Network management and monitoring
Network management and monitoring are vital components of modern IT operations that help businesses run effectively and efficiently. Network observability also provides added visibility into the end-user experience. Find out how innovations such as AI, machine learning, network analytics and network automation are shaping the future of network management and monitoring.
Top Stories
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Video
18 Jul 2025
A brief explanation of latency
Latency measures data transmission delays between points. Causes include physical distance and hardware issues, while solutions might involve hardware upgrades or edge computing. Continue Reading
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Answer
16 Jul 2025
Why does DHCP use ports 67 and 68?
DHCP servers use port 67/udp to receive requests and send responses, while DHCP clients use port 68/udp to broadcast discovery messages and receive configuration data. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Jul 2025
What is network bandwidth and how is it measured?
Network bandwidth is a measurement indicating the maximum capacity of a wired or wireless communications link to transmit data over a network connection in a given time. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Jul 2025
How platform-based networking enables network management
Platform-based networking tweaks the platformization model to become a comprehensive tool set for network administrators. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Jul 2025
What is a network management system?
A network management system (NMS) is an application or set of applications that enable network engineers to manage a network's independent components inside a larger network management framework and perform several key functions. Continue Reading
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News
07 Jul 2025
3 questions with Cisco channel exec Rodney Clark
For this episode of CFTV, we caught up with Cisco channel exec Rodney Clark at Cisco Live. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Jul 2025
What is network as a service (NaaS)?
Network as a service (NaaS) is a cloud model for delivering various network services virtually on a subscription basis. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Jul 2025
What is a bogon?
A bogon is an illegitimate Internet Protocol address that falls into a set of IP addresses that haven't been officially assigned to an entity by an internet registration institute, such as the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA). Continue Reading
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News
01 Jul 2025
HPE's Mottram touts key Aruba Networking AI advancements
The infrastructure company is injecting AI throughout its business, including its networking arm, which will harness the power of agentic AI. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Jun 2025
How to configure multiple DHCP scopes on one Windows server
Deploying one DHCP server per subnet is time-consuming and costly. Configure multiple DHCP scopes on one Windows server to centralize network management and increase efficiency. Continue Reading
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Opinion
24 Jun 2025
Cisco Live 2025 set the tone for AI, security in networking
The networking giant's latest products underscore the importance of agentic AI and security within computing infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Answer
13 Jun 2025
The benefits and challenges of AI in network monitoring
Using AI to track network activity streamlines management and predictive maintenance. But questions about data output integrity, security risks and integration complexities remain. Continue Reading
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News
12 Jun 2025
AI technologies are only as good as their managers
ESG's Jim Frey joins the podcast to discuss why developing the right tools to provide oversight and coordination across agentic and GenAI technologies will be key to network planning and performance. Continue Reading
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News
12 Jun 2025
Splunk partner program to integrate with Cisco 360
Splunk's channel leader says partners can expect more opportunity than disruption as they become part of the new Cisco 360 partner program. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
12 Jun 2025
An introduction to network automation with Ansible
Ansible gives administrators additional control over how they configure devices. These tips and tricks help give you a head start in learning what Ansible can do. Continue Reading
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News
11 Jun 2025
Cisco Isovalent Load Balancer takes aim at Broadcom's VMware
The new product promises to simplify disparate network traffic across cloud, hybrid and on-premises workloads. Continue Reading
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News
11 Jun 2025
Cisco Live offers biggest innovation 'payload' ever
The AI era is more reliant on the network than anything else, said CEO Chuck Robbins at Cisco Live. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jun 2025
How an edge networking strategy optimizes AI workloads
Edge networking prioritizes managing data at the network edge. This network architecture reduces latency, enhances operational efficiency and enables real-time AI processing. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jun 2025
Cisco unleashes agentic AI, global partnerships for data center
The networking company launched new tools to meet the AI needs of enterprise customers in the data center. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jun 2025
Cisco beefs up AI, security in new networking products
The networking giant released a slew of products leveraging the capabilities of last year's Splunk acquisition and touting a focus on AI adoption support. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Jun 2025
The demands of AI on network as a service
An expert panel at ONUG's AI Networking Summit Spring 2025 gave insight into the future of AI in networking, particularly in NaaS environments. Continue Reading
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Opinion
04 Jun 2025
Agentic AI for networking: Catalyst or distraction?
