Network Design
Top Stories
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Feature
31 May 2022
Understand the basics of 5G wireless networks
To build a 5G network, the deployment mode, spectrum band and services are all important factors to understand and consider. Here's what you should know about the basics of 5G. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Nov 2021
4 ideas for network cable management best practices
When organizing cable clutter, network engineers should follow some common best practices, including the use of cable labels, cable ties and proper documentation. Continue Reading
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News
30 Mar 2018
New Arista switches offer 25/100 GbE for large data centers
The latest Arista switches are 25/100 GbE hardware designed to provide a smooth migration from systems with less bandwidth. The new gear is for companies with large data centers. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Mar 2018
Examine CORD architecture's benefits and challenges
CORD architecture offers service providers a compelling way to combine open hardware and software in the central office, boost service delivery and enable NFV capabilities. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Mar 2018
The on-premises vs. cloud-managed WLAN architecture debate
Although on-premises WLANs and cloud WLANs both offer significant advantages, determining which approach will provide the best return depends on several factors. Continue Reading
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News
29 Mar 2018
SD-WAN routing changes branch dynamics
This week, bloggers look into the changes wrought in the branch by SD-WAN routing, endpoint security tools and Microsoft's new SONiC open source software. Continue Reading
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News
29 Mar 2018
Gluware launches Config Modeling network automation tool
Gluware launches Config Modeling, a new network automation tool intended to help customers overcome the hurdles of CLI as they manage multivendor legacy networks. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Mar 2018
Network data analysis driving business intelligence
According to a study from Enterprise Management Associates, network data analysis tools are now being used by enterprises to deliver valuable information to business units. Continue Reading
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News
29 Mar 2018
Survey: SD-WAN challenges include immaturity and complexity
Complexity and maturity concerns rank among top SD-WAN challenges, according to a survey from Cato Networks. Also, Juniper's OpenContrail is rebranded to Tungsten Fabric. Continue Reading
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News
28 Mar 2018
Cisco network disaggregation for carriers, enterprises
Cisco has embraced network disaggregation for data centers and carriers. The company is providing the option of running its network operating systems on third-party switches. Continue Reading
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News
27 Mar 2018
Cloud-based Aruba NetInsight focuses on Wi-Fi performance
Aruba's latest cloud-based analytics compares user Wi-Fi performance to let companies see why theirs is underperforming. Aruba NetInsight pricing starts at $50 per managed device. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Mar 2018
Casemore: Cloud, as-a-service honing networking industry trends
Cloud and as-a-service delivery are bringing new urgency to networking. IDC analyst Brad Casemore cites the key networking industry trends worth watching in 2018. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Mar 2018
What cloud data center interconnect technologies can do
Data center interconnect technologies and services now use cloud. Learn how CDCI improves traffic delivery and how to choose the right equipment and services. Continue Reading
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News
22 Mar 2018
Open Compute Project hardware sales surpass $1B, sellers eye more markets
A study found Open Compute Project hardware sales topped $1 billion last year. The OCP-commissioned study also reports sellers are eyeing new markets for their open source products. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Mar 2018
5G service lifecycle automation may be key to business cases
Network operators need a 5G service lifecycle automation roadmap that leads to revenue-producing business cases to make the evolution to 5G worth the investment. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Mar 2018
Digital transformation process includes the network
The digital transformation process puts pressure on the network to support new technology. Network pros need to be transformative, too, adapting new skills to interact with business. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Mar 2018
The future of SDN in 2018 moves toward increased automation
Future SDN trends could show variations of the technology becoming more prominent among enterprises, as organizations look increasingly toward programmability and automation. Continue Reading
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Answer
22 Mar 2018
Which is better for WLAN support: Mac or Windows?
Choosing the right laptop for WLAN support usually boils down to Macintosh versus Windows. But of the two, there is only one OS clearly up to the task, our expert maintains. Continue Reading
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News
21 Mar 2018
Dell Virtual Edge Platform takes SD-WAN to SPs, enterprises
Dell has unveiled an appliance for running an SD-WAN or virtual network functions. The Dell Virtual Edge Platform is aimed at service providers and large enterprises. Continue Reading
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News
20 Mar 2018
Network device monitoring beyond NETCONF
This week, bloggers look at alternative methods in network device monitoring, Europe's GDPR legislation and the integration of low-code platforms within cloud offerings. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Mar 2018
A comparison of leading application delivery controllers
You can simplify the process of buying an ADC device by examining how leading vendors address key considerations, including platform options, security and server load balancing. Continue Reading
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Answer
19 Mar 2018
Where do mobile users fit in with SD-WAN as a service?
