Tips

Tips

• What 5G skills are most in demand?

  In the evolving 5G job market, service providers, systems integrators and enterprises are looking for applicants who have experience and aspirations in five broad areas.  Continue Reading

• 7 top 5G enterprise use cases and business opportunities

  As 5G cellular networking continues to roll out, some key business use cases have emerged. Fixed wireless access, for example, could improve office connectivity.  Continue Reading

• Navigate networking with cable management software

  Cable management software has become an essential tool for managers keeping track of thousands of network components. Before you buy, make sure you know what you're getting.  Continue Reading

• How to build a virtual network lab in the AI era

  Network teams use virtual labs to test new network configurations and technologies. As AI integrates into networks, virtual labs must upgrade to handle their massive workloads.  Continue Reading

• Agentic AI ushers in a new era of network management

  Agentic AI will redefine network management. But IT execs have to understand the technology's benefits -- and its drawbacks.  Continue Reading

• Network scalability issues and 4 approaches to fix them

  Network scalability challenges stem from architectural constraints and resource limitations. Improve scalability with approaches such as WAN optimization and latency reduction.  Continue Reading

• A configuration guide to Network Time Protocol

  This guide explains NTP configuration across Linux, macOS and Windows systems. It covers architecture, troubleshooting and best practices for reliable network time synchronization.  Continue Reading

• Ansible vs. Terraform vs. Vagrant: What's the difference?

  Ansible sets up networks agentlessly, Terraform manages cloud infrastructure and Vagrant creates consistent development environments. Each serves distinct network automation needs.  Continue Reading

• 11 common wireless security risks you don't have to take

  Wi-Fi is a boon to productivity, but it can also create serious security issues. Learn how any company can uncover and fortify their wireless security setup.  Continue Reading

• A network cable management guide

  When organizing cable clutter, network engineers should follow best practices, such as labeling, using cable ties and maintaining proper documentation, while avoiding trip hazards.  Continue Reading

• End-to-end network observability for AI workloads

  AI-driven technologies require new practices after they're integrated into networks. For AI to run properly, networks must have full network observability.  Continue Reading

• How to begin Wi-Fi 7 deployment

  As Wi-Fi lifecycles move faster than ever, enterprises must consider when to deploy a new Wi-Fi standard. This article offers guidance on when to deploy Wi-Fi 7 in the enterprise.  Continue Reading

• How to develop a network budget

  A network budget is an important part of IT financial planning. Organizations can follow one of several different approaches to create a network budget based on business goals.  Continue Reading

• 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

• An introduction to satellite network architecture

  Satellite network architecture consists of three segments: space, ground and control. Satellite networks enhance networking beyond terrestrial network capabilities.  Continue Reading

• Network pros need Ansible network automation skills

  Network administrators must develop Ansible skills to learn how to automate and manage system resources across an infrastructure, simplifying network configuration management.  Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• GenAI prompt engineering tactics for network pros

  The accuracy and relevance of AI responses are directly influenced by the quality of the prompt. Each tool performs differently based on its underlying training data and model architecture.  Continue Reading

• 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

• The pros and cons of quantum networking

  Quantum networking promises secure, high-speed communication -- someday. There are huge practical challenges, including fragility, cost and integration with traditional networks.  Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• Wi-Fi 6 vs. Wi-Fi 6E vs. Wi-Fi 7: What are the differences?

  Wi-Fi standards continue to evolve. The three most recent standards -- Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 -- build on each other's capabilities, but all have their own unique features.  Continue Reading

• 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

• The 4 different types of wireless networks

  The four types of wireless networks -- wireless LAN, wireless MAN, wireless PAN and wireless WAN -- differ in size, range and connectivity requirements.  Continue Reading

• 802.11 standards: How do 802.11ac, 802.11ax, 802.11be differ?

