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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Answer
21 Oct 2019
Traditional WAN vs. SD-WAN: How do they compare?
While comparing traditional WAN vs. SD-WAN, network professionals can see the many benefits of SD-WAN, including centralized control and dynamic traffic management. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Oct 2019
Transform network management with a network automation strategy
Enterprises can employ a network automation strategy to provide some stability for network management and monitoring. Automation, however, still requires some hard work. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Oct 2019
Network automation skills and training in demand, research finds
Surprisingly, scripting, programming and software development are not exactly the top network automation skills desired by enterprises, according to recent research. Continue Reading
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News
17 Oct 2019
Gluware network automation update addresses OS changes
Gluware adds to its network automation platform easier management of changes to device configurations and operating systems. Continue Reading
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Answer
17 Oct 2019
What are SFP ports on a Gigabit switch and what are they used for?
SFP ports enable Gigabit switches to connect to a wide variety of fiber and Ethernet cables in order to extend switching functionality throughout the network. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Oct 2019
3 potential multi-cloud challenges that could go unnoticed
Disaster recovery, vendor lock-in and cost are major factors as organizations evaluate multi-cloud strategies. However, these pros can become cons if teams aren't careful. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Oct 2019
After ransomware virus, Merck's medicine was network automation
After a ransomware attack, Merck decided the best remedy was to deploy network automation tools designed to transform how it handled network configuration changes. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Oct 2019
SD-WAN deployment in the works? Consider these 3 things
SD-WAN can simplify the deployment and management of new branch WANs, but there are some key configuration and technical choices you must make to get started. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Oct 2019
5 steps to follow in a network security audit checklist
Planning, execution, analysis, reporting and follow-up are the basic elements of a network security audit checklist. But coordination among IT teams is also important. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Oct 2019
Top 3 network security threats and how to protect against them
Enterprise networks are seemingly always under attack. Learn about the most common network security threats and what protections you should have in place. Continue Reading
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News
11 Oct 2019
Enterprises choosing SD-WAN routing over edge routers
Revenue from SD-WAN sales surged by 23% in the second quarter as enterprises opted to replace traditional edge routers with SD-WAN routing. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Oct 2019
Security, business agility kindle network automation adoption
IT teams are confused by the multiple automation strategies available, but they're still adopting automation with hopes it will benefit network security and agility. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Oct 2019
How to develop and implement a network security plan
When formulating a focused network security plan, you'll need to address specific questions about outbound traffic, user logins and government regulations. Continue Reading
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News
08 Oct 2019
Extreme hands StackStorm workflow automation to Linux group
Extreme Networks will let The Linux Foundation handle development of the StackStorm workflow automation platform. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Oct 2019
A glossary of key edge computing architecture terms
Bolster your networking vocabulary and get to know the various features and technologies that constitute edge computing in this comprehensive glossary of key terms and phrases. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Oct 2019
Data center transformation drives the ADC security use case
Application delivery controllers play many roles, but the ADC security use case might be most important. Learn about ADC features and how they boost data center security. Continue Reading
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News
04 Oct 2019
Vendors lining up behind SASE for cloud security
SD-WAN and network security vendors tailor their portfolios to deliver SASE, a cloud security architecture for the age of SaaS, public clouds and IoT. Continue Reading
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Answer
03 Oct 2019
How do I create proper documentation of network automation?
Despite network automation's advantages, organizations can face disadvantages if they have improper network documentation. These four components can help enable proper documentation. Continue Reading
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Guide
02 Oct 2019
5G explained: A deep dive into the features and facts
In this 5G guide, learn about key features, challenges and deployment tips. This 5G explanation goes beyond the fundamentals and explores 5G's relationship to other technologies. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Oct 2019
Automation improves firewall migration and network security
Firewall migration is a compelling automation use case, as automation scripts can shorten the migration process, eliminate unused rules and bolster overall network security. Continue Reading
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News
01 Oct 2019
AT&T design for open routing covers many uses
The new AT&T design for open carrier-grade routing covers systems ranging from single line card devices to large hardware clusters. The design taps Broadcom's Jericho2 chip. Continue Reading
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Answer
01 Oct 2019
How will BSS coloring boost Wi-Fi 6 performance?
