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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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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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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Answer
29 Jul 2024
An introduction to SFP ports on a Gigabit switch
SFP ports enable Gigabit switches to connect to a variety of fiber and Ethernet cables and extend switching functionality throughout the network. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Jul 2024
The benefits and drawbacks of network as a service
NaaS, with its varied definitions and attributes, is hard to define. In a new EMA survey, enterprises laid out their expectations for NaaS, including its benefits and drawbacks. Continue Reading
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Answer
23 Jul 2024
MAC address vs. IP address: What's the difference?
A MAC address and an IP address each identify network devices, but they do the jobs at different levels. Explore the differences between the two and learn why both are necessary. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Jul 2024
What is wavelength?
Wavelength is the distance between identical points, or adjacent crests, in the adjacent cycles of a waveform signal propagated in space or along a wire. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Jul 2024
Broadband equity initiatives bridge digital divide in K-12
Federally funded broadband programs support infrastructure upgrades to underserved communities, which address the digital divide in K-12 education. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Jul 2024
WebSocket
WebSocket is a communications protocol that enables two endpoints -- typically a client and a server -- to establish a persistent, bidirectional, full duplex TCP connection between them. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jul 2024
7 steps to set up a home network
This guide teaches networking newbies how to set up a home network, from understanding hardware components to managing network performance and security. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Jul 2024
Cloud networking sustainability strategies yield benefits
As enterprises seek ways to reduce their environmental footprints, one popular way is to migrate on-premises networking infrastructure to third-party CSPs. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Jul 2024
Compare 5 single-vendor SASE providers
SASE has broad enterprise appeal because it combines security and connectivity. With so many vendor options available, enterprises might need help narrowing the search. Continue Reading
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Opinion
01 Jul 2024
HPE Discover 2024: Aruba Networking moves to center stage
HPE has made enterprise networking a critical part of its portfolio, with updates around AI, Aruba's networking tools, and the upcoming acquisition of Juniper. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Jun 2024
Common types of networking devices explained
This introduction explores eight network devices that are commonly used within enterprise network infrastructures, including access points, routers and switches. Continue Reading
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Answer
26 Jun 2024
Wireshark vs. tcpdump: What's the difference?
Wireshark and tcpdump both aid network administrators in packet analysis. Wireshark's simple GUI contrasts with tcpdump's speed and scripting abilities, which enhances management. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Jun 2024
A work-from-home reimbursement policy for network tech
Organizations should create comprehensive work-from-home reimbursement plans that drive better network and internet connectivity rates rather than offset employee's existing bills. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Jun 2024
Strategies for simplifying network complexity
Experts at the Cisco Live 2024 conference discussed the future of AI in networks and how its use can help simplify network and data center operations. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Jun 2024
subnet (subnetwork)
A subnet, or subnetwork, is a segmented piece of a larger network. More specifically, subnets are a logical partition of an IP network broken into multiple, smaller network segments. Continue Reading
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News
20 Jun 2024
Arista, Cisco, HPE answer AI infrastructure demand
Arista, Cisco and HPE are racing to seize a share of the promising GenAI infrastructure market. Cisco and HPE have computing, networking and software; Arista focuses on networking. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Jun 2024
CIDR (Classless Inter-Domain Routing or supernetting)
CIDR (Classless Inter-Domain Routing or supernetting) is a method of assigning IP addresses that improves the efficiency of address distribution and replaces the previous system based on Class A, Class B and Class C networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Jun 2024
secure access service edge (SASE)
Secure access service edge (SASE), pronounced sassy, is a cloud architecture model that bundles together network and cloud-native security technologies and delivers them as a single cloud service. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Jun 2024
Transmission Control Protocol (TCP)
Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) is a standard protocol on the internet that ensures the reliable transmission of data between devices on a network. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Jun 2024
Mass General Brigham tackles network upgrade, AI pilots
As Mass General Brigham updated its network and invested in other upgrades, the hospital ecosystem also developed a measured approach to AI implementation. Continue Reading
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Conference Coverage
12 Jun 2024
Cisco Live 2024 conference coverage and analysis
Cisco Live 2024 will focus largely on AI and its potential to transform enterprise networking and IT. Use this guide to follow along with conference news and analysis. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jun 2024
ARP vs. RARP: What's the difference?
