WAN technologies and services
Wide area networks enable companies to access and share corporate resources among distributed sites. Discover more about WAN technologies and service options -- such as SD-WAN, edge computing, network as a service (NaaS) and software-defined branch (SD-branch) -- and how organizations use them to meet business requirements.
Top Stories
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Feature
30 Jun 2025
3 pillars to enhance networks for agentic AI infrastructure
Agentic AI requires better network infrastructure to prevent wasted GPU capacity, built on three principles: simplified operations, scalable devices and a security-infused fabric. Continue Reading
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Conference Coverage
30 Jun 2025
Cisco Live 2025 conference coverage and analysis
Cisco Live 2025 largely focused on the need to modernize infrastructure with AI capabilities. Use this guide to get all the conference news and analysis from this year. 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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Definition
30 Apr 2025
What is data center interconnect (DCI)?
Data center interconnect (DCI) technology links two or more data centers so they can share resources. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Apr 2025
A look at low Earth orbit use cases
LEO offers an alternative to traditional connectivity, especially in remote or underserved areas. While it has some limitations, it's quickly becoming an option in enterprise WAN. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Apr 2025
What is Border Gateway Protocol (BGP)?
BGP (Border Gateway Protocol) is the protocol that enables the internet's global routing system. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Feb 2025
What is modulation?
Modulation is the process of converting data into radio waves by adding information to an electronic or optical carrier signal. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Feb 2025
What's the difference between internet and Ethernet?
Internet and Ethernet both enable connectivity and communication, but they differ in scope, purpose, reliability and medium. Use this guide to learn about the concepts. 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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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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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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Definition
26 Sep 2024
What is TCP/IP?
TCP/IP stands for Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol and is a suite of communication protocols used to interconnect network devices on the internet. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Aug 2024
Best practices for Cisco pyATS test scripts
Test scripts are the heart of any job in pyATS. Best practices for test scripts include proper structure, API integration and the use of Python libraries to enhance testing. Continue Reading
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News
27 Aug 2024
VMware VeloCloud SD-WAN gets satellite support
Satellite connectivity lets Broadcom offer the VeloCloud SD-WAN as an option for linking IoT devices to the global network from environments without reliable internet access. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Aug 2024
What is virtual reality? How it's used and how it will evolve
Virtual reality, or VR, is a simulated three-dimensional (3D) environment that lets users explore and interact with a virtual surrounding in a way that approximates reality, as it's perceived through the users' senses. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Jul 2024
9 types of networks and their use cases
Networks differ based on size, connectivity, coverage and design. This guide explores the most common types of networks, their benefits and use cases. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Jul 2024
Broadband equity initiatives bridge digital divide in K-12
Federally funded broadband programs support infrastructure upgrades to underserved communities, which address the digital divide in K-12 education. Continue Reading
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Answer
11 Jul 2024
CASB vs. SASE: What's the difference?
CASB and SASE enhance network and SaaS application security. CASB acts as a security layer for cloud services, while SASE integrates networking and security into one framework. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jun 2024
ARP vs. RARP: What's the difference?
Network devices use ARP to map IP addresses to MAC addresses. RARP, which is less common, accomplishes the reverse and enables network devices to map MAC addresses to IP addresses. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Jun 2024
How an improved network experience enhances business
At Cisco Live 2024, leaders discussed how AI can support business objectives. Companies like CSL Behring and Room & Board improved their network experience with ThousandEyes. Continue Reading
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Feature
03 Jun 2024
Subnet use cases and considerations for network performance
Network administrators create subnets to split networks and optimize performance. Other reasons for subnetting include traffic management, cloud optimization and security. Continue Reading
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Answer
13 May 2024
SD-WAN vs. load balancing: How are they different?
Load balancing is beneficial for network traffic distribution. SD-WAN can use load balancing for WAN connections, but it doesn't require load balancing to reap other benefits. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 May 2024
SD-WAN security
SD-WAN security refers to the practices, protocols and technologies protecting data and resources transmitted across software-defined wide area network infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Apr 2024
SASE reality check: What should organizations expect?