BSS coloring is a feature that will help accelerate Wi-Fi 6 performance. Find out how the new mechanism will help access points transmit more efficiently. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Sep 2019
Educate users when troubleshooting a network connection
In this roundup of industry blogs, engineers discuss why it's helpful to teach users the basics of troubleshooting a network connection and why it's hard to simulate a network. Continue Reading
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News
26 Sep 2019
Aryaka hybrid WAN expected to broaden market appeal
The Aryaka hybrid WAN is expected to help the vendor sell more to customers that have found its global SD-WAN too expensive for connecting sites in one geographical location. Continue Reading
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Video
25 Sep 2019
The pros and cons of SD-WAN vs. MPLS
This video discusses the differences between SD-WAN and MPLS and explains why a hybrid WAN architecture -- that uses both technologies -- might be the best fit. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Sep 2019
5G, edge computing and IoT poised to retool networking
The combination of 5G and edge computing could introduce several changes for network operations. Find out why the network infrastructure -- along with fog computing -- is so important. Continue Reading
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News
25 Sep 2019
Containous releases Traefik 2.0 open source edge router
Traefik 2.0, a major update to the popular open source edge router, enables new use cases and improves visibility into cloud-native deployment stacks, including Kubernetes. Continue Reading
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News
25 Sep 2019
Stateless offers software-defined interconnect platform
The new platform, Luxon, provides software control that replaces customized hardware and offers more configuration possibilities with new switch technology. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Sep 2019
SD-WAN vs. VPN: How do they compare?
When it comes to comparing SD-WAN vs. VPN services, enterprises choosing between the technologies should consider factors like cost, cloud usage and application awareness. Continue Reading
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Quiz
19 Sep 2019
Cisco CCNA practice test: Try these 20 exam questions
Use this CCNA practice test as study material to prepare for the Cisco CCNA Routing and Switching 200-125 exam. With 20 questions on a range of topics, we're not playing around. Continue Reading
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Opinion
19 Sep 2019
The evolution of SDN and its role in networking
Has SDN run its course, or has the architecture simply evolved? In many current products, data centers and cloud environments, SDN may be closer than you think. Continue Reading
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News
18 Sep 2019
Wi-Fi Certified 6 launches new era for wireless connectivity
The Wi-Fi 6 wireless standard is now ready for deployment, thanks to the debut of a certification effort that helps guarantee interoperability. Continue Reading
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Quiz
18 Sep 2019
Try a CCNA 200-301 practice quiz from the official cert guide
This practice quiz provides a sneak peek into the new 'CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 1,' which reflects Cisco's CCNA certification and exam redesigns. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Sep 2019
Prepare for the CCNA 200-301 exam with this guide preview
Here's a sneak peek at what to expect from Cisco's redesigned CCNA exam directly from 'CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 1' by author Wendell Odom. Continue Reading
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News
17 Sep 2019
Arista CloudVision 2019 from Arista Networks advances visibility
Arista Networks upgraded its network monitoring and management platform with new features that help automate and improve change management as well as visibility. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Sep 2019
Cisco author says new CCNA exam undergoes largest change ever
Cisco said goodbye to most CCNA tracks, and hello to a consolidated exam. Here's what you need to know about the new CCNA, from the author of every official CCNA guidebook. Continue Reading
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News
17 Sep 2019
Cisco acquisitions in 2019 bolster service provider strategy
Cisco acquisitions in 2019 and 2018 include three that show the company preparing for when carriers will increase spending to ready networks for next-generation business services. Continue Reading
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Answer
13 Sep 2019
Bridge vs. switch comparison: What's the difference?
A network bridge connects two local area networks. A network switch, on the other hand, connects multiple clients to a network. Learn more about these two network components. Continue Reading
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News
12 Sep 2019
F5 Networks updates NGINX Application Platform, other tools
Updates include improved security and observability features, a new developer portal, API importing and improved analytics and configuration management. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Sep 2019
Legacy tools encumber modern network infrastructure monitoring
Many IT teams still use older monitoring tools that provide limited visibility across multiple network environments. AI and machine learning can help, but they'll take some time. Continue Reading
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News
11 Sep 2019
CenturyLink acquires Streamroot, adding P2P CDN capabilities
Peer-to-peer content delivery network technology from Streamroot will enable CenturyLink to reach underserved areas and offer more services to customers. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Sep 2019
5G frequency spectrum forces new look at coverage strategies
New 5G frequency allocations will help make it an amazing technology, but it will also force a rethinking of how those signals are transmitted. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Sep 2019
How network standards and open source organizations differ
Both open source and network standards organizations want to develop the next-generation network. Yet their methods differ, and they can benefit different types of organizations. Continue Reading
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Answer
11 Sep 2019
How does 802.11ax security benefit from WPA3?