Network devices use ARP to map IP addresses to MAC addresses. RARP, which is less common, accomplishes the reverse and enables network devices to map MAC addresses to IP addresses. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jun 2024
Edge computing opportunities for telecom providers
Compatibility issues and the initial limited release of 5G have hindered edge computing adoption. But widescale 5G rollouts, advances in AI and new use cases could drive deployment. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Jun 2024
Link Layer Discovery Protocol (LLDP)
The Link Layer Discovery Protocol (LLDP) is an open and extendable part of the Internet Protocol Suite, commonly known as TCP/IP, used in the IEEE 802.1AB standard to advertise a device's identity and abilities to other connected devices within the same network. Continue Reading
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News
07 Jun 2024
Cisco makes Splunk the center of observability
Cisco is integrating Splunk, AppDynamics and ThousandEyes to create a critical differentiator in the observability market. Networking integration will come later. Continue Reading
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Opinion
06 Jun 2024
First thoughts from Cisco Live: Generative AI, Splunk and more
During its annual conference, Cisco shined up ThousandEyes, added Splunk integrations and shared details regarding its generative AI strategy. Continue Reading
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Feature
03 Jun 2024
Subnet use cases and considerations for network performance
Network administrators create subnets to split networks and optimize performance. Other reasons for subnetting include traffic management, cloud optimization and security. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Jun 2024
NBASE-T Ethernet
NBASE-T Ethernet is an IEEE standard and Ethernet-signaling technology that enables existing twisted-pair copper cabling to exceed the cable's specified limit of 1 gigabit per second (Gbps) for distances of up to 100 meters. Continue Reading
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Answer
13 May 2024
SD-WAN vs. load balancing: How are they different?
Load balancing is beneficial for network traffic distribution. SD-WAN can use load balancing for WAN connections, but it doesn't require load balancing to reap other benefits. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 May 2024
How to use IPv6 in enterprise networks
The transition to IPv6 is a learning curve. Here's what to understand about IPv6, including benefits, troubleshooting techniques and best practices for secure integration. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 May 2024
net neutrality
Net neutrality is the concept of an open, equal internet for everyone, regardless of content consumed or the device, application or platform used. Continue Reading
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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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Definition
23 Apr 2024
networking (computer)
Networking, also known as computer networking, is the practice of transporting and exchanging data between nodes over a shared medium in an information system. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Apr 2024
host virtual machine (host VM)
A host virtual machine is the server component of a virtual machine the underlying hardware that provides computing resources to support a particular guest VM. 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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Definition
16 Apr 2024
subnet mask
A subnet mask is a 32-bit binary number used in modern network addressing schemes to differentiate between a network's location and the specific location of a host or device on that network. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Apr 2024
local area network (LAN)
A local area network (LAN) is a group of computers and peripheral devices that are connected together within a distinct geographic area, such as an office building or campus. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Apr 2024
Building networks for AI workloads
Conventional and high-performance computing networks cannot adequately support AI workloads, so network engineers must build specialized networks to accommodate their massive size. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Apr 2024
Using Power over Ethernet for UC: Pros and cons
Harnessing Power over Ethernet in unified communications deployments can pay dividends. But the technology isn't suitable for every environment. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Mar 2024
How to handle environmental regulations and green networking
Green networking is achievable if network managers ensure devices and supporting systems are energy-efficient and comply with established environmental regulations. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
14 Mar 2024
How to use the LFTP client to download files
The open source LFTP client supports multiple file transport types, such as FTP and HTTPS, enabling administrators to use a single interface to upload and download files. Continue Reading
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News
12 Mar 2024
Arista adds network change analysis to CloudVision
Arista's CloudVision Universal Network Observability analyses network changes to assess their impact on applications and workloads, including those on virtualization platforms. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Mar 2024
How to secure on-prem apps with Entra Application Proxy
There's nothing wrong with using a VPN to securely connect to on-premises web apps, but Microsoft Entra Application Proxy is an alternative with a more streamlined approach. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Mar 2024
How to ensure optimal network workload placement
Network and cybersecurity requirements are the most important considerations when designing how to deploy new network workloads across the enterprise. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Mar 2024
VPNs persist amid the rise of ZTNA, other VPN alternatives
VPN use continues despite its outdated status in the networking industry. But usage has declined as enterprises make room for remote access alternatives, like ZTNA, SASE and more. Continue Reading
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News
15 Feb 2024
Declining revenues lead to 4,000 job cuts at Cisco
A 12% drop in networking revenue contributed to the company's overall revenue decline and its decision to cut 5% of its workforce. Continue Reading
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News
07 Feb 2024
Latest Cisco products show measured approach to AI
Cisco has launched a SaaS product for applying policy controls to AI model-bound data and an Nvidia partnership to bolster Cisco UCS servers for AI at the edge and data centers. Continue Reading
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News
31 Jan 2024
Astera Labs uses CXL to accelerate AI, expand memory
Astera Labs is using the CXL interface in its now longer Smart Cable Module to spread out energy consumption while enabling GPU clusters to meet growing AI demands. Continue Reading
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News
29 Jan 2024
Juniper adds data center networks to Mist AI
Juniper's Mist AI update will include using the Marvis virtual network assistant to obtain information on data center cabling, configurations and connectivity issues. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Jan 2024
