Evaluate

Evaluate

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

• Ciena's Blue Planet automation suite wins TechTarget award

  Ciena's Blue Planet software suite has won SearchNetworking's Network Innovation Award for enabling intelligent automation and network service orchestration across large, multivendor networks. Continue Reading

• Gartner report provides reality check on the 5G hype

  The next generation of cellular technology, 5G, is nearing peak hype status, according to a Gartner report. But real, widespread adoption is still several years away. Continue Reading

• Gartner Hype Cycle deems software-defined networking obsolete

  A Gartner report on enterprise networking has declared the definition of SDN and its architectural approach as deceased. Cause of death? Well, the hype didn't help. Continue Reading

• The top 5 capabilities your edge infrastructure should have

  The network edge plays a vital role in the future of networking and digital transformation. Make sure your infrastructure has these five components to help it on its way. Continue Reading

• Data center performance requirements spur 25 GbE upgrades

  Enterprises are upgrading their data centers with 25 GbE to achieve better throughput and support I/O-intensive applications. Here are some best practices for making the switch. Continue Reading

• What are the top 3 network analytics use cases?

  Network analytics use cases illustrate some of the benefits that companies are receiving from network analysis tools. Gauging network performance is just one key area.Continue Reading

• What effect will 400 GbE have on enterprise networks?

  400 Gigabit Ethernet is the next hurdle for Ethernet capabilities to surpass. But enterprises may not be prepared for this technology yet, due to its immaturity.Continue Reading

• Industry grapples with new Wi-Fi naming conventions

  What's in a name? As the industry gets accustomed to the WFA's new Wi-Fi naming conventions, networking pros discuss pros and cons -- and when to use Wi-Fi 6 vs. 802.11ax.Continue Reading

• Pros and cons of buying used networking equipment on eBay

  To buy or not to buy used networking equipment on eBay, that is the question. Here are the pros and cons, as well as best practices for making a gray market purchase.Continue Reading

• What is the difference between TCP/IP model vs. OSI model?

  Use this expert advice to learn the differences between the TCP/IP model vs. the OSI model, and explore how they relate to each other in network communications.Continue Reading

• 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

• What is network automation, and what can it do for you?

  This feature explores what network automation is and its influence on organizations. It also discusses assumptions about its effect on network engineers and similarities with SDN.Continue Reading

• Which SD-WAN features truly comprise SD-WAN technology?

  How do you protect your organization and network against SD-WAN washing? Here are four key SD-WAN features that your system must have in order to be called SD-WAN.Continue Reading

• How can network security analytics detect and thwart threats?

  Network security analytics gives organizations an additional level of protection against malicious attacks. It works closely with network analytics tools.Continue Reading

• Sizing up network edge switch offerings for a campus LAN

  Learn the difference between traditional and open network switches, how to assess your organization's need for edge switches and what features leading switches offer.Continue Reading

• SD-WAN market sees continued growth, room for mobile support

  The SD-WAN market is growing, thanks to financial firms with distributed deployments. VMware and Cisco continue to lead the vendor pack, with Aryaka and Silver Peak close behind.Continue Reading

• Why did operator NFV adoption lag so much?

  NFV adoption was hampered by high costs and deployment issues, according to one industry insider. Also, learn about the latest on network security and industry hype.Continue Reading

• Why streaming telemetry tops SNMP in tracking network performance

  SNMP isn't going away anytime soon, but streaming telemetry is a much more effective way to generate critical alerts and measure network performance.Continue Reading

• The 5 network security basics you need to know

  In this compilation, learn what network security is, as well as how it differs from cybersecurity, common -- and potentially confusing -- technologies, threats and more.Continue Reading

• BGP tutorial: How the routing protocol works

  Border Gateway Protocol is the complex routing protocol that literally makes the internet work. This tutorial walks you through how BGP functions and offers troubleshooting options.Continue Reading

• How cloud network services affect transformation and security

  In this roundup of networking blogs, experts dive into three facets of networking that cloud can affect: network transformation, planning and security.Continue Reading

• Why networking certifications no longer matter

  Networking certifications have consistently been an important milestone for network professionals. But diverse network infrastructure, automation and UI upgrades could change that.Continue Reading

• What does open source SD-WAN look like, and do we need it?