Security methods like WPA3 and Opportunistic Wireless Encryption will give a boost to 802.11ax security, but securing the new wireless standard is still pretty complicated. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Sep 2019
Understanding why IPv6 renumbering problems occur
IPv6 renumbering can be a challenge, especially if a host using SLAAC obtains stale prefixes. But there are steps you can take to reduce your vulnerability. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Sep 2019
5G vs. LTE: Comparing speed, spectrum and latency
The debate between 5G and LTE largely comes down to speed and spectrum. But latency and wired network implications are also important differentiators. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Sep 2019
The benefits of Wi-Fi 6 and how to prepare for them
In order to glean the benefits of Wi-Fi 6, enterprises first need to determine the best steps for a migration strategy. Two key steps are implementing more power and faster uplinks. Continue Reading
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Feature
03 Sep 2019
Learn how to get started with your networking career
Wherever you are on your networking career path, these expert insights can help you decide where to go and give advice about job requirements, certifications and industry changes. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Sep 2019
How client VPN technologies will evolve with AI and automation
With help from artificial intelligence and automation, client VPN technologies could innovate the way they handle data flows within hybrid cloud environments. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Aug 2019
Ciena's Blue Planet automation suite wins TechTarget award
Ciena's Blue Planet software suite has won SearchNetworking's Network Innovation Award for enabling intelligent automation and network service orchestration across large, multivendor networks. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Aug 2019
Network pros on new Cisco DevNet certification: 'Finally!'
Want to learn infrastructure as code? Now, there's a Cisco cert for that. Learn more about the new network automation certification suite, plus changes to the CCNA, CCNP and CCIE. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Aug 2019
How SD-WAN security can boost your network security strategy
Many organizations say security is a top priority for their business, but most lack the necessary resources to thoroughly secure their networks and cloud services. SD-WAN could help. Continue Reading
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News
29 Aug 2019
Planned VMware analytics will improve NSX security, performance
The new NSX Intelligence unveiled at VMworld will act as a platform for running future VMware analytics to improve NSX security and performance, a company executive said. Continue Reading
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News
28 Aug 2019
New Qualcomm Wi-Fi 6 platforms bring speed to large networks
Wi-Fi 6-enabled Qualcomm Networking Pro Series platforms come in four configurations, but all are intended for use in dense, congested networks like offices and malls. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Aug 2019
Gartner report provides reality check on the 5G hype
The next generation of cellular technology, 5G, is nearing peak hype status, according to a Gartner report. But real, widespread adoption is still several years away. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Aug 2019
Software drives changes in network engineer skills, certifications
Learn what network analysts think about network engineer skills and certifications in the modern networking industry. Hint: Proprietary hardware is in the rearview mirror. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Aug 2019
Travel tech company revs up Wi-Fi performance with analytics
TravelTab needed to find a way to improve its Wi-Fi performance so it could better anticipate customer demands and bandwidth requirements. Analytics software from Aerohive helped. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Aug 2019
What is data center networking, and how can you get started?
