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
10 Dec 2024
The business case for AI-driven network orchestration
Organizations that are considering AI-driven network orchestration will find it has many business cases -- chief among them are reduced Opex and efficient resource use. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Dec 2024
The purpose of route poisoning in networking
Route poisoning is an effective way of stopping routers from sending data packets across bad links and stop routing loops. This limits delays and creates a more stable network. Continue Reading
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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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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News
12 May 2021
Cisco bolsters CSP portfolio with Sedona Systems acquisition
Cisco's acquisition of Sedona Systems is expected to add significant carrier technology for 5G slicing and routed optical networking. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 May 2021
Top network IT investments include 5G, smartNICs, cloud
Market analysts showed interest in 5G and smartNICs during an ONUG conference panel on enterprise IT investments. And don't forget the seemingly inevitable mention of cloud. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 May 2021
Hybrid network vs. hybrid network infrastructure
Hybrid networks and hybrid network infrastructure blend different kinds of equipment, geographic locations, network ownership and technology disciplines. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 May 2021
Routed optical networking tactic could be game changer
A new routing architecture could help eliminate management and service headaches stemming from routing IP traffic on optical networks. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
07 May 2021
Develop 5G ecosystems for connectivity in the remote work era
Adopting a 5G ecosystem could enable enterprises to better compete in offering edge computing and remote work options without sacrificing connectivity. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 May 2021
How to prepare networks for the return to office
Network teams should evaluate their UC strategies, VPN capacity and even air conditioning requirements as employees start to return to office environments. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Apr 2021
Network-as-a-service business model options take shape
As network as a service gains traction, enterprises and service providers must consider multiple deployment models. SD-WAN, SASE, SDN and policy management could all play a role. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Apr 2021
4 attributes key to network-as-a-service model
For a network-as-a-service model to work for the enterprise, it needs to offer four key attributes: an application-specific, elastic, secure and personalized VPN. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Apr 2021
Wi-Fi 6 vs. Wi-Fi 6E: Spectrum, not hype, is key difference
The extended spectrum of Wi-Fi 6E sounds promising. But, when assessing Wi-Fi 6 vs. Wi-Fi 6E, organizations should pay close attention to radio frequency characteristics. Continue Reading
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Answer
22 Apr 2021
Sometimes I get a message, 'specified port already open.' What does it mean?
Find out what error messages 'the specified port is already open' or 'the specified port is already in use' mean, and learn how to troubleshoot and fix them. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Apr 2021
Network capacity planning best practices for return to office
As workers grow comfortable enough to return to the office, network teams will need to plan in advance to make sure the network is ready and ensure proper performance. Continue Reading
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Answer
15 Apr 2021
What does a network infrastructure upgrade project involve?
Explore the steps organizations must take to upgrade their network infrastructure, including how to tell if an upgrade is necessary and how to evaluate resources for the project. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Apr 2021
Network layer
Located at Layer 3 of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) communications model, the primary function of the network layer is to move data into and through other networks. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Apr 2021
8 best practices for SAN deployment within SMBs
SMBs face a number of challenges when planning and performing a SAN implementation. Get out in front of an often intricate process with these best practices. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Apr 2021
Modern network infrastructure design taps security, flexibility
As workers return to office settings, organizations may have to update their on-premises network infrastructure design to improve scalability and connectivity. Continue Reading
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News
06 Apr 2021
Verizon, AWS launch mobile edge computing platform
The AWS, Verizon mobile edge computing offering is a managed service that combines private 5G connectivity with AWS Outposts. Continue Reading
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News
30 Mar 2021
Cisco network as a service for hybrid clouds on the horizon
Cisco's first network-as-a-service product will deliver hybrid cloud infrastructure. The company plans to start selling the NaaS offering and an all-in-one SASE product this year. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Mar 2021
Pandemic pushes enterprise connectivity to take a new path
COVID-19 delivered a connectivity shock to businesses. But savvy network execs were primed -- and are now showing the way forward in 2021 with SD-WAN, 5G and Wi-Fi 6. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Mar 2021
Key tasks in a network maintenance checklist
Network technologies and devices might change over time, but certain maintenance tasks, such as data backup and device inventory, will always be essential for network teams. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Mar 2021
HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol)
HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) is the set of rules for transferring files -- such as text, images, sound, video and other multimedia files -- over the web. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Mar 2021
What to expect at Cisco Live 2021: Future of work, networks
At Cisco Live 2021, attendees will hear about the future of work and what that means for the future of networks and network technologies, like SASE, 5G and cloud networks. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Mar 2021
Cisco's future banks on security, service providers, 5G
A big part of Cisco's future strategy will be enhancing its global presence and service provider customer base. For networking, it still pursues software and subscription models. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Mar 2021
fronthaul
Fronthaul, also known as mobile fronthaul, is a term that refers to the fiber-based connection of the cloud radio access network (C-RAN), a new type of cellular network architecture of centralized baseband units (BBUs) and remote radio heads (RRHs) at the access layer of the network. Continue Reading
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News
16 Mar 2021
Nokia to cut up to 10,000 jobs over two years
The job cuts stem from a major restructuring that formed four business groups, including two focused on emerging technologies like cloud-delivered network infrastructure. Continue Reading
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News
16 Mar 2021
Nokia partners with largest cloud providers on 5G RAN
Nokia's RAN-related partnership with AWS, Microsoft and Google solidifies its strategy of delivering cloud-based 5G infrastructure to service providers and major enterprises. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Mar 2021
CDMA (Code-Division Multiple Access)
CDMA (Code-Division Multiple Access) refers to any of several protocols used in second-generation (2G) and third-generation (3G) wireless communications. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
08 Mar 2021
Will enterprises adopt SONiC OS and disrupt proprietary WAN?
As a cloud-native modular architecture focused on network disaggregation, the SONiC OS can offer several benefits for enterprises, especially at the network edge. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
08 Mar 2021
Enterprise edge is telecom operators' new frontier
Network operators have an opportunity to sell new bundles of dynamic enterprise edge services that include SASE, SD-WAN and virtual security if they size it and price it well. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Mar 2021
NOC performance metrics for optimal operation
NOC best practices include using standardized network designs and automation. But don't forget to identify performance metrics that help track and measure operational success. Continue Reading
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News
03 Mar 2021
Cisco completes $4.5 billion Acacia deal
Cisco said it will sell and support Acacia's optical networking products separately. Cisco will also continue selling the technology with its switches and routers. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Mar 2021
orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM)
Orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) is a method of data transmission where a single information stream is split among several closely spaced narrowband subchannel frequencies instead of a single wideband channel frequency. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Feb 2021
5 benefits of Wi-Fi 6 for enterprise networks
In a perfect world, Wi-Fi 6 could introduce several benefits to business networks. But real-world conditions could curb the wireless technology's true potential. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Feb 2021
OSI model (Open Systems Interconnection)
OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) is a reference model for how applications communicate over a network. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Feb 2021
radio frequency (RF, rf)
Radio frequency (RF) is a measurement representing the oscillation rate of electromagnetic radiation spectrum, or electromagnetic radio waves, from frequencies ranging from 300 GHz to as low as 9 kHz. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Feb 2021
Open RAN architecture gives operators options, challenges
Open RAN architecture could give telecom operators more flexibility as they deliver enterprise-grade 5G services. But making the RAN a virtual function takes careful planning. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Feb 2021
metropolitan area network (MAN)
A metropolitan area network (MAN) is a computer network that is larger than a single building local area network (LAN) but is located in a single geographic area that is smaller than a wide area network (WAN). Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Feb 2021
3 SASE case studies exploring real-world deployments
Three case studies demonstrate how SASE technology helps organizations securely connect geographically distributed workforces. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Feb 2021
Future of NOC transformation unifies IT teams
NOC transformation could lead to unified IT operations with cross-domain teams, but not all enterprises need radical change when smaller upgrades and modernization do the job. Continue Reading
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News
05 Feb 2021
News briefs: Dell, partners to deliver OneBox MEC
OneBox MEC is a 5G-enabled mobile edge computing platform. The hardware will contain turnkey technology for deploying a private 5G network and application services. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Feb 2021
An overview of 3GPP 5G releases and what each one means
3GPP has standardized features and specifications for all cellular technology generations since 3G. Learn about 3GPP's 5G timeline and notable features each 5G release introduces. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Feb 2021
The tradeoffs and cost of network redundancy
Network redundancy costs vary depending on enterprise use cases, but the determining tradeoff usually depends on how long a company can sustain network downtime. Continue Reading
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Answer
20 Jan 2021
VLAN vs. subnet: What's the difference?
