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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Feature
23 Apr 2024
Why GenAI infrastructure optimization starts with the network
GenAI deployment requires optimized infrastructure. The networking aspects, such as workload placement and the type of deployment model, could determine GenAI performance. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Apr 2024
Is network automation adoption necessary?
Automation is not a one-size-fits-all strategy for every network problem. Enterprises must examine their network's needs to determine if automation is a worthwhile investment. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Jun 2018
Network edge switch upgrades hinge on WLAN deployments
Network edge switch upgrades depend on a variety of factors, but one of the most critical is taking a look at your future WLAN deployment strategies. Continue Reading
- 01 Jun 2018
- 01 Jun 2018
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E-Zine
01 Jun 2018
DevOps in networking begins to gain ground
Software development has benefited from a DevOps framework, which brings together software engineers and operating teams to collaborate in a continuous integration/continuous delivery model that helps automate and deploy code faster. DevOps in networking, however, is still an emerging concept. Many networks are still managed and updated using heavily manual processes.
In this issue of Network Evolution, find out how network virtualization and automation are leading enterprises to consider whether they can manage their networks through DevOps methodologies. As more network elements become software-driven, organizations will see a shift to DevOps in networking.
In addition to an emerging DevOps approach, the software-driven network brings with it a slew of new technologies and approaches to understand. From software-defined networking and software-defined WAN to network functions virtualization and virtual network functions, network professionals have to wade through options aimed at changing everything about how networks are built and managed. Read on as we sort out the subtle differences among these technologies.
And as virtualization enhances network design, it also makes the network a more attractive target for hackers. We also look at what security tools and services enterprises are investing in to boost network security in the cloud.
Finally, read how the Broward Center for the Performing Arts is using cloud-based network monitoring to keep its theater in the spotlight.
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Opinion
01 Jun 2018
Software-based networks lay foundation of networking's future
Software-based networks are evolving, reshaping how companies do business and blending into legacy networking. Enterprises will have to sort out which approaches work best. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Jun 2018
Choosing the right software-driven network technology
The software-driven network can drive efficiency and flexibility, but network pros first need to identify the problems they're trying to fix to choose the right technology options. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Jun 2018
DevOps for networking evolves with software
Enterprises have yet to fully integrate a collaborative approach to DevOps for networking, but that's changing as networks become more automated and software-driven. Continue Reading
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News
01 Jun 2018
MEF targets multivendor interoperability for network services
Vendors participating in MEF's SD-WAN implementation project aim to develop better multivendor interoperability that can lend itself to improved automation. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 May 2018
A refresher course on white box networking equipment
This white box networking review sheds some light on the variations, as it's all too easy to confuse the intricacies of white boxes, universal CPEs and brite boxes. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 May 2018
ADC, the networking management tool, acquires new abilities
Networking pros should take a new look at what application delivery controllers now offer. ADCs now have some cutting-edge features making the networking workhorse exciting. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 May 2018
New, micro-ADC features can aid enterprise security
The ADC is no hot, new networking tool, but it's evolved dramatically, adding some features in its latest iterations that promise to increase its already important role. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 May 2018
Private CDN services fill specific needs for some businesses
In addition to shared CDN service options, private CDNs with dedicated edge servers are the obvious answer for businesses with specific content delivery needs. Continue Reading
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News
22 May 2018
Pica8 wooing campus with white box network switch software
Pica8 is rolling out new white box network switch software aimed at campus and branch-office deployments in a bid to build a new market. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 May 2018
Helping enterprises adapt to open source switching
Enterprise adoption of open source switching hasn't kept pace with cloud providers and telcos. What are some of the barriers blocking the use of disaggregation? Continue Reading
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News
11 May 2018
Nutanix combines SDN, microsegmentation in Nutanix Flow
With the availability of Nutanix Flow, the HCI vendor merges SDN and microsegmentation to incorporate networking capabilities in its hyper-converged infrastructure stack. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 May 2018
CDN providers comparison: Highlighting vendors' focus
Get to know the top content delivery networks with the help of this CDN providers comparison infographic, breaking down vendors' network capacity, services offered and more. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 May 2018
Network infrastructure design for network-as-a-service
When it comes to network as a service, network infrastructure design depends on if you want services delivered across the LAN, WAN or data center. Find out what you need to know. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 May 2018
Growing CDN services market changes to meet cloud needs
Enterprises looking for greater network performance and scalability turn to traditional CDN services providers for nontraditional help to improve security and offer access to APIs. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 May 2018
Protecting the DNS protocol: How DNSSEC can help
Securing the DNS protocol is no joke. Learn what the DNS Security Extensions are and the efforts the United States government is taking to push DNSSEC adoption. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 May 2018
Ways to solve DNS security issues in your organization
Get up to speed fast on means and methods for reducing or eliminating security-related issues in DNS, an integral service upon which the internet depends. Continue Reading
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News
04 May 2018
Verizon SDN used to manage legacy Cisco, Juniper routers
Verizon has built a software-defined networking controller for its legacy routers. The Verizon SDN technology is being used on Cisco and Juniper hardware delivering Ethernet services. Continue Reading
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News
03 May 2018
Enterprises move from SD-WAN testing to deployment, IHS says
Enterprises are undergoing SD-WAN testing to gauge how the technology can offer better WAN control, IHS Markit says. Also, OPNFV releases Fraser to support cloud-native applications. Continue Reading
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Answer
02 May 2018
How do I choose between open source and commercial SDN?