This feature explores the basics of data center networks, such as how to plan for data center consolidation, the effects of cloud services and how to handle data center interconnects. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Aug 2019
Gartner Hype Cycle deems software-defined networking obsolete
A Gartner report on enterprise networking has declared the definition of SDN and its architectural approach as deceased. Cause of death? Well, the hype didn't help. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 Aug 2019
The top 5 capabilities your edge infrastructure should have
The network edge plays a vital role in the future of networking and digital transformation. Make sure your infrastructure has these five components to help it on its way. Continue Reading
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News
20 Aug 2019
VMware acquisition of Veriflow to bolster vRealize platform
The VMware acquisition of Veriflow is expected to help vRealize users determine the integrity of a network design before it goes into production. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Aug 2019
Top enterprise network challenges include agility, product hype
Product hype and network agility are some of the primary network challenges for modern enterprises, according to networking experts. Read up on their insights and advice. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Aug 2019
Cloud-native deployment isn't for every application
In this roundup of networking blogs, analysts evaluate cloud-native deployments, the increasing value of Wi-Fi and the emergence of Citizens Broadband Radio Service. Continue Reading
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News
19 Aug 2019
IT favors open source networking over Cisco ACI, VMware NSX
Companies are turning to open source network automation tools as less expensive, good-enough alternatives to Cisco ACI and VMware NSX. Continue Reading
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Quiz
19 Aug 2019
What are network firewalls? Test your network security IQ
Network firewalls have been an essential part of network security since the internet began. This quiz covers what network firewalls are and tests your security expertise. Continue Reading
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Answer
16 Aug 2019
What are the steps I should take for network transformation?
The path to digital transformation has three points that all organizations should reach to ensure their network is ready for digital transformation. Continue Reading
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Answer
16 Aug 2019
What is 5G massive MIMO and how can it boost bandwidth?
With a large array of small antennas and time division duplex communication, 5G massive MIMO is expected to support more bandwidth and users with lower latency. Continue Reading
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News
15 Aug 2019
Cisco faces sales slump amid Chinese tariffs, falling SP revenues
Cisco forecast weak revenue growth in the current quarter, as service provider sales fell and product orders were flat. The company also reported being shut out of China. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Aug 2019
Top AIOps use cases in network performance management tools
AIOps use cases in network performance management include automating certain network functions, including traffic analysis. But the data could be difficult to digest. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Aug 2019
Data center performance requirements spur 25 GbE upgrades
Enterprises are upgrading their data centers with 25 GbE to achieve better throughput and support I/O-intensive applications. Here are some best practices for making the switch. Continue Reading
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Answer
14 Aug 2019
What are the top 3 network analytics use cases?
Network analytics use cases illustrate some of the benefits that companies are receiving from network analysis tools. Gauging network performance is just one key area. Continue Reading
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Answer
14 Aug 2019
How does SD-WAN analytics monitor network performance?
With SD-WAN analytics, administrators can fine-tune their WAN connections and determine how well their network is performing. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Aug 2019
Achieve network perimeter security through deep segmentation
Firewall effectiveness is in deep decline, but there's still a way to create an effective security perimeter through the practice of deep segmentation. Learn how. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Aug 2019
The essential 5G glossary of key terms and phrases
To understand 5G, delve into various elements that encompass the new technology. This glossary of 5G keywords explains what 5G is and how its new features work. Continue Reading
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News
09 Aug 2019
Entuity is latest Park Place Technologies acquisition
The terms of the acquisition have not been disclosed, but Park Place Technologies hopes to make Entuity a key component of its multivendor service delivery model. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Aug 2019
What to expect with SD-WAN management, intent and usability
Users can expect advancements in SD-WAN intent, usability and management, as vendors seek to improve their developer ecosystems, integration and multi-tenancy capabilities. Continue Reading
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News
07 Aug 2019
Itential adds new network automation tool to portfolio
Automation Gateway is a new stand-alone application within the Itential Automation Platform architecture. It aims to integrate existing automation and transform scripts into APIs. Continue Reading
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Answer
07 Aug 2019
What effect will 400 GbE have on enterprise networks?
400 Gigabit Ethernet is the next hurdle for Ethernet capabilities to surpass. But enterprises may not be prepared for this technology yet, due to its immaturity. Continue Reading
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Quiz
05 Aug 2019
Test your networking knowledge: What is edge computing?
