Tips

Tips

• Understanding the network-as-software transformation

  Manual methods no longer cut it as enterprises adopt advanced architectural models. Instead, software-based approaches like NaaS and infrastructure as code are gaining traction.  Continue Reading

• How intelligent network automation transforms enterprise operations

  Intelligent technologies that include predictive analytics and intent-based networking are reshaping how enterprises oversee their complex corporate networks.  Continue Reading

• How limited network visibility impedes digital transformation

  Digital transformation promises faster decision- making and greater UX. However, a lack of visibility into the network can hinder broad digital transformation goals.  Continue Reading

• Lit fiber vs. dark fiber services explained for enterprise WANs

  Lit fiber and dark fiber each offer enterprises a distinct set of advantages and challenges. It's important that IT leaders carefully assess which deployment makes the most sense.  Continue Reading

• How CIOs should govern AI-driven network operations

  AI transforms network operations through automation and predictive control, but requires strong governance frameworks to balance innovation with accountability and transparency.  Continue Reading

• How neocloud is influencing network connectivity

  Demand for computational power optimized for AI is driving the rise of the neocloud, but can the transport infrastructure keep up with the pace of change?  Continue Reading

• How IPv6 mandates influence enterprise network strategy

  Although aimed at government agencies, IPv6 mandates are pushing private enterprises to modernize networks to increased costs, security risks and collaboration barriers.  Continue Reading

• 10 AI-driven network management tasks

  AI can automate key network operations tasks, such as anomaly detection, event correlation and ticketing. This shifts network engineers toward governance and system design.  Continue Reading

• 5 clues your network has shadow AI

  Shadow AI, or unauthorized AI tool use, poses risks like data exposure and compliance issues. Improved network visibility and monitoring are key to mitigating these challenges.  Continue Reading

• Why legacy networks are a growing liability

  Legacy networks face limitations like security vulnerabilities and performance issues, leading to operational and business risks. Transitioning to modern infrastructure is crucial.  Continue Reading

• 5 key network investments that deliver business results

  Network investments can significantly boost business performance and value. Modernization, security and automation can support effective digital transformation initiatives.  Continue Reading

• How to reduce networking costs without performance loss

  Enterprises face rising network costs due to improper rightsizing, technical debt and manual management. Smart strategies can reduce expenses without sacrificing performance.  Continue Reading

• How network modernization creates measurable ROI

  Modern networks improve performance, resiliency, security and flexibility. These gains translate into measurable direct and indirect returns for the business.  Continue Reading

• How network efficiency advances ESG goals

  From SDN to green electricity, network optimization plays a critical role in helping enterprises reduce emissions, cut costs and align IT operations with ESG goals.  Continue Reading

• AI-driven self-healing networks bring new capabilities

  Self-healing networks use AI to continuously monitor, diagnose and fix issues autonomously, shifting IT from reactive troubleshooting to proactive management.  Continue Reading

• Why network modernization is crucial for business continuity

  Network modernization is a business continuity imperative, reducing risks from legacy systems while boosting performance, security and operational resilience.  Continue Reading

• Explore the business benefits of content-centric networking

  Content-centric networking gives enterprises an alternative to traditional IP networking, introducing new ways to enhance performance and improve overall efficiency.  Continue Reading

• Why Wi-Fi 7 is crucial for enterprise AI

  Wi-Fi 7’s MLO, wider channels and improved MU-MIMO provide the speed and reliability AI systems need to train faster and generate insights more efficiently.  Continue Reading

• Why SNMP remains relevant in enterprise network management

  The Simple Network Management Protocol is almost 40 years old. Despite its age, it remains essential today, ensuring efficient and reliable network management.  Continue Reading

• The role of DHCP reviews for business continuity

  DHCP is vital for IP address allocation across networks, ensuring business continuity. Regular assessments mitigate risks, enhance resilience and prevent costly outages.  Continue Reading

• Wi-Fi 6 range limitations and why they exist

  Every Wi-Fi standard promises faster speeds and better performance. However, every standard also experiences the real-world limitations of enterprise networking.  Continue Reading

• A guide to Windows DHCP server configuration

  Ensuring your Windows DHCP server is properly configured can be a significant undertaking. Here's what network admins can do to make the job easier.  Continue Reading

• 20 systemctl commands for system and service management

  Linux administrators are overseeing more systems than ever. Managing system and service settings can be a challenge, but the systemctl command can make those tasks easier.  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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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 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

• 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

• 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

• 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