Cloud and data center networking
Data center networks are responsible for traffic routing, switching, resource hosting and more. While on-premises data center networking remains essential, enterprises are also turning to cloud networking, which enables them to host services in cloud environments. Discover various strategies for data center network architecture, hybrid cloud and cloud networking services.
Top Stories
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Tip
25 Jun 2025
6 edge monitoring best practices in the cloud
When it comes to application monitoring, edge workloads are outliers -- literally and metaphorically. Learn what sets them apart and how to implement monitoring best practices. Continue Reading
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Opinion
24 Jun 2025
Cisco Live 2025 set the tone for AI, security in networking
The networking giant's latest products underscore the importance of agentic AI and security within computing infrastructure. Continue Reading
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News
11 Jun 2025
Cisco rolls out data center solutions to power AI
Cisco targets the AI infrastructure market with new equipment and software, including AI agents that simplify network and security operations. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jun 2025
Cisco unleashes agentic AI, global partnerships for data center
The networking company launched new tools to meet the AI needs of enterprise customers in the data center. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 May 2025
Examine the 4 types of edge computing, with examples
Edge computing is popular, but it's not going to benefit every IoT device or workload. Look at the various types of edge computing and examples. Are you ready to push it to the edge? Continue Reading
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Tip
07 May 2025
Explore edge computing services in the cloud
Discover the powerful advantages of edge computing over cloud computing, delivering faster performance and significantly lowering data transfer costs. Dive into the essential services provided by leading industry players. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Apr 2025
What is data center interconnect (DCI)?
Data center interconnect (DCI) technology links two or more data centers so they can share resources. Continue Reading
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News
29 Apr 2025
HPE Aruba deepens network security and OpsRamp visibility
A new 'digital circuit breaker' capability for HPE Private Clouds, increased visibility of third-party hardware with OpsRamp and new SASE capabilities arrive for HPE Aruba. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Apr 2025
What is traffic shaping (packet shaping)?
Traffic shaping, also known as packet shaping, is a congestion management method that regulates network data transfer by delaying the flow of less important or less desired packets. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Apr 2025
The pros and cons of quantum networking
Quantum networking promises secure, high-speed communication -- someday. There are huge practical challenges, including fragility, cost and integration with traditional networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Apr 2025
What is open networking?
Open networking describes a network that uses open standards and commodity hardware. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Mar 2025
How multi-cloud networking can ensure reliability
Networking services enhance multi-cloud network reliability by reducing configuration errors, adding redundancy and ensuring seamless connectivity across cloud environments. Continue Reading
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News
19 Mar 2025
Nvidia readies Vera Rubin to replace Blackwell
Nvidia's upcoming advanced GPUs, Blackwell Ultra and Vera Rubin, give it as much as a two-year lead over competitors, an analyst says. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Mar 2025
What is east-west traffic?
East-west traffic refers to the transfer of data packets that move from server to server within a network's data center. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Feb 2025
What is a cloud-native network function (CNF)?
A cloud-native network function (CNF) is a service that performs network duties in software, as opposed to purpose-built hardware. Continue Reading
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News
13 Feb 2025
Cisco rides the AI boon
Cisco reported a 9% revenue increase, driven by AI demand. The company plans to launch new AI infrastructure products, focusing on enterprise data center trends. Continue Reading
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News
11 Feb 2025
Cisco launches Smart Switches with AMD DPUs for security
Cisco introduces the Smart Switch series, as enterprises refresh networks in preparation for running AI models and applications. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Jan 2025
What is cloud orchestration (cloud orchestrator)?
Cloud orchestration (cloud orchestrator) is the use of programming technology to manage the interconnections and interactions among workloads on public and private cloud infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Answer
24 Jan 2025
Cloud networking vs. cloud computing: What's the difference?
Businesses might see cloud computing and cloud networking as interchangeable due to similarities, but the two strategies dictate different processes and fulfill different goals. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Jan 2025
What is cloud transformation and how do you get started?