  Open source software has an openly available source code that users can adopt or modify. Open source combined with SD-WAN might be a perfect match or a too idealistic goal.Continue Reading

• Open networking switch market extends focus to campus edge

  Factors such as cost and flexibility, which make open switches attractive to data centers, will eventually extend to edge deployments in campus environments.Continue Reading

• How products from leading campus LAN switch vendors compare

  Before evaluating campus LAN switches, assess the organization's core needs as well as future requirements, such as capabilities for Wi-Fi 6 or high-end PoE to power IoT devices.Continue Reading

• Navigating the network analytics software buying process

  Network analytics tools can help organizations identify the root cause of network performance issues and provide insight for predicting future networking demands.Continue Reading

• What roles are included in a network engineer job description?

  What is a network engineer? The role can encompass several disciplines, especially as new technologies emerge. Software knowledge, in particular, is in high demand.Continue Reading

• 5G and SD-WAN could provide reliable, alternate connectivity

  5G and SD-WAN could develop into an alternative connectivity option that offers high speeds and low latency to geographic areas and remote workers with limited connectivity options.Continue Reading

• Explore 4 key areas of enterprise network transformation

  Organizations have made improving network performance a major priority in 2019. But moving from legacy to modern infrastructures may introduce network challenges, as well.Continue Reading

• 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

• Consider these 3 fundamentals of cloud architecture

  In this roundup of networking blogs, experts explore three networking fundamentals of cloud architecture for both public and private cloud networks.Continue Reading

• Operators make multigigabit switch push in campus networks

  As applications become more bandwidth-intensive, operators are racing to install multigigabit switch foundations in their campus network architectures.Continue Reading

• How 5G deployment will affect enterprise network hardware, software

  Enterprise network architects can start thinking about 5G deployment now, focusing on mobile usage, real-time communications and 5G-capable network equipment.Continue Reading

• Managed SD-WAN providers ranked in new market report

  AT&T ranked first in Vertical Systems Group's SD-WAN report that compared more than 30 carrier-managed SD-WAN providers based on market share of installed customer sites.Continue Reading

• The 5G future will spark an evolution of telecom networks, ISPs

  Telecom networks are evolving thanks to new technologies such as 5G. This evolution will affect various types of organizations, ISPs and available services.Continue Reading

• An 802.11ax survival guide: Expectations for the Wi-Fi standard

  This 802.11ax survival guide has the information you need for the newest Wi-Fi standard, including various expectations, device advice and available features.Continue Reading

• Managed SD-WAN is a developing part of WAN transformation

  Despite SD-WAN's benefits for WAN transformation, enterprises can't avoid the shortcomings. Find out how many organizations address those challenges with managed SD-WAN.Continue Reading

• Could open switches be a game-changer for your network?

  Before selecting campus edge switches, consider evaluating open switches -- versus switches from a traditional vendor -- and learn the benefits of this open networking approach.Continue Reading

• Compare offerings from network analytics market leaders

  Learn how 10 top network analytics tools compare when it comes to vendor type, deployment mode, specific features and technical support options.Continue Reading

• Key factors to consider before evaluating campus edge switches

  Before buying a campus edge switch, it's important to understand how technologies such as IoT could affect campus traffic and how you architect your network.Continue Reading

• Test your wireless knowledge: What is 802.11ax?

  Despite global hype, some network professionals still wonder what 802.11ax is and how it will change networking. This quiz covers essential information all Wi-Fi aficionados should know.Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• Will 5G networks require new network engineer skills?

  The 5G network will likely affect network engineer skills in areas such as security, physical appliances and software. But enterprise teams won't see too much change, for now.Continue Reading

• Evaluate top network analysis tools to find the right fit

  Before selecting a network analytics tool, determine which devices and vendors make up your organization's network and what problems you hope to solve by deploying this product.Continue Reading

• 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

• What is network traffic analytics and how does it enhance security?

  Network traffic analysis has evolved to incorporate machine learning techniques that help identify network security threats in real time and expedite a response.Continue Reading

• Weighing the pros and cons of enterprise network subscriptions

  A centralized repository of network licenses can help enterprises visualize their IT assets and manage their purchases. But higher costs and amortization issues lurk.Continue Reading

• Assess needs before evaluating network analytics software

  Learn how to evaluate your organization's current network to determine the most appropriate way to integrate network analytics software and what differentiates the different tools.Continue Reading

• Wi-Fi 6 vs. 5G networks is more about cooperation than competition

  While Wi-Fi 6 and 5G might experience some interference with each other, enterprises should focus on the handoff of connections between the two technologies.Continue Reading

• 3 critical considerations for your network management strategy

  The debate continues between the use of a single network management tool or a variety. Three considerations can help point your network management strategy in the right direction.Continue Reading

• Should you buy 802.11ax devices before the Wi-Fi standard is ratified?

