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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Definition
07 Sep 2021
serial digital interface (SDI)
Serial digital interface (SDI) is a standard for digital video and audio transmission over coaxial or fiber optic cabling. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Sep 2021
Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet (PPPoE)
Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet (PPPoE) is a network protocol that facilitates communication between network endpoints. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Aug 2021
1000BASE-T (Gigabit Ethernet)
1000BASE-T is Gigabit Ethernet -- 1 gigabit is 1,000 megabits per second (Mbps) on copper cables, using four pairs of Category 5 (Cat5) unshielded twisted pair (UTP) to achieve the gigabit data rate. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Aug 2021
Server Message Block protocol (SMB protocol)
The Server Message Block protocol (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
27 Aug 2021
customer proprietary network information (CPNI)
Customer proprietary network information (CPNI) in the United States is information that telecommunications services -- such as local, long-distance and wireless telephone companies -- acquire about their subscribers. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Aug 2021
dynamic port numbers
Dynamic port numbers, also known as private port numbers, are the port numbers that are available for use by any application to use in communicating with any other application, using the internet's Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) or User Datagram Protocol (UDP). Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Aug 2021
domain name system (DNS)
The domain name system (DNS) is a naming database in which internet domain names are located and translated into Internet Protocol (IP) addresses. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Aug 2021
Real-time Transport Protocol (RTP)
Real-time Transport Protocol (RTP) is a network standard designed for transmitting audio or video data that is optimized for consistent delivery of live data. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Aug 2021
NACK (NAK, negative acknowledgment, not acknowledged)
NACK, or NAK, an abbreviation for negative acknowledgment or not acknowledged, is a signal used by computers or other devices to indicate that data transmitted over a network was received with errors or was otherwise unreadable. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Aug 2021
Synchronous Data Link Control (SDLC)
Synchronous Data Link Control (SDLC) is a transmission protocol used to synchronously transfer code-transparent, serial-by-bit data over a communications channel. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Aug 2021
multiplexing
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
24 Aug 2021
signal-to-noise ratio (S/N or SNR)
In analog and digital communications, a signal-to-noise ratio, often written S/N or SNR, is a measure of the strength of the desired signal relative to background noise (undesired signal). Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Aug 2021
Virtualization concepts to study for CCNP and CCIE exams
In this Q&A, author Patrick Gargano discusses the importance of virtualization in networking and offers studying advice for aspiring CCNPs and CCIEs in preparation for the exams. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Aug 2021
Explore virtualization study topics for CCNP, CCIE exams
Aspiring CCNPs and CCIEs will need to grasp one of networking's most important topics: virtualization. 'Day 7' from Patrick Gargano's '31 Days' explains the subject in detail. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Aug 2021
Synchronous Digital Hierarchy (SDH)
Synchronous Digital Hierarchy (SDH) is a group of fiber optic transmission rates that transport digital signals with different capacities. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Aug 2021
bit stuffing
Bit stuffing refers to the insertion of one or more bits into a data transmission as a way to provide signaling information to a receiver. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Aug 2021
Power over Ethernet (PoE)
Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a technology for implementing wired Ethernet local area networks (LANs) that enables the electrical current necessary for operating each device to be carried by Ethernet data cables instead of standard electrical power cords and wiring. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Aug 2021
Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS)
Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS) refers to the traditional, analog voice transmission phone system implemented over physical copper wires (twisted pair). Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Aug 2021
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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Tip
16 Aug 2021
How to set up a VLAN for enterprise networks
VLANs can secure and prioritize network traffic. To set up VLANs correctly, teams should understand concepts like VLAN tagging and subnets. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Aug 2021
connectionless
In telecommunications, connectionless describes communication between two network endpoints in which a message can be sent from one endpoint to another without prior arrangement. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Aug 2021
conductance
Conductance is an expression of the ease with which electric current flows through materials like metals and nonmetals. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Aug 2021
session border controller (SBC)
A session border controller (SBC) is a dedicated hardware device or software application that governs the manner in which phone calls are initiated, conducted and terminated on a voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) network. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Aug 2021
dense wavelength-division multiplexing (DWDM)
Dense wavelength-division multiplexing (DWDM) is an optical fiber multiplexing technology that is used to increase the bandwidth of existing fiber networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Aug 2021
IPTV (Internet Protocol television)