Cloud transformation is a migration process in which a business's IT infrastructure, data, applications and software are moved to cloud-based environments. Continue Reading
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Feature
14 Jan 2025
The history of cloud computing explained
Get a clear view of cloud's historical milestones, how it evolved into the juggernaut it is today and transformed the commercial and working worlds for businesses and consumers. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jan 2025
Evaluate 7 cloud monitoring tools for networks
Organizations use cloud monitoring tools to manage on-premises, hybrid and cloud networks. Discover the features of seven cloud monitoring tools that can enhance performance. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Dec 2024
The future of hybrid cloud: What to expect in 2025 and beyond
For companies modernizing their business operations, hybrid cloud's embrace of AI, edge computing and integration promises unique levels of flexibility, security and control. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Dec 2024
Top public cloud service providers of 2025: How they compare
As the market share gap tightens among AWS, Microsoft and Google, see how their features and offerings stack up against each other and some of the smaller cloud providers. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Dec 2024
What is pay-as-you-go cloud computing (PAYG cloud computing)?
Pay-as-you-go cloud computing, or PAYG cloud computing, is a payment method for cloud computing that charges based on usage. The practice is similar to that of utility bills, using only resources that are needed. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Dec 2024
Breaking down the cost of cloud computing in 2025
Businesses migrating to the cloud can reap benefits they wouldn't get staying on the premises -- but then there's the pricing. Check out cost structures of the big three providers. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Dec 2024
What is Google Cloud?
Google Cloud is a suite of public cloud computing services offered by Google. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Nov 2024
What is cloud testing? An introduction to testing in the cloud
Cloud testing is the process of using the cloud computing resources of a third-party service provider to test software applications. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Nov 2024
What is SaaS (software as a service)?
Software as a service (SaaS) is a software distribution model in which a cloud provider hosts applications and makes them available to end users over the internet. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Nov 2024
What is a cloud-native application?
A cloud-native application is a program that is designed for a cloud computing architecture. These applications are run and hosted in the cloud and are designed to capitalize on the inherent characteristics of a cloud computing software delivery model. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Nov 2024
What is a cloud server?
A cloud server is a virtual server that operates in a cloud computing environment and makes its resources accessible to users remotely over a network. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Nov 2024
What is public cloud? A definition and in-depth guide
A public cloud is a third-party managed platform that uses the standard cloud computing model to make resources, applications and services available on demand to remote users around the world. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Nov 2024
4 ways to improve the network monitoring experience
The network transition from data centers to hybrid and multi-cloud environments makes the network delivery path difficult to find. Here are four ways to make that process easier. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Oct 2024
10 key characteristics of cloud computing
Evaluate how these 10 characteristics of cloud computing, such as on-demand self-service and broad network access, can help you become a more nimble and cost-effective business. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Oct 2024
Is cloud-based network management right for your business?
Many enterprises use on-premises network management, but some are transitioning to cloud-based management. Enterprises should evaluate both options before deciding which to use. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Oct 2024
What is a MAC address and how do I find it?
A MAC address (media access control address) is a 12-digit hexadecimal number assigned to each device connected to the network. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Oct 2024
What is cloud sprawl?
Cloud sprawl is the uncontrolled proliferation of an organization's cloud instances, services or providers. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Oct 2024
What is cloud networking?
Cloud networking is a type of IT infrastructure in which the cloud hosts some or all of an organization's networking resources. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Oct 2024
Contact center fraud: How to detect and prevent it
Contact centers can be sitting ducks for fraudsters, but comprehensive agent training, authentication techniques and advanced technologies can protect businesses and customers. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Oct 2024
Contact center monitoring: A step-by-step guide
A well-designed monitoring program identifies customer pain points and gathers valuable intelligence that can improve agent performance and CX, as well as products and services. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Sep 2024
7 essential steps to create a contact center RFP
Successful contact center RFPs are built on collaboration, vendor research, countless questions and answers, scorecards, shortlists, trial runs, bakeoffs and the final decision. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Aug 2024
What is AWS Outposts?