  Wi-Fi standards -- 802.11ac, 802.11ax and 802.11be -- differ based on frequency bands, spatial streams and maximum data rates, with 802.11be offering the most significant improvements.  Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• How to use network automation to ease cloud integration

  Cloud network automation can ease the integration of networking and cloud resources. Set clear objectives and standardize tools to make the process smoother.  Continue Reading

• Network design principles for effective architectures

  It's important for network architects to consider several factors for an effective network design. Top principles include flexibility and scalability, redundancy and security.  Continue Reading

• 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

• How to determine when to use reserved IP addresses

  Network admins choose IP address configuration based on management requirements. Each address type has a specific role, but reserved IP addresses are best in certain situations.  Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• A guide to Li-Fi technology

  Li-Fi is an emerging wireless technology that uses visible light to transmit data instead of radio frequencies. Though still niche, Li-Fi has numerous advantages and use cases.  Continue Reading

• 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

• How to navigate the network vendor selection process

  Effective vendor selection involves a thorough evaluation process to ensure optimal network performance. Factors to assess include service quality, reliability and security.  Continue Reading

• 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

• Why does DNS use TCP Port 53 and UDP Port 53?

  DNS uses both TCP and UDP ports to maintain consistent and reliable network performance. TCP provides zone transfers, while UDP handles name resolution queries and responses.  Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• How to implement CI/CD in network automation

  CI/CD processes help deploy code changes to networks. Integrating a CI/CD pipeline into automation makes networks more reliable, reducing configuration errors and downtime.  Continue Reading

• How does predictive analytics help network operations?

  Predictive analytics can project network traffic flows, predict future trends and reduce latency. However, tools continue to evolve, so teams should use caution in their selection.  Continue Reading

• How to subnet in cloud network environments

  Cloud and on-premises subnets use IP ranges, subnet masks or prefixes, and security policies. But cloud subnets are simpler to set up, while on-prem configuration is still manual.  Continue Reading

• How to create subnets in IPv4 and IPv6 networks

  Network administrators subnet networks into segments for improved control and efficiency. IPv4 uses subnet masks, while IPv6 uses prefixes, and each has its own unique steps.  Continue Reading

• The pros and cons of optical wireless communication

  OWC transfers data using highly directional light in free space. While OWC delivers high-speed data transfers, it is susceptible to multipath dispersion and interference.  Continue Reading

• How to plan and start a network upgrade

  Network architects face challenges when considering a network upgrade, but enterprises can keep problems to a minimum by following a careful plan and listening to end users.  Continue Reading

• How to calculate a subnet mask from hosts and subnets

  IP addressing and subnetting are important and basic elements of networks. Learn how to calculate a subnet mask based on the required number of subnets and hosts.  Continue Reading

• Tips to provide network support for remote workers

  Enterprises must modernize their networks to support remote work, while IT teams ensure networks have proper bandwidth and security, as well as dedicated help for remote workers.  Continue Reading

• How network data models work with automation

  Network data models can help network engineers with their automation strategies, thanks to the essential data they store about physical components, security and QoS.  Continue Reading

• 7 steps to set up a home network

  This guide teaches networking newbies how to set up a home network, from understanding hardware components to managing network performance and security.  Continue Reading

• A guide on how to learn network automation

  Networks are always evolving, and network automation is the next step forward. From soft skills to AI, these skills are essential to understanding network automation.  Continue Reading

• How AI can improve telecom RAN operations and analytics

  Telecom operators can harness AI to improve their RAN operational efficiency and analytics, which enables them to improve customer experience and network management.  Continue Reading

• Cloud networking sustainability strategies yield benefits

  As enterprises seek ways to reduce their environmental footprints, one popular way is to migrate on-premises networking infrastructure to third-party CSPs.  Continue Reading

• Common types of networking devices explained

  This introduction explores eight network devices that are commonly used within enterprise network infrastructures, including access points, routers and switches.  Continue Reading

• A work-from-home reimbursement policy for network tech

  Organizations should create comprehensive work-from-home reimbursement plans that drive better network and internet connectivity rates rather than offset employee's existing bills.  Continue Reading

• 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

• Edge computing opportunities for telecom providers

  Compatibility issues and the initial limited release of 5G have hindered edge computing adoption. But widescale 5G rollouts, advances in AI and new use cases could drive deployment.  Continue Reading

• The benefits of network wargaming for enterprises

  Wargaming isn't just for cybersecurity. Network wargaming gives network teams the skills they need to address non-cybersecurity events and emergencies.  Continue Reading

