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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Tip
22 Mar 2021
SD-WAN comparison chart: 15 vendor products to assess
This SD-WAN vendor comparison chart is a useful starting point to get information about deployment options, pricing, cloud connectivity, security and more. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Mar 2021
What to expect at Cisco Live 2021: Future of work, networks
At Cisco Live 2021, attendees will hear about the future of work and what that means for the future of networks and network technologies, like SASE, 5G and cloud networks. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Mar 2021
Cisco's future banks on security, service providers, 5G
A big part of Cisco's future strategy will be enhancing its global presence and service provider customer base. For networking, it still pursues software and subscription models. Continue Reading
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News
16 Mar 2021
Nokia to cut up to 10,000 jobs over two years
The job cuts stem from a major restructuring that formed four business groups, including two focused on emerging technologies like cloud-delivered network infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Mar 2021
The complete Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) guide
SASE helps organizations manage and secure external traffic. But is it the best choice for your environment? Find out how to buy, deploy and manage SASE in this adoption guide. Continue Reading
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News
16 Mar 2021
Nokia partners with largest cloud providers on 5G RAN
Nokia's RAN-related partnership with AWS, Microsoft and Google solidifies its strategy of delivering cloud-based 5G infrastructure to service providers and major enterprises. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Mar 2021
8 ways to make network modernization work
The pandemic has forced enterprises to rethink their operations. Now, it's time for IT leaders to put their network modernization projects in motion. Continue Reading
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News
10 Mar 2021
News briefs: Koch Industries picks Alkira, Palo Alto
Koch industries combines Alkira networking and Palo Alto security for remote office connectivity; Cisco promotes three women on International Women's Day; AT&T, Fortinet partner. Continue Reading
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Quiz
10 Mar 2021
Test your knowledge of socket programming in Python
In this quiz, review the fundamentals of socket programming in Python, including port scanning, TCP and UDP, and how to enable different methods from the socket module. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Mar 2021
Explore this ultimate socket programming guide for beginners
In this socket programming guide preview, learn how sockets work, the role of socket programming in enterprise networks and the ins and outs of socket programming in Python. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Mar 2021
How to get started with socket programming for beginners
To understand socket programming for beginners, basic network and security concepts are critical -- and having Python skills won't hurt, either. Learn more in this expert Q&A. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
08 Mar 2021
Will enterprises adopt SONiC OS and disrupt proprietary WAN?
As a cloud-native modular architecture focused on network disaggregation, the SONiC OS can offer several benefits for enterprises, especially at the network edge. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
08 Mar 2021
Enterprise edge is telecom operators' new frontier
Network operators have an opportunity to sell new bundles of dynamic enterprise edge services that include SASE, SD-WAN and virtual security if they size it and price it well. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Mar 2021
NOC performance metrics for optimal operation
NOC best practices include using standardized network designs and automation. But don't forget to identify performance metrics that help track and measure operational success. Continue Reading
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News
03 Mar 2021
Cisco completes $4.5 billion Acacia deal
Cisco said it will sell and support Acacia's optical networking products separately. Cisco will also continue selling the technology with its switches and routers. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Feb 2021
5 steps to conduct network penetration testing
Enterprises that want to ensure competent network security strategies should look at how they can implement penetration testing, considering red teams and physical pen tests. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Feb 2021
5 benefits of Wi-Fi 6 for enterprise networks
In a perfect world, Wi-Fi 6 could introduce several benefits to business networks. But real-world conditions could curb the wireless technology's true potential. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Feb 2021
Get started with network penetration testing for beginners
Authentication, patching and configuration are among the most common vulnerabilities found through network penetration testing. Learn more in this free chapter excerpt. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Feb 2021
Advice on how to learn network penetration testing skills
As beginners learn network penetration testing skills, they should remember these expert tips: Pay attention to what the client wants, and stick to offense, not defense. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Feb 2021