Enterprises interested in SASE must grapple with challenges and misinformation about the tool. Businesses should discern SASE's true benefits before adoption. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Apr 2024
How SD-WAN for home offices supports remote work
The market maturation of SD-WAN is leading companies to consider extending the technology to remote workers. Companies should ask three important questions before taking that step. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Apr 2024
SASE vs. SD-WAN: What's the difference?
SASE and SD-WAN are two similar architectures administrators use to provide secure network access, but they differ in terms of deployment, security, connectivity and more. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Mar 2024
VPNs persist amid the rise of ZTNA, other VPN alternatives
VPN use continues despite its outdated status in the networking industry. But usage has declined as enterprises make room for remote access alternatives, like ZTNA, SASE and more. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Feb 2024
4 key SD-WAN trends to watch
Managed services, secure remote access, AI applications and 5G wireless network connectivity are four important trends that should propel the SD-WAN market. Continue Reading
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News
18 Jan 2024
Equinix Fabric adds multi-cloud routing
Equinix markets its Fabric Cloud Router as a monthly subscription service that organizations can access and configure quickly. It includes an SLA for 99.999% uptime. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Jan 2024
tunneling or port forwarding
Tunneling or port forwarding is the transmission of data intended for use only within a private -- usually corporate -- network through a public network in such a way that the public network's routing nodes are unaware that the transmission is part of a private network. Continue Reading
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Answer
22 Nov 2023
SASE vs. NaaS: What's the difference?
SASE and NaaS are network models with different goals. SASE combines SD-WAN with cloud-based security, while NaaS lets businesses outsource network management via a subscription model. Continue Reading
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Answer
14 Nov 2023
The status of the US 5G fixed wireless access market
FWA's ability to deliver high-speed connectivity to rural areas has high revenue potential and has prompted U.S. MNOs AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile to expand national deployment. Continue Reading
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Answer
09 Nov 2023
What are licensed and unlicensed wireless frequency bands?
Licensed frequency bands are reliable and offer better performance than unlicensed frequency bands, which are low cost and easy to deploy but interference is common. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Oct 2023
Private 5G, NaaS, automation among top networking trends
Presentations at ONUG Fall 2023 focused on private 5G, network as a service and network automation, which have all become more important as network complexity intensifies. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Oct 2023
Macrocell vs. small cell vs. femtocell: A 5G introduction
Small cells provide fast connectivity speeds for 5G networks and capable devices, but 5G won't stop there. Macrocells and femtocells are also key to connect 5G networks. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Sep 2023
How low Earth orbit satellite networks improve internet access
Compared to traditional satellite setups, LEO satellite internet provides several benefits, such as low latency, reduced costs and better support for remote sites. Continue Reading
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News
22 Aug 2023
VMware revamps cloud software for edge management
VMware's new Edge Cloud Orchestrator, formerly VMware SASE Orchestrator, manages VMware's edge compute and SD-WAN systems. Carmaker Audi plans to use the product in its factories. Continue Reading
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News
14 Aug 2023
Cisco acquisitions target mostly ThousandEyes, Cloud Security
Cisco has made nine acquisitions this year, with all but two focused on improving internet monitor ThousandEyes as well as security manager and policy administrator Security Cloud. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Aug 2023
smart home
A smart home is a residence that uses internet-connected devices to enable the remote monitoring and management of appliances and systems, such as lighting and heating. Continue Reading
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News
30 Jun 2023
Prosimo offers free multi-cloud connectivity
The new MCN Foundation can find and connect to public clouds and provide visibility. The company's full-stack product powers the limited free version. Continue Reading
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News
22 Jun 2023
Cisco acquires Accedian for Network Assurance portfolio
Cisco expects Accedian to bolster its Network Assurance portfolio for service providers. The product line provides network troubleshooting, root-cause analysis, and remediation. Continue Reading
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News
06 Jun 2023
Cisco releases plans for Networking Cloud
Cisco's introduction of Networking Cloud lacked technical details and delivery dates for the high-level console for accessing all the company's network management platforms. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 May 2023
MLB simplifies operations with network automation platform
Network automation enables Major League Baseball to monitor its networks across dozens of stadiums and locations, automate mundane tasks, schedule upgrades and more. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 May 2023
LA County Registrar's network extends voting accessibility
LA County Registrar's modernized network uses technologies such as 5G, SD-WAN and AI in voting centers across the county to make voting more accessible to constituents. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
01 May 2023
The creeping threat and challenges of multivendor SD-WAN
Geographic considerations are often a key reason why organizations adopt multivendor SD-WAN. But these network environments have significant disadvantages. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Apr 2023
fax
A fax -- short for 'facsimile' and sometimes called 'telecopying' -- is the telephonic transmission of scanned-in printed material, including text or images. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Apr 2023
6 steps for rapid geographic network segmentation
When segmenting network operations in certain parts of the world, modular network design and geographic domain definition are two vital elements to consider. Continue Reading
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Answer
19 Apr 2023
In WAN evolution, is software-defined now implied?