AWS Outposts is a fully managed service from Amazon Web Services (AWS) that enables users to set up a hybrid cloud by extending AWS infrastructure, services, application programming interfaces (APIs) and tools to any datacenter, colocation space or on-premises facility. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Aug 2024
Contact center outsourcing: What businesses need to know
Businesses use contact center outsourcing to alleviate agent understaffing, expand customer service and reduce costs, but loss of control and service inconsistency are concerns. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Aug 2024
Why contact centers have high turnover and how to combat it
The alarming rise in contact center turnover rates negatively impacts agent morale, customer interactions and ROI. In many ways, AI is seen as both the cause and the solution. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Aug 2024
How to subnet in cloud network environments
Cloud and on-premises subnets use IP ranges, subnet masks or prefixes, and security policies. But cloud subnets are simpler to set up, while on-prem configuration is still manual. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Aug 2024
How to manage today's remote contact center agents
Technologies like agent analytics, video conferencing, collaboration tools, workforce management applications and cloud software can help manage remote contact centers. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Aug 2024
The ultimate contact center security checklist
If customers know organizations can keep their data safe in the contact center, they have more positive experiences. This checklist of best practices can help establish that trust. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Aug 2024
What is distributed computing?
Distributed computing is a model in which components of a software system are shared among multiple computers or nodes. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Aug 2024
History and evolution of contact centers
Alexander Graham Bell, Steve Jobs and the Baby Bells played notable roles in the contact center's transformation into the front line of communication for businesses and customers. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Aug 2024
What is FTP?
File Transfer Protocol (FTP) is a network protocol for transmitting files between computers over TCP/IP connections. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Jul 2024
Contact center compliance checklist for modern workforces
A contact center compliance checklist can serve as a starting point for contact center managers as they seek to comply with internal and external requirements. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Jul 2024
What is AWS PrivateLink?
AWS PrivateLink is a networking feature from Amazon Web Services (AWS) that eases and secures connectivity between AWS Virtual Private Clouds (VPCs) and other services while protecting data from exposure to the internet. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Jul 2024
What is a software-defined data center (SDDC)?
A software-defined data center (SDDC) is a server management concept in which all infrastructure elements -- networking, storage and compute -- are virtualized and delivered as a service. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Jul 2024
What is an Amazon EC2 Instance? Types, features and pricing
An Amazon EC2 instance is a virtual server in Amazon's Elastic Compute Cloud (EC2) scalable compute platform for running applications on the Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Jul 2024
8 contact center challenges in 2024 and how to overcome them
Multifunctional contact centers must meet the expectations of savvy customers, hire and maintain qualified agents, monetize data, safeguard information and modernize operations. Continue Reading
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News
18 Jul 2024
Aviatrix CEO pitches cloud networking to 'underserved buyer'
Doug Merritt has been in the multi-cloud networking business for a year, but still draws on his experience as CEO of Splunk to steer Aviatrix toward a new phase of growth. Continue Reading
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Answer
11 Jul 2024
CASB vs. SASE: What's the difference?
