Network Management Software, Tools and Utilities
Top Stories
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Tip
25 Apr 2022
Power over Ethernet basics for network architects
Power over Ethernet provides a way to supply electricity to low-power devices through a standard Ethernet cable. Learn about the different standards and PoE types. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Mar 2022
The NetOps 2.0 era is here: A primer for networking pros
Experts say inflexible legacy networks impede critical DevOps initiatives. Enter NetOps 2.0. This primer explains how automation and virtualization can help networks evolve. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Jan 2023
Compare 6 major network certifications for 2023
Network certifications can span networking fundamentals to product-specific knowledge. Evaluate six certifications, and weigh factors like job roles, cost, prerequisites and skills. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Jan 2023
Evaluate Wi-Fi mapping tools and best practices
As Wi-Fi is now a critical component of enterprise network connectivity, Wi-Fi mapping helps teams evaluate their wireless coverage. Learn the basics of Wi-Fi mapping. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Jan 2023
How cloud-managed Wi-Fi simplifies policy and AP controls
Cloud-managed Wi-Fi provides IT groups with several benefits, including policy enforcement, network management and consistent AP configuration across multiple sites. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Jan 2023
Enterprises consider NaaS adoption for business agility
As enterprises accelerate toward digitization of their complete IT stack, NaaS -- which can lower costs, increase QoS and improve business agility -- has become a viable option. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Jan 2023
The benefits of network asset management software
Network asset management software helps network teams keep track of network devices and software, ensuring timely upgrades, accurate inventory and updated documentation. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jan 2023
A guide to network APIs and their use cases
An API enables communication between two applications, while a network API provides communication between the network infrastructure -- and its protocols -- and applications. Continue Reading
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Opinion
06 Jan 2023
Five networking trends teams should focus on in 2023
Distributed IT and hybrid work create network complexity, which is driving adoption of AIOps, network and security convergence, multi-cloud, private 5G and digital twins in 2023. Continue Reading
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News
03 Jan 2023
Multi-cloud networking trends to watch in 2023
As multi-cloud networking becomes an industry standard, enterprises increasingly seek tools to wrangle data, services and security in a sprawling network that can span countries. Continue Reading
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Feature
03 Jan 2023
Networking pros face strong 2023 job market, greater demands
Despite the volatile economy and tech industry, networking pros should see a strong job market in 2023, with opportunities for better salaries and increased skill sets. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Dec 2022
Wireless network capacity planning and requirements
When planning wireless network capacity needs, tally your total endpoints, monitor application bandwidth usage and consider future growth. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Dec 2022
Are private wireless networks worth the investment?
Private wireless networks enable more control over networks, but they aren't right for every organization. Here's what to evaluate for a private wireless network deployment. Continue Reading
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News
20 Dec 2022
Arista's new switches support 800GbE for hyperscalers
Arista's new switches provide more options for enterprises and higher speeds for bandwidth-hungry hyperscalers. The latest hardware is generally available. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Dec 2022
5 sustainability initiatives in the telecommunications industry
Telecom operators have committed to sustainability plans to reduce carbon emissions and energy use. But they also face challenges, like competing goals and behavioral changes. Continue Reading
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Answer
20 Dec 2022
NOC vs. data center: What's the difference?