Open RAN architecture gives operators options, challenges
Open RAN architecture could give telecom operators more flexibility as they deliver enterprise-grade 5G services. But making the RAN a virtual function takes careful planning. Continue Reading
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News
24 Feb 2021
Juniper adds Mist AIOps to its 128 Technology-based SD-WAN
Juniper has brought Mist's cloud-based analytics to the 128 Technology SD-WAN that the company acquired late last year. Juniper also launched Mist integration with the SRX gateway. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Feb 2021
3 SASE case studies exploring real-world deployments
Three case studies demonstrate how SASE technology helps organizations securely connect geographically distributed workforces. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Feb 2021
Future of NOC transformation unifies IT teams
NOC transformation could lead to unified IT operations with cross-domain teams, but not all enterprises need radical change when smaller upgrades and modernization do the job. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Feb 2021
How to build a private 5G business case
As you build a private 5G business case, be sure to include private 5G's benefits and challenges, as well as how to prove its ROI. Here's everything you need to know. Continue Reading
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News
19 Feb 2021
News briefs: Cisco investigates embezzlement scheme in China
Cisco has started an investigation of employees in China who allegedly made payments to workers at state-owned enterprises. Cisco disclosed the probe in an SEC filing. Continue Reading
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News
17 Feb 2021
Palo Alto to buy Checkov creator, Bridgecrew
Palo Alto said it will acquire Bridgecrew, the developer of the static code analysis tool Checkov. DevOps teams use the open source tool to build cloud applications. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Feb 2021
7 steps for a network and IT security foundation
Enterprises should make it a habit to review their IT security systems, following steps that include network segmentation, multifactor authentication and security education. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Feb 2021
SASE vs. SD-WAN comparison: How are they related?
SASE and SD-WAN both connect geographically separate endpoints to each other and an organization's network resources, but the methods in which they do so differ in various ways. Continue Reading
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Answer
12 Feb 2021
DevNet vs. CCNA: What's the difference?
While CCNA certification concentrates on foundational network engineering knowledge, DevNet certification focuses on modern networking concepts, like automation and software. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Feb 2021
SASE market emerges and grows as the 'wave of the future'
Secure Access Service Edge is the latest technology to garner industry buzz in networking and security. Although it's still relatively new, the technology is making waves. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Feb 2021
A work-from-home reimbursement policy for network tech
A work-from-home reimbursement plan should drive better network and internet connectivity rates for remote workers and not just offset employees' existing bills. Continue Reading
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News
10 Feb 2021
Cisco expects revenue to grow as people return to offices
Cisco forecasts revenue growth between 3.5% and 5.5% this quarter, driven by increased sales of wireless networking products and video conferencing hardware and software. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Feb 2021
How to secure remote access for WFH employees in 4 steps
The global pandemic caused mayhem on network security environments. Enterprises need to bring rigor back to their systems and tighten security for remote workers. Continue Reading
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News
05 Feb 2021
News briefs: Dell, partners to deliver OneBox MEC
OneBox MEC is a 5G-enabled mobile edge computing platform. The hardware will contain turnkey technology for deploying a private 5G network and application services. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Feb 2021
Top tips to provide IT support for remote workers
To support employees working from home, network teams should carefully monitor VPN traffic, review firewall rules and rely on remote access support software. Continue Reading
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News
04 Feb 2021
Arista launches zero-trust security with a Forescout option
Arista's zero-trust security framework segments devices into groups and sets policies for network access. Forescout integration is available for dynamic device identification. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Feb 2021
An overview of 3GPP 5G releases and what each one means
3GPP has standardized features and specifications for all cellular technology generations since 3G. Learn about 3GPP's 5G timeline and notable features each 5G release introduces. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Feb 2021
Weighing the advantages of private 5G vs. carrier 5G
Considering private 5G vs. carrier 5G for your interior networking? No single option fits all, but here are some factors you should consider. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Feb 2021
SASE hype includes SD-WAN, but does it need to?