  The Wi-Fi 6 standard has not been ratified yet, but enterprises are faced with a decision. Should they buy 802.11ax devices now or wait for the standard to be approved?Continue Reading

• What do you know about the history of mobile networks?

  Though it still has a long way to go, 5G is finally here. This quiz takes you through mobile networking's history -- from first-generation wireless to 5G expectations.Continue Reading

• Examine the requirements for 5G core networks

  The 5G core network will support millions of devices that need high-speed communication and data processing. Learn what other capabilities are required for 5G deployment.Continue Reading

• What is Cisco Smart Licensing and how might it benefit my business?

  Cisco Smart Licensing, the networking vendor's fairly new approach to software licensing, aims to provide customers with more visibility and control over their licenses.Continue Reading

• Network analytics tools take monitoring to the next level

  A network analytics platform augments traditional analytics with automation and AI to provide organizations with data that can help them pinpoint a specific problem.Continue Reading

• Skip the wireless site survey cost and invest in more wireless APs

  A wireless site survey simply provides a one-time snapshot of a work environment's wireless coverage. But Wi-Fi requires ongoing management based on several changing variables.Continue Reading

• What is the purpose of an SD-WAN gateway?

  Software-defined WAN architecture has adapted with the growth of cloud services, resulting in a cloud-based model that uses SD-WAN gateways to handle traffic and control.Continue Reading

• The 3 pillars of SD-WAN QoS and questions to ask your providers

  Traffic shaping, path control and forward error correction are three core components of SD-WAN QoS. Here are some crucial questions to ask your vendors regarding those areas.Continue Reading

• 802.11ax release date: Here's what has to happen first

  Members of the IEEE committee developing the new wireless LAN standard now expect the final 802.11ax release date won't arrive until mid- to late-2020. Here's what has to happen first.Continue Reading

• The campus edge switch market evolves, offers new innovations

  The campus edge LAN switching market has evolved to offer a multitude of products boasting multi-gigabit port speeds -- there are more available port speed options than ever.Continue Reading

• Which 802.11ax features support IoT adoption?

  A handful of key 802.11ax features could help accelerate widespread internet-of-things adoption, according to networking experts familiar with the new standard.Continue Reading

• Machine learning network monitoring shows AIOps' promise

  Machine learning network monitoring tools highlight the promise of artificial intelligence for IT operations, helping networking pros contextualize data and turn it into action.Continue Reading

• How modern WAN edge services can benefit your network

  Modern services could replace legacy routers at the network edge. And while individual WANs have different edge requirements, common needs include flexibility and reliability.Continue Reading

• How 5G can start a brand new era for the virtual RAN

  5G is forging the way for operators to delve into virtualized RANs. Yet, despite its benefits, vRAN lacks standards and is still in the early developmental stages.Continue Reading

• VMware-VeloCloud sees the future of SD-WAN with 5G, hybrid cloud

  A glimpse into one software-defined WAN vendor's vision shows a heavy interest in SD-WAN's integration with the network edge, 5G and hybrid cloud.Continue Reading

• Wireless LAN technology and WLAN tools buyer's guide

  Compare WLAN tools and learn the questions to ask before a buying decision. Beyond cloud and on-premises systems, WLAN vendors offer features for many deployment types.Continue Reading

• 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

• Network visibility challenges in modern networks

  To tackle current visibility issues, you must first understand the nature and sources of the problems. Learn why visibility is essential but so tough to achieve.Continue Reading

• How does a WAN-cloud exchange work?

  WAN-cloud exchanges provide private and secure connectivity to cloud environments, making them beneficial for software-defined WAN and SaaS platforms.Continue Reading

• 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

• Spokane venues up their game with new guest Wi-Fi network

  The Spokane Public Facilities District refreshed its Wi-Fi infrastructure with equipment from Aruba Networks for improved device support, coverage and IT management.Continue Reading

• 5G expansion is coming, but where will operators reap profits?