Network operations centers and data centers are two facilities organizations use to store IT devices and manage operations. But they differ significantly in terms of purpose and operations. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Dec 2022
How to use Nmap to scan a network for documentation
Nmap might be more common for security tasks, but it's also useful for network documentation and inventory. Follow these best practices to make the most of Nmap scan results. Continue Reading
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Feature
14 Dec 2022
5G expectations high, despite underwhelming adoption rates
A new study from IEEE found 5G remains one of the most anticipated technologies for 2023. Top expectations for 5G include automation, satellite services, sustainability and more. Continue Reading
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News
14 Dec 2022
T-Mobile expands fastest 5G coverage to 260 million
T-Mobile has expanded its mid-band 5G coverage across most of the nation, pulling further ahead of rivals Verizon and AT&T. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Dec 2022
An overview of wireless WAN
Hybrid work, modernized cellular networks, and the convergence of 5G and software-defined networking are driving factors in the maturation of wireless WAN. Continue Reading
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News
09 Dec 2022
Juniper's CN2 supports Kubernetes networking on AWS
Juniper simplifies Kubernetes networking on Amazon's Elastic Kubernetes Service by adding virtual networks and multi-dimensional segmentation in the hybrid cloud. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Dec 2022
Ensure network resilience in a network disaster recovery plan
A network disaster recovery plan doesn't always mean network resilience. Learn how factors like funding, identifying potential risks and constant updates make a difference. Continue Reading
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News
06 Dec 2022
Cisco teases new capabilities with SD-WAN update
Cisco SD-WAN 17.10 enhancements give enterprises the option of using security service edge providers Cloudflare and Netskope in secure access service edge deployments. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Dec 2022
How to set up a business Wi-Fi network
A Wi-Fi network is a business necessity, but setting it up takes skill and effective troubleshooting. Learn how to make Wi-Fi work and keep it running smoothly. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Dec 2022
Wireless security: WEP, WPA, WPA2 and WPA3 differences
As wireless networks have evolved, so have the protocols for securing them. Get an overview of WLAN security standards, and learn the differences among WEP, WPA, WPA2 and WPA3. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Dec 2022
5 most valuable wireless network certifications
Wireless networking skills are in high demand. Having a top-notch wireless network certification can help networking newbies and pros stand out among job candidates. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Dec 2022
A history of wireless for business and a look forward
This history of enterprise wireless takes you from WLAN development inside the enterprise to cellular data services outside the walls to make wireless-first a possibility. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Nov 2022
Evaluate various SASE approaches for deployment
Enterprises must choose between single- or multivendor SASE approaches, as well as DIY or managed service options. Experts suggest considering use cases to simplify SASE deployment. Continue Reading
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News
28 Nov 2022
Ciena acquires Benu and Tibit for PON, edge
Ciena acquires Benu for advanced subscriber management and Tibit for pluggable PON technology that connects to existing hardware. Acquisitions bring engineers during shortage. Continue Reading
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News
23 Nov 2022
Warriors joins other NBA teams in building smart arenas
The Golden State Warriors installed 250 Wi-Fi 6E access points in Chase Center to deliver high-speed internet almost anywhere in the arena. Faster networks are a trend in the NBA. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Nov 2022
LEO satellite communications come to Earth
Apple, T-Mobile and others are kicking off early satellite communications projects. Direct satellite communications should become available on some new midband 5G phones in 2024. Continue Reading
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News
18 Nov 2022
Cisco lays off staff, cuts office space in $600M restructuring
Cisco's shake-up will affect about 4,000 workers as the company doubles down on security, enterprise networking and its platform strategy. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Nov 2022
Best practices for enterprise CBRS deployment
Enterprises can use CBRS spectrum to deploy private cellular networks that offer reliable and predictable coverage. Learn about installation, AP mounting and device compatibility. Continue Reading
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Answer
18 Nov 2022
How to set up backup internet connections for home offices
Reliable connectivity and secure access are must-haves for employees working from home. Here are ideas to consider when designing backup internet connections for home offices. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Nov 2022
3 types of wireless site surveys and how to conduct them
Network teams can avoid signal coverage issues by performing different wireless site surveys as they evaluate new spaces, set up sites and operate the network. Continue Reading
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Opinion
15 Nov 2022
The multi-cloud networking mandate
With most organizations using more than two public clouds, new multi-cloud networking strategies are essential to enable cross-cloud traffic and visibility across multiple clouds. Continue Reading
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Answer
10 Nov 2022
What is the difference between WLAN and Wi-Fi?
Although the terms WLAN and Wi-Fi are used interchangeably, the two wireless technologies differ. Wireless LAN uses radio technology to connect nodes, while Wi-Fi is a type of WLAN. Continue Reading
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Answer
09 Nov 2022
IPv4 vs. IPv6: What's the difference?
IPv4 and IPv6 are two forms of IP addresses, but they differ in length and style. Compare the two, and find out why organizations might implement one over the other. Continue Reading
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Answer
07 Nov 2022
Cloud networking vs. cloud computing: What's the difference?
Organizations might sometimes consider cloud computing and cloud networking as interchangeable due to their similarities. But the two strategies have different goals and processes. Continue Reading
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Answer
07 Nov 2022
Wireless access point vs. router: What's the difference?