IPTV (Internet Protocol television) is a service that provides television programming and other video content using the Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) suite, as opposed to broadcast TV, cable TV or satellite signals. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Aug 2021
carrier-to-noise ratio
In communications, the carrier-to-noise ratio, often written as CNR or C/N, is a measure of the received carrier strength relative to the strength of the received noise. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Aug 2021
split horizon
Split horizon is a method used by distance vector protocols to prevent network routing loops. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Aug 2021
Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP)
Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP) is a network protocol that enables routers to exchange information more efficiently than earlier network protocols, such as Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (IGRP) or Border Gateway Protocol (BGP). Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Aug 2021
star network
A star network is a local area network (LAN) topology in which all nodes -- personal computers (PCs), workstations or other devices -- are directly connected to a common central computer that is often referred to as a hub. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Aug 2021
Troubleshooting a DHCP server failure
DHCP errors often result from DHCP server failure, a lack of available IP addresses and network failure. But troubleshooting steps vary depending on the error symptoms and causes. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Aug 2021
Spanning Tree Protocol (STP)
Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) is a Layer 2 network protocol used to prevent looping within a network topology. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Aug 2021
sliding window (windowing)
The sliding window (windowing) technique is used by Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) to manage the flow of packets between two computers or network hosts. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Aug 2021
frequency-division multiplexing (FDM)
In frequency-division multiplexing (FDM), multiple signals are combined for transmission on a single communications line or channel, with each signal assigned to a different frequency (subchannel) within the main channel. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Aug 2021
3 delivery models for 5G and MEC
To enhance network capabilities, enterprises will need to consolidate 5G and MEC technologies in the future. Following a deployment model is the first step. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Aug 2021
international private leased circuit (IPLC)
An international private leased circuit (IPLC) is a point-to-point private line used by an organization to communicate between offices that are dispersed throughout the world. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Aug 2021
coded orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (COFDM)
Coded orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (COFDM) is a telecommunications modulation scheme that divides a single digital signal across 1,000 or more signal carriers simultaneously. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Aug 2021
ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line)
ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) is a technology that facilitates fast data transmission at a high bandwidth on existing copper wire telephone lines to homes and businesses. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Aug 2021
Link Control Protocol (LCP)
In computer networking, Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP) provides a standard way to transport multiprotocol data over point-to-point links; within PPP, Link Control Protocol (LCP) establishes, configures and tests data link internet connections. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Jul 2021
beamforming
Beamforming is a type of radio frequency (RF) management in which a wireless signal is directed toward a specific receiving device. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Jul 2021
Enterprises look to formalize WFH network architecture
As work-from-home programs prove they're here to stay, enterprise network teams are assessing their network designs to ensure adequate support and performance for home offices. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Jul 2021
File Transfer Access and Management (FTAM)
File Transfer Access and Management (FTAM) is an OSI application Layer 7 protocol that standardizes how files are accessed and managed in a distributed network file system. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Jul 2021
An introductory overview of 5G network capabilities
In this Q&A, author William Stallings discusses 5G services, such as network slicing and QoS, and other topics covered in his book, '5G Wireless: A Comprehensive Introduction.' Continue Reading
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Quiz
29 Jul 2021
Test your knowledge in this 5G QoS quiz
In this quiz, test your knowledge of network slicing, QoS, and other technologies and practices related to 5G networking. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Jul 2021
frequency-hopping spread spectrum (FHSS)
Frequency-hopping spread spectrum (FHSS) transmission is the repeated switching of the carrier frequency during radio transmission to reduce interference and avoid interception. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Jul 2021
asymmetric communications
Asymmetric communications is a term pertaining to any system in which the data speed or quantity, when averaged over time, is different in one direction from the other. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Jul 2021
preboot execution environment (PXE)
Preboot execution environment (PXE), pronounced pixie, is a set of standards that enables a computer to load an operating system (OS) over a network connection. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Jul 2021
BGP vs. OSPF: When to use each protocol
BGP and OSPF are two of the most common routing protocols. While BGP excels with dynamic routing for large networks, OSPF offers more efficient path choice and convergence speed. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Jul 2021
Stream Control Transmission Protocol (SCTP)
