Network infrastructure
Network hardware and physical appliances, such as routers, switches, gateways, hubs and bridges, serve as the vital foundation of network infrastructure. Common network protocols and more emergent network software also play major roles in any architecture. While networking has shifted to software-centric principles, see how traditional network infrastructure keeps pace.
Top Stories
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Opinion
19 May 2025
How AIOps enables next-generation networking
As networks grow more complex, management becomes more difficult. AIOps can help network administrators transition to and manage next-generation networks. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 May 2025
BGP routing: A configuration and troubleshooting tutorial
BGP is the internet's core routing protocol, enabling communication between ISPs and large networks. This guide covers its functionality, configuration and troubleshooting essentials. Continue Reading
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Conference Coverage
15 May 2025
Cisco Live 2025 conference coverage and analysis
Cisco Live 2025 will largely focus on the need to modernize infrastructure with AI capabilities. Use this guide to follow along with conference news and analysis. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 May 2025
What is shielded twisted pair (STP) and how does it work?
Shielded twisted pair (STP) is a kind of cable made up of smaller wires where each small pair of wires is twisted together and has an outer coating to electrically shield it. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 May 2025
What is a capacitor (capacitance)?
A capacitor is a passive electronic component that stores electrical charge. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 May 2025
What is 1000BASE-T (Gigabit Ethernet)?
1000BASE-T is a Gigabit Ethernet standard that operates at a speed of 1 gigabit per second (Gbps) over copper wiring. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 May 2025
What is DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol)?
DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) is a network management protocol used to dynamically assign an Internet Protocol (IP) address to any device on a network so it can communicate. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 May 2025
What is Routing Information Protocol (RIP)?
Routing Information Protocol (RIP) is a distance vector protocol that uses hop count as its primary metric. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Apr 2025
What is data center interconnect (DCI)?
Data center interconnect (DCI) technology links two or more data centers so they can share resources. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Apr 2025
What is MIMO (multiple input, multiple output)?
MIMO (multiple input, multiple output) is an antenna technology for wireless communications in which multiple antennas are used at both the source (transmitter) and the destination (receiver). Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Apr 2025
What is network traffic?
Network traffic is the amount of data that moves across a network during any given time. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Apr 2025
What is network availability?
Network availability is how long a network system is in uptime over a specific time interval. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Apr 2025
What is NFV MANO (network functions virtualization management and orchestration)?
NFV MANO (network functions virtualization management and orchestration), or just MANO, is an architectural framework used to manage and orchestrate virtual network functions (VNFs) and other software components. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Apr 2025
What is traffic shaping (packet shaping)?
Traffic shaping, also known as packet shaping, is a congestion management method that regulates network data transfer by delaying the flow of less important or less desired packets. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Apr 2025
What is dynamic and static?
In general, dynamic means 'energetic or forceful,' while static means 'stationary.' Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Apr 2025
The pros and cons of quantum networking
Quantum networking promises secure, high-speed communication -- someday. There are huge practical challenges, including fragility, cost and integration with traditional networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Apr 2025
What is open networking?
Open networking describes a network that uses open standards and commodity hardware. Continue Reading
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Answer
03 Apr 2025
Application vs. network load balancing: What's the difference?
Network load balancing and application load balancing both handle traffic requests. However, they process and direct requests with different levels of speed and efficiency. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Apr 2025
How to set up a VLAN for enterprise networks
Network administrators configure VLANs to enhance network security and performance. Learn how to set up a VLAN, from configuration steps and best practices to troubleshooting tips. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Apr 2025
What is Border Gateway Protocol (BGP)?
BGP (Border Gateway Protocol) is the protocol that enables the internet's global routing system. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Apr 2025
What is multiplexing and how does it work?
Multiplexing, or 'muxing,' is a way of sending multiple signals or streams of information over a communications link at the same time in the form of a single, complex signal. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Mar 2025
What is a programmable network (network programmability)?
A programmable network is one in which software that operates independently of network hardware handles the behavior of network devices and flow control. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Mar 2025
What is the data link layer in the OSI model?
The data link layer is the protocol layer in a program that handles how data moves in and out of a physical link in a network. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Mar 2025
What is port address translation (PAT)?
Port address translation (PAT) is a type of network address translation (NAT) that maps a network's private internal IPv4 addresses to a single public Internet Protocol address by using network ports. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Mar 2025
What is IT operations (IT ops)?
The term IT operations (IT ops) describes the many processes and services an IT department manages and maintains within an organization. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Mar 2025
What is software-defined networking (SDN)?
