Network Security Best Practices and Products
Top Stories
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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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Answer
02 Oct 2020
What does a VPN concentrator do?
As more employees work remotely and VPN use rises, VPN concentrators have become trendy. But what does a VPN concentrator do exactly, and how do you deploy one? Continue Reading
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News
25 Feb 2022
Arista embeds security software in campus switches
Arista Networks will embed network detection and response software in campus switches to provide AI-driven threat detection across the network. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Feb 2022
A review of Zscaler SASE architecture
Zscaler has a strong cloud-native architecture for secure internet access. But it doesn't deliver SD-WAN or converge internet access and WAN security, leaving it with only part of a SASE platform. Continue Reading
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News
24 Feb 2022
Dell, Marvell partner on telco 5G hardware
The combination Dell PowerEdge server and Marvell-powered inline 5G Layer 1 processing card can run carriers' open or virtualized radio access networks. Continue Reading
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Answer
24 Feb 2022
CASB vs. SASE: What's the difference?
A cloud access security broker works within a Secure Access Service Edge architecture. Find out how CASB and SASE work together to improve network security. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Feb 2022
How NetOps differs from traditional network operations
When comparing NetOps and conventional network operations, network teams focus on automating repeatable tasks that correct problems rather than introducing new ones manually. Continue Reading
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News
23 Feb 2022
NetBrain's new tool automates network troubleshooting
NetBrain's Problem Diagnosis Automation System leans on network manager expertise instead of AI to automate troubleshooting and resolve network issues. Continue Reading
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Answer
23 Feb 2022
Load sharing vs. load balancing: What's the difference?
Load sharing and load balancing are two techniques that work to distribute traffic across a network. However, their methods of balancing differ significantly. Here's how. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Feb 2022
Why NetOps is a bridge to AIOps
As IT infrastructure grows more complex, NetOps teams should identify ways to ensure their networks remain operational and perform at peak levels. One option is AIOps. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Feb 2022
5G Advanced features include accurate timing, AI support
5G Advanced is the latest specification of 5G. Some capabilities it can deliver include enhanced massive MIMO, enabling 5G with AI and accurate location positioning. Continue Reading
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News
15 Feb 2022
Juniper acquires zero-trust security startup WiteSand
Juniper has acquired zero-trust security company WiteSand. The startup's cloud-native technology could find a home in Juniper's Mist and SASE platforms. Continue Reading
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News
11 Feb 2022
Research predicts enterprises will skip Wi-Fi 6E entirely
Supply chain issues plaguing Wi-Fi 6E will lead many enterprises to skip the wireless standard and go straight to Wi-Fi 7, according to the Dell'Oro Group. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Feb 2022
7 steps of an SD-WAN implementation
Organizations interested in implementing SD-WAN need to collect site profiles and requirements, analyze their options, perform tests and evaluate the results. Continue Reading
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Answer
10 Feb 2022
Application vs. network load balancing: What's the difference?
Network load balancing and application load balancing both handle traffic requests. But they process and direct those requests with different levels of speed and efficiency. Continue Reading
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News
09 Feb 2022
Palo Alto announces ML-enabled software update and firewalls
Palo Alto's updated PAN-OS software uses machine learning to analyze network traffic in real time, and two firewall appliances provide the processing power to support it. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
07 Feb 2022
Compare smartNIC products and use cases
Not all smartNIC use cases are the same, and not all products offer the same functionality and features. Compare offerings from three of the main smartNIC market segments. Continue Reading
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News
03 Feb 2022
Cisco launches APs, switches to enhance hybrid workplaces
Cisco has launched two Wi-Fi 6E APs and four switches to update campus networks and improve hybrid workplaces. Continue Reading
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News
03 Feb 2022
Juniper Networks launches Secure Edge firewall as a service
Secure Edge, the as-a-service version of Juniper's SRX firewalls, is managed through the Security Director Cloud platform for SASE released last May. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Feb 2022
10 basic network management interview questions and answers
Job interviews should be a two-way conversation. Here are some common network management interview questions for both hiring managers and job applicants. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Feb 2022
What's the status of AI in networking?