Edge computing technology isn't new, but it may differ from your expectations. This quiz covers essential edge computing basics, such as pros, cons and differentiators. Continue Reading
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News
01 Aug 2019
New Gurucul network traffic analysis tool debuts
Gurucul's new Network Behavior Analytics tool uses machine learning analytics to provide a full view of network activity to identify and monitor unusual activity from any entity. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Aug 2019
6 steps to a successful network disaster recovery plan
Don't wait until disaster strikes to consider network resiliency and recovery. Use these six practical steps to build a network disaster recovery plan that fits your business needs. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Jul 2019
Industry grapples with new Wi-Fi naming conventions
What's in a name? As the industry gets accustomed to the WFA's new Wi-Fi naming conventions, networking pros discuss pros and cons -- and when to use Wi-Fi 6 vs. 802.11ax. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Jul 2019
Pros and cons of buying used networking equipment on eBay
To buy or not to buy used networking equipment on eBay, that is the question. Here are the pros and cons, as well as best practices for making a gray market purchase. Continue Reading
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Answer
31 Jul 2019
What is the difference between TCP/IP model vs. OSI model?
Use this expert advice to learn the differences between the TCP/IP model vs. the OSI model, and explore how they relate to each other in network communications. Continue Reading
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News
30 Jul 2019
VMware acquisition of Uhana bolsters 5G offering to carriers
The VMware acquisition of Uhana adds AI-driven network automation to VMware's virtualization platform for carriers. VMware competes against IBM's Red Hat. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Jul 2019
Cloud exchange provider deploys Blue Planet orchestration
In this case study, a Denver-based colocation and cloud exchange provider explains how Ciena's Blue Planet orchestration technology has helped make over its cloud exchange. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Jul 2019
What is network automation, and what can it do for you?
This feature explores what network automation is and its influence on organizations. It also discusses assumptions about its effect on network engineers and similarities with SDN. Continue Reading
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Answer
30 Jul 2019
Which SD-WAN features truly comprise SD-WAN technology?
How do you protect your organization and network against SD-WAN washing? Here are four key SD-WAN features that your system must have in order to be called SD-WAN. Continue Reading
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Answer
29 Jul 2019
How can network security analytics detect and thwart threats?
Network security analytics gives organizations an additional level of protection against malicious attacks. It works closely with network analytics tools. Continue Reading
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News
26 Jul 2019
IDC: SD-WAN market spend to top $5B in 2023
The latest IDC SD-WAN market report shows the amount companies spend annually on infrastructure will more than triple from 2018 to 2023, when it will reach $5.25 billion. Continue Reading
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News
25 Jul 2019
Arrcus upgrades ArcOS to support Jericho2-based routers
Arrcus' latest version of ArcOS supports Broadcom's Jericho2 chipset for switches and routers aimed at 5G networks, hyperscale cloud and the edge. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Jul 2019
Network teams spend more time than ever on network security issues
The workloads of network teams have evolved from their original objectives because of network security threats. Yet teams are still expected to maintain their initial goals. Continue Reading
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News
23 Jul 2019
Verizon, Equinix cooperate on SDI to colo data centers
Verizon is offering a software-defined interconnection to Equinix colo data centers. The Verizon-Equinix service is an alternative to a physical network connection. Continue Reading
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News
23 Jul 2019
Niagara Networks and L7 Defense team up for API security
The L7 Defense application Ammune API Defense will run on Niagara Networks' Open Visibility Platform in an effort to bring security to API communications. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Jul 2019
SD-WAN market sees continued growth, room for mobile support
The SD-WAN market is growing, thanks to financial firms with distributed deployments. VMware and Cisco continue to lead the vendor pack, with Aryaka and Silver Peak close behind. Continue Reading
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Answer
23 Jul 2019
What steps should I take in the event of a network failure?
Don't panic when the network goes down. Instead, use this checklist to go through five factors that could cause network failure, and follow tips on how to plan for them in advance. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Jul 2019
An introduction to smart NICs and their benefits
This introduction discusses how smart NICs work and how they can benefit data center servers. It also explores the smart NIC market and available suppliers. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Jul 2019
Why did operator NFV adoption lag so much?
NFV adoption was hampered by high costs and deployment issues, according to one industry insider. Also, learn about the latest on network security and industry hype. Continue Reading
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News
18 Jul 2019
AT&T-Microsoft deal secures use of 5G wireless, Azure cloud
The latest AT&T-Microsoft partnership announcement lacked details for buyers of enterprise products and services but gave a big boost to Microsoft's Azure public cloud. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Jul 2019
Learn about the top telecom certifications
Use this expert advice to wade through myriad telecom certifications and pinpoint the top certifications for the industry, like TCO, iNARTE and BICSI certifications. Continue Reading