SD-WAN as a service can act as a bridge between mobile users who want to access business apps on the go and network managers who want to manage and secure those users. Continue Reading
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Answer
19 Mar 2018
What exactly is a digital business transformation strategy?
What do you need for a digital business transformation strategy that will actually work to boost business value and change the enterprise operations model? Continue Reading
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News
16 Mar 2018
Ethernet bandwidth costs fall to a six-year low
Ethernet bandwidth costs in data center switches fell to a six-year low in 2017. Crehan Research reported cloud provider demand for speed was behind the drop. Continue Reading
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News
16 Mar 2018
Yahoo Japan deploys intent-based network with Apstra AOS
Yahoo Japan deploys an Apstra intent-based network to oversee multiple vendors. Cisco touts Los Angeles Hospital, as well as the benefits it's getting from its DNA strategy. Continue Reading
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News
15 Mar 2018
Is it best to buy or build a network automation system?
Bloggers explore the question of buying versus building a network automation system, the challenges of hyper-converged infrastructure and the integration of AI into enterprise IT. Continue Reading
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News
14 Mar 2018
ONF puts focus on white box switches with Stratum project
The Open Networking Foundation formed Stratum, an open source networking project intended to create more interoperability among white box switches and network operating systems. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Mar 2018
The benefits of machine learning in network management
Enterprises and vendors alike are now undertaking machine learning deployment strategies. What are the benefits of machine learning in networking related to analysis and management tools? Continue Reading
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News
12 Mar 2018
Aryaka adds new security layers to global private network
Through security partnerships, Aryaka's Passport platform offers six security layers to provide additional protection in case one layer becomes vulnerable. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Mar 2018
How to plan for network disaggregation with APIs
Network disaggregation is a lot of work for engineers, and it's fraught with potential hurdles posed by sourcing hardware, a control plane, network operating system and how you manage necessary APIs. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Mar 2018
Network subscription packages gain steam among enterprises
Networking suppliers are increasingly offering network subscription packages, as enterprises have become more familiar with paying for services with monthly subscriptions. Continue Reading
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News
08 Mar 2018
How network automation scripts will affect veteran engineers
This week, bloggers look at how engineers will need to adapt to changes such as network automation scripts, offer projections for RSA 2018 and debate network transformation. Continue Reading
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News
08 Mar 2018
Cisco adds predictive analytics to Viptela SD-WAN
Cisco's new cloud-based service, called vAnalytics, helps companies prepare for changes within the Viptela SD-WAN by giving answers to what-if questions. Continue Reading
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Answer
07 Mar 2018
Can cable be reused when upgrading 802.11ac wireless LAN?
Is it better to repurpose legacy cabling when planning an 802.11ac wireless LAN upgrade, or does it make sense to buy new? Like many things networking, it depends. Continue Reading
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Opinion
07 Mar 2018
SDN marketplace sows confusion on network infrastructure upgrades
The ever-evolving SDN marketplace continues to confuse IT departments as they determine what steps they should take with their network infrastructure upgrades. Continue Reading
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Quiz
06 Mar 2018
Quiz: Test your knowledge on how SD-WAN works
With SD-WAN deployment on the rise, take the time to test your knowledge about how SD-WAN works. This quiz covers SD-WAN technology basics, benefits of SD-WAN and common myths. Continue Reading
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News
06 Mar 2018
Cisco adds malware security features in Tetration analytics
Cisco has turned Tetration analytics toward app security. The latest upgrade helps spot software flaws and identify malware activity, such as Spectre and Meltdown exploits. Continue Reading
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Opinion
02 Mar 2018
Millimeter wave spectrum has key role in 802.11ay wireless
IEEE 802.11ay Wi-Fi is getting closer to final ratification. The new standard relies on millimeter wave spectrum to deliver stronger and more robust services. Continue Reading
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News
01 Mar 2018
Cisco tracks growing role of machine learning, AI in cybersecurity
Cisco highlights the growing role of automation, machine learning and AI in cybersecurity, increasing the target of investments by IT departments working to mitigate malware. Continue Reading
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Answer
01 Mar 2018
What security is needed for digital assistant devices?