The use cases for AI are expanding, but despite the advantages, network pros have yet to implement AI fully. Three analysts explain the status of AI in enterprise networks. Continue Reading
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News
01 Feb 2022
Cato Networks adds CASB to growing SASE portfolio
Cato Networks has added CASB app visibility and enforcement capabilities to its growing SASE portfolio, and plans to add data loss prevention in the coming months. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Jan 2022
Edge, public cloud, security drive network transformation
Networking is starting to reflect innovations in compute and public cloud. A notable change will be how network teams view networking and security as a holistic platform. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Jan 2022
4 key SD-WAN trends to watch in 2022
The challenges of managing networks during a pandemic have prompted many organizations to delay their SD-WAN deployments. These four trends could jump-start an SD-WAN resurgence in 2022. Continue Reading
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News
28 Jan 2022
Cisco adds Webex support to SD-WAN Cloud OnRamp
Cisco's SD-WAN Cloud OnRamp integration with Webex brings the number of supported cloud platforms and SaaS applications to 14. Cisco plans to add automation to Cloud OnRamp next. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Jan 2022
Hybrid work requires enterprise Wi-Fi for the home
Many offices are still closed, and employees continue to work in home environments. Wi-Fi 6 supports this model of work more so than any previous standard of wireless. Continue Reading
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Answer
27 Jan 2022
Pairing SD-WAN, UCaaS together has benefits and challenges
Organizations may combine SD-WAN and UCaaS to gain synergies and avoid multivendor complexities. But the combination of the two technologies can create challenges. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Jan 2022
Integrating zero-trust practices into private 5G networks
One of the first steps in deploying a technology is protecting it from potential security threats. Learn how to secure a private 5G network with zero-trust security practices. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Jan 2022
Intro to encapsulation and decapsulation in networking
Encapsulation adds information to a packet as it travels to its destination. Decapsulation reverses the process by removing the info, so a destination device can read the original data. Continue Reading
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Answer
26 Jan 2022
9 most common network issues and how to solve them
Slow network speeds, weak Wi-Fi signals and damaged cabling are just some of the most common network connection issues that IT departments need to troubleshoot. Continue Reading
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News
25 Jan 2022
Juniper announces routers, line card using new Trio 6 ASIC
Juniper Networks has announced routers and a line card to take advantage of the more scalable, efficient Trio 6 ASIC. It also announced a higher-throughput Express 5 ASIC. Continue Reading
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News
21 Jan 2022
Cisco launches industrial Catalyst switch
The IE9300 uses Cisco's Cyber Vision to improve visibility and security. The latest hardware bolsters Cisco's portfolio of Catalyst hardware for industrial use. Continue Reading
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News
21 Jan 2022
Juniper adds SSR management features to Mist cloud
Network managers can configure, deploy and manage Juniper's Session Smart Routers through the Mist cloud, which monitors the company's SD-WAN on the SSR. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Jan 2022
Will 5G replace Wi-Fi? No, but maybe in some use cases
Geographically remote locations, large public venues and manufacturing sites are a few of the key areas in which business 5G technology could provide real benefits. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Jan 2022
How to implement network segmentation for better security
For a network segmentation strategy to be effective and improve security, network teams need to create detailed security policies, identify each resource and use allowlists. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Jan 2022
What's happening with standalone 5G?
Standalone 5G is the next major update for 5G technology. Learn about the benefits SA 5G will bring and find out when operators will begin deploying it worldwide. Continue Reading
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Answer
13 Jan 2022
Network engineer vs. network administrator: What's the difference?
The difference between a network engineer and network administrator is an engineer is focused on network design, while an administrator is more focused on operations. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jan 2022
Google updates bring Apple-like interoperability to Android
Google will roll out a host of Android OS updates and features throughout 2022 focused on improving interoperability between Android, Windows and Chrome devices. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jan 2022
5 principles of the network change management process
Network change management includes five basic principles, including risk analysis and peer review. These best practices can help network teams limit failed network changes and outages. Continue Reading
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News
05 Jan 2022
Verizon 5G Ultra Wideband to roll out in 46 cities
Verizon plans to roll out its faster 5G Ultra Wideband service to 46 US cities later this month. But contentious negotiations with the FAA threaten the service's timing. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Jan 2022
How IT can provide home Wi-Fi help for remote workers
When assisting home-based workers with their Wi-Fi woes, be sure to assess their internet connectivity and even consider deploying access points to their homes. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Dec 2021
Explore 9 essential elements of network security
Network security isn't a one-size-fits-all strategy. Dive into the various segments of network security, and learn how they overlap and interact with each other. Continue Reading
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Infographic
28 Dec 2021
Review the major networking acquisitions of 2021
When a networking vendor announces plans to acquire another company, most people take notice. Explore which vendors made moves in 2021 and what those purchases mean. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Dec 2021
In 2022, AI network management is all about growing trust
AI network management tools are poised for significant growth in the coming year, but making the most of the tech's capabilities will require trust. Continue Reading
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Answer
22 Dec 2021
What are the different types of network switches?