While VLANs are a type of subnet, they have their own unique capabilities and characteristics that differentiate them from subnets. However, the OSI model plays a major role in both. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Jan 2021
VPN vs. VLAN: What's the difference?
VPNs and VLANs are different technologies with some similarities. VPNs connect authorized users to corporate network resources, while VLANs connect geographically separate devices. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Jan 2021
Setting up and using a home VLAN to segment network traffic
Virtual LANs can help homeowners segment their network traffic for enhanced control and security. Network analyst John Fruehe takes you inside his home VLANs. Continue Reading
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News
29 Dec 2020
Private 5G networks to gain momentum in 2021
Enterprises using industrial IoT devices are among the early adopters of private 5G networks, which could become an $8 billion market by 2027. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Dec 2020
Ensure network resilience with redundancy and skills
Ensuring network resilience doesn't just mean building redundancy in network infrastructure. It should also include planning contingencies for people and skills. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Dec 2020
What experts say to expect from 5G in 2021
In this roundup of networking blogs, experts explore 5G's potential in 2021, including new business and technical territories 5G may explore and features to transform enterprises. Continue Reading
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Answer
21 Dec 2020
What are the differences between Wi-Fi and WiMax?
Wi-Fi is the wireless standard used to build wireless LANs, while carriers primarily used WiMax to build wireless metropolitan area networks before moving to LTE. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Dec 2020
Software-defined home offerings drive remote productivity
Say hello to software-defined home, a 'branch of one' package that combines professional-grade Wi-Fi, security, SD-WAN and centralized management for remote workers. Continue Reading
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News
09 Dec 2020
Aruba launches orchestration software for CX fabric
The Aruba Fabric Composer is best suited for a CX switching fabric within a small and midsize data center. The company also introduced the 8360 series of CX hardware. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Nov 2020
Why networks should apply security by design principles
Security by design incorporates security and risk management directly into network architecture, using segmentation and Agile infrastructure design. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Nov 2020
How and why to implement Wi-Fi QoS
Quality of service, as network pros know, prioritizes apps as they cross the network. But Wi-Fi QoS needs to be considered, too, in relation to the overall network. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Oct 2020
SmartNIC market capitalizes on advances in programmability
Traditional NICs are getting an upgrade, thanks to smartNICs and function accelerator cards that add programmability. But this doesn't really change things for enterprises -- yet. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Oct 2020
How COVID-19 will reshape 2021 enterprise network spending
COVID-19 has shifted enterprise network spending. Campus LAN traffic may never be the same, but companies are earmarking funds to better support the remote workforce. Continue Reading
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News
22 Oct 2020
Bye-bye ISR, hello Catalyst 8000 for Cisco SD-WAN
The new Catalyst 8300 Series of routers replace ISRs that customers said were ill-equipped to run the Cisco SD-WAN. Cisco also introduced Catalyst 8500 aggregation routers. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Oct 2020
How to build a resilient network design
Everything fails eventually, even in networking. Enterprises can prepare for network failure by building resilience and redundancy into their network infrastructure design. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Sep 2020
Teleworkers need enhanced home internet access in the US
The COVID-19 pandemic has increased reliance on home networks and highlighted the need in marginalized communities for dedicated resources to enable reliable internet access. Continue Reading
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News
18 Sep 2020
Palo Alto SD-WAN gets analytics, Prisma security
The Prisma integration and root cause analysis in the Palo Alto SD-WAN could help it standout in a market packed with competitors. Palo Alto also launched two SD-WAN appliances. Continue Reading
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News
17 Sep 2020
Extreme launches ExtremeCloud IQ apps, switches
The latest apps for Extreme's cloud-based network management portal include intrusion prevention , IoT onboarding and compliance testing for the wireless LAN. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Sep 2020
Home SD-WAN will redefine next-generation WAN
The need for home-office SD-WAN won't end when the pandemic does. Learn how best to provide this essential tech to your organization's at-home employees. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Sep 2020
Telecommunications book highlights spectrum, fiber cabling
5G touts faster download speeds and new application types, but other major 5G changes will be in spectrum and fixed wireless. Learn more in this telecommunications book excerpt. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Sep 2020
Multimedia data and 5G drive network transformation
Emerging networking trends and touted innovations always showcase faster speeds and new use cases. Yet, new challenges keep pace, too, such as security and privacy issues. Continue Reading
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Answer
17 Aug 2020
What is the difference between SNMP and RMON?