Networking trends and innovations, such as automation and network as a service, have started to ingrain software-defined principles into WAN environments. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Apr 2023
SD-WAN and MPLS costs more complementary than clashing
An SD-WAN vs. MPLS cost comparison is not always an either-or decision. Organizations often implement both technologies to enhance network traffic performance. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Apr 2023
SD-WAN vs. VPN: How do they compare?
When comparing SD-WAN and VPN, enterprises choosing between the two technologies should consider factors like cost, management and routing intelligence. Continue Reading
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Feature
03 Apr 2023
A deep dive into SD-WAN troubleshooting and monitoring
Whether in the throes of SD-WAN issues or preparing for the future, network teams should have practical steps to follow when troubleshooting SD-WAN environments. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Mar 2023
network service provider (NSP)
A network service provider (NSP) is a company that owns, operates and sells access to internet backbone infrastructure and services. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Mar 2023
WAN optimization (WAN acceleration)
WAN optimization -- also known as WAN acceleration -- is a collection of technologies and techniques used to improve the efficiency of data transfer across a wide area network (WAN) between organizations' centralized data centers and their remote locations. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Mar 2023
voice over LTE (VoLTE)
Voice over LTE (VoLTE) is a digital packet technology that uses 4G LTE networks to route voice traffic and transmit data. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Mar 2023
WAN (wide area network)
A wide area network (WAN) is a geographically distributed private telecommunications network that interconnects multiple local area networks (LANs). Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Mar 2023
Top 9 SD-WAN benefits for businesses
Make the case for an SD-WAN implementation, and explore the benefits and main use cases for SD-WAN in enterprises, beyond traditional hybrid WANs. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Mar 2023
LTE (Long-Term Evolution)
LTE (Long-Term Evolution) is a fourth-generation (4G) wireless standard that provides increased network capacity and speed for cellphones and other cellular devices compared with third-generation (3G) technology. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Mar 2023
SD-branch
SD-branch is a single, automated, centrally managed software-centric platform that replaces or supplements an existing branch network architecture. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Mar 2023
URN (Uniform Resource Name)
A URN (Uniform Resource Name) is a permanent identifier for internet resources that employs the urn scheme. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Mar 2023
SD-WAN comparison chart: 10 vendors to assess
This SD-WAN vendor comparison chart is a useful starting point to evaluate information about deployment options, pricing, security, cloud connectivity and more. Continue Reading
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News
15 Feb 2023
Cisco Viptela SD-WAN integrates with SASE for better security
Cisco Viptela SD-WAN integration with Cisco+ Secure Connect brings cloud-based security to remote workers and easier collaboration between IT security and networking teams. Continue Reading
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News
14 Feb 2023
Extreme Networks extends network fabric to the edge
Extreme Networks extends its SD-WAN network fabric to the edge to unify wired, wireless and WAN networking for simpler network control and more application performance monitoring. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Feb 2023
The role of automation in SD-WAN
API integration, machine learning and AIOps are vital to achieve the benefits of SD-WAN automation, which include better network performance and faster operations. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Feb 2023
Vendor SD-WAN labs offer hands-on testing and learning
Software-defined WANs can be confusing. Fortunately, networking vendors offer SD-WAN labs to help organizations learn about the technology. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Jan 2023
Industry outlook on MEF's new zero-trust, SASE standards
MEF recently released new zero-trust and SASE standards. Standardizations can help with interoperability, but are they necessary for vendors and service providers to follow? Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Jan 2023
Network as a Service (NaaS)
Network as a service, or NaaS, is a business model for delivering enterprise WAN services virtually on a subscription basis. 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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Definition
03 Jan 2023
load balancing
Load balancing is a technique used to distribute network traffic across a pool of servers known as a server farm. 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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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
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
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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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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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
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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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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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
05 Jul 2022
Customers discuss the potential of WWAN use cases
Wireless WAN offers high network speeds and enables remote connectivity at lower costs. Find out how cellular- and broadband-enabled WWAN helps organizations meet business goals. Continue Reading
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Answer
20 May 2022
Ethernet vs. Carrier Ethernet: How do they differ?