• How to test changes in a network lab environment

  Test labs are ideal for network engineers to observe potential outcomes of network changes. Successful tests require a solid lab environment and thorough testing process.  Continue Reading

• How to use IPv6 in enterprise networks

  The transition to IPv6 is a learning curve. Here's what to understand about IPv6, including benefits, troubleshooting techniques and best practices for secure integration.  Continue Reading

• The future of network licensing is Opex

  Network licensing is shifting from Capex models to Opex, largely due to SDN and cloud networking evolution. Here are best practices network teams can use to plan for the future.  Continue Reading

• How SASE convergence affects organizational silos

  Most enterprises have siloed departments, but SASE's convergence of network and security functions is disrupting those constructs and driving the need for more team communication.  Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• The role of generative AI in networking

  As networks grow more complex, generative AI emerges as a tool that can help network teams with a wide range of tasks, such as writing scripts, documentation and incident response.  Continue Reading

• Common network licensing challenges

  Network licensing is anything but straightforward nowadays. But network professionals can take steps to make sure their cost management strategies remain on track.  Continue Reading

• Building networks for AI workloads

  Conventional and high-performance computing networks cannot adequately support AI workloads, so network engineers must build specialized networks to accommodate their massive size.  Continue Reading

• Infrastructure requirements for Kubernetes cluster networking

  A well-architected network infrastructure is vital for Kubernetes cluster networking, providing seamless communication and resource orchestration across containerized workloads.  Continue Reading

• How to handle environmental regulations and green networking

  Green networking is achievable if network managers ensure devices and supporting systems are energy-efficient and comply with established environmental regulations.  Continue Reading

• How cloud drives changes to network licensing

  The cloud's effect on application management and licensing is expected to shift from end-user applications to SDN concepts. Say goodbye to perpetual licensing.  Continue Reading

• How to avoid internet black holes for the network

  Black holes in the network disrupt connectivity and compromise data integrity. Network monitoring, team collaboration and routing optimization help minimize the negative effects.  Continue Reading

• How to ensure optimal network workload placement

  Network and cybersecurity requirements are the most important considerations when designing how to deploy new network workloads across the enterprise.  Continue Reading

• Using microservices and containers in network automation

  Networking can benefit from the modularity of containers. This guide helps network teams navigate the integration of microservices and containers into network automation workflows.  Continue Reading

• How NetOps supports digital transformation

  NetOps uses automation and intent-based networking tools to streamline digital transformation and ensure accurate and flexible network services.  Continue Reading

• A network compliance checklist for remote work

  This network compliance checklist for remote work provides best practices on establishing remote policies and procedures, help desk support and data backup, among other steps.  Continue Reading

• NetSecOps best practices for network engineers

  Network engineers increasingly need to align their duties with security, such as implementing continuous monitoring, deploying threat intelligence and collaborating with security.  Continue Reading

• How ZTNA protects against internal network threats

  ZTNA has grown in popularity as a method to enable remote access and mitigate security risks, but businesses can also use ZTNA to protect against internal threats inside a network.  Continue Reading

• 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

• Private LTE vs. Wi-Fi: What's the difference?

  Enterprises have a lot of options when designing networks for specialized uses. Wi-Fi supports high-volume environments, but private LTE also provides important benefits.  Continue Reading

• How to close the networking skills gap

  The networking skills gap stems from tech shifts, generational turnover and hiring complexities. Bridge the gap with skills gained through study, training and employer support.  Continue Reading

• Hyperscalers use 5G to make an edge play into space

  As telecom providers struggle to monetize 5G, hyperscalers like AWS, Google Cloud and Microsoft Azure are betting big on LEO satellites to extend 5G connectivity.  Continue Reading

• Effective soft skills for network engineers

  Soft skills such as empathy, active listening and problem-solving can be valuable assets to network engineers who interact with nontechnical business stakeholders.  Continue Reading

• Beam division multiple access features and their effect on 5G

  BDMA, a new multiple access technology, has the potential to boost the efficiency of 5G networks through its use of beam formation and orthogonality.  Continue Reading