The choice of a wireless access point vs. a router for wireless network connectivity depends on the physical size of the network, needs of the organization and the number of users. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Nov 2022
OSU medical center uses automation for digital transformation
Most people think automation will take jobs away. For OSU Wexner Medical Center, network automation helps improve security, simplify tasks for staff and save lives. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Nov 2022
16 PowerShell commands for network troubleshooting
These 16 Windows PowerShell cmdlets, including Get-NetIPAddress and Test-Connection, help network administrators troubleshoot their network environments. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Nov 2022
Troubleshoot wireless network connection problems in 10 steps
When troubleshooting wireless network issues, several scenarios can emerge. But valuable end-user insights can help network administrators root out problems. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Nov 2022
How Wi-Fi 6, WWAN and 5G make all-wireless offices possible
Wireless technology has evolved extensively in recent years to support end-user demands and the possibility of wireless-first network connectivity for business offices. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Nov 2022
9 steps for wireless network planning and design
Wireless network planning may appear daunting. But IT teams can tackle this task in nine key phases, which include capacity, redundancy and site surveys. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Nov 2022
5G for WWAN interest grows as enterprises go wireless-first
As interest in wireless-first WAN connectivity increases, network pros might want to consider using 5G to enable WWAN links. Continue Reading
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News
01 Nov 2022
Cisco Networking Academy offers rookie cybersecurity classes
Cisco's cybersecurity track equips students for entry-level positions, including cybersecurity technician, junior cybersecurity analyst, and tier 1 help desk support role. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Oct 2022
What's the difference between 802.11ac vs. 802.11ax?
The difference between 802.11ac and 802.11ax is significant. The two wireless standards differ notably in features such as AP capacity, spatial streams and data rates. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Oct 2022
Cloud, security and automation alter networking roles
Networking pros are no longer in their own bubbles, even if they prefer it that way. The growth of cloud, security and automation is expanding traditional networking roles. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Oct 2022
Network monitoring tools must offer more insights upfront
Vendors' network monitoring tools can require complex customization after purchase. New EMA research points to the need for tools to deliver more out of the box. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Oct 2022
The 4 different types of wireless networks
The four types of wireless networks -- wireless LAN, wireless MAN, wireless PAN and wireless WAN -- differ when it comes to size, range and connectivity requirements. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Oct 2022
How to set up a VPN for enterprise use
VPNs are nearly ubiquitous, but does your organization know how to deploy one? Learn about use cases, requirements, deployment options and best practices for VPN deployment. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Oct 2022
CBRS vs. Wi-Fi: What's the difference?
Citizens Broadband Radio Service enables private LTE networks and supports enterprise WAN deployments. But that doesn't mean Wi-Fi is going away anytime soon. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 Oct 2022
VPN use prevails despite interest in VPN alternatives
Despite claims that VPNs are on their way out of enterprise networks, to be replaced by alternative technologies, research suggests VPNs are, in fact, here to stay. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Oct 2022
VPN vs. zero trust vs. SDP: What's the difference?
For strong network security, many vendors say VPNs don't cut it anymore. Enter the zero-trust security model and SDPs. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Oct 2022
The future of VPNs in the enterprise
VPNs have been the workhorse of online connectivity. Enhancements to software and processing power in end devices will transform how companies use the technology going forward. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Oct 2022
How to perform VLAN troubleshooting
Common VLAN issues include physical connectivity problems, duplex mismatches, forwarding loops, unicast flooding and Layer 3 configuration errors. These troubleshooting steps can help. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Oct 2022
Best practices for network documentation and auditing
Network documentation helps enterprises resolve problems more quickly and create more reliable networks. But documentation needs to include various components to be effective. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Oct 2022
What is zero-trust network access? ZTNA basics explained
Zero-trust network access is touted as the solution to replace the VPN. As the potential future of network security, learn more about ZTNA, including its benefits and challenges. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Oct 2022
How to choose the best ZTNA vendor for your organization
In a sea of options, finding the best ZTNA vendor for your organization can pose a major challenge. Weed through the marketing hype with advice from the experts. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Oct 2022
What to include in a network disaster recovery plan checklist