Stream Control Transmission Protocol (SCTP) is a connection-oriented network protocol for transmitting multiple streams of data simultaneously between two endpoints that have established a connection in a network. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Jul 2021
port
A port in computing has three main uses, each as a type of receptacle in networking, computer hardware and software. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Jul 2021
FDDI (Fiber Distributed Data Interface)
FDDI (Fiber Distributed Data Interface) is a network standard that uses fiber optic connections in a local area network (LAN) that can extend in range up to 200 kilometers (124 miles). Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Jul 2021
megabits per second (Mbps)
Megabits per second (Mbps) are units of measurement for network bandwidth and throughput. It is used to show how fast a network or internet connection is. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Jul 2021
passive optical network (PON)
A passive optical network (PON) is a system commonly used by telecommunications network providers that brings fiber optic cabling and signals all or most of the way to the end user. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Jul 2021
Experts discuss stretched VLAN use cases, MEC and more
In this networking blog roundup, experts give reasons to stretch VLANs, discuss benefits of deploying private MEC with 5G, and differentiate between junior and senior IT engineers. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Jul 2021
American Wire Gauge (AWG)
American Wire Gauge (AWG) is the standard way to denote wire size in North America. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Jul 2021
DTMF (dual tone multi-frequency)
Dual tone multi-frequency (DTMF) is the sounds or tones generated by a telephone when the numbers are pressed. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Jul 2021
port number
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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Definition
16 Jul 2021
committed information rate (CIR)
Committed information rate (CIR) is the guaranteed rate at which a Frame Relay network will transfer information under normal line conditions. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Jul 2021
BOOTP (Bootstrap Protocol)
BOOTP (Bootstrap Protocol) is an internet protocol that lets a network user automatically be configured to receive an IP address and have an operating system booted without user involvement. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Jul 2021
anti-replay protocol
The anti-replay protocol provides Internet Protocol (IP) packet-level security by making it impossible for a hacker to intercept message packets and insert changed packets into the data stream between a source computer and a destination computer. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Jul 2021
time-to-live (TTL)
Time-to-live (TTL) is a value for the period of time that a packet, or data, should exist on a computer or network before being discarded. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Jul 2021
Switched Multimegabit Data Service (SMDS)
Switched Multimegabit Data Service (SMDS) is a public, packet-switched service aimed at enterprises that need to exchange large amounts of data with other enterprises over the wide area network on a nonconstant or bursty basis. Continue Reading
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Answer
15 Jul 2021
What is the network edge and how is it different from edge computing?
The network edge is where an enterprise network connects to third-party network services. Edge computing is a distributed architecture that processes data closer to end users. Continue Reading
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Answer
15 Jul 2021
What does the 0.0.0.0 IP address mean and why is it used?
One of a few special-purpose addresses, IP address 0.0.0.0 has several applications in networking. It stands in as a placeholder address, identifies a default route and more. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Jul 2021
How to use iPerf3 to test network bandwidth
In this in-depth tip, learn how to use iPerf3, a network testing tool to measure throughput and benchmark your WAN links to ensure effectivity. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Jul 2021
Network Address Translation (NAT)
A Network Address Translation (NAT) is the process of mapping an internet protocol (IP) address to another by changing the header of IP packets while in transit via a router. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Jul 2021
customer premises equipment (CPE)
Customer premises equipment (CPE) is telecommunications and information technology equipment kept at the customer's physical location rather than on the service provider's premises. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Jul 2021
encoding and decoding
Encoding and decoding are used in many forms of communications, including computing, data communications, programming, digital electronics and human communications. Continue Reading
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Answer
13 Jul 2021
The differences between PAP and CHAP
PAP uses a two-way handshake to authenticate client sessions, while CHAP uses a three-way handshake. Both authentication processes are common, but one is more secure. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Jul 2021
optoisolator (optical coupler or optocoupler)
An optoisolator (also known as an optical coupler, photocoupler, optocoupler) is a semiconductor device that transfers an electrical signal between isolated circuits using light. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Jul 2021
token ring
A token ring is a data link for a local area network (LAN) in which all devices are connected in a ring or star topology and pass one or more tokens from host to host. Continue Reading
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Answer
08 Jul 2021
What's the difference between a MAC address and IP address?
A MAC address and an IP address each identify network devices, but they do the job at different levels. Explore the differences between the two and learn why both are necessary. Continue Reading
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Answer
06 Jul 2021
Static vs. dynamic routing: What is the difference?