Some of the different types of network switches include managed, modular, unmanaged and stackable. Find out how different network switches dovetail and differ. Continue Reading
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News
20 Dec 2021
AWS to rearchitect support network following major outage
AWS plans to rearchitect its support system to run across multiple regions to prevent a future hours-long outage. Also, it will release an updated Service Health Dashboard. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Dec 2021
5 trends in enterprise networking that defined 2021
In 2020, enterprises shifted to remote work due to the pandemic. The trend continued in 2021, along with four other networking trends that defined the year and will extend into 2022. Continue Reading
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Opinion
15 Dec 2021
The top 5 networking technology trends for 2022
A yearly check-in on the top networking technology trends reveals more of the same themes, including the ongoing development of SD-WAN, 5G and Wi-Fi 6. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Dec 2021
Choose from 10 CDN service providers to deliver content
Learn how 10 CDN providers measure up when it comes to addressing key considerations, including primary service focus, features, PoPs, a free trial version and pricing information. Continue Reading
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News
10 Dec 2021
Aryaka releases SASE, managed SD-WAN offerings
Aryaka's managed SD-WAN and SASE products for midsize enterprises deliver their services over the company's new L3 private core. Aryaka plans to ship the products next year. Continue Reading
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News
09 Dec 2021
Nasdaq CIO prepares to shift financial markets to the cloud
CIO Brad Peterson said Nasdaq's experience with AWS during the past dozen years has shown that the cloud is ready to run the millisecond transactions of the global markets. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Dec 2021
7 tips for network pros navigating the global chip shortage
With a global chip shortage raging, lead times on switches, routers, firewalls and access points have ballooned. These seven strategies can help network pros weather the crisis. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Dec 2021
Enable automation with a network digital twin
Digital twin technology is a hot topic in IoT systems, but IT teams can also invest in digital twins to improve network visibility, plan for changes and enable automation. Continue Reading
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News
08 Dec 2021
Aruba unveils EdgeConnect Microbranch for home office
IT staff can use the Aruba Central management console to onboard EdgeConnect Microbranch devices, which deliver wireless connectivity, security and traffic management. Continue Reading
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News
06 Dec 2021
AWS launches Cloud WAN to manage global networks
AWS Cloud WAN, which creates a centralized dashboard to manage globally distributed on-premises and cloud-based networks, is available in preview mode. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Dec 2021
DHCP client configuration for Linux, Windows and macOS
Network and system admins can use command-line and GUI tools to configure DHCP clients in Linux, Windows and macOS. Here's a breakdown of which commands to use for each OS. Continue Reading
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Feature
03 Dec 2021
Evaluate must-have CDN features before choosing a product
No two CDN services are identical. Explore the main feature and function areas available in today's content delivery network market to better narrow down your choice of vendors. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Dec 2021
Automation, cloud lead as influential data center trends
Recent data center trends, such as AIOps and automation, have been geared toward simplifying network management. Here are the trends and challenges teams faced over the past year. Continue Reading
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News
01 Dec 2021
AWS to take on Microsoft Azure in private 5G
The AWS Private 5G managed service will compete with Microsoft Azure's private multi-access edge computing system. Unlike Microsoft, the AWS product focuses on an unlicensed spectrum. Continue Reading
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Quiz
01 Dec 2021
9 wireless questions for Cisco's CCT, CCNA exams
Those looking to pass the Cisco CCT and CCNA certification exams will need to understand how wireless networking works. This practice quiz covers the basics of wireless networking. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Dec 2021
Guide on wireless networking concepts for CCT, CCNA exams
Cisco's CCT and CCNA exams include wireless networking questions. Use this excerpt from Glen Clarke's 'CCT/CCNA Routing and Switching All-in-One Exam Guide' as a tool to prepare. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Dec 2021
Learn the basics of wireless networking for exam prep
In this Q&A, author Glen Clarke introduces readers to wireless networking and outlines what CCT and CCNA test-takers should study when prepping for their exams. Continue Reading
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News
01 Dec 2021
Palo Alto Networks and GTT to launch managed SASE platform
GTT Communications and Palo Alto Networks announced they will partner to offer a managed SASE platform using Prisma Access, Palo Alto's cloud-based security function. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Nov 2021