A network disaster recovery plan should include components like documentation, emergency contacts, step-by-step procedures, provider and vendor details, backup info and more. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Oct 2022
How to build a zero-trust network in 4 steps
While network teams are responsible for deploying the elements of a zero-trust network, security teams should also be involved in developing the overall zero-trust framework. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Oct 2022
4 tips for network capacity planning and provisioning
To avoid network overprovisioning, teams should review baselines and roadmaps, assess limitations and consider business strategy changes when focusing on network capacity planning. Continue Reading
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Opinion
21 Sep 2022
Planning the journey from SD-WAN to SASE
Enterprises need integrated security and networking frameworks to manage distributed IT environments and are looking to SD-WAN and security options like SASE to get the job done. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 Sep 2022
Batfish use cases for network validation and testing
Automated pre-change network validation with Batfish can save time in the network change management process and minimize configuration and policy errors when deploying changes. Continue Reading
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News
15 Sep 2022
Valmont Industries tests network as a service to improve WAN
Valmont Industries wants an agile WAN that the company can modify in days instead of months. The global manufacturer is testing network-as-a-service provider Graphiant. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Sep 2022
Tips to prepare for a network disaster recovery audit
Enterprises can audit their network disaster recovery plans to ensure thorough protection and preparation. Consider factors like documentation, management support and audit type. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Sep 2022
How AI and ML in Open RAN alleviates network complexity
Incorporating AI and ML into Open RAN networks could help MNOs simplify operations and deliver 5G enhanced capabilities of high bandwidth, low latency and quality of service. Continue Reading
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Opinion
09 Sep 2022
VMware goes deep into multi-cloud universe
With its rebranded Explore conference, VMware made it clear its focus is on supporting customers' multi-cloud and edge computing environments as data is processed in new places. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Sep 2022
DNS server troubleshooting for Linux and Windows
Steps in DNS server troubleshooting include checking the DNS status, looking at zone configurations and evaluating logs. Follow these best practices for Windows and Linux servers. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Aug 2022
Techniques to get started with green networking
'Emerging Green Technologies' details how technology is a flexible tool organizations can use to make business operations more sustainable. Here's how to make your network green. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Aug 2022
How energy-efficient networking supports sustainability
In this Q&A, 'Emerging Green Technologies' author Matthew N. O. Sadiku discusses the importance of going green and how to make networks energy-efficient to achieve this goal. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Aug 2022
New data center demands reshape enterprise app delivery
Discover how modern application delivery controllers and web application firewalls can improve network provisioning processes and help secure distributed workloads. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Aug 2022
Network bandwidth vs. throughput: What's the difference?
Bandwidth and throughput both indicate network performance. The terms are often used together, but bandwidth refers to capacity, while throughput details how much data actually transmits. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Aug 2022
DevNet authors discuss Cisco DEVCOR book, automation
The authors of a Cisco DevNet Professional DEVCOR study guide provide insights about the growth of network automation, CI/CD and programmability. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Aug 2022
A look inside the Cisco DevNet Professional study guide
Learn how network automation works with software development in this chapter excerpt from 'Cisco Certified DevNet Professional DEVCOR 350-901 Official Cert Guide.' Continue Reading
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Quiz
24 Aug 2022
11 practice questions for Cisco DEVCOR 350-901 exam
Think you know network automation? Take this practice exam from Chapter 10 of 'Cisco Certified DevNet Professional DEVCOR 350-901 Official Cert Guide' to test your expertise. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Aug 2022
How does SD-access work?
SD-access is a combination of two elements: SDN and the access edge. The result is a network with a centralized management system and improved security policies. Continue Reading
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Answer
18 Aug 2022
What is the difference between Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7?
With its low latency, high throughput and multi-link operation capability, Wi-Fi 7 sounds promising. But will theoretical performance match the real-world experience? Continue Reading
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News
18 Aug 2022
Cisco earnings improve with easing supply shortage
Cisco expects component shortages to continue through fiscal 2023, holding revenue growth to between 4% and 6%. Component prices could ease after the current quarter. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Aug 2022
VXLAN vs. VLAN: What's the difference?