Commercial SDN offers vendor-backed support, while open source platforms can be upgraded more quickly. Whether an enterprise chooses one over the other depends on its preferences. Continue Reading
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Buyer's Guide
01 May 2018
Navigating the network ADC buying process
Learn how to assess your organization's needs for an ADC device and to evaluate the different application delivery controllers in the market to find the right fit. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 May 2018
Software-driven network access ups enterprise agility
Network access to service provider systems is becoming software-based. Learn more about how software-defined access works and the flexibility inherent in software. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 May 2018
The role of SDN in 5G technology and the WAN: Can it scale?
Network operators have a narrow window to figure out if SDN in 5G technology can scale well enough to move it beyond the data center and into the WAN. Continue Reading
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Quiz
26 Apr 2018
Test yourself on open networking, open source and SDN
The open networking concept follows the likes of SDN and open source, but the lines separating them all are often blurred. This quiz can help you understand the differences. Continue Reading
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News
25 Apr 2018
2018 ONUG conference to tackle IT disruption, building blocks
With the spring 2018 ONUG conference coming up on May 8 to 9, Nick Lippis, ONUG co-founder, discusses how IT teams are facing disruption from technologies like the cloud and SD-WAN. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Apr 2018
Top application delivery controllers offer range of options
The leading vendors in the application delivery controller market offer a broad range of physical and virtual appliances, with varying throughput levels and diverse function sets. Which product is right for you? Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Apr 2018
New CDN services give providers an edge in WAN marketplace
With enterprises moving workloads to public cloud, the CDN services market could see growth in security and performance services, as providers exploit their network-edge locations. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Apr 2018
Network-as-a-service market blossoms as demands grow
The network-as-a-service market is attracting more attention, as enterprises look for ways to outsource some of their infrastructure needs to providers. Continue Reading
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News
12 Apr 2018
IDC: Steady growth for IT infrastructure products spending
IDC maps growth in IT infrastructure products spending, cPacket beefs up monitoring for 40 Gbps and 100 Gbps networks, and Dell agrees to resell Metaswitch's composables package. Continue Reading
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News
11 Apr 2018
Edge computing, cloud data centers drive decentralized IT
This week, bloggers explore the growth of decentralized IT, thanks to edge computing; Infoblox DNS security updates; and how machine learning is becoming a feature, rather than a product. Continue Reading
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News
10 Apr 2018
KDDI Europe picks Silver Peak SD-WAN for managed service
KDDI Europe makes its move in managed SD-WAN, supported by Silver Peak SD-WAN; Lumina Networks updates its Flow Manager product to support service providers transitioning to SDN. Continue Reading
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Answer
10 Apr 2018
Despite WLAN speed growth, do we really need mGig?