Connectivity over longer distances and higher data rates are some of the major differences that separate Carrier Ethernet from traditional wired Ethernet. Continue Reading
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News
14 Apr 2022
Cisco's SD-WAN Version 17.8 supports OnRamp for more apps
The newest version of Cisco's SD-WAN brings Cloud OnRamp support to NBAR applications like Slack or GitHub and custom apps and adds greater visibility. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Apr 2022
Zero trust, wireless WAN affect the future of IoT networking
Zero-trust security models, wireless WAN evolution and the emergence of pop-up businesses are all helping to fuel innovation in IoT networking capabilities. Continue Reading
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News
30 Mar 2022
Aruba urges customers to adopt network as a service
Aruba wants more customers to switch to network as a service, but companies benefiting from a standard product license are hesitant to embrace the subscription model. Continue Reading
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News
18 Mar 2022
Cradlepoint, Extreme Networks partner on 5G WWAN
Cradlepoint and Extreme Networks will combine the former's 5G routers with the latter's network fabric to build a 5G wireless WAN for remote deployments. 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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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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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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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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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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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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Definition
15 Oct 2021
dynamic multipoint VPN (DMVPN)
A dynamic multipoint virtual private network (DMVPN) is a secure network that exchanges data between sites/routers without passing traffic through an organization's virtual private network (VPN) server or router located at its headquarters. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Sep 2021
frame relay
Frame relay is a packet-switching telecommunications service designed for cost-efficient data transmission for intermittent traffic between local area networks (LANs) and between endpoints in wide area networks (WANs). Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Aug 2021
file server
A file server is a computer responsible for the storage and management of data files so that other computers on the same network can access the files. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Aug 2021
What is packet loss in networking?
Packet loss is when one or more transmitted data packets fail to arrive at their destination. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Aug 2021
Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP)
Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP) is a network protocol that enables routers to exchange information more efficiently than earlier network protocols, such as Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (IGRP) or Border Gateway Protocol (BGP). Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Jul 2021
committed information rate (CIR)
Committed information rate (CIR) is the guaranteed rate at which a Frame Relay network will transfer information under normal line conditions. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Jul 2021
2021 networking trends for a post-pandemic enterprise
In 2020, the pandemic threw the best-laid IT plans into chaos. As enterprises find their footing again, here are four network trends defining the second half of 2021. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Jul 2021
How to use iPerf3 to test network bandwidth
In this in-depth tip, learn how to use iPerf3, a network testing tool to measure throughput and benchmark your WAN links to ensure effectivity. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Jul 2021
extranet
An extranet is a private network that enterprises use to provide trusted third parties -- such as suppliers, vendors, partners, customers and other businesses -- secure, controlled access to business information or operations. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Jun 2021
10 Gigabit Ethernet (10 GbE)
10 Gigabit Ethernet (10 GbE) is a telecommunication technology that offers data speeds up to 10 billion bits per second. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 May 2021
Cloud-based network management leads 2021 network investments
A recent ESG survey shows that many enterprises speeding their digital transformation plans are also increasing 2021 network investment, emphasizing cloud-based network management. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Apr 2021
4 attributes key to network-as-a-service model
For a network-as-a-service model to work for the enterprise, it needs to offer four key attributes: an application-specific, elastic, secure and personalized VPN. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Apr 2021
SASE options for the branch of one -- work from anywhere
More than ever, enterprises need to support individual employees that make up a branch of one. These setups require reliable connectivity, application performance and security. Continue Reading