How should cybersecurity-enforcement efforts adapt as digital assistant devices become more pervasive in business enterprise networking to safeguard corporate data? Continue Reading
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News
28 Feb 2018
5G architecture plus NFV, SDN offers performance gains
The intersection of 5G architecture and virtualization technologies like NFV and SDN could result in better network performance, but it will take time to get there. Continue Reading
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News
27 Feb 2018
Narrowband IoT ups device support in Cisco Jasper Control Center
Cisco has made Narrowband IoT generally available in the Jasper Control Center. The technology standard significantly increases the number of devices supported in an IoT deployment. Continue Reading
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News
27 Feb 2018
Overcoming the hype with advanced network analytics software
Bloggers explore the capabilities of network analytics software, assess the coming impact of GDPR regulations and look into the use of Ethernet VPN with an MPLS data plane in data centers. Continue Reading
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Answer
27 Feb 2018
How do IoT sensors intersect with SD-WAN?
Most traditional WANs can't handle the increasing number of IoT sensors -- and the data they collect. But SD-WAN can help improve IoT performance and analysis. Continue Reading
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News
26 Feb 2018
Operators invest billions, hope in 5G wireless technology
A new 5G wireless technology report breaks its development into three phases, and network operators hope their investments lead to revenue down the line. Continue Reading
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Answer
26 Feb 2018
How can IT asset management tools aid in virtualization era?
IT asset management tools allow businesses to track resources effectively. Platform organization is increasingly necessary in a virtualized enterprise. Continue Reading
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News
23 Feb 2018
Ruckus SmartZone to get IoT module
Ruckus plans to release a suite of technology for companies that want to support IoT devices on the WLAN. The suite includes an IoT module for the Ruckus SmartZone controller. Continue Reading
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News
23 Feb 2018
What are the top information security objectives for CISOs?
Bloggers delve into CISO information security objectives, Juniper's new product release and how self-sufficient networking teams should try to be in an area of increasing complexity. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Feb 2018
Considerations for buying an application delivery controller
Before you buy an ADC device, learn which features you should look for and what questions you should ask prospective application delivery controller vendors. Continue Reading
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News
22 Feb 2018
PV buy takes Accedian network monitoring to the enterprise
Carrier supplier Accedian heads to the enterprise market with the acquisition of French company Performance Vision. Accedian network monitoring tools complement PV's NPM software. Continue Reading
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News
21 Feb 2018
Riverbed SD-WAN gets connections to Amazon, Microsoft clouds
Riverbed SD-WAN now includes support for private connections to Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure. Other enhancements include support for the Xirrus WLAN. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Feb 2018
SD-WAN vs. MPLS: The quality-of-service comparison
Quality of service is often top of mind for IT leaders when debating SD-WAN vs. MPLS -- especially when it comes to using internet links for SD-WAN connectivity. Continue Reading
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News
20 Feb 2018
Enterprises choose managed SD-WAN over DIY SD-WAN deployment
Enterprises prefer purchasing managed SD-WAN services, rather than taking the DIY SD-WAN deployment approach, according to recent research from Frost & Sullivan. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Feb 2018
DNS functions remain vital, but must adapt as demands shift
The domain name system's tasks are simple, but essential, and the service faces challenges with the proliferation of devices that operate within IPv6 networks. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Feb 2018
How IPv6 networks create DNS configuration problems
DNS data is among the most basic and crucial information required for network connectivity, but configuring DNS recursive servers in IPv6-only networks can pose challenges. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Feb 2018
OK of 400 Gigabit Ethernet adds horsepower to data centers
Final approval of the 400 Gigabit Ethernet standard will provide data centers and cloud providers with the extra capacity they need to meet ever-rising data demands. Continue Reading
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News
20 Feb 2018
Verizon kicks off managed SD-WLAN service with Mist
Verizon is using technology from Mist to anchor a managed SD-WLAN service in an effort to extend its service footprint to customers' WLANs. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Feb 2018
Three-step network strategy sells big changes as more doable
A three-pronged network strategy takes an evolutionary approach to selling revolutionary technology changes internally, with a bigger chance of success. Continue Reading
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News
16 Feb 2018
Cisco revenue turns positive, as software, security sales up
Cisco revenue grew last quarter for the first time in more than two years, due, in part, to rising software sales. But analysts cautioned Cisco could still fall back into a slump. Continue Reading
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News
16 Feb 2018
Making the most of incident detection and response
This week, bloggers look into incident detection strategies, a new anomaly detection tool from ExtraHop and how Ethernet VPN differs from virtual private LAN service. Continue Reading
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Opinion