Networking vendors introduced mGig to support 802.11ac Wave 2 devices within enterprise networks. But do you really need to upgrade to accommodate the new WLAN speed? Continue Reading
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News
04 Apr 2018
IDC names four SDN providers to watch
An IDC report named Apstra, Big Switch Networks, Plexxi and Pluribus Networks as SDN providers to watch; Martello aims to validate Elfiq-based SD-WAN; and Aryaka extends to China. Continue Reading
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Feature
03 Apr 2018
Networking elements of a digital transformation framework
Establishing a digital transformation framework includes adopting advanced technologies. Networking pros play a crucial role in managing this new wave of innovation. Continue Reading
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Feature
03 Apr 2018
Wireless networking technology helps craft IT modernization
A long-term care business looks to wireless network technology and Active Directory to kick off its IT modernization plan and business growth. Continue Reading
- 03 Apr 2018
- 03 Apr 2018
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Tip
02 Apr 2018
Improvements and features of the new POE standard, IEEE 802.3bt
The new IEEE 802.3bt standard focuses on Power over Ethernet to improve efficiency and support the proliferation of edge devices, from lighting systems to point-of-sale. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Mar 2018
Examine CORD architecture's benefits and challenges
CORD architecture offers service providers a compelling way to combine open hardware and software in the central office, boost service delivery and enable NFV capabilities. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Mar 2018
The on-premises vs. cloud-managed WLAN architecture debate
Although on-premises WLANs and cloud WLANs both offer significant advantages, determining which approach will provide the best return depends on several factors. Continue Reading
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News
29 Mar 2018
Survey: SD-WAN challenges include immaturity and complexity
Complexity and maturity concerns rank among top SD-WAN challenges, according to a survey from Cato Networks. Also, Juniper's OpenContrail is rebranded to Tungsten Fabric. Continue Reading
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News
27 Mar 2018
Cloud-based Aruba NetInsight focuses on Wi-Fi performance
Aruba's latest cloud-based analytics compares user Wi-Fi performance to let companies see why theirs is underperforming. Aruba NetInsight pricing starts at $50 per managed device. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Mar 2018
Casemore: Cloud, as-a-service honing networking industry trends
Cloud and as-a-service delivery are bringing new urgency to networking. IDC analyst Brad Casemore cites the key networking industry trends worth watching in 2018. Continue Reading
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News
22 Mar 2018
Open Compute Project hardware sales surpass $1B, sellers eye more markets
A study found Open Compute Project hardware sales topped $1 billion last year. The OCP-commissioned study also reports sellers are eyeing new markets for their open source products. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Mar 2018
5G service lifecycle automation may be key to business cases
Network operators need a 5G service lifecycle automation roadmap that leads to revenue-producing business cases to make the evolution to 5G worth the investment. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Mar 2018
Digital transformation process includes the network
The digital transformation process puts pressure on the network to support new technology. Network pros need to be transformative, too, adapting new skills to interact with business. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Mar 2018
The future of SDN in 2018 moves toward increased automation
Future SDN trends could show variations of the technology becoming more prominent among enterprises, as organizations look increasingly toward programmability and automation. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Mar 2018
A comparison of leading application delivery controllers
You can simplify the process of buying an ADC device by examining how leading vendors address key considerations, including platform options, security and server load balancing. Continue Reading
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News
14 Mar 2018
ONF puts focus on white box switches with Stratum project
The Open Networking Foundation formed Stratum, an open source networking project intended to create more interoperability among white box switches and network operating systems. Continue Reading
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Answer
07 Mar 2018
Can cable be reused when upgrading 802.11ac wireless LAN?
Is it better to repurpose legacy cabling when planning an 802.11ac wireless LAN upgrade, or does it make sense to buy new? Like many things networking, it depends. Continue Reading
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Opinion
07 Mar 2018
SDN marketplace sows confusion on network infrastructure upgrades
The ever-evolving SDN marketplace continues to confuse IT departments as they determine what steps they should take with their network infrastructure upgrades. Continue Reading
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Opinion
02 Mar 2018
Millimeter wave spectrum has key role in 802.11ay wireless
IEEE 802.11ay Wi-Fi is getting closer to final ratification. The new standard relies on millimeter wave spectrum to deliver stronger and more robust services. Continue Reading
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News
28 Feb 2018
5G architecture plus NFV, SDN offers performance gains
The intersection of 5G architecture and virtualization technologies like NFV and SDN could result in better network performance, but it will take time to get there. Continue Reading
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News
27 Feb 2018
Narrowband IoT ups device support in Cisco Jasper Control Center
Cisco has made Narrowband IoT generally available in the Jasper Control Center. The technology standard significantly increases the number of devices supported in an IoT deployment. Continue Reading
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News
26 Feb 2018
Operators invest billions, hope in 5G wireless technology
A new 5G wireless technology report breaks its development into three phases, and network operators hope their investments lead to revenue down the line. Continue Reading
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News
