Network Monitoring

Five-nines availability: What it really means

Learn what five-nines availability means and discover the steps enterprises should take to make sure network services are fully accessible. Continue Reading

How to monitor network traffic in 7 steps

Effective network monitoring is an ongoing process that requires constant vigilance by IT groups. This step-by-step plan can fine-tune network monitoring strategies. Continue Reading

5 types of network diagnostics tools and what they can do

Vendors of network analytics tools are improving older products and introducing new ones to bring network managers the information a smooth-running network now requires. Continue Reading

Network monitoring systems best practices include centralized data

With the help of a centralized data store and modeling language, network monitoring systems can both separate and unify data collection and analysis functions. Continue Reading

Networks of the future: What automation and IBN can do for you

Learn all you need to know about how automated network management and intent-based networking can benefit your network's future, along with useful tools and vendor plays. Continue Reading

Public cloud management tools lacking, research finds

Networking experts discuss the challenge of finding robust public cloud management tools, how to improve network resiliency and avoiding network exceptions. Continue Reading

Cisco Business Critical Services gets better network monitoring

The latest version of Cisco Business Critical Services includes limited management of third-party devices and improved detection of an impending hardware failure. Continue Reading

Automated network testing tools actively identify network problems

If your organization is serious about application reliability, you'll want to adopt network testing tools so you'll know what will happen when network components fail. Continue Reading

What metrics and tools can accurately measure network performance?

Several methods and metrics measure network performance and throughput. But IT needs to gauge these measurements on a consistent basis to avoid major service issues. Continue Reading

How do I troubleshoot network performance with traffic monitoring?

When undertaking network performance troubleshooting, organizations can benefit from a mix of passive and active network traffic monitoring to identify issues. Continue Reading

What key network performance issues spark service disruptions?

From cabling to capacity issues, IT professionals need to consider all possibilities when rooting out the underlying cause of network performance problems. Continue Reading

How to check for high network utilization

Learn why high utilization issues in the network arise, how to detect them, and two ways to grapple with the problem to keep network latency low and application performance high. Continue Reading

How to set up network analytics tools for successful monitoring

Learn which analytics tools help monitor the network and what systems and processes you should work out in advance to make them as effective as possible. Continue Reading

Will network management functions as a service arrive soon?

Network management as a service isn't widespread, at least not yet. But if past history is any indication, its popularity is bound to grow, once certain hurdles are overcome. Continue Reading

Avi load balancer gets tighter with Cisco products

The Avi load balancer is more tightly integrated with Cisco ACI in the latest Avi Vantage Platform upgrade. Vantage 18.1 also sends more data to Cisco AppDynamics and Tetration. Continue Reading

Should IT share data analysis from network management consoles?

By making data analysis available from a network management console, IT groups could offer their lines of business better insights into end-user productivity. Continue Reading

ThousandEyes launches cloud performance monitoring tools

ThousandEyes has launched cloud performance monitoring tools. The latest offering provides critical metrics for software running in multi-cloud environments. Continue Reading

LiveAction buys Savvius to combine packet monitoring and NPM

LiveAction plans to combine its software for network performance management with Savvius' packet monitoring technology to deliver both in a single product. Continue Reading

Apstra adds EVPN configuration to AOS

The newly released version of Apstra AOS includes EVPN configuration. The latest feature in the intent-based OS reduces the manual labor behind network segmentation. Continue Reading

DevOps in networking begins to gain ground

Software development has benefited from a DevOps framework, which brings together software engineers and operating teams to collaborate in a continuous integration/continuous delivery model that helps automate and deploy code faster. DevOps in networking, however, is still an emerging concept. Many networks are still managed and updated using heavily manual processes.

In this issue of Network Evolution, find out how network virtualization and automation are leading enterprises to consider whether they can manage their networks through DevOps methodologies. As more network elements become software-driven, organizations will see a shift to DevOps in networking.

In addition to an emerging DevOps approach, the software-driven network brings with it a slew of new technologies and approaches to understand. From software-defined networking and software-defined WAN to network functions virtualization and virtual network functions, network professionals have to wade through options aimed at changing everything about how networks are built and managed. Read on as we sort out the subtle differences among these technologies.