Much of the hype around Secure Access Service Edge features the importance of SD-WAN with SASE, but do the two need each other to thrive? Research says probably not. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Feb 2021
Long-term remote work empowers SD-WAN for home offices
Organizations have long relied on VPNs to connect remote workers with company resources. But SD-WAN could also be a viable option for certain employees working from home. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Feb 2021
How to monitor home network traffic for added security
When addressing home network monitoring, track all connected devices, and take advantage of open source tools, like packet capture, to sniff out malicious traffic. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Feb 2021
The tradeoffs and cost of network redundancy
Network redundancy costs vary depending on enterprise use cases, but the determining tradeoff usually depends on how long a company can sustain network downtime. Continue Reading
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News
29 Jan 2021
Cisco adds lower-end routers to Catalyst 8000 line
The 8200 and 8500L are for branch and aggregation use cases, respectively. The 8200 is for companies requiring an entry-level device for running a Cisco SD-WAN in the branch. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Jan 2021
Cloud networking complexity includes visibility and security
Enterprises are deploying more workloads in cloud environments. But the visibility, security and management required for those extensions of IT infrastructure can get complicated. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Jan 2021
How the SolarWinds vulnerability affects networking
The SolarWinds attack resulted in a bevy of network vulnerabilities, like masked traffic and backdoor access. Network teams should take the time to review their security strategies. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Jan 2021
How to understand networking and the internet for beginners
For beginners, learning how networking and the internet truly work can feel overwhelming. One expert encourages patience, practice and assurance that networking isn't unknowable. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Jan 2021
How to learn networking fundamentals, from a software pro
Networking basics include protocols, network layers and processes that must happen for computers to communicate across a network. Here's how to start learning these basics. Continue Reading
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News
28 Jan 2021
Network startup DriveNets reaches unicorn status
DriveNets' latest round of funding drove its valuation to $1 billion. The company's plans include developing network services that service providers run as microservices. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Jan 2021
IT groups abandon DIY SD-WAN; prefer managed, hybrid model
Enterprises don't want DIY SD-WAN. Instead, they prefer managed SD-WAN, but they also don't want to outsource all SD-WAN operations to a service provider. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Jan 2021
SolarWinds: Lessons learned for network management, monitoring
In this roundup of networking blogs, experts reveal the critical lessons learned from the SolarWinds hack in regard to network management and monitoring capabilities. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Jan 2021
10 network security tips in response to the SolarWinds hack
From perimeter protection to persistent patching, enterprises should regularly review, update and test their network security plans, especially in response to the SolarWinds hack. Continue Reading
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Answer
20 Jan 2021
VLAN vs. subnet: What's the difference?
While VLANs are a type of subnet, they have their own unique capabilities and characteristics that differentiate them from subnets. However, the OSI model plays a major role in both. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Jan 2021
Considerations for SASE management and troubleshooting
SASE opens new territory for network and security management and troubleshooting. Ultimately, teams should look for system usability and visibility into traffic flows and policies. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Jan 2021
SASE challenges include network security roles, product choice
Secure Access Service Edge blends network and security functions. While this integration has its benefits, enterprises still need to address some SASE challenges. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Jan 2021
VPN vs. VLAN: What's the difference?
VPNs and VLANs are different technologies with some similarities. VPNs connect authorized users to corporate network resources, while VLANs connect geographically separate devices. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Jan 2021
Myths and realities of a Wi-Fi 6 upgrade
Despite the promise of high data rates, longer client battery life and more efficient radio techniques, enterprises need to weigh Wi-Fi 6's limitations. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Jan 2021
How to calculate SASE return on investment and costs
SASE return on investment will vary for each organization, depending on use cases and architecture requirements. But the metrics used to determine ROI and cost factors are the same. Continue Reading
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Answer
12 Jan 2021
Broadband vs. Wi-Fi: What's the difference?