23 Feb 2018
Ruckus SmartZone to get IoT module
Ruckus plans to release a suite of technology for companies that want to support IoT devices on the WLAN. The suite includes an IoT module for the Ruckus SmartZone controller. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Feb 2018
Considerations for buying an application delivery controller
Before you buy an ADC device, learn which features you should look for and what questions you should ask prospective application delivery controller vendors. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Feb 2018
DNS functions remain vital, but must adapt as demands shift
The domain name system's tasks are simple, but essential, and the service faces challenges with the proliferation of devices that operate within IPv6 networks. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Feb 2018
How IPv6 networks create DNS configuration problems
DNS data is among the most basic and crucial information required for network connectivity, but configuring DNS recursive servers in IPv6-only networks can pose challenges. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Feb 2018
OK of 400 Gigabit Ethernet adds horsepower to data centers
Final approval of the 400 Gigabit Ethernet standard will provide data centers and cloud providers with the extra capacity they need to meet ever-rising data demands. Continue Reading
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News
20 Feb 2018
Verizon kicks off managed SD-WLAN service with Mist
Verizon is using technology from Mist to anchor a managed SD-WLAN service in an effort to extend its service footprint to customers' WLANs. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Feb 2018
Three-step network strategy sells big changes as more doable
A three-pronged network strategy takes an evolutionary approach to selling revolutionary technology changes internally, with a bigger chance of success. Continue Reading
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Opinion
15 Feb 2018
Wide area Ethernet can fuel digital network transformation
Wide area Ethernet might be just what the doctor ordered to help enterprises propel their digital network transformation efforts. Continue Reading
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News
13 Feb 2018
Enterprises won't reap benefits of 5G until 2020s
The first commercial 5G deployments are scheduled for later this year. One report's 5G timeline predicts many enterprises won't reap the benefits of 5G until the mid-2020s. Continue Reading
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News
12 Feb 2018
Wireless vendors count on 5G equipment sales for rescue
Wireless 5G equipment sales could take off in the next two years, possibly saving wireless vendors. AT&T increases the use of bots in its business, and Verizon expands owned fiber. Continue Reading
- 01 Feb 2018
- 01 Feb 2018
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E-Zine
01 Feb 2018
Interest in 5G wireless networks ramps up
The ability for businesses to use 5G wireless networks is closer to becoming a reality as carriers continue to deploy 5G trials across cities in the U.S. and globally. While the technology that promises faster broadband speeds and enhanced data capacity is still in precommercial stages, 5G wireless networks are expected to transform how business is conducted around the world.
In this issue of Network Evolution, find out how enterprises are exploring of the possibilities of 5G wireless networks and how they can prepare for them.
Beyond 5G wireless networks, this issue looks at software-defined networking, and network managers share their reasons for choosing smaller SDN vendors instead of major providers like Cisco or VMware. A variety of software-based networking options are attracting enterprises that want to start their SDN evolution.
In addition, the ongoing availability of new business collaboration tools and features offers end users multiple options to choose from, which can lead to overlapping features. Enterprises are faced with similar applications for things like email, messaging, video or conferencing, and IT managers have begun exploring options to consolidate these tools into a single platform. Here we look at best practices to develop a plan to help deploy unified communications (UC) tools and improve collaboration across the enterprise.
Finally, in this month's Subnet, see how Durham County, N.C., is using network automation to create an efficient, seamless network experience for IT managers and users.
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Feature
01 Feb 2018
Small SDN providers' cost, flexibility appeal to enterprises
VMware's NSX and Cisco's ACI are the main SDN providers on the stage, but smaller vendors can offer enterprises flexibility and cost savings. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Feb 2018
New 5G wireless technology trials spark enterprise interest
New 5G wireless technology promises super-fast network speeds and massive capacity. Businesses that require low latency and high throughput could see the advantages first. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Jan 2018
Fog computing architecture posing challenges for IT
Fog computing architecture designs are gaining traction, as users demand accessibility to apps and services. But the approach can cause challenges for IT. Continue Reading
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News
26 Jan 2018
Big content providers influence undersea cable price drops
The undersea cable market has become increasingly competitive, as large content providers build new routes and wavelength prices drop, leaving telecom operators concerned. Continue Reading
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News
26 Jan 2018
Open source networking projects unite under Linux Foundation
The Linux Foundation created an umbrella platform, the LF Networking Fund, to promote cross-project collaboration among open source networking projects under its wing. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Jan 2018
Application delivery controllers evolve to meet new demands
ADC devices have evolved to deliver a wide range of functionality, including web application firewall, denial-of-service protection, SSL offload and scalable performance. Continue Reading
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News
23 Jan 2018
5G networks advance in U.S. with expanded trials
Operators' 5G networks move forward with expanded trials; wireless WPA3 standard will help secure public Wi-Fi; and Verizon acquires threat detection startup that uses machine learning. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Jan 2018