While Simple Network Management Protocol tracks network devices, Remote Network Monitoring tracks traffic. As a team, SNMP and RMON are essential for network management. Continue Reading
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News
07 Aug 2020
T-Mobile 5G progresses, Samsung intros 5G tablets
This week's 5G news includes T-Mobile 5G taking a significant step forward, Samsung releasing tablets and Intel and VMware joining forces on network infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Aug 2020
8 network diagramming tools for architects
Network design tools help architects map out the company infrastructure but only with the right product. Explore these eight vendors and their tools to make the right buy. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 Aug 2020
5G for enterprises requires other tech to reap full benefits
5G won't solve all an organization's problems or fully replace existing 4G LTE architecture. In fact, 5G needs other technology for it to truly succeed and be useful. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 Aug 2020
What IT pros can expect from 5G core network architecture
5G is the first 'G' in the cloud, which means its network architecture can enable functions, services and capabilities past cellular generations couldn't. Here's what to expect. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Jul 2020
How to select and set up SD-WAN and DIA
When evaluating different options for SD-WAN and direct internet access, IT teams can't forget to consider application performance, network uptime and support for each option. Continue Reading
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29 Jul 2020
A Deep Dive Into Border Gateway Protocol
This step-by-step training guides you through all the border gateway protocol components -- from how the protocol works to how to verify that it is working correctly. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Jul 2020
5G enterprise market will overtake consumer cellular by 2036
5G is the first cellular technology generation that enterprise use cases will play a larger role than consumer use cases. Learn more from ABI Research's 5G Technology Summit. Continue Reading
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News
22 Jul 2020
VMware load balancing aimed at NSX-T
Users reacted positively to the latest VMware load-balancing product. The NSX Advanced Load Balancer promises to improve application performance in a VMware NSX-T virtual network. Continue Reading
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Answer
21 Jul 2020
What's the difference between GRE and IPsec tunnels?
IPsec provides more comprehensive security for IP tunneling, while GRE tunnels work well when network teams need to tunnel with multiple protocols or multicast. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Jul 2020
IT spending priorities in 2020 shift to network management, UC
The global pandemic has temporarily slowed SD-WAN and campus network spending, but enterprises are still investing in network infrastructure, focusing on network management and UC. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Jul 2020
How to set up a new business network
Building a new network can be complicated, but IT teams can ease the design process and future management by choosing the right architecture and documenting each decision. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Jul 2020
Evolution of WLAN technology improves data rates, security
WLAN technology has evolved dramatically -- most notably, in terms of network speeds and security. Innovations in Wi-Fi 6 show that the WLAN evolution isn't slowing, either. Continue Reading
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News
02 Jul 2020
Tech pros focus on application delivery during pandemic
Tech pros have added security, automation and session capacity to their application delivery infrastructure to support business operations during the pandemic. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Jul 2020
How the cloud fractures application delivery infrastructure ops
Within a single IT organization, traditional network teams may clash with cloud teams over application delivery infrastructure operations and management. Continue Reading
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Answer
01 Jul 2020
What's the difference between a Layer 3 switch and a router?
Even though they have common traits, there is a difference between a Layer 3 switch and a router. Each plays a key role in making sure packets get sent to their proper destination. Continue Reading
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Answer
26 Jun 2020
What's the difference between OFDMA vs. MU-MIMO in Wi-Fi 6?
Is there a difference between OFDMA and MU-MIMO? The two important Wi-Fi 6 features are complementary but distinct. Here's why. Continue Reading