Software-defined networking (SDN) is a networking approach in which software is used to easily configure and centrally manage IT networks. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Mar 2025
Wi-Fi 6 vs. Wi-Fi 6E vs. Wi-Fi 7: What are the differences?
Wi-Fi standards continue to evolve. The three most recent standards -- Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 -- build on each other's capabilities, but all have their own unique features. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Mar 2025
What is network topology?
A network topology is the physical and logical arrangement of nodes and connections in a network. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Mar 2025
What is the Server Message Block (SMB) protocol? How does it work?
The Server Message Block (SMB) protocol is a client-server communication protocol used for sharing access to files, printers, serial ports and other resources on a network. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Mar 2025
What is User Datagram Protocol (UDP)?
User Datagram Protocol (UDP) is a communications protocol primarily used to establish low-latency and loss-tolerating connections between applications on the internet. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Mar 2025
What are managed network services?
Managed network services are networking applications, functions and services that a managed service provider (MSP) remotely operates, monitors and maintains for an enterprise. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Mar 2025
What is a network interface card (NIC)?
A network interface card (NIC) is a hardware component, typically a circuit board or chip, installed on a computer so it can connect to a network. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Mar 2025
The 4 different types of wireless networks
The four types of wireless networks -- wireless LAN, wireless MAN, wireless PAN and wireless WAN -- differ in size, range and connectivity requirements. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Mar 2025
What is a network node?
A network node is a connection point in a communications network. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Mar 2025
What is a proxy server? Definition and use cases
A proxy server is an intermediary between a user and the internet. It's a dedicated computer or software-driven service that acts as an intermediary or gateway between an endpoint or client device, such as a computer, and a server on the internet. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Mar 2025
What is Telnet?
Telnet is a network protocol used to remotely access a computer for a text-based communication channel between two machines. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Mar 2025
What are port numbers and how do they work?
A port number is a way to identify a specific process to which an internet or other network message is to be forwarded when it arrives at a server. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Mar 2025
802.11 standards: How do 802.11ac, 802.11ax, 802.11be differ?
Wi-Fi standards -- 802.11ac, 802.11ax and 802.11be -- differ based on frequency bands, spatial streams and maximum data rates, with 802.11be offering the most significant improvements. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Mar 2025
What is a router?
A router is a physical or virtual appliance that passes information between two or more packet-switched computer networks. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Mar 2025
Types of DNS servers and how they work, plus security threats
DNS security is a critical component of system administration. Learn about five types of DNS servers, what each does and the security threats each server faces. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Mar 2025
How to troubleshoot common routing errors
It's important to troubleshoot routing errors to minimize network disruptions. Common errors rooted in BGP and OSPF include misconfigurations and various unmet neighbor requirements. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Mar 2025
What is east-west traffic?
East-west traffic refers to the transfer of data packets that move from server to server within a network's data center. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Mar 2025
What is IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol)?
IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol) is a standard retrieval protocol for receiving email. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Feb 2025
15 common network protocols and their functions explained
Networking makes the internet work, but it needs several key protocols. These common network protocols make communication and connection across the internet possible. Continue Reading
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News
26 Feb 2025
Cisco, Nvidia expand AI infrastructure partnership
The broader Nvidia-Cisco partnership includes Cisco building systems that combine its OS with Nvidia's Ethernet technologies for optimized AI performance. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Feb 2025
What is modulation?
Modulation is the process of converting data into radio waves by adding information to an electronic or optical carrier signal. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Feb 2025
Use network standardization to facilitate automation
Network teams can automate and standardize network designs to improve configurations, simplify operations and more easily implement changes within their networks. Continue Reading
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Answer
24 Feb 2025
Cloudflare vs. Amazon CloudFront: Which CDN is right for you?
Compare the key features of Cloudflare vs. Amazon CloudFront to determine which of these two popular CDN services best meets your organization's content delivery needs. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Feb 2025
What is a network packet?
A network packet is a basic unit of data that is transferred over a computer network, typically a packet-switched network, such as the internet. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Feb 2025
What is hexadecimal numbering?
Hexadecimal is a numbering system that uses a base-16 representation for numeric values. It can be used to represent large numbers with fewer digits. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
20 Feb 2025
Zero-trust strategies leave networks open to lateral threats
Zero trust assumes a network is already compromised. However, new EMA research shows enterprises are more concerned with securing remote access than internal lateral threats. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Feb 2025
What is a cloud-native network function (CNF)?
