Evaluate

Evaluate

Weigh the pros and cons of technologies, products and projects you are considering.

• The rise of the NetOps engineer

  The need for NetOps engineers with network automation and software development skills is rising with the continued drive to create more flexible networks. Find out what it takes. Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• Demand for effective telecom service assurance to increase

  As the markets for 5G, IoT and other emerging technologies continue to grow, the service assurance market that ensures the quality of these services will also increase. Continue Reading

• 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

• A review of Zscaler SASE architecture

  Zscaler has a strong cloud-native architecture for secure internet access. But it doesn't deliver SD-WAN or converge internet access and WAN security, leaving it with only part of a SASE platform.Continue Reading

• Compare smartNIC products and use cases

  Not all smartNIC use cases are the same, and not all products offer the same functionality and features. Compare offerings from three of the main smartNIC market segments.Continue Reading

• What's the status of AI in networking?

  The use cases for AI are expanding, but despite the advantages, network pros have yet to implement AI fully. Three analysts explain the status of AI in enterprise networks.Continue Reading

• Edge, public cloud, security drive network transformation

  Networking is starting to reflect innovations in compute and public cloud. A notable change will be how network teams view networking and security as a holistic platform.Continue Reading

• Pairing SD-WAN, UCaaS together has benefits and challenges

  Organizations may combine SD-WAN and UCaaS to gain synergies and avoid multivendor complexities. But the combination of the two technologies can create challenges.Continue Reading

• Will 5G replace Wi-Fi? No, but maybe in some use cases

  Geographically remote locations, large public venues and manufacturing sites are a few of the key areas in which business 5G technology could provide real benefits.Continue Reading

• Review the major networking acquisitions of 2021

  When a networking vendor announces plans to acquire another company, most people take notice. Explore which vendors made moves in 2021 and what those purchases mean.Continue Reading

• 5 trends in enterprise networking that defined 2021

  In 2020, enterprises shifted to remote work due to the pandemic. The trend continued in 2021, along with four other networking trends that defined the year and will extend into 2022.Continue Reading

• The top 5 networking technology trends for 2022

  A yearly check-in on the top networking technology trends reveals more of the same themes, including the ongoing development of SD-WAN, 5G and Wi-Fi 6.Continue Reading

• Choose from 10 CDN service providers to deliver content

  Learn how 10 CDN providers measure up when it comes to addressing key considerations, including primary service focus, features, PoPs, a free trial version and pricing information.Continue Reading

• Evaluate must-have CDN features before choosing a product

  No two CDN services are identical. Explore the main feature and function areas available in today's content delivery network market to better narrow down your choice of vendors.Continue Reading

• Automation, cloud lead as influential data center trends

  Recent data center trends, such as AIOps and automation, have been geared toward simplifying network management. Here are the trends and challenges teams faced over the past year.Continue Reading

• 3 lessons from the 2021 Facebook outage for network pros

  Even in hyperscalers like Facebook, one errant finger can take down a network. The takeaway, experts said, is to expect and plan for the worst and put those plans to the test.Continue Reading

• SecOps' need for traffic data drives NetSecOps collaboration

  Security teams want to analyze network traffic data to identify anomalies and threats. As a result, network and security teams need to find ways to work together.Continue Reading

• 4 trends spurring the evolution of network hardware

  Major trends in network hardware highlight enterprise interest in vendor-agnostic options and open models. But legacy designs could stand in the way of adoption.Continue Reading

• University's private cellular network hints to enterprise use

  California State University, Stanislaus blanketed its campus in private 4G/5G in a project that shows promise for the future of CBRS networks in the enterprise.Continue Reading

• Does Wi-Fi 6 have better range than previous wireless standards?

  Yes, Wi-Fi 6 provides better wireless range. But it's not because of higher power output. The key is certain Wi-Fi 6 features can improve data rates at a given range.Continue Reading

• What are the top CDN benefits for today's enterprise?

  Delivering timely, high-quality content is more critical than ever, and CDN services bring that and a myriad of other benefits to the modern enterprise.Continue Reading

• Fog computing vs. edge computing: What's the difference?