CASB and SASE enhance network and SaaS application security. CASB acts as a security layer for cloud services, while SASE integrates networking and security into one framework. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Jul 2024
8 benefits of a modern contact center
Contact centers and their multifunctional capabilities can provide businesses with a competitive edge through improved agent performance, customer engagement and brand loyalty. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Jul 2024
Cloud networking sustainability strategies yield benefits
As enterprises seek ways to reduce their environmental footprints, one popular way is to migrate on-premises networking infrastructure to third-party CSPs. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Jul 2024
Compare 5 single-vendor SASE providers
SASE has broad enterprise appeal because it combines security and connectivity. With so many vendor options available, enterprises might need help narrowing the search. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Jun 2024
Strategies for simplifying network complexity
Experts at the Cisco Live 2024 conference discussed the future of AI in networks and how its use can help simplify network and data center operations. Continue Reading
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News
20 Jun 2024
Arista, Cisco, HPE answer AI infrastructure demand
Arista, Cisco and HPE are racing to seize a share of the promising GenAI infrastructure market. Cisco and HPE have computing, networking and software; Arista focuses on networking. Continue Reading
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Video
17 Jun 2024
An explanation of TCP/IP
These fundamental protocols make transferring data easier by focusing on both communication and transportation through different mediums. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Jun 2024
secure access service edge (SASE)
Secure access service edge (SASE), pronounced sassy, is a cloud architecture model that bundles together network and cloud-native security technologies and delivers them as a single cloud service. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jun 2024
Edge computing opportunities for telecom providers
Compatibility issues and the initial limited release of 5G have hindered edge computing adoption. But widescale 5G rollouts, advances in AI and new use cases could drive deployment. Continue Reading
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News
05 Jun 2024
Cisco commits to GenAI with HyperFabric, $1B fund
Cisco partners with Nvidia on HyperFabric as customers try to understand how generative AI will help them manage their network infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 May 2024
12 core Azure networking services you need to know
Network connectivity can make or break a cloud deployment. Discover the basics of Azure network services with this list of key offerings and terms. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 May 2024
AWS Reserved Instances
AWS Reserved Instances (RIs) refer to compute capacity that can be reserved on Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud (Amazon EC2) and Amazon Relational Database Service (Amazon RDS) to take advantage of discounted pricing. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Apr 2024
Why GenAI infrastructure optimization starts with the network
GenAI deployment requires optimized infrastructure. The networking aspects, such as workload placement and the type of deployment model, could determine GenAI performance. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Apr 2024
subnet mask
A subnet mask is a 32-bit binary number used in modern network addressing schemes to differentiate between a network's location and the specific location of a host or device on that network. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Apr 2024
Building networks for AI workloads
Conventional and high-performance computing networks cannot adequately support AI workloads, so network engineers must build specialized networks to accommodate their massive size. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Apr 2024
SASE vs. SD-WAN: What's the difference?
SASE and SD-WAN are two similar architectures administrators use to provide secure network access, but they differ in terms of deployment, security, connectivity and more. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Apr 2024
Infrastructure requirements for Kubernetes cluster networking
A well-architected network infrastructure is vital for Kubernetes cluster networking, providing seamless communication and resource orchestration across containerized workloads. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Mar 2024
cloud management platform (CMP)
A cloud management platform (CMP) is a suite of integrated software tools that an enterprise can use to monitor and control cloud environments. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Mar 2024
data center services
Data center services provide the supporting components necessary to the proper operation of a data center. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Mar 2024
cloud load balancing
Cloud load balancing is the process of distributing workloads across computing resources in a cloud computing environment and carefully balancing the network traffic accessing those resources. Continue Reading
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Answer
28 Feb 2024
Classical internet vs. quantum internet: How do they differ?
