corporate pandemic plans, as well as social distancing among IT.  Continue Reading

• AI, analytics, automation fuel the future of network management

  Advances in automation, AI and analytics should help IT administrators overcome new challenges in virtualized network environments, but some obstacles will surface.  Continue Reading

• A roundup of the Cisco certification changes in 2020

  The network industry is changing and so are required network engineer skills. Here's how Cisco redesigned its certification programs to keep up with industry goals.  Continue Reading

• WAN transformation sparked by 5G, cloud and SD-WAN technologies

  In a modern world, legacy WAN architecture is rife with shortcomings. But 5G features and use cases could help jump-start a WAN transformation for many organizations.  Continue Reading

• Networking startup Arrcus wins TechTarget innovation award

  Networking startup Arrcus aims to disrupt the industry with its software-based routing technology. Here's how the young company plans to go toe-to-toe with industry giants.  Continue Reading

• Network traffic analysis best practices: Assess and repeat

  Network traffic analysis best practices require network teams to work closely with security teams and constantly assess their tool sets, analysis processes and traffic patterns.  Continue Reading

• IEEE reveals 802 standards process and the future of Wi-Fi

  The IEEE 802 Standards Committee looks years in advance to improve Wi-Fi and Ethernet technology. A sampling of the future: 802.11be, Wi-Fi sensing and increased Ethernet range.  Continue Reading

• How Cisco certification changes alter CCNP and CCIE tracks

  Here's what to expect from the colossal Cisco certification changes to the CCNP and CCIE tracks that aim to increase material relevance and benefit network engineers' daily lives.  Continue Reading

• Prepare for CCNP, CCIE ENCOR 350-401 with this guide preview

  Here's an excerpt from the new 'CCNP and CCIE ENCOR 350-401 Official Cert Guide' that provides the key IP routing essentials network engineers require for their job roles.  Continue Reading

• Explore the top Wi-Fi 6 technology benefits and providers

  Learn the basics around Wi-Fi 6 along with the security, battery and bandwidth improvements that come with the upgrade and the top companies to consider for buying options.  Continue Reading

• A glossary of network terms for management and monitoring

  This glossary of network terms specifically highlights network management and monitoring processes. Explore these 12 key terms and concise definitions.  Continue Reading

• A look inside 'CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 2'

  Network security is a crucial skills area for network engineers, and the CCNA 200-301 reflects this. Here's a chapter excerpt on network security from the new guide.  Continue Reading

• Traditional, emerging topics unite in the new CCNA exam

  As of Feb. 24, all eyes are on the CCNA 200-301 exam -- Cisco's latest update to the CCNA track. Here's a look at what's on the exam and how it compares to previous CCNA exams.  Continue Reading