  Fog computing vs. edge computing -- while many IT professionals use the terms synonymously, others make subtle but important distinctions between them.Continue Reading

• The status of 5G rollouts in 2021 and 2022

  Major U.S. mobile operators -- AT&T, Dish, T-Mobile and Verizon -- are focused on deploying 5G through 2022. Learn about each provider's timeline.Continue Reading

• Best practices and tools for public cloud monitoring

  Public cloud adoption has ramped up in recent years. In these busy environments, certain cloud network monitoring tools can provide IT groups with crucial visibility.Continue Reading

• A review of Cato Networks' SASE Cloud platform

  Cato's SASE Cloud lacks some features and may require customers to replace point products to fully benefit from the platform. But Cato aligns with SASE’s cloud-native vision and is a strong contender in the market.Continue Reading

• How remote work changes the future of network management

  The pandemic ushered in a new normal of hybrid workplaces. What's also new is how network teams manage these remote networks, like using zero-trust security models.Continue Reading

• A deep dive into Fortinet's SASE platform

  Despite its strong security foundation, Fortinet's SASE platform lacks a cloud-native strategy and requires teams to stitch the architecture together.Continue Reading

• 3 delivery models for 5G and MEC

  To enhance network capabilities, enterprises will need to consolidate 5G and MEC technologies in the future. Following a deployment model is the first step.Continue Reading

• Enterprises look to formalize WFH network architecture

  As work-from-home programs prove they're here to stay, enterprise network teams are assessing their network designs to ensure adequate support and performance for home offices.Continue Reading

• BGP vs. OSPF: When to use each protocol

  BGP and OSPF are two of the most common routing protocols. While BGP excels with dynamic routing for large networks, OSPF offers more efficient path choice and convergence speed.Continue Reading

• Experts discuss stretched VLAN use cases, MEC and more

  In this networking blog roundup, experts give reasons to stretch VLANs, discuss benefits of deploying private MEC with 5G, and differentiate between junior and senior IT engineers.Continue Reading

• 3 best practices for network observability

  Research shows a correlation with NetOps success and network observability. Following best practices of network observability can facilitate this success.Continue Reading

• The pros and cons of Palo Alto Networks' SASE platform

  Palo Alto Networks is commonly mentioned in SASE discussions. While the vendor has strong security capabilities, it also brings integration complexities and PoP limitations.Continue Reading

• How to pick the best network security service provider

  Managed security service providers have different levels of expertise. Be sure to match your organization's security needs with the right network security provider.Continue Reading

• Experts say Open RAN deployment is on the rise

  Networking experts examined Open RAN revenue surges as the industry shifts toward the open model. Meanwhile, enterprises should consider the long-term benefits of switching vendors.Continue Reading

• The migration to enterprise network as a service

  Enterprise network as a service is becoming a popular consumption model for networking functions. But, as with any emerging technology, it's important to weigh the options carefully.Continue Reading

• 6 trends in corporate campus networks

  Networks are evolving, and that evolution includes enterprise campus networks. Trends like network automation, 5G and machine learning are modernizing campus networks.Continue Reading

• Cloud-based network management leads 2021 network investments

  A recent ESG survey shows that many enterprises speeding their digital transformation plans are also increasing 2021 network investment, emphasizing cloud-based network management.Continue Reading

• Top network IT investments include 5G, smartNICs, cloud

  Market analysts showed interest in 5G and smartNICs during an ONUG conference panel on enterprise IT investments. And don't forget the seemingly inevitable mention of cloud.Continue Reading

• Routed optical networking tactic could be game changer

  A new routing architecture could help eliminate management and service headaches stemming from routing IP traffic on optical networks.Continue Reading

• Develop 5G ecosystems for connectivity in the remote work era

  Adopting a 5G ecosystem could enable enterprises to better compete in offering edge computing and remote work options without sacrificing connectivity.Continue Reading

• A glimpse into Python network automation and APIs

  This chapter excerpt from 'Mastering Python Networking' dives into the importance of APIs and network state when working with Python network automation and intent-based networking.Continue Reading

• Advice on intent-based networking and Python automation

  In his book, 'Mastering Python Networking,' Eric Chou provides network practitioners with the concepts they need to understand APIs, intent-based networking and automation.Continue Reading

• Network-as-a-service business model options take shape

  As network as a service gains traction, enterprises and service providers must consider multiple deployment models. SD-WAN, SASE, SDN and policy management could all play a role.Continue Reading

• How cloud-native networking will transform infrastructure

  Cloud-native networking aims to prioritize business needs and enable networks to become more efficient. Learn more about the potential benefits and challenges in this expert Q&A.Continue Reading

• 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

• SASE options for the branch of one -- work from anywhere

  More than ever, enterprises need to support individual employees that make up a branch of one. These setups require reliable connectivity, application performance and security.Continue Reading

• How are network operations center responsibilities changing?