A cloud-native network function (CNF) is a service that performs network duties in software, as opposed to purpose-built hardware. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Feb 2025
What is Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP)?
Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) is an application-layer protocol for monitoring and managing network devices on a local area network or wide area network. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Feb 2025
What is a wireless mesh network (mesh WiFi)?
A wireless mesh network (WMN) is a mesh network created through the connection of wireless access point (wireless AP) nodes installed at each network user's location. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Feb 2025
What is a protocol data unit (PDU)?
A protocol data unit (PDU) is the basic unit of exchange between entities that communicate with a specified networking protocol. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Feb 2025
What is the Nessus vulnerability scanning platform?
Nessus is a platform developed by Tenable that scans for security vulnerabilities in devices, applications, operating systems, cloud services and other network resources. Continue Reading
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News
13 Feb 2025
Cisco rides the AI boon
Cisco reported a 9% revenue increase, driven by AI demand. The company plans to launch new AI infrastructure products, focusing on enterprise data center trends. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
12 Feb 2025
How network engineers can prepare for the future with AI
The rapid rise of AI has left some professionals feeling unprepared. GenAI is beneficial to networks, but engineers must have the proper tools to adapt to this new change. Continue Reading
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News
11 Feb 2025
Cisco launches Smart Switches with AMD DPUs for security
Cisco introduces the Smart Switch series, as enterprises refresh networks in preparation for running AI models and applications. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Feb 2025
What is throughput?
Throughput is a measure of how many units of information a system can process in a given amount of time. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Feb 2025
What's the difference between internet and Ethernet?
Internet and Ethernet both enable connectivity and communication, but they differ in scope, purpose, reliability and medium. Use this guide to learn about the concepts. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Feb 2025
What is network configuration management (NCM)?
Network configuration management (NCM) is the process of organizing and maintaining information about all the components in a computer network. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Feb 2025
What is a thin client (lean client)?
A thin client (lean client) is a virtual desktop computing model that runs on the resources stored on a central server instead of a computer's resources. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Feb 2025
What is HTTP and how does it work? Hypertext Transfer Protocol
HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) is the set of rules for transferring files -- such as text, images, sound, video and other multimedia files -- over the web. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Jan 2025
What is network monitoring?
Network monitoring, also frequently called network management, is the practice of consistently overseeing a computer network for any failures or deficiencies to ensure continued network performance. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Jan 2025
How to troubleshoot DHCP issues
DHCP server troubleshooting steps vary depending on the DHCP error. Some of the most common errors include DHCP server failure, lack of available IP addresses and network failures. Continue Reading
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News
30 Jan 2025
HPE-Juniper deal hits DOJ roadblock
The Department of Justice sues to block the $14 billion deal. HPE and Juniper call its analysis 'substantially disconnected from market realities.' Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Jan 2025
What is network automation?
Network automation is a process that uses intelligent software to automate the management, configuration, deployment, testing and operation of both physical and virtual devices. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Jan 2025
What is the Universal Service Fund (USF)?
The Universal Service Fund (USF) is a United States government program that supports telecommunications access and affordability in rural and low-income communities. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Jan 2025
The role of container networking in DevOps
Containerization isn't just for DevOps teams. Network engineers often set up container networks, ensure connectivity between containers and work with container networking tools. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Dec 2024
How to use network automation to ease cloud integration
Cloud network automation can ease the integration of networking and cloud resources. Set clear objectives and standardize tools to make the process smoother. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Dec 2024
What is PSTN (public switched telephone network)?
PSTN (public switched telephone network) is the world's collection of interconnected voice-oriented public telephone networks via traditional circuit-switched networks. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Dec 2024
Compare 7 network automation tools and their capabilities
Network automation tools automate repetitive tasks, provision devices and manage configurations. Evaluate seven tools to discover the benefits each option provides for efficiency. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Dec 2024
Network design principles for effective architectures
It's important for network architects to consider several factors for an effective network design. Top principles include flexibility and scalability, redundancy and security. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Dec 2024
The business case for AI-driven network orchestration
Organizations that are considering AI-driven network orchestration will find it has many business cases -- chief among them are reduced Opex and efficient resource use. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Dec 2024
The purpose of route poisoning in networking
Route poisoning is an effective way of stopping routers from sending data packets across bad links and stop routing loops. This limits delays and creates a more stable network. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Dec 2024
How to determine when to use reserved IP addresses
Network admins choose IP address configuration based on management requirements. Each address type has a specific role, but reserved IP addresses are best in certain situations. Continue Reading
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News
03 Dec 2024
Arista simplifies switching to its campus network
Arista says companies can switch to its campus network while holding on to legacy stacked switches. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Nov 2024
What is a configuration file?