The quantum internet is a hypothetical secure network made of qubits. It differs from the classical internet with its use of quantum principles for enhanced security and computing. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Feb 2024
How quantum networking and UC intersect
Quantum networking and unified communications might seem a long way off, but it's not too early to see how it might reshape UC. For one thing, hacking will be a lot more challenging. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Feb 2024
OpenStack
OpenStack is a collection of open source software modules and tools that provides organizations with a framework to create and manage both public cloud and private cloud infrastructure. Continue Reading
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News
07 Feb 2024
Latest Cisco products show measured approach to AI
Cisco has launched a SaaS product for applying policy controls to AI model-bound data and an Nvidia partnership to bolster Cisco UCS servers for AI at the edge and data centers. Continue Reading
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News
29 Jan 2024
Juniper adds data center networks to Mist AI
Juniper's Mist AI update will include using the Marvis virtual network assistant to obtain information on data center cabling, configurations and connectivity issues. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Jan 2024
On premises vs. cloud pros and cons, key differences
Immersed in the 'should I stay or should I go' cloud migration debate? Before vacating the premises and moving 'up there,' ponder these advantages and disadvantages. Continue Reading
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News
18 Jan 2024
Equinix Fabric adds multi-cloud routing
Equinix markets its Fabric Cloud Router as a monthly subscription service that organizations can access and configure quickly. It includes an SLA for 99.999% uptime. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Jan 2024
What is hybrid cloud? The ultimate guide
A hybrid cloud is a cloud computing environment that uses a mix of on-premises, private cloud and third-party public cloud services with orchestration among these platforms. Continue Reading
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Opinion
11 Jan 2024
Why HPE plans to acquire Juniper Networks
With its blockbuster acquisition of Juniper Networks, HPE gains more data center networking and AI technologies as well as other important advantages. Continue Reading
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News
09 Jan 2024
HPE to acquire Juniper Networks for $14 billion
HPE plans to use Juniper's hardware and software to make networking a 'core business and architecture foundation' for HPE's GreenLake hybrid cloud and AI platform. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Jan 2024
hybrid cloud architecture
Hybrid cloud architecture is a type of cloud computing architecture that combines public cloud, private cloud and on-premises resources. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Jan 2024
7 keys to an effective hybrid cloud migration strategy
Cloud readiness, storage costs, network lag and metrics can make or break the choice to move data, applications and workloads to today's more complex hybrid cloud environment. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Jan 2024
Kubernetes
Kubernetes, also referred to as K8s for the number of letters between K and S, is an open source platform used to manage containerized applications across private, public and hybrid cloud environments. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Jan 2024
8 hybrid cloud security challenges and how to manage them
Hybrid cloud's benefits are many and varied but so are the security issues surrounding integration, compatibility, governance, compliance, APIs, visibility and responsibility. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Jan 2024
hybrid cloud management
Hybrid cloud management characterizes the processes and tools for managing applications that span public and private cloud computing infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Jan 2024
Pros and cons of 10 common hybrid cloud use cases
For businesses contemplating the advantages and disadvantages of their applications living in a distributed cloud infrastructure, take a cue from these hybrid cloud use cases. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 Dec 2023
Top enterprise hybrid cloud management tools to review
The techniques used to build hybrid cloud architectures have come a long way, but managing these environments long term is plenty more complex without the right software. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Dec 2023
session ID
A session ID, also called a session token, is a unique identifier that a web server assigns to a user for the duration of the current session. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Dec 2023
Top 8 benefits of hybrid cloud for business
Why choose between public cloud and private systems when you can have both? With hybrid cloud, enterprises can address workload requirements, business demands and budgetary needs. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Dec 2023
top-of-rack switching
Top-of-rack switching is a data center architecture design in which computing equipment like servers, appliances and other switches located within the same or adjacent rack connect to an in-rack network switch. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Dec 2023
edge device
An edge device is any piece of hardware that controls data flow at the boundary between two networks. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Dec 2023
Multi-cloud vs. hybrid cloud: The main difference
As businesses digitally transform across increasingly distributed environments, know the benefits, challenges, similarities and differences between hybrid cloud and multi-cloud. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Nov 2023
Hybrid cloud connectivity best practices and considerations
Private and public clouds stress networks in different ways and don't always play well together. Here's what to know to set up a cost-effective hybrid cloud network architecture. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Nov 2023
carrier cloud
A carrier cloud is a cloud computing environment that is owned and operated by a traditional telecommunications service provider. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Nov 2023
How to simplify network operations
Network challenges include visibility, scalability and security. NetOps teams should follow management best practices and consider cloud networking to simplify operations. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Nov 2023
SD-WAN deployments feed SASE network and security convergence
Enterprise Strategy Group's Bob Laliberte discusses the latest findings in his newly released report and why SD-WAN's direct cloud connectivity feeds SASE business initiatives. Continue Reading