15 Feb 2018
Consider the Ethernet option for primary SD-WAN connectivity
SD-WAN connectivity offers the ability to use a variety of links. While most enterprises opt to use cable or DSL as the primary link, Ethernet could be the better option. Continue Reading
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News
15 Feb 2018
Latest Juniper switches up throughput for cloud applications
The latest Juniper switches target companies that want a network infrastructure with the throughput and management software to run apps in the data center and public clouds. Continue Reading
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Opinion
15 Feb 2018
Wide area Ethernet can fuel digital network transformation
Wide area Ethernet might be just what the doctor ordered to help enterprises propel their digital network transformation efforts. Continue Reading
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News
15 Feb 2018
SD-branch network concept as next stage of WAN connectivity
SD-branch uses SD-WAN technology to simplify the branch network. It integrates multiple network functions now housed in separate components into software that runs in a single box. Continue Reading
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Guide
15 Feb 2018
Meet network management goals with new tech and techniques
Get up to speed on the new technological advances, improved products and advanced techniques that make enterprise network monitoring and management a bit less daunting. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Feb 2018
Existing branch routers could be replaced as SD-WAN matures
Enterprises are moving away from traditional branch routers, as SD-WAN capabilities mature and offer consolidated network functionality on a single device. Continue Reading
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News
14 Feb 2018
Multi-cloud connectivity behind Citrix acquisition of Cedexis
Citrix's acquisition of Cedexis marks its entry into the business of connecting multiple cloud data centers. Citrix is expected to combine NetScaler with Cedexis technology. Continue Reading
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News
13 Feb 2018
ExtraHop intros Reveal(x) cybersecurity analytics software
ExtraHop fortifies its packet capture platform with cybersecurity analytics software, Reveal(x); Mist introduces a virtual network assistant powered by artificial intelligence. Continue Reading
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News
13 Feb 2018
Enterprises won't reap benefits of 5G until 2020s
The first commercial 5G deployments are scheduled for later this year. One report's 5G timeline predicts many enterprises won't reap the benefits of 5G until the mid-2020s. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Feb 2018
As 2018 IT budgets rise, network upgrades become priority
A new TechTarget survey reveals network upgrades in 2018 are an amalgam of legacy and emerging technologies, as Wi-Fi fever spikes and network automation efforts grow. Continue Reading
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News
12 Feb 2018
Wireless vendors count on 5G equipment sales for rescue
Wireless 5G equipment sales could take off in the next two years, possibly saving wireless vendors. AT&T increases the use of bots in its business, and Verizon expands owned fiber. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Feb 2018
How networking can prepare for 5G mobile technology
An 'average Joe' engineer discusses the impact 5G mobile technology may bring to his operation as developments around the standard heat up. Continue Reading
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News
09 Feb 2018
Cisco: Cloud computing workloads to skyrocket by 2021
By 2021, Cisco says, cloud computing workloads will make up the lion's share of data center traffic as enterprises expand security, IoT and other activities in the cloud. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Feb 2018
How to make machine learning systems work in the network
Machine learning systems in networks are gaining acceptance, but our expert cautions that humans and APIs are still needed to keep complexity at bay. Continue Reading
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News
09 Feb 2018
Orange offers Cisco SD-WAN, Vonage intros SmartWAN for SMBs
Vonage offers VeloCloud-based SmartWAN for SMBs while French mobile network operator Orange launches an SD-WAN service on Cisco's virtualized network services platform. Continue Reading
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News
09 Feb 2018
Is machine learning needed for network traffic routing?
This week, bloggers assess the role of machine learning for network traffic routing, new hurdles for identity management due to the cloud and what to ask AI vendors. Continue Reading
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News
08 Feb 2018
Gartner: Networking innovation in the cloud tops vendors
A Gartner report says enterprises waiting on vendors for networking innovation are missing out on the better technology coming from cloud providers. Continue Reading
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News
06 Feb 2018
Aryaka enhances SD-WAN with Radware DDoS protection
Aryaka adds Radware DDoS security to its global private network to provide another layer of security. Also, Virgin Media Business intends to launch managed SD-WAN with software from Versa Networks. Continue Reading
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Answer
05 Feb 2018
What's automation's role in network provisioning resources?
IT is embracing network automation, but complications with integration disrupt the process. Using automation for provisioning resources can improve efficiency, but reduce the need for IT personnel. Continue Reading
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E-Zine
01 Feb 2018
Interest in 5G wireless networks ramps up
The ability for businesses to use 5G wireless networks is closer to becoming a reality as carriers continue to deploy 5G trials across cities in the U.S. and globally. While the technology that promises faster broadband speeds and enhanced data capacity is still in precommercial stages, 5G wireless networks are expected to transform how business is conducted around the world.