A configuration file, often shortened to config file, defines the parameters, options, settings and preferences applied to operating systems (OSes), infrastructure devices and applications in an IT context. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Nov 2024
AI skills for network professionals
Networking professionals must develop basic networking skills and AI to thrive in a complex landscape. Learn how AI's integration into network management will change the field. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Nov 2024
How AI in the NOC will transform network operations
AI can improve network operations through automation and troubleshooting. Experts at ONUG emphasized phased adoption and methods that enhance NOC monitoring and support. Continue Reading
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News
29 Oct 2024
Cisco launches integrated AI infrastructure 'Pods'
In addition to Pods, Cisco launched its first UCS server dedicated to running AI workloads on GPUs. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Oct 2024
Why does DNS use TCP Port 53 and UDP Port 53?
DNS uses both TCP and UDP ports to maintain consistent and reliable network performance. TCP provides zone transfers, while UDP handles name resolution queries and responses. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Oct 2024
What is remote desktop protocol (RDP)?
Remote desktop protocol (RDP) is a secure network communications protocol developed by Microsoft. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Oct 2024
What is a MAC address and how do I find it?
A MAC address (media access control address) is a 12-digit hexadecimal number assigned to each device connected to the network. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Oct 2024
What is cloud networking?
Cloud networking is a type of IT infrastructure in which the cloud hosts some or all of an organization's networking resources. Continue Reading
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Answer
15 Oct 2024
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, while unmanaged switches are easier to set up. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Oct 2024
Starlink
Starlink is a satellite internet constellation system that aims to deliver global internet coverage. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Oct 2024
What is IPv6 (Internet Protocol version 6)?
Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) is a set of specifications from the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) that is responsible for identifying network devices and routing traffic across the internet. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Sep 2024
The role of network sandboxing and testing
Network sandboxing provides network teams with a risk-free environment to test changes and run potential threat scenarios. This helps prevent outages and other unexpected issues. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Sep 2024
How to tackle network automation challenges and risks
Automation makes networks more efficient, but engineers must first mitigate the risks. With planning and training, enterprises can take advantage of automation's capabilities. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Sep 2024
What is TCP/IP?
TCP/IP stands for Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol and is a suite of communication protocols used to interconnect network devices on the internet. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Sep 2024
What is ICMP (Internet Control Message Protocol)?
ICMP (Internet Control Message Protocol) is a network layer error-reporting protocol that's used to communicate data transmission problems. Continue Reading
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Answer
25 Sep 2024
Network automation vs. orchestration: What's the difference?
Automation and orchestration take different approaches to achieve network efficiency. However, network engineers can use them together to create an efficient, centralized network. Continue Reading
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Answer
24 Sep 2024
Recursive vs. iterative DNS queries: What's the difference?
Name resolution translates human-readable hostnames to IP addresses for device configuration. DNS uses recursive or iterative methods to translate names into IP addresses. Continue Reading
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Answer
11 Sep 2024
HTTP vs. HTTPS: What's the difference?
HTTP and HTTPS are web communication protocols. HTTP lacks security, while HTTPS encrypts data to adhere to the security standards of confidentiality, integrity and authenticity. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Sep 2024
How to implement CI/CD in network automation
CI/CD processes help deploy code changes to networks. Integrating a CI/CD pipeline into automation makes networks more reliable, reducing configuration errors and downtime. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Sep 2024
What is asynchronous?
In general, asynchronous -- from Greek asyn- ('not with/together') and chronos ('time') -- describes objects or events not coordinated in time. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Sep 2024
What is a personal area network (PAN)?
A personal area network (PAN) is a small network that interconnects technology devices within a limited range of just a few meters. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Sep 2024
What is a unique identifier (UID)?
A unique identifier (UID) is a numeric or alphanumeric string that is associated with a single entity within a given system. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Aug 2024
How to subnet in cloud network environments
Cloud and on-premises subnets use IP ranges, subnet masks or prefixes, and security policies. But cloud subnets are simpler to set up, while on-prem configuration is still manual. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Aug 2024
Wi-Fi upgrades on the horizon as enterprises eye Wi-Fi 7
Enterprises have been slow to adopt Wi-Fi 7, as they find previous generations suit their needs. However, experts predict enterprises will upgrade to Wi-Fi 7 in the next 12 to 18 months. Continue Reading