VLANs offer security and traffic management benefits but have limitations in routing and scale. VXLANs address those challenges by creating a Layer 3 network overlay. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Aug 2022
Understanding the FTP PORT command
FTP uses control and data channels, each using a separate TCP port. Port 21 is for the control channel, and port 20 is for the data channel. Learn how these two channels are used. Continue Reading
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Opinion
12 Aug 2022
Why modern networks require AIOps
Distributed IT environments increasingly require automated networks, and AIOps can provide the answer for network operations teams dealing with increased complexity, starting now. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Aug 2022
Private 5G in a box simplifies deployment, mobility
Vendors are offering private 5G in a box -- a condensed and streamlined form of standalone 5G -- to simplify the complexity of typical private 5G deployments. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Aug 2022
Wi-Fi sensing has the potential to be disruptive
With help from AI and machine learning, Wi-Fi sensing detects movement in the Wi-Fi environment. While it sounds promising, the technology still has a long way to go. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Aug 2022
What an AI-driven network looks like
Log analysis and wireless management are common AI use cases in networking. Future applications could include chatbot alerts, digital experience monitoring and traffic engineering. Continue Reading
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News
05 Aug 2022
Cisco executive Todd Nightingale to take Fastly CEO job
Executive Todd Nightingale will step away from Cisco after a decade. Cisco plans to combine the enterprise networking and cloud division he led with another department. Continue Reading
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News
04 Aug 2022
Arista acquires Pluribus Networks for cloud fabric product
Arista plans to fold Pluribus technology into a new product that lets telcos run a software-defined network across switches, routers, computer servers and accelerator DPUs. Continue Reading
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Opinion
02 Aug 2022
Next-gen network management difficult without AIOps
Complicated networks mean complicated network management. AIOps can help manage next-generation networks by monitoring, adding visibility and fixing errors within the network. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Aug 2022
Troubleshoot name resolution on Windows, Linux and macOS
Network administrators can troubleshoot name resolution using a variety of methods, including ping, nslookup and PowerShell cmdlets. Here are some troubleshooting best practices. Continue Reading
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News
29 Jul 2022
AIOps in networking helps but can't solve complex problems
The AIOps tools offered by network management vendors are good at solving routine problems but lack the intelligence to address complicated issues, customers said. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Jul 2022
How vendors support sustainable networking initiatives
Organizations are focusing on sustainability in all business divisions, including network operations. These tools could help organizations make their enterprise networks green. Continue Reading
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News
27 Jul 2022
Aruba adds Client Insights in Central Foundation license
Aruba automated routine network management tasks like device discovery in Aruba Central. The customer plans to add a change rollback feature next. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Jul 2022
Best practices for DIY network automation
Many network pros write their own automation scripts. These best practices help teams implement coding and tool set standardization, proper change management and immutability. Continue Reading
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News
22 Jul 2022
Cisco prioritizes ThousandEyes automation, integrations
Cisco ThousandEyes general manager Mohit Lad aims to have the internet monitor adapt to changes in the WAN without human intervention. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Jul 2022
8 tips to optimize network bandwidth and performance
Despite bandwidth calculations and capacity planning, networks often fail to consume bandwidth efficiently. Here are some tips to optimize bandwidth usage in enterprise networks. Continue Reading
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Answer
15 Jul 2022
The benefits and challenges of AI network monitoring
The benefits include simplified network monitoring and automation capabilities. The challenges include data quality questions and integration complexities. Continue Reading
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News
14 Jul 2022
Juniper Mist automatically validates AP placement
Juniper has added three features to its AIOps networking assistant to improve troubleshooting and give more insights into the network. The company also introduced midrange switching hardware. Continue Reading
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News
12 Jul 2022
Counterfeit scheme trafficked in $1 billion in Cisco gear
A Florida man has been charged with running a counterfeit operation that duped hospitals, schools, government agencies and the military. Continue Reading
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Opinion
12 Jul 2022
Marketing hype fuels AI predictive network troubleshooting
Vendors are pushing heavily on the benefits of predictive analysis to automatically identify and remediate network issues. But should enterprise customers care? Continue Reading
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News
11 Jul 2022
Chinese vendor H3C introduces first Wi-Fi 7 router
The H3C Magic BE18000, powered by a Qualcomm chipset, offers several significant Wi-Fi 7 features, including multilink operation and 320 MHz of channel bandwidth. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Jul 2022
BGP vs. EIGRP: What's the difference?
BGP is an exterior gateway protocol optimized for routing between large networks. EIGRP is an interior gateway protocol that is well suited for routing within smaller networks. Continue Reading