In this issue of Network Evolution, find out how enterprises are exploring of the possibilities of 5G wireless networks and how they can prepare for them.
Beyond 5G wireless networks, this issue looks at software-defined networking, and network managers share their reasons for choosing smaller SDN vendors instead of major providers like Cisco or VMware. A variety of software-based networking options are attracting enterprises that want to start their SDN evolution.
In addition, the ongoing availability of new business collaboration tools and features offers end users multiple options to choose from, which can lead to overlapping features. Enterprises are faced with similar applications for things like email, messaging, video or conferencing, and IT managers have begun exploring options to consolidate these tools into a single platform. Here we look at best practices to develop a plan to help deploy unified communications (UC) tools and improve collaboration across the enterprise.
Finally, in this month's Subnet, see how Durham County, N.C., is using network automation to create an efficient, seamless network experience for IT managers and users.
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Opinion
01 Feb 2018
The sky's the limit with 5G wireless communication
As the reality of 5G wireless communications builds, enterprises are looking toward new ways of doing business with higher speed and increased capacity. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Feb 2018
Engineer uses Cisco DNA Center to combat network challenges
Durham County hopes Cisco DNA Center and network automation create efficient, seamless experiences for IT managers and users, after redesigning its data center with Cisco's ACI. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Feb 2018
Small SDN providers' cost, flexibility appeal to enterprises
VMware's NSX and Cisco's ACI are the main SDN providers on the stage, but smaller vendors can offer enterprises flexibility and cost savings. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Feb 2018
New 5G wireless technology trials spark enterprise interest
New 5G wireless technology promises super-fast network speeds and massive capacity. Businesses that require low latency and high throughput could see the advantages first. Continue Reading
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News
31 Jan 2018
What is happening with AI in cybersecurity?
This week, bloggers focus on the growing role of AI in cybersecurity, achieving simple, stable networks and running EVPN in a single data center fabric. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Jan 2018
SD-WAN security remains customer and vendor focus
Most SD-WAN vendors offer common features when it comes to SD-WAN security, but some tout security differentiators embedded in their services. Continue Reading
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News
30 Jan 2018
Cisco Assurance services verify intent-based networking
Cisco has advanced its intent-based networking plans with a layer of analytics that verify compliance with policies. The new Cisco Assurance is tied to the company's SDN platform. Continue Reading
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News
30 Jan 2018
Cryptomining, ransomware are top malware in 2017
Check Point issues new top malware research that finds cryptomining, mobile attacks and ransomware growth in second half of 2017. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Jan 2018
Network configuration tools: A primer
Script management, intent-based systems and new strategies with network configuration tools are propelling a paradigm shift in the way that networks are managed. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Jan 2018
Software-defined branch networks: Why and how to do them
Software networking virtualization has reached branch networks. Learn the whys and hows of creating the software-defined branch using the latest software networking technologies. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Jan 2018
How your SD-WAN appliance can consolidate the branch stack
The latest SD-WAN appliance technology promises expanded and accelerated consolidation of branch stacks. Learn how it works and how to make it work for you. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Jan 2018
Fog computing architecture posing challenges for IT
Fog computing architecture designs are gaining traction, as users demand accessibility to apps and services. But the approach can cause challenges for IT. Continue Reading
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Answer
29 Jan 2018
How can cloud management apps organize data across clouds?
If you need to pull together different data sets, cloud management apps can track information workloads across multiple clouds and present the data in a simplified way. Continue Reading
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News
26 Jan 2018
Cisco HyperFlex system upgrade targets hybrid cloud
The Cisco HyperFlex system is now available with AppDynamics, CloudCenter and other software for managing hybrid cloud applications. The new all-in-one system scales to 64 nodes. Continue Reading
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News
26 Jan 2018
Big content providers influence undersea cable price drops
The undersea cable market has become increasingly competitive, as large content providers build new routes and wavelength prices drop, leaving telecom operators concerned. Continue Reading
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News
26 Jan 2018
Selecting network configuration software for automation
This week, bloggers look into choosing the right network configuration software for an automation project, endpoint security and the future of SD-WAN as a stand-alone service. Continue Reading
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News
26 Jan 2018
Open source networking projects unite under Linux Foundation
The Linux Foundation created an umbrella platform, the LF Networking Fund, to promote cross-project collaboration among open source networking projects under its wing. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Jan 2018
Application delivery controllers evolve to meet new demands
ADC devices have evolved to deliver a wide range of functionality, including web application firewall, denial-of-service protection, SSL offload and scalable performance. Continue Reading