NFVi (network functions virtualization infrastructure)
NFVi (network functions virtualization infrastructure) encompasses all of the networking hardware and software needed to support and connect virtual network functions in carrier networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Jan 2024
millimeter wave (mmWave)
Millimeter wave (mmWave), also known as millimeter band, is a range of electromagnetic frequencies between microwaves and infrared. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Jan 2024
network slicing
Network slicing is a technique that creates multiple virtual networks on top of a shared physical network to provide greater flexibility in the use and allocation of network resources. Continue Reading
- Definition 23 Jan 2024
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Opinion
19 Jan 2024
What HPE-Juniper tells us about the future of infrastructure
HPE's planned $14 billion acquisition of Juniper Networks stands to add to its power in the market, and can have long-term implications for the entire infrastructure industry. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
19 Jan 2024
How to use TFTP to transfer files across the network
Trivial File Transfer Protocol is one of the oldest and simplest TCP/IP file exchange protocols. Here are use cases and best practices for installation and security. Continue Reading
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Quiz
16 Jan 2024
8 practice network hardware questions for CCST exam
Prepare for the CCST Networking exam with this network hardware quiz from Chapter 10 of 'Cisco Certified Support Technician CCST Networking 100-150 Official Cert Guide.' Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Jan 2024
Introduction to network hardware components
This excerpt from 'Cisco Certified Support Technician CCST Networking 100-150 Official Cert Guide' provides beginners with knowledge and best practices on network hardware. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Jan 2024
Best practices to install network hardware
Network practitioners might get tangled in the confusion of wires, switches and other hardware components. A networking expert offers best practices for network hardware. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Jan 2024
Evolved Packet Core (EPC)
Evolved Packet Core (EPC) is a framework for providing converged voice and data services on a 4G Long-Term Evolution (LTE) network. Continue Reading
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Opinion
11 Jan 2024
Why HPE plans to acquire Juniper Networks
With its blockbuster acquisition of Juniper Networks, HPE gains more data center networking and AI technologies as well as other important advantages. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Jan 2024
Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FCoE)
Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FcoE) is a storage protocol that enables Fibre Channel (FC) communications to run directly over Ethernet. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Dec 2023
top-of-rack switching
Top-of-rack switching is a data center architecture design in which computing equipment like servers, appliances and other switches located within the same or adjacent rack connect to an in-rack network switch. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Dec 2023
edge device
An edge device is any piece of hardware that controls data flow at the boundary between two networks. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Dec 2023
6 types of quantum network topologies
Quantum networks require efficient architectures to optimize communication and enable large-scale quantum information processing. Learn about the main quantum network topologies. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Dec 2023
big-endian and little-endian
The term endianness describes the order in which computer memory stores a sequence of bytes. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Dec 2023
Address Resolution Protocol (ARP)
Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) is a protocol that maps dynamic IP addresses to permanent physical machine addresses in a local area network (LAN). Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Dec 2023
single-user multiple input, multiple output (SU-MIMO)
Single-user multiple input, multiple output (SU-MIMO) is a multitransmitter and receiver technology that lets a wireless access point send multiple, simultaneous data streams to one compatible endpoint at a time. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Nov 2023
ternary content-addressable memory (TCAM)
Ternary content-addressable memory (TCAM) is a specialized type of high-speed memory that searches its entire contents in a single clock cycle. Continue Reading
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Opinion
22 Nov 2023
Palo Alto Networks SASE Converge updates boost security, UX
With the announcement of its latest SASE portfolio updates and the acquisition of Talon, Palo Alto Networks connects the dots between security and performance. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Nov 2023
5G standalone (5G SA)
5G standalone (5G SA) is a cellular infrastructure built specifically for 5G services by implementing 5G standards and protocols in the radio network and controller core. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Nov 2023
Cisco IOS (Cisco Internetwork Operating System)
Cisco IOS (Internetwork Operating System) is a collection of proprietary operating systems (OSes) that runs on Cisco hardware devices, including Cisco Systems network devices, routers and network switches. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Nov 2023
small cell
A small cell is an umbrella term used to describe a miniature radio access point or wireless network base station with a low radio frequency power output, footprint and range. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Nov 2023
5G Advanced features include accurate timing, AI support
5G Advanced is the latest 5G specification, aiming to deliver enhanced massive MIMO, 5G integration with AI and accurate location positioning. Here's more about recent developments. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Nov 2023
carrier cloud
A carrier cloud is a cloud computing environment that is owned and operated by a traditional telecommunications service provider. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Nov 2023
How to build a private 5G network architecture
A private 5G network could provide organizations with greater control over their wireless environments. But cost and complexity could be critical deterrents. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Nov 2023
CPRI (Common Public Radio Interface)
CPRI (Common Public Radio Interface) is a specification for wireless communication networks that defines the key criteria for interfacing transport, connectivity and control communications between baseband units (BBUs) and remote radio units (RRUs), which are also called remote radio heads (RRHs). Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Nov 2023
network hub
A network hub is a node that broadcasts data to every computer or Ethernet-based device connected to it. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Nov 2023
OpenFlow
OpenFlow, an open source standard supported by many vendors, is the first software defined networking (SDN) control protocol. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Nov 2023
What are the pros and cons of 5G?