5G wireless technology influences telecommunication's future
The capabilities of 5G wireless technology and event-driven networking hold the promise for telecommunication's future, but solving the remaining challenges will determine the outcome. Continue Reading
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News
17 Jan 2018
ExtremeLocation latest addition to Extreme wireless portfolio
Extreme Networks is targeting retailers with a new set of services, called ExtremeLocation. The latest technology adds location-based customer-tracking services to the Extreme wireless portfolio. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Jan 2018
NFV disaggregates firewall appliance to increase scalability
A traditional firewall appliance can incorporate many services, but NFV can virtualize firewalls to offer individual services that scale for application requirements. Continue Reading
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News
12 Jan 2018
Cisco, Hyundai to add software-defined platform to vehicles
Cisco and Hyundai will release jointly developed software-defined vehicles in 2019. These connected cars will boast a Cisco-built software-defined platform and 1 Gbps Ethernet. Continue Reading
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News
11 Jan 2018
Campus network architecture strategies to blossom in 2018
This week, bloggers focus on the growing relevancy of campus network architecture planning, BGP route selection and the next generation of cloud-vendor partnerships. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Jan 2018
Four telecom infrastructure trends driving network of the future
Four telecom infrastructure trends -- SDN, NFV, IoT and 5G -- are driving the network of the future, but telecom networks are more likely to transform in 2020, not 2018. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Dec 2017
Automated networks mean clearing some key hurdles first
Obstacles facing IT adoption of automation in the network including training and trust. Now's the time to clear these hurdles and reap the benefits of an automated future. Continue Reading
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Opinion
01 Dec 2017
The future of networking technology is playing out right now
To prepare for the future of networking technology, IT managers must understand evolving concepts like hyper-convergence, SD-WAN and intent-based networking. Continue Reading
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News
31 Oct 2017
ONUG conference: SD-WAN and automation continue to grow
The 2017 ONUG conference focused on new uses for SD-WAN, the development of standards and offered a sneak peek into emerging technologies, like containerization and automation. Continue Reading
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News
30 Oct 2017
Ethernet switch market trends show 40 GbE losing share
The global Ethernet switch market grows, according to IHS Markit, while ThousandEyes focuses on device health and network visibility. Riverbed and Teneo team up on new service. Continue Reading
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News
27 Oct 2017
Getting to know serverless computing architecture
Bloggers explore the dynamics of serverless computing architecture, efficacy and efficiency with endpoint security and use cases for bidirectional forwarding detection Continue Reading
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News
24 Oct 2017
To buy or build IT infrastructure focus of ONUG 2017 panel
During ONUG's fall conference, panelists debated whether to buy or build IT infrastructure. Company IT execs say the final decision depends on a company's culture and talent. Continue Reading
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News
20 Oct 2017
Why open network systems are so difficult to find
Bloggers explore open network systems, look into the development of unified security operations and analytics, and recommend how to tweak an Ansible playbook. Continue Reading
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News
06 Oct 2017
ETSI industry group publishes six NFV specifications
The ETSI Industry Specification Group for NFV is living up to its name with the publishing of six new NFV specifications. Also, NSS Labs puts SD-WAN products to the test. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Oct 2017
NBASE-T Ethernet
NBASE-T Ethernet is an IEEE standard and Ethernet-signaling technology that allows existing twisted-pair copper cabling to exceed the cable's specified limit of 1 Gbps for distances of up to 100 meters. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Oct 2017
Carrier cloud could create bigger roles in future for SDN and NFV
Increasing carrier cloud deployment could be the key that drives SDN and NFV technologies forward in the future of virtual networking -- not the other way around. Continue Reading
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News
29 Sep 2017
Cloud-based infrastructure meets networking at ONUG fall conference
Cloud-based infrastructure is reshaping the networking industry -- an issue ONUG has seen within its user community and will address at its upcoming fall conference in New York City. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Sep 2017
Comparison of popular technical SD-WAN service models
Two main SD-WAN service model options exist for users to choose from, but more could be on the way due to regulatory and industry development efforts. Find out what works for you in this comparison. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Sep 2017
The story of SDN: Control planes, OpenFlow protocol and disaggregation
When discussing SDN, control planes and programmability are often lumped into the conversation -- along with a dose of OpenFlow protocol and disaggregation. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Aug 2017
Open source network tools compete with shrinking vendor equipment
Vendor equipment consolidation could limit network operator service automation efforts, but new open source network tools offer options and prevent lock-in. Continue Reading
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News
04 Aug 2017
Does Mojo have the mojo to change WLAN architecture?
Bloggers explore Mojo Networks' efforts to disrupt the delivery of WLAN architecture, DevTest in clouds and new directions in network management. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Aug 2017
New options for managed network service providers benefit enterprises
SDN, NFV and SD-WAN are creating a new set of software-based offerings that managed network service providers can roll out to enterprises faster and at lower cost. Continue Reading