Though many networking platforms claim to be agentic, few truly are. Here's how to determine whether a platform is agentic and what this AI wave means for IT. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Jun 2025
Overview of the AI maturity model in networking
A network maturity model outlines the path from manual to automated operations. As organizations move to AI-ready networks, adoption and AI capabilities remain in early stages. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
02 Jun 2025
How to create a network monitoring system
Most organizations buy network monitoring systems from vendors, but those that choose to build in-house must follow a detailed set of steps to ensure a comprehensive platform. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 May 2025
What is a rogue DHCP server?
Rogue DHCP servers can throw DHCP infrastructures out of balance. These servers cause numerous network problems but are easy to detect and remove with proper network management. Continue Reading
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Opinion
19 May 2025
How AIOps enables next-generation networking
As networks grow more complex, management becomes more difficult. AIOps can help network administrators transition to and manage next-generation networks. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 May 2025
BGP routing: A configuration and troubleshooting tutorial
BGP is the internet's core routing protocol, enabling communication between ISPs and large networks. This guide covers its functionality, configuration and troubleshooting essentials. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 May 2025
What is ping and how does it work?
Ping (Packet Internet Groper) is a basic internet program that enables a user to test and verify if a particular destination Internet Protocol (IP) address is reachable and can respond to network requests. Continue Reading
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News
13 May 2025
Customer experience and hybrid work highlights Webex news at Cisco Live
Cisco unveils a strong set of AI-powered features for Webex Contact Center and Webex Meetings. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 May 2025
12 remote access security risks and how to prevent them
Enterprises face myriad remote access security concerns, but training and clear communication can help bolster security programs for the long term. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Apr 2025
How to use Cilium Hubble for network observability
Cilium's Hubble tool provides network observability while working in Kubernetes. This guide explains how Hubble works and how to set it up in a Kubernetes cluster. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Apr 2025
What is streaming network telemetry?
Streaming network telemetry is a real-time data collection service in which network devices, such as routers, switches and firewalls, continuously push data related to the network's health to a centralized location. Continue Reading
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News
29 Apr 2025
HPE Aruba deepens network security and OpsRamp visibility
A new 'digital circuit breaker' capability for HPE Private Clouds, increased visibility of third-party hardware with OpsRamp and new SASE capabilities arrive for HPE Aruba. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Apr 2025
What is network availability?
Network availability is how long a network system is in uptime over a specific time interval. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Apr 2025
What is NFV MANO (network functions virtualization management and orchestration)?
NFV MANO (network functions virtualization management and orchestration), or just MANO, is an architectural framework used to manage and orchestrate virtual network functions (VNFs) and other software components. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Apr 2025
What is traffic shaping (packet shaping)?
Traffic shaping, also known as packet shaping, is a congestion management method that regulates network data transfer by delaying the flow of less important or less desired packets. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Apr 2025
What is open networking?
Open networking describes a network that uses open standards and commodity hardware. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Apr 2025
What is troubleshooting and why is it important?
Troubleshooting is a systematic approach to problem-solving often used to find and correct issues with complex machines, electronics, computers and software systems. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Apr 2025
How to set up a VLAN for enterprise networks
Network administrators configure VLANs to enhance network security and performance. Learn how to set up a VLAN, from configuration steps and best practices to troubleshooting tips. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Apr 2025
What is synthetic monitoring?
Synthetic monitoring is a proactive monitoring approach that uses scripted simulations of user interactions to assess the performance and availability of websites, applications and services. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Mar 2025
What is a programmable network (network programmability)?
A programmable network is one in which software that operates independently of network hardware handles the behavior of network devices and flow control. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Mar 2025
How multi-cloud networking can ensure reliability
Networking services enhance multi-cloud network reliability by reducing configuration errors, adding redundancy and ensuring seamless connectivity across cloud environments. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Mar 2025
12 network automation ideas to implement in your network
What's your path to network automation? Here are 12 automation ideas that span different levels of expertise to help network teams get comfortable with network automation. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Mar 2025
How to ensure network performance and reliability
Network reliability is critical to network performance. Network administrators should follow reliability best practices to understand how to build and maintain reliable networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Mar 2025
What is network topology?
A network topology is the physical and logical arrangement of nodes and connections in a network. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Mar 2025
How to avoid duplicate IP addresses in a network
Duplicate IP addresses can cause serious network issues. Learn how to avoid duplicate IP addresses with effective IP tracking, DHCP management and network mapping techniques. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Mar 2025
What are managed network services?
Managed network services are networking applications, functions and services that a managed service provider (MSP) remotely operates, monitors and maintains for an enterprise. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Mar 2025
8 IT process automation platforms to explore in 2025
Selecting an IT process automation platform requires organizations to evaluate processes, skill level and integration issues. These popular products are good options. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Mar 2025
What is Telnet?