Cable management software enhances documentation, visibility
Even a timeworn networking discipline like cabling can undergo a renaissance. See how cable management software helps organizations visualize network connectivity. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Nov 2021
3 lessons from the 2021 Facebook outage for network pros
Even in hyperscalers like Facebook, one errant finger can take down a network. The takeaway, experts said, is to expect and plan for the worst and put those plans to the test. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Nov 2021
SecOps' need for traffic data drives NetSecOps collaboration
Security teams want to analyze network traffic data to identify anomalies and threats. As a result, network and security teams need to find ways to work together. Continue Reading
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News
19 Nov 2021
Supply chain issues mean backlog, price increases for Cisco
Cisco product orders were up 33% in its most recent fiscal quarter. Supply chain issues, rising prices and historic backlog could threaten that growth's longevity. Continue Reading
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News
18 Nov 2021
Nvidia launches the Quantum-2 InfiniBand platform
The Quantum-2 InfiniBand platform, introduced this week, includes software, a BlueField-3 DPU, a Quantum-2 switch, and a ConnectX-7 network adapter. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Nov 2021
4 trends spurring the evolution of network hardware
Major trends in network hardware highlight enterprise interest in vendor-agnostic options and open models. But legacy designs could stand in the way of adoption. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Nov 2021
University's private cellular network hints to enterprise use
California State University, Stanislaus blanketed its campus in private 4G/5G in a project that shows promise for the future of CBRS networks in the enterprise. Continue Reading
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Answer
16 Nov 2021
Does Wi-Fi 6 have better range than previous wireless standards?
Yes, Wi-Fi 6 provides better wireless range. But it's not because of higher power output. The key is certain Wi-Fi 6 features can improve data rates at a given range. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Nov 2021
Ford, Mercedes-Benz optimize 5G-enabled smart factories
Smart factories are typically powered by technologies like AI or IoT systems. Now, companies like Ford, John Deere and Mercedes-Benz are using 5G to innovate smart factories. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Nov 2021
How zero-trust SDP can work with a VPN for remote work
Implementing software-defined perimeter and zero-trust security models with a corporate VPN adds significant layers of user and device verification and authentication. Continue Reading
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News
11 Nov 2021
AT&T launches a managed SASE offering with Cisco
AT&T aims its latest managed SASE service at enterprises using Cisco hardware. The offering's features range from firewall and secure web gateway functionality to DNS layer security. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Nov 2021
4 ideas for network cable management best practices
When organizing cable clutter, network engineers should follow some common best practices, including the use of cable labels, cable ties and proper documentation. Continue Reading
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News
10 Nov 2021
Cisco ThousandEyes gets SaaS application monitoring
The new service creates a global map of SaaS delays, interruptions and outages to help IT staff troubleshoot and record problems that violate service-level agreements. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Nov 2021
What are the top CDN benefits for today's enterprise?
Delivering timely, high-quality content is more critical than ever, and CDN services bring that and a myriad of other benefits to the modern enterprise. Continue Reading
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Answer
10 Nov 2021
Fog computing vs. edge computing: What's the difference?
Fog computing vs. edge computing -- while many IT professionals use the terms synonymously, others make subtle but important distinctions between them. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Nov 2021
Midband 5G spectrum auctions come to the fore
Midband has become the premier spectrum for 5G use. The FCC's 3.45 GHz auction began in October, following the massive C-band sell-off that ended in January 2021. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Nov 2021
A guide to Windows DHCP server configuration
The main steps to configure DHCP on Windows Server are installation, Active Directory authorization, creating a scope and DNS registration. Learn about other tasks and best practices. Continue Reading
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News
04 Nov 2021
Aruba launches more powerful Instant On switches
Aruba is launching the 1960 series, the latest addition to its small business-optimized Instant On portfolio. The new switch offers more bandwidth and scalability. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Nov 2021
Evaluate the components of Cisco SASE
Cisco's SASE platform, Umbrella, has all the components of a SASE architecture, but it has a lot of integration complexity and a reliance on appliances. Continue Reading
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Answer
04 Nov 2021
What are the 6 components of structured cabling?