And as virtualization enhances network design, it also makes the network a more attractive target for hackers. We also look at what security tools and services enterprises are investing in to boost network security in the cloud.

Finally, read how the Broward Center for the Performing Arts is using cloud-based network monitoring to keep its theater in the spotlight.

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Cloud-based network monitoring creates management flexibility

Cloud-based network monitoring offers Broward Center's theater campus more flexible and efficient network management so IT can keep performing arts center stage. Continue Reading

Enterprises use network security in the cloud to combat threats

The market for network security in the cloud is growing as enterprises shift workloads to the cloud to combat potential data breaches and system threats. Continue Reading

DevOps for networking evolves with software

Enterprises have yet to fully integrate a collaborative approach to DevOps for networking, but that's changing as networks become more automated and software-driven. Continue Reading

Growing CDN services market changes to meet cloud needs

Enterprises looking for greater network performance and scalability turn to traditional CDN services providers for nontraditional help to improve security and offer access to APIs. Continue Reading

New Accedian SkyLIGHT PVX has root-cause analytics

Accedian Networks has launched its first product from the Performance Vision acquisition. SkyLIGHT PVX includes network monitoring, plus root-cause analytics and remediation. Continue Reading

Edge computing, cloud data centers drive decentralized IT

This week, bloggers explore the growth of decentralized IT, thanks to edge computing; Infoblox DNS security updates; and how machine learning is becoming a feature, rather than a product. Continue Reading

Big data network analytics: The next big thing

Networking managers are trying to keep track of an ever-increasing number of moving pieces. To do so, they are turning to a new class of big data network analytics that applies machine learning and artificial intelligence to help improve performance of growing networks.

While network professionals can look at various components of their networks and see what's happening on them now, the need to create more meaningful, actionable information is leading to increased demand for more sophisticated big data network analytics. As enterprises continue to use cloud services and advanced networking technologies like software-defined WAN, this need will only grow.

In this issue of Network Evolution, read insights from network professionals who are beginning to apply big data network analytics, machine learning and AI and what enterprises expect from these tools as the industry develops them.

Also in this issue, vendor consolidation in the last several years has wrought changes to what products and services are supported. Traditional networking vendors like Cisco and Juniper have jumped into the software-defined networking space through acquisitions, and several other vendors have merged to streamline products and diversify offerings. Read how the evolving vendor landscape is impacting the way enterprises interact with their suppliers.

In addition, as more workloads are placed in the cloud, enterprises have more options for deploying unified communications. Read best practices and considerations for on-premises or cloud UC or a mix of both to decide which deployment works best.

Finally, read about one organization's mission to improve healthcare through better wireless connectivity in this issue's Subnet.

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Network data analytics must work alongside human ingenuity

Network data analytics offer a key tool in the arsenal of monitoring and understanding network behavior. But network professionals can't forget another crucial element -- themselves. Continue Reading

Network analytics tools deepen with machine learning and AI

Network analytics tools that utilize machine learning and AI can help IT pros with monitoring and performance evaluation, and provide business insight. But a holistic view of the network using analytics is still on the horizon. Continue Reading

Network device monitoring beyond NETCONF

This week, bloggers look at alternative methods in network device monitoring, Europe's GDPR legislation and the integration of low-code platforms within cloud offerings. Continue Reading

Overcoming the hype with advanced network analytics software

Bloggers explore the capabilities of network analytics software, assess the coming impact of GDPR regulations and look into the use of Ethernet VPN with an MPLS data plane in data centers. Continue Reading

How can IT asset management tools aid in virtualization era?