Telnet is a network protocol used to remotely access a computer for a text-based communication channel between two machines. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Mar 2025
What is promiscuous mode in networking?
In computer networking, promiscuous mode is a mode of operation in which a network device, such as a network interface card (NIC) or an adapter on a host system, can intercept and read in its entirety each network packet that arrives instead of just the packets addressed to the host. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Mar 2025
How to troubleshoot common routing errors
It's important to troubleshoot routing errors to minimize network disruptions. Common errors rooted in BGP and OSPF include misconfigurations and various unmet neighbor requirements. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Mar 2025
What is east-west traffic?
East-west traffic refers to the transfer of data packets that move from server to server within a network's data center. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Feb 2025
What is FCAPS (fault, configuration, accounting, performance and security)?
FCAPS (fault, configuration, accounting, performance and security) is a network management framework and model created by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Feb 2025
4 phases to build a network automation architecture
The implementation of a network automation architecture involves several elements, including a core orchestration engine, assorted databases and proper network testing. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Feb 2025
15 common network protocols and their functions explained
Networking makes the internet work, but it needs several key protocols. These common network protocols make communication and connection across the internet possible. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Feb 2025
What is network analytics?
Network analytics is the application of big data principles and tools to the data used to manage and secure data networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Feb 2025
What is network visibility?
Network visibility is an awareness of the components and data within an enterprise computer network. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Feb 2025
What is TLS (Transport Layer Security)? Definition & Uses
Transport Layer Security (TLS) is an Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) standard protocol that provides authentication, privacy and data integrity between two communicating computer applications. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
20 Feb 2025
Zero-trust strategies leave networks open to lateral threats
Zero trust assumes a network is already compromised. However, new EMA research shows enterprises are more concerned with securing remote access than internal lateral threats. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Feb 2025
What is Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP)?
Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) is an application-layer protocol for monitoring and managing network devices on a local area network or wide area network. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
19 Feb 2025
How to troubleshoot IP settings with Windows ipconfig
Ipconfig is a vital tool for network troubleshooting. It displays key network information to help administrators diagnose and fix connectivity issues efficiently. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Feb 2025
What is network configuration management (NCM)?
Network configuration management (NCM) is the process of organizing and maintaining information about all the components in a computer network. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Jan 2025
How to troubleshoot DHCP issues
DHCP server troubleshooting steps vary depending on the DHCP error. Some of the most common errors include DHCP server failure, lack of available IP addresses and network failures. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Jan 2025
What is network monitoring?
Network monitoring, also frequently called network management, is the practice of consistently overseeing a computer network for any failures or deficiencies to ensure continued network performance. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Jan 2025
What is network automation?
Network automation is a process that uses intelligent software to automate the management, configuration, deployment, testing and operation of both physical and virtual devices. Continue Reading
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Answer
24 Jan 2025
Cloud networking vs. cloud computing: What's the difference?
Businesses might see cloud computing and cloud networking as interchangeable due to similarities, but the two strategies dictate different processes and fulfill different goals. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jan 2025
Evaluate 7 cloud monitoring tools for networks
Organizations use cloud monitoring tools to manage on-premises, hybrid and cloud networks. Discover the features of seven cloud monitoring tools that can enhance performance. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jan 2025
The steps and benefits of DNS service audits
Network administrators should perform DNS audits periodically and after major network changes. Routine checks can help teams to plan for future upgrades. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jan 2025
How to configure networks using CI/CD pipelines
The CLI is the common tool for many network engineers who manage network devices. But DevOps is changing the landscape, and network pros should understand network CI/CD deployment. Continue Reading
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Opinion
09 Jan 2025
5 resolutions for enterprise networking in 2025
Had your fill of “best-of” and “top ten” 2024 lists? Instead of looking back or predicting the future, blend what you know with what to prioritize going forward. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Jan 2025
The role of container networking in DevOps
Containerization isn't just for DevOps teams. Network engineers often set up container networks, ensure connectivity between containers and work with container networking tools. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Jan 2025
What is network management?
Network management is a multifaceted discipline that provides network administrators with the tools, protocols and processes to maintain and optimize network operations. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Dec 2024
What is network downtime?
Network downtime refers to inaccessibility to part or all of a network due to the failure of hardware, software or some combination of both. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Dec 2024
Compare 7 network automation tools and their capabilities
Network automation tools automate repetitive tasks, provision devices and manage configurations. Evaluate seven tools to discover the benefits each option provides for efficiency. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Dec 2024
Free network disaster recovery plan template and guide
Proper network disaster recovery planning can mean the difference between a brief disruption and extensive downtime. Download our free template to get started building a plan. Continue Reading
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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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Answer
09 Dec 2024
What are the 5 types of network management?