  In this recap of industry blogs, networking pundits examine the profit potential of 5G expansion, responsible use of AI and some top network security developments.Continue Reading

• 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

• 3 developing 5G trends that differentiate it from 4G LTE

  Operators may be more cautious about initial 5G deployments than originally expected. But three key elements differentiate 5G from 4G LTE, which could make it a better investment.Continue Reading

• Wi-Fi 6: How does OFDMA work?

  The new Wi-Fi 6 standard works harder but also smarter, thanks to a game-changing feature called orthogonal frequency-division multiple access.Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• 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

• SD-WAN cost savings hinge on underlying WAN technologies

  SD-WAN marketing almost always mentions the benefit of cost savings. Cut through the hype and discover how SD-WAN works with MPLS and internet connectivity to drive savings.Continue Reading

• Latest SD-WAN features offer better management, security

  Enterprises looking to buy software-defined WAN products should evaluate the SD-WAN features that vendors offer. But the market still has room for vendor differentiation.Continue Reading

• How to assess an SD-WAN product and determine which you need

  Two main differentiators have emerged in SD-WAN products. Learn how they work and how an IT manager can use them to assess network performance and diagnose problems.Continue Reading

• The pros and cons of network slicing in 5G

  Although network slicing is useful for certain applications, like IoT and mobile networks, it might not be necessary at this point, especially when considering its cost.Continue Reading

• SD-WAN vendor lock-in is unavoidable, but not necessarily bad

  It's practically impossible to avoid SD-WAN vendor lock-in. But, instead of being deterred by lock-in, companies should focus on wisely locking in the vendor with which they want to partner.Continue Reading

• How SD-WAN architectures improve network flexibility and efficiency

  The key benefits of SD-WAN architectures include better network redundancy, efficient MPLS connections and added flexibility to deploy new services remotely.Continue Reading

• What are the pros and cons of machine learning in network security?

  The predictive nature of machine learning can benefit network security strategies. But it can also benefit those looking to break through secure network barriers.Continue Reading

• What 4 questions can help prepare your network for IoT?

  Increasingly, organizations are seeing a marriage of IoT and networking for more efficiency and enhanced services. Here's what you need to know to prepare your networks for IoT.Continue Reading

• 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

• Have newer security methods made NAC systems obsolete?

  While newer security methods, like microsegmentation and software-defined perimeter, diminish the role of network access control, NAC systems can still help secure the network edge.Continue Reading

• What are the pros and cons of open source network monitoring tools?

  They're usually free and customizable, but can lack customer support. Take a look at the best and worst features of open source network monitoring tools.Continue Reading

• 8 common questions about the new Wi-Fi 6 standard

  Industry excitement around the next-generation Wi-Fi standard continues to grow, with good reason -- many experts say Wi-Fi 6 is a game-changer. Here's what you need to know.Continue Reading

• Fiber expansion paves way for V2X technology in Colorado

  Colorado wants to enable highway automation by building smart, connected infrastructure it says can save lives. But to get roadside devices online throughout the state, it's going to need a bigger fiber optic network.Continue Reading

• Mist's smart WLAN gets rave reviews from Ohio schools

  A school district's dissatisfaction with its legacy Wi-Fi system led to a rip and replace of its entire network. This case study explores the deployment of Mist's smart WLAN.Continue Reading

• Enterprises iffy on telecom services beyond network connectivity

  Enterprises look to telecom carriers for network connectivity services, but providers need to win them over to sell cloud and productivity options, according to network pros.Continue Reading

• SD-branch begins to prove itself with growing deployments

  Enterprises are beginning to deploy SD-branch and are seeing positive results, pointing to the possibility that the software-defined branch will become the norm for branch networking.Continue Reading

• How Dartmouth College improved its campus-wide Wi-Fi

  Dartmouth College brought 21st-century wireless infrastructure from Mist Systems to its 18th-century architecture in a highly anticipated update to its campus Wi-Fi.Continue Reading

• NetInsight enables proactive network performance monitoring

  With NetInsight, network performance monitoring and analytics get smart. The cloud-based subscription service tells customers how their Wi-Fi stacks up and exactly how to improve.Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• 5G, cloud embolden network outsourcing and ultimate virtualization

  Could the cloud, 5G, small cell technology, BYOD and carrier-provisioned networks completely virtualize network infrastructure? Well, maybe not today.Continue Reading