IT asset management tools allow businesses to track resources effectively. Platform organization is increasingly necessary in a virtualized enterprise. Continue Reading

PV buy takes Accedian network monitoring to the enterprise

Carrier supplier Accedian heads to the enterprise market with the acquisition of French company Performance Vision. Accedian network monitoring tools complement PV's NPM software. Continue Reading

Making the most of incident detection and response

This week, bloggers look into incident detection strategies, a new anomaly detection tool from ExtraHop and how Ethernet VPN differs from virtual private LAN service. Continue Reading

Meet network management goals with new tech and techniques

Get up to speed on the new technological advances, improved products and advanced techniques that make enterprise network monitoring and management a bit less daunting. Continue Reading

As 2018 IT budgets rise, network upgrades become priority

A new TechTarget survey reveals network upgrades in 2018 are an amalgam of legacy and emerging technologies, as Wi-Fi fever spikes and network automation efforts grow. Continue Reading

Cisco ETA security integrated into Catalyst, ASR, ISR

Cisco has integrated Encrypted Traffic Analytics into Catalyst switches and ASR and ISR routers. Cisco ETA searches encrypted traffic for malware activity. Continue Reading

Recapping 2017's biggest trends in networking technology

In 2017 trends in networking technology, network management software got more intelligent, switches more versatile and vendor consolidation accelerated. Continue Reading

Barefoot Tofino chip tapped for Deep Insight network monitor

Barefoot Networks has introduced packet-based monitoring software, called Deep Insight. The new product uses data processed on switches powered by the Barefoot Tofino chip. Continue Reading

How to select the best network monitoring tool

Learn the criteria for choosing the best network monitoring tool for your enterprise. Continue Reading

Remediation engine to improve Nyansa Voyance network monitoring

New remediation engine in Nyansa Voyance flags the cause of network troubles and recommends changes to correct it. Other improvements include more syslog data for better analytics. Continue Reading

SNAS open source networking project captures BGP telemetry

This week, bloggers look into the open source networking option SNAS, SIEM for enterprises and automating device configurations. Continue Reading

Nyansa premieres new Voyance network analytics tools

This week, Nyansa premieres new Voyance network analytics tools, espionage takes off as a security threat and the midmarket struggles with cybersecurity. Continue Reading

Cloud visibility goal of Ixia CloudLens software update

Ixia takes aim at cloud visibility with its new CloudLens Public for tracking cloud performance. Continue Reading

Nyansa user experience tools platform garners Network Innovation Award

Nyansa uses a blend of cloud-based analytics, real-time DPI and an easy-to-understand console for its user experience tools platform. Continue Reading

Agent vs. agentless: Monitoring choices for diverse IT ops needs

All management tools must run on a device, but the standards for agent and agentless monitoring vary widely. The determination is easier once you understand monitoring data needs. Continue Reading

Startups launch verification technology to help manage networks

Forward Networks and Veriflow Systems have introduced verification technology to help engineers manage corporate networks. Continue Reading

Amidst complex infrastructures, network visualization is needed

Today's networks are increasingly complex. An overhaul in network visualization is needed to help parse and diagnose modern networks. Continue Reading

Automation key element in network monitoring best practices

The fundamentals underpinning network monitoring might be simple, but it doesn't mean keeping tabs on your network is easy. What can you do to improve your monitoring tool framework? Continue Reading

Infinite options tempt, but cutting proprietary management even better

Are the bad old days of control interface proliferation back again? Patrick Hubbard says it's time for network administrators to put their foot down. Continue Reading

ScienceLogic EM7: Network performance monitor overview

ScienceLogic EM7 is still a newcomer to the network performance monitoring market, but it offers flexible deployment options, including VMs and software-as-a-service installations. Continue Reading

Network refresh: Look at your needs, not the name on the box

In this Q&A, one networking pro shares why he and his team broke from their existing vendors during a network refresh and went with a new roster for their routers and switches. Continue Reading

Dell, Aerohive partner in WLAN infrastructure management

Partners Dell and Aerohive have collaborated on software for managing WLAN infrastructure hardware, including switches and access points. Continue Reading

Nyansa rethinks network performance monitor space

Cloud-based analytics, real-time DPI and an easy-to-digest console anchor Nyansa's network performance monitor for wired and wireless networks. Continue Reading

Managing apps requires holistic, reactive approach

Managing apps' performance must be planned holistically with an eye to reactive management and proactive management. Continue Reading

Cisco targets shadow IT with online cloud security broker

Cisco has launched a cloud security broker that finds, monitors and analyzes employee use of online services. Continue Reading

Making packet editing effective

In this week's blog roundup, networking analysts explore effective packet editing, cite some significant trends in networking and discuss the evolution of BYOD policies. Continue Reading