Despite the changes in how organizations optimize network performance, the five foundational elements of network management -- also known as FCAPS -- remain the same. 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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Tip
03 Dec 2024
How to monitor network traffic in 7 steps
Effective network monitoring is an ongoing process that requires the right tool set to gain visibility into infrastructure service quality. These steps can help network teams fine-tune network monitoring strategies. Continue Reading
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News
03 Dec 2024
Arista simplifies switching to its campus network
Arista says companies can switch to its campus network while holding on to legacy stacked switches. Continue Reading
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Answer
22 Nov 2024
How to test packet loss on Windows, macOS and Linux
Network admins should know how to identify and test for packet loss. Diagnosing this issue doesn't require specialized tools or expensive software, but these four tools can help. Continue Reading
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Answer
21 Nov 2024
Compare network management vs. network monitoring
Network monitoring is a vital part of network management. Both are essential to help network operations teams streamline operations and address potential issues. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Nov 2024
What is Cisco Performance Routing (PfR)?
Cisco Performance Routing (PfR) is a way of sending network packets based on intelligent path control. Continue Reading
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Answer
18 Nov 2024
Network security management challenges and best practices
A comprehensive and scalable network security management plan is more important than ever in the face of ever-rising threats and attacks orchestrated by bad actors. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Nov 2024
What is acceptable use policy (AUP)?
An acceptable use policy (AUP) is a document stipulating constraints and practices that a user must agree to for access to or use of a corporate network, the internet or other computing resources. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Nov 2024
5 principles of change management in networking
Network change management includes five principles, including risk analysis and peer review. These best practices can help network teams reduce failed network changes and outages. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Nov 2024
AI skills for network professionals
Networking professionals must develop basic networking skills and AI to thrive in a complex landscape. Learn how AI's integration into network management will change the field. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Nov 2024
Top 6 network monitoring best practices
Benchmark metrics, customizable dashboards and automation are all best practices in network monitoring. Network admins can use them to optimize performance and minimize threats. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Nov 2024
How AI in the NOC will transform network operations
AI can improve network operations through automation and troubleshooting. Experts at ONUG emphasized phased adoption and methods that enhance NOC monitoring and support. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Nov 2024
4 ways to improve the network monitoring experience
The network transition from data centers to hybrid and multi-cloud environments makes the network delivery path difficult to find. Here are four ways to make that process easier. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Oct 2024
Is cloud-based network management right for your business?
Many enterprises use on-premises network management, but some are transitioning to cloud-based management. Enterprises should evaluate both options before deciding which to use. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Oct 2024
Logical vs. physical topology: What's the difference?
A complete network topology is a network map that provides a look into the network's hardware components and data flow using physical and logical topologies. Continue Reading
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Answer
24 Oct 2024
9 common network issues and how to fix 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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Answer
21 Oct 2024
Telemetry vs. SNMP: Which is better for network management?
Now that networks have become more complex, network management has become a challenge of its own. Enterprises can compare telemetry vs. SNMP to see which better suits their needs. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Oct 2024
Basic network management interview questions and answers
Job interviews should be a two-way conversation. Hiring managers and job applicants should review common network management interview questions before an interview. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Oct 2024
A guide to network lifecycle management
Network pros should use a network lifecycle management process to monitor, manage and implement changes in their network, regardless of if they use PPIDOO or another framework. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Oct 2024
Overview of network management tasks and best practices
Network management encompasses a range of tasks and processes. Explore 10 crucial tasks and accompanying best practices to ensure a resilient and functional network. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Oct 2024
The benefits of network asset management software
Network asset management software helps network teams keep track of network devices and software to ensure timely upgrades, accurate inventory and updated documentation. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Sep 2024
The role of network sandboxing and testing
Network sandboxing provides network teams with a risk-free environment to test changes and run potential threat scenarios. This helps prevent outages and other unexpected issues. Continue Reading
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News
27 Sep 2024
HPE Aruba, Arista update network management consoles
Arista highlights its consolidation of network management tools within CloudVision, while HPE extends Aruba Central to include Cisco and other third-party network devices. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Sep 2024
How to tackle network automation challenges and risks
Automation makes networks more efficient, but engineers must first mitigate the risks. With planning and training, enterprises can take advantage of automation's capabilities. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Sep 2024
What is ICMP (Internet Control Message Protocol)?
ICMP (Internet Control Message Protocol) is a network layer error-reporting protocol that's used to communicate data transmission problems. Continue Reading