Enterprises are evaluating 5G and its effect on their operations. Before they can reap the benefits, they have to consider these 5G pros and cons. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Nov 2023
Generic Routing Encapsulation (GRE)
Generic Routing Encapsulation (GRE) is a protocol that encapsulates packets in order to route various protocols over Internet Protocol (IP) networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Oct 2023
application delivery controller (ADC)
An application delivery controller (ADC) is a network component that manages and optimizes how client machines connect to web and enterprise application servers. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Oct 2023
Open Shortest Path First (OSPF)
Open Shortest Path First, often shortened to OSPF, is an IP routing protocol used to find the best path to distribute packets as they pass through IP networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Oct 2023
Ethernet
Ethernet is the traditional technology for connecting devices in a wired local area network (LAN) or wide area network. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Oct 2023
data plane
The data plane -- sometimes known as the user plane, forwarding plane, carrier plane or bearer plane -- is the part of a network that carries user traffic. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Oct 2023
fiber optics (optical fiber)
Fiber optics, or optical fiber, refers to the technology that transmits information as light pulses along a glass or plastic fiber. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Oct 2023
Macrocell vs. small cell vs. femtocell: A 5G introduction
Small cells provide fast connectivity speeds for 5G networks and capable devices, but 5G won't stop there. Macrocells and femtocells are also key to connect 5G networks. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Oct 2023
The essential 5G glossary of key terms and phrases
To understand 5G, delve into the terminology that shapes the technology. This glossary of 14 5G keywords explains what 5G is and how its features work. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Oct 2023
The 3 different types of 5G technology for enterprises
5G isn't a single flavor of cellular technology; it's three flavors, and each one can enable advanced capabilities, such as ultrareliable low latency and IoT connectivity. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Oct 2023
jumbo frames
A jumbo frame is an Ethernet frame, or data packet, with a payload greater than the standard size of 1,500 bytes. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Oct 2023
OFDMA (orthogonal frequency-division multiple access)
Orthogonal frequency-division multiple access (OFDMA) is a technology of Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) that lets access points serve multiple clients at the same time. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Oct 2023
Building data center networks for GenAI fabric enablement
Network scalability, throughput and orchestration are some of the key elements that enterprises need to consider as they build out generative AI data centers. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Oct 2023
telecommunications (telecom)
Telecommunications, also known as telecom, is the exchange of information over significant distances by electronic means and refers to all types of voice, data and video transmission. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Sep 2023
remote infrastructure management
Remote infrastructure management, or RIM, is a comprehensive approach to handling and overseeing an organization's IT infrastructure, systems and services from a remote location. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
15 Sep 2023
Hybrid work drives changes to on-premises networks
Remote and hybrid work are forcing changes to on-premises networks, such as increased bandwidth, upgraded Wi-Fi connectivity and unified network access controls. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Sep 2023
How enterprises can migrate from IPv4 to IPv6
Both IPv4 and IPv6 are suitable for enterprise networks, but organizations that want to switch over to the latest IP address format can follow a few methods to make the transition. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Aug 2023
FWA use cases for next-generation connectivity
Fixed wireless access provides broadband connectivity for subscribers at fixed locations. FWA use cases include locations with geographical constraints, temporary setups and more. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Aug 2023
How to modernize networks with sustainability in mind
A network modernization project is a good time to consider sustainability initiatives, such as using energy-efficient devices and renewable energy sources. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Aug 2023
forward error correction (FEC)
Forward error correction (FEC) is a method for obtaining error control in data transmission in which the source (transmitter) sends redundant data and the destination (receiver) recognizes only the portion of the data that contains no apparent errors. Continue Reading
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News
22 Aug 2023
VMware remakes NSX for companies using multiple clouds
VMware designed NSX+ to simplify multi-cloud networking for customers. The update will eventually replace NSX and the more advanced NSX-T within VMware Cloud. Continue Reading
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News
07 Aug 2023
SDI swaps Cisco wired, wireless LAN for Nile NaaS
Supply chain software maker SDI claims it cut LAN costs by a third with Nile. But Gartner says NaaS is unlikely to become a dominant option for on-premises networking. Continue Reading