The six components of structured cabling are Entrance Facilities, Equipment Room, Backbone Cabling, Telecommunications Room, Horizontal Cabling and Work Area. Continue Reading
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News
02 Nov 2021
Juniper Networks secures IoT management
Juniper Networks' latest Mist AI-enabled product uses private pre-shared keys to secure IOT devices and unify their management. Juniper also launched two 6 GHz access points. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Nov 2021
FedEx, S&P Global discuss cloud edge use cases
A cloud edge strategy moves resources and data closer to where users need them, supporting use cases like robotics, IoT and autonomous processing. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Oct 2021
Pandemic sparks interest in Wi-Fi 6 adoption
As a result of the pandemic, a new hybrid work environment has emerged, and enterprises are looking to adopt new technologies -- Wi-Fi 6 included -- to manage it. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Oct 2021
Use network standardization to facilitate automation
Network teams can automate and standardize network designs to improve configurations, simplify operations and more easily implement changes within their networks. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Oct 2021
Get up to speed with enhanced content delivery networks
With enhanced features and new delivery options, CDNs are poised to make greater inroads with enterprises to improve UX across the board. Continue Reading
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News
28 Oct 2021
Cisco's newest Silicon One chip steps up routing performance
The P100 ASIC delivers a high performance-to-power ratio for web-scale data centers. It's the 11th chip in the Silicon One family. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Oct 2021
What digital experience monitoring means for network teams
Digital experience monitoring integrates several monitoring tools to provide a comprehensive view into the performance of endpoints, applications and the network. Continue Reading
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Answer
25 Oct 2021
Network redundancy vs. resiliency: What's the difference?
The difference between network redundancy and resiliency is redundancy duplicates network devices while resiliency is the self-recovery of system failures. Continue Reading
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News
22 Oct 2021
Gartner predicts IT spending to reach $4.5 trillion in 2022
Corporate boards will prioritize their digital tech initiatives, as fully remote work gives way to a thoughtful hybrid work model that places IT at the core of business operations. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Oct 2021
A quick guide to BGP best practices
The use of Border Gateway Protocol is prevalent among ISPs and enterprises. While BGP best practices change for specific use cases, some recommendations are helpful in all scenarios. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
21 Oct 2021
What are the different types of network cables?
The main types of network cables are coax, fiber optics, and shielded and unshielded twisted pair. As enterprises deploy new technologies, it's critical to select the right cables. Continue Reading
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News
20 Oct 2021
Aruba introduces the distributed data center switch
Aruba's CX distributed switch, available in January, provides security through the embedded Pensando ASICs. Services powered by the chips include load balancing and a firewall. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Oct 2021
Static IP vs. dynamic IP addresses: What's the difference?
Static IP addresses are typically used for servers, routers and switches. Dynamic IP addresses, however, are commonly used for workstations, phones and tablets. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Oct 2021
4 categories of network monitoring
Network teams should routinely monitor the states of their networks. The type of network monitoring strategy used depends on the needs of the organization. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Oct 2021
6 Wi-Fi design best practices for enterprise networks
Designing Wi-Fi networks doesn't need to be overly complicated. Site surveys and walks around the environment are simple steps teams can take to assess coverage requirements. Continue Reading
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Answer
08 Oct 2021
The status of 5G rollouts in 2021 and 2022
Major U.S. mobile operators -- AT&T, Dish, T-Mobile and Verizon -- are focused on deploying 5G through 2022. Learn about each provider's timeline. Continue Reading
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News
05 Oct 2021
VMware Edge brings consistency with cloud, data center
VMware's latest edge product portfolio is consistent with the infrastructure the company provides for the cloud and the enterprise data center. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 Oct 2021
What's the difference between internet and Ethernet?
Internet and Ethernet are two technologies that sound similar and provide connectivity, but the methods of providing connectivity differ significantly. Continue Reading
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Answer
04 Oct 2021
Remote access vs. site-to-site VPN: What's the difference?
A remote access VPN connects remote users from any location to a corporate network. A site-to-site VPN, meanwhile, connects individual networks to each other. Continue Reading