  If your network operations center responsibilities haven't changed yet due to evolutions like DevOps and edge computing, they likely will soon. Here's what you need to know.Continue Reading

• Why 5G will redefine WWAN and SD-WAN

  The nexus of 5G, WWAN and SD-WAN promises to usher in an array of custom tools and services for enterprises.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

• Will enterprises adopt SONiC OS and disrupt proprietary WAN?

  As a cloud-native modular architecture focused on network disaggregation, the SONiC OS can offer several benefits for enterprises, especially at the network edge.Continue Reading

• Enterprise edge is telecom operators' new frontier

  Network operators have an opportunity to sell new bundles of dynamic enterprise edge services that include SASE, SD-WAN and virtual security if they size it and price it well.Continue Reading

• Open RAN architecture gives operators options, challenges

  Open RAN architecture could give telecom operators more flexibility as they deliver enterprise-grade 5G services. But making the RAN a virtual function takes careful planning.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 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

• Weighing the advantages of private 5G vs. carrier 5G

  Considering private 5G vs. carrier 5G for your interior networking? No single option fits all, but here are some factors you should consider.Continue Reading

• SASE hype includes SD-WAN, but does it need to?

  Much of the hype around Secure Access Service Edge features the importance of SD-WAN with SASE, but do the two need each other to thrive? Research says probably not.Continue Reading

• The tradeoffs and cost of network redundancy

  Network redundancy costs vary depending on enterprise use cases, but the determining tradeoff usually depends on how long a company can sustain network downtime.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

• Refreshing look at Wi-Fi 6 benefits, preparations

  Wi-Fi 6's benefits are real, and most organizations will eventually upgrade to the latest and greatest standard. When and how they'll do so is more complicated.Continue Reading

• Myths and realities of a Wi-Fi 6 upgrade

  Despite the promise of high data rates, longer client battery life and more efficient radio techniques, enterprises need to weigh Wi-Fi 6's limitations.Continue Reading

• Top 5 SASE use cases balance network connectivity, security

  Secure Access Service Edge can enhance network performance and security controls for remote sites. Discover some of the other top SASE use cases and deployment options.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

• 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

• Software-defined home offerings drive remote productivity

  Say hello to software-defined home, a 'branch of one' package that combines professional-grade Wi-Fi, security, SD-WAN and centralized management for remote workers.Continue Reading

• With SASE, security and networking tech come together

  SD-WAN, SASE or some combination of the two -- which approach will deliver the best and most secure network connectivity in your organization going forward?Continue Reading

• What's the role of narrowband IoT in 5G networks?

  The union of narrowband IoT and 5G technology can benefit manufacturers, organizations with large office buildings and outdoor campus settings. Here's what you need to know.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

• 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

• How service mesh enables microservices networking

  As microservices applications grow more popular, IT teams need to enable reliable networking between them for proper communication. That's where service mesh comes in.Continue Reading

• Why networks should apply security by design principles

  Security by design incorporates security and risk management directly into network architecture, using segmentation and Agile infrastructure design.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

• How COVID-19 will reshape 2021 enterprise network spending

  COVID-19 has shifted enterprise network spending. Campus LAN traffic may never be the same, but companies are earmarking funds to better support the remote workforce.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

• Compare low-power Wi-Fi protocols and their roles in IoT

  Wi-Fi means more than faster speeds. Low-power Wi-Fi will help companies improve the efficiency of their IoT deployments, thanks to longer signal range and power consumption features.Continue Reading

• What are some VPN alternatives for remote access?

  VPN security has its imperfections, especially when tracking user data and online activity. Some VPN alternatives may provide different security elements for users.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

• Global company weighs 5G for manufacturing, IoT analytics

  Global manufacturer Sanmina is studying the benefits of deploying 5G on its manufacturing floor to improve the speed of IoT and analytics data exchanges to the cloud.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

• Home SD-WAN will redefine next-generation WAN

  The need for home-office SD-WAN won't end when the pandemic does. Learn how best to provide this essential tech to your organization's at-home employees.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

• LoRa vs. 5G: Can they coexist for IoT network connectivity?

  LoRa vs. 5G technologies differ in terms of cost, use cases and technology types. However, LoRa and 5G may complement each other well for IoT connectivity.Continue Reading

• Benefits of intent-based networking for modern networks

  Intent-based networking can benefit network teams working remotely with increased workloads due to COVID-19. Benefits include reduced human error and automated manual tasks.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

• The future of networking jobs in the new normal

  Soft skills will grow in relevance as network pros adapt to a post-pandemic world that includes more remote troubleshooting and the move away from a hard network edge.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

• A Deep Dive Into Border Gateway Protocol

  This step-by-step training guides you through all the border gateway protocol components -- from how the protocol works to how to verify that it is working correctly.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