Broadband and Wi-Fi are common technical terms often used interchangeably -- although they shouldn't be. Both provide connectivity, but they do so in different ways. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Jan 2021
Top 5 SASE use cases balance network connectivity, security
Secure Access Service Edge can enhance network performance and security controls for remote sites. Discover some of the other top SASE use cases and deployment options. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Jan 2021
Setting up and using a home VLAN to segment network traffic
Virtual LANs can help homeowners segment their network traffic for enhanced control and security. Network analyst John Fruehe takes you inside his home VLANs. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Dec 2020
5 networking startups helping enterprises adapt and prepare
Even in a global pandemic, these five networking startups continue to impress. Learn how their innovative technologies can help enterprises prepare for unforeseen challenges. Continue Reading
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News
29 Dec 2020
Private 5G networks to gain momentum in 2021
Enterprises using industrial IoT devices are among the early adopters of private 5G networks, which could become an $8 billion market by 2027. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Dec 2020
Ensure network resilience with redundancy and skills
Ensuring network resilience doesn't just mean building redundancy in network infrastructure. It should also include planning contingencies for people and skills. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Dec 2020
Gluware automation tech shines in brownfield networks
Gluware's intelligent network automation technology helps enterprises outgrow manual configurations, even in technically complex, multivendor brownfield environments. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Dec 2020
What experts say to expect from 5G in 2021
In this roundup of networking blogs, experts explore 5G's potential in 2021, including new business and technical territories 5G may explore and features to transform enterprises. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 Dec 2020
Top network attacks of 2020 that will influence the decade
You've heard of phishing, ransomware and viruses. Now, keep them in mind because one cybersecurity expert says these threats and more may cause IT headaches for the next decade. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 Dec 2020
Advice for an effective network security strategy
Security audits, evaluations of tools and looking realistically at trending technologies are some ways an organization can ensure its network security is the best it can be. Continue Reading
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Quiz
21 Dec 2020
Test your network threats and attacks expertise in this quiz
Network security is an ever-changing subject, but many of its common threats have plagued IT pros for years -- and will likely continue to do so. See what you know in this quiz. Continue Reading
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Answer
21 Dec 2020
What are the differences between Wi-Fi and WiMax?
Wi-Fi is the wireless standard used to build wireless LANs, while carriers primarily used WiMax to build wireless metropolitan area networks before moving to LTE. Continue Reading
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News
17 Dec 2020
Cloud recasts global data center switch market
Cloud providers and enterprise cloud makers have dramatically changed the global switch market, dampening traditional networking gear's importance in the modern data center. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Dec 2020
How SASE convergence affects network and security roles
Most enterprises have siloed departments, but SASE's convergence of network and security functions could disrupt those constructs and drive more communication between teams. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Dec 2020
Software-defined home offerings drive remote productivity
Say hello to software-defined home, a 'branch of one' package that combines professional-grade Wi-Fi, security, SD-WAN and centralized management for remote workers. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Dec 2020
How to calculate a subnet mask from hosts and subnets
IP addressing and subnetting are important and basic elements of networks. In this article, learn how to calculate a subnet mask based on the required number of subnets and hosts. Continue Reading
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News
09 Dec 2020
Aruba launches orchestration software for CX fabric
The Aruba Fabric Composer is best suited for a CX switching fabric within a small and midsize data center. The company also introduced the 8360 series of CX hardware. Continue Reading
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Answer
09 Dec 2020
Managed vs. unmanaged switches: What are the differences?
Managed and unmanaged network switches differ in various ways, including control and cost. Managed switches support more granular control, yet unmanaged switches have lower prices. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Dec 2020
Network performance issues are IT pain point amid COVID-19
Network performance is a top issue among IT teams and remote workers amid the pandemic and can correlate with other technical issues, such as cybersecurity and hardware problems. Continue Reading
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News
08 Dec 2020
Juniper snags Apstra in latest acquisition
The Apstra acquisition could help Juniper sell networking hardware and software to heterogeneous data centers and large-scale public clouds. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Dec 2020
With SASE, security and networking tech come together
SD-WAN, SASE or some combination of the two -- which approach will deliver the best and most secure network connectivity in your organization going forward? Continue Reading
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Answer
01 Dec 2020
What's the role of narrowband IoT in 5G networks?