When to use a packet capture appliance

This week, analysts explore best cases for packet capture appliance use, network automation and "worst practices" in network security. Continue Reading

Time to erase IT friction between InfoSec, NetOps

IT friction between your security and network operations personnel sap productivity. Maybe it's time for everyone to work together. Continue Reading

SDN monitoring means new transitions for engineers

SDN network management means tools are transforming from listening mode to active mode. Continue Reading

Mobile network management applications offer monitoring on the go

As smartphone and tablet devices in the enterprise grow, vendors are developing mobile network management apps for iOS and Android, offering accessible views into the network. Continue Reading

Troubleshooting remote scripting using Network Monitor 3.0 -- Managing Windows networks using script

Learn how to use Network Monitor 3.0 for troubleshooting a remote scripting error in this tip originally published on WindowsNetworking.com. Continue Reading

Reducing costs and generating revenue with network monitoring

Like most IT managers, you have a lot on your plate, and improving network monitoring is only one of the tasks you need to address. This article will discuss business-focused ROI around a network monitoring system (NMS) and enable you to demonstrate to enterprise business and IT leaders why implementing a monitoring solution should rise to the top of your priority list. It will focus on two key ROI factors -- reducing costs and increasing revenue -- as well as some of the metrics in these areas that allow you to better track your return. Continue Reading

Duplex mismatch: Why duplex conflicts plague the network, part 1

Duplex mismatch problems -- caused by two ends of the Ethernet attempting a full-duplex connection, resulting in packet loss -- simply will not go away. After a decade of plaguing IP networks, duplex conflicts still seem to be the single worst source of performance degradation. Trivial to fix but ridiculously hard to identify and localize, mismatches recur frequently, as interfaces go up and down over time and network hosts are updated and changed. In column, Dr. Loki Jorgensen explores why duplex mismatches are difficult to conquer using auto-negotiation. Continue Reading

Reducing false positives in network monitoring

Network managers need to be aware of the importance of choosing the right tool to monitor their system's internal counters. In this tip, Brien Posey narrows in on alert mechanisms for Windows servers and helps you understand how to reduce false positives in network monitoring. Continue Reading

OpenNMS, an introduction: Affordable network management

Open source expert Maria Winslow brings network managers up to speed about the free open source enterprise-grade network-management system OpenNMS. Continue Reading

Multi Router Traffic Grapher (MRTG) - Open Source Network Administration, Chapter 3

The Multi Router Traffic Grapher (MRTG) is an open source tool used to monitor the traffic load on network links. In this chapter James Kretchmar tells us how MRTG produces Web pages containing PNG images, which provide a live visual representation of this traffic. Continue Reading

Best practices for network management in the non-profit world

Discover how the Washington, D.C.-based National Parks Conservation Association developed their network management solution to ensure network uptime and availability. Continue Reading

Guide to network performance management

This guide introduces you to network management best practices and pitfalls to avoid, and provides troubleshooting help and advice for monitoring and maintaining your network for best performance. Continue Reading

Can you please explain the following, common Ethernet errors?

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Since DNS uses UDP instead of TCP, if a packet is lost, there is no automatic recovery?

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How do you interpret a bandwidth utilization graph?

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Can you explain the ICMP ping test?

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Tivoli gets network security updates

New automated capabilities in Tivoli Security Compliance Manager 5.1 and Tivoli Provisioning Manager 2.1 are designed to reduce the damage viruses, worms and other vulnerabilities cause to networks by keeping devices in compliance with security policies and in some cases asking users to create stronger passwords. Continue Reading

Momentum builds for Cisco's NAC program

Cisco said 15 companies will deliver products compatible with its Network Admission Control (NAC) program in the first part of 2005. Continue Reading

What is the difference between symmetric and asymmetric bandwidth?

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Monitor your traffic with MRTG

The Multi Router Traffic Grapher is a free tool that can help you monitor the traffic on your network. Learn more here. Continue Reading

How can I see who is using the most of our Internet bandwidth over our LAN?

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Is it possible to determine the NIC speed of a remote workstation on my LAN?

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How do I evaluate the performance of a LAN setup?

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