Static routing uses preconfigured routes to send traffic to its destination, while dynamic routing uses algorithms to determine the best path. How else do the two methods differ? Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Jul 2021
poison reverse
In a computer network that uses the Routing Information Protocol (RIP) or other distance vector routing protocol, poison reverse is a loop avoidance process. Continue Reading
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News
01 Jul 2021
Microsoft will host AT&T 5G network on Azure
AT&T will move its 5G services to Microsoft's Azure cloud. The move provides Microsoft with a critical 5G customer while AT&T cuts costs and gains scalability. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Jun 2021
How enterprises can close 5 major SASE gaps
Despite five major gaps that hamper SASE implementation, Gartner recommended enterprises should plan their migration timeline and aim to consolidate to a single vendor. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Jun 2021
How to calculate network bandwidth requirements
Figuring out how to calculate bandwidth requirements is vital to ensuring your network runs smoothly, and it's best to use the correct formula from the beginning. Continue Reading
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News
23 Jun 2021
Aruba adds network auto-fixes to AI Insights
Aruba's self-correct feature in AI Insights automatically fixes problems deemed safe to repair based on customer feedback. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Jun 2021
bus network
A bus network is a local area network (LAN) topology in which each node -- a workstation or other device -- is connected to a main cable or link called a bus. Continue Reading
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Answer
22 Jun 2021
How to use two VPN connections at the same time
Network managers and users might opt to set up two VPN connections at the same time, from the same remote device. But that might not be possible -- or safe. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Jun 2021
flooding (network)
In a computer network, flooding occurs when a router uses a non-adaptive routing algorithm to send an incoming packet to every outgoing link except the node on which the packet arrived. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Jun 2021
ping sweep (ICMP sweep)
A ping sweep (also known as an ICMP sweep) is a basic network scanning technique used to determine which of a range of IP addresses map to live hosts (computers). Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Jun 2021
cognitive radio (CR)
Cognitive radio (CR) is a form of wireless communication in which a transceiver can intelligently detect which communication channels are in use and which ones are not. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Jun 2021
CRC-4 (Cyclic Redundancy Check 4)
CRC-4 (Cyclic Redundancy Check 4) is a form of cyclic redundancy checking -- a method of checking for errors in transmitted data -- that is used on E1 trunk lines. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Jun 2021
maximum transmission unit (MTU)
The maximum transmission unit (MTU) is the largest size frame or packet -- in bytes or octets (eight-bit bytes) -- that can be transmitted across a data link. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Jun 2021
Uuencode (Uuencode/Uudecode)
Uuencode (also called Uuencode/Uudecode) is a popular utility for encoding and decoding files exchanged between users or systems in a network. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Jun 2021
crosstalk
Crosstalk is a disturbance caused by the electric or magnetic fields of one telecommunication signal affecting a signal in an adjacent circuit. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Jun 2021
NetBIOS (Network Basic Input/Output System)
NetBIOS (Network Basic Input/Output System) is a network service that enables applications on different computers to communicate with each other across a local area network (LAN). Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Jun 2021
near-end crosstalk (NEXT)
Near-end crosstalk (NEXT) is an error condition that can occur when connectors are attached to twisted pair cabling. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Jun 2021
10 Gigabit Ethernet (10 GbE)
10 Gigabit Ethernet (10 GbE) is a telecommunication technology that offers data speeds up to 10 billion bits per second. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Jun 2021
virtual routing and forwarding (VRF)
Virtual routing and forwarding (VRF) is a technology included in Internet Protocol (IP) network routers that enables multiple instances of a routing table to exist in a virtual router and work simultaneously. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Jun 2021
HDLC (High-level Data Link Control)
HDLC (High-level Data Link Control) is a group of protocols or rules for transmitting data between network points (sometimes called nodes). Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Jun 2021
shielded twisted pair (STP)
Shielded twisted pair (STP) is a special kind of copper telephone and local area network (LAN) wiring used in some business installations. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Jun 2021
Signaling System 7 (SS7)
Signaling System 7 (SS7) is an international telecommunication protocol standard that defines how the network elements in a public switched telephone network (PSTN) exchange information and control signals. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Jun 2021
IEEE 802.3
802.3, or IEEE 802.3, is a working group of standard specifications for Ethernet, a method of packet-based physical communication in a local area network maintained by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Jun 2021
5 steps to achieve network infrastructure modernization
All networks may be different, but companies have similar goals when they look to upgrade their network infrastructures. Assessing current designs is just the first step. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Jun 2021
bits per second (bps or bit/sec)
In data communications, bits per second (bps or bit/sec) is a common measure of data speed for computer modems and transmission carriers. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 May 2021
Enterprise RF spectrum management best practices
Effective spectrum management requires coordination from company departments to follow certain policies before introducing wireless devices to the enterprise. Continue Reading
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Answer
21 May 2021
6 trends in corporate campus networks
Networks are evolving, and that evolution includes enterprise campus networks. Trends like network automation, 5G and machine learning are modernizing campus networks. Continue Reading
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News
20 May 2021
Demand for Cisco products rises during pandemic recovery
Cisco reported higher product demand and sales as massive COVID-19 vaccination efforts in the U.S. led companies to prepare for an economic recovery. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 May 2021
How to secure your home Wi-Fi network in 7 steps
When securing your home Wi-Fi, update devices regularly, change passwords consistently, turn off unused services and inspect outdoor network equipment. Continue Reading