The union of narrowband IoT and 5G technology can benefit manufacturers, organizations with large office buildings and outdoor campus settings. Here's what you need to know. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Nov 2020
New Celona 5G platform nets TechTarget innovation award
Celona 5G technology uses Citizens Broadband Radio Service spectrum to bring private mobile networking to the enterprise, enabling mission-critical automation and IoT. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Nov 2020
Network pros share Cisco DevNet certification advice
Cisco DevNet certifications require a lot of time investment, but network pros who pursue the certifications say the gained skills and knowledge are worth it. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Nov 2020
Cloud automation use cases for managing and troubleshooting
Cloud automation use cases highlight the benefits these tools can provide to companies evaluating how best to manage and troubleshoot their cloud connections. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Nov 2020
A look inside the official Cisco DEVASC 200-901 guidebook
In this book excerpt, readers can explore the Cisco DEVASC 200-901 official guide and get a flavor of one of Cisco's newest exams and its blend of networking and software topics. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Nov 2020
Is Cisco DevNet worth it? Experts say yes, it's the future
Any IT professional who's heard the hype for Cisco's newest certification track may wonder, 'Is Cisco DevNet worth it?' Some experts say it's the future. Find out more in this Q&A. Continue Reading
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Quiz
20 Nov 2020
7 practice questions for Cisco 200-901 DevNet Associate exam
Ready for Cisco's introductory DevNet exam, DEVASC 200-901? Start your Cisco DevNet Associate training with this practice quiz directly from the official exam guidebook. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Nov 2020
Implementing an SDP architecture for added network security
A key component of a software-defined perimeter requires client authentication before connection, while also making a network's internals invisible to outsiders. Continue Reading
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News
18 Nov 2020
VMware adds access control features to Tanzu
VMware has added attribute-based access control to the Tanzu Service Mesh. VMware is also adding a load balancer for Tanzu-managed containers. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Nov 2020
What network managers need to know about SaaS optimization
When strategizing SaaS optimization tactics, network management teams should consider their traffic steering preferences and geographically dispersed access points. Continue Reading
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Answer
16 Nov 2020
What is the difference between IP telephony and VoIP?
While many IT professionals use VoIP and IP telephony synonymously, some argue for keeping a couple of subtle distinctions between the two terms in mind. Continue Reading
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News
13 Nov 2020
Cisco sees an end to string of quarterly revenue declines
Cisco is cautiously optimistic that revenues will improve following a 9% drop last quarter. Rising enterprise orders contributed to a positive forecast for the current quarter. Continue Reading
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Answer
11 Nov 2020
How do VPN vs. cloud services compare for remote work?
As remote work becomes increasingly normal, IT teams must decide which remote access technologies will benefit employees more. VPN and cloud services are two top choices. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Nov 2020
How service mesh enables microservices networking
As microservices applications grow more popular, IT teams need to enable reliable networking between them for proper communication. That's where service mesh comes in. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Nov 2020
Network engineer vs. software engineer: What’s the difference?
Network and software engineering are two different fields, and the roles of network engineers vs. software engineers vary, despite potential overlaps in software skills. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Nov 2020
How to use ChatOps to automate network tasks
Integrating team collaboration chat systems with network automation results in the ability to automate tedious workflows, enabling faster problem resolution and streamlined operations. Continue Reading
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News
05 Nov 2020
Dell readies server with Sonic SmartNIC for branch offices
Companies could install and manage the business application server remotely. The product would be small enough to mount on a wall and use open source Sonic for networking. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Nov 2020
Why networks should apply security by design principles
Security by design incorporates security and risk management directly into network architecture, using segmentation and Agile infrastructure design. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Nov 2020
How and why to implement Wi-Fi QoS
Quality of service, as network pros know, prioritizes apps as they cross the network. But Wi-Fi QoS needs to be considered, too, in relation to the overall network. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Oct 2020
SmartNIC market capitalizes on advances in programmability
Traditional NICs are getting an upgrade, thanks to smartNICs and function accelerator cards that add programmability. But this doesn't really change things for enterprises -- yet. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Oct 2020
Growth of enterprise Wi-Fi at home spotlights digital divide
Remote enterprise workers need a reliable internet connection. Learn how the digital divide can touch workers and how companies can help bridge this gap. Continue Reading
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News
30 Oct 2020
Cisco dashboard simplifies access to multiple NetOps tools
Cisco's Nexus Dashboard will offer a single location for several NetOps tools designed for networks serving cloud-centric applications. The software is set for release this year. Continue Reading