Network Design

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Engineer uses Cisco DNA Center to combat network challenges

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New 5G wireless technology trials spark enterprise interest

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Small SDN providers' cost, flexibility appeal to enterprises

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The sky's the limit with 5G wireless communication

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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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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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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