Network strategy and planning
Network architects must consider various factors when designing, updating or expanding their organizations' networks. Discover tips and best practices about network design and planning, topology considerations and technology strategies.
Top Stories
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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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Tip
01 Nov 2024
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
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Tip
01 Nov 2024
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
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Tip
28 Oct 2024
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
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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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Definition
25 Oct 2024
What is a MAC address and how do I find it?
A MAC address (media access control address) is a 12-digit hexadecimal number assigned to each device connected to the network. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Oct 2024
What is cloud networking?
Cloud networking is a type of IT infrastructure in which the cloud hosts some or all of an organization's networking resources. 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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Definition
16 Oct 2024
What is black box AI?
Black box AI is any artificial intelligence system whose inputs and operations aren't visible to the user or another interested party. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Oct 2024
What AI capabilities do network tools need?
AI networking tools have many beneficial capabilities. When evaluating AI tools, engineers should prioritize the specific capabilities their networks need for successful AI use. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Oct 2024
The future of Wi-Fi 7 adoption in enterprises
Wi-Fi 7 promises faster speeds and better performance, but complexities in deployment and limited device compatibility have slowed adoption across enterprises. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Oct 2024
What is IPv6 (Internet Protocol version 6)?
Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) is a set of specifications from the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) that is responsible for identifying network devices and routing traffic across the internet. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Oct 2024
The push to make network engineering cool again
What does it mean to make networking cool again? To most network engineers, it means building awareness about networking and making it more accessible. But there's still work to do. 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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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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Answer
25 Sep 2024
Network automation vs. orchestration: What's the difference?
Automation and orchestration take different approaches to achieve network efficiency. However, network engineers can use them together to create an efficient, centralized network. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Sep 2024
Use network fault monitoring to prevent malfunctions
Network fault monitoring systems are essential tools to optimize network performance and availability. They are also key components of proactive disaster recovery. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Sep 2024
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
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Definition
10 Sep 2024
What is asynchronous?
In general, asynchronous -- from Greek asyn- ('not with/together') and chronos ('time') -- describes objects or events not coordinated in time. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Sep 2024
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
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Feature
26 Aug 2024
Wi-Fi upgrades on the horizon as enterprises eye Wi-Fi 7
Enterprises have been slow to adopt Wi-Fi 7, as they find previous generations suit their needs. However, experts predict enterprises will upgrade to Wi-Fi 7 in the next 12 to 18 months. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Aug 2024
What is a URL (Uniform Resource Locator)?
A URL (Uniform Resource Locator) is a unique identifier used to locate a resource on the internet. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Aug 2024
What is a proxy server?
A proxy server is an intermediary between a user and the internet. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Aug 2024
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
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Tip
07 Aug 2024
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
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Definition
26 Jul 2024
What are Internet data caps and why do providers use them?
A data cap, also known as a bandwidth cap, is a limit that service providers impose on the amount of data a user account can transfer at a specified level of throughput over a given time period, for a specified fee. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Jul 2024
The benefits and drawbacks of network as a service
NaaS, with its varied definitions and attributes, is hard to define. In a new EMA survey, enterprises laid out their expectations for NaaS, including its benefits and drawbacks. 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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Tip
10 Jul 2024
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
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Tip
10 Jul 2024
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
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Tip
25 Jun 2024
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
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Feature
24 Jun 2024
Strategies for simplifying network complexity
Experts at the Cisco Live 2024 conference discussed the future of AI in networks and how its use can help simplify network and data center operations. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Jun 2024
Mass General Brigham tackles network upgrade, AI pilots
As Mass General Brigham updated its network and invested in other upgrades, the hospital ecosystem also developed a measured approach to AI implementation. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jun 2024
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
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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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Guest Post
29 May 2024
How network engineers can prepare for the future with AI
The rapid rise of AI has left some professionals feeling unprepared. GenAI is beneficial to networks, but engineers must have the proper tools to adapt to this new change. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 May 2024
How to determine a network's AI readiness
Experts discussed how organizations should be preparing for AI deployments within their networks. Determining AI readiness is leadership's first step toward AI integration. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 May 2024
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
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Tip
20 May 2024
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
20 May 2024
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
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Feature
09 May 2024
Build a resilient network: What I learned from 5 thought leaders
At the 2024 'Strategies for a Resilient Network' summit, five thought leaders shared best practices to help you achieve optimal network resiliency. Learn more. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 May 2024
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
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Guest Post
06 May 2024
Network automation success begins with a source of truth
A network source of truth is essential for automation strategies. Organizations must know what data an NSoT contains and which tools to integrate for successful network automation. 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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Definition
23 Apr 2024
networking (computer)
Networking, also known as computer networking, is the practice of transporting and exchanging data between nodes over a shared medium in an information system. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Apr 2024
Is network automation adoption necessary?
Automation is not a one-size-fits-all strategy for every network problem. Enterprises must examine their network's needs to determine if automation is a worthwhile investment. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Apr 2024
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
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Tip
11 Apr 2024
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
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Definition
11 Apr 2024
local area network (LAN)
A local area network (LAN) is a group of computers and peripheral devices that are connected together within a distinct geographic area, such as an office building or campus. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Apr 2024
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
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Feature
08 Apr 2024
The effects of network downtime and ways to fix it
Causes of network downtime include human error, misconfigurations and security threats. Experts weigh in on the consequences of network downtime, as well as ways to fix it. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Mar 2024
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
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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
04 Mar 2024
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
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Answer
28 Feb 2024
Classical internet vs. quantum internet: How do they differ?
The quantum internet is a hypothetical secure network made of qubits. It differs from the classical internet with its use of quantum principles for enhanced security and computing. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Feb 2024
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
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Tutorial
30 Jan 2024
Why you can benefit from using Always On VPN
The Windows Server feature gives administrators more flexibility to manage clients, while giving users a better overall experience when connecting to enterprise resources. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Jan 2024
private 5G
Private 5G is a wireless network technology that delivers 5G cellular connectivity for private network use cases. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Jan 2024
Automation, cloud drive network and security convergence
Network and security teams are unifying due to automation, cloud and SASE. Successful unified teams receive insights that support management, monitoring and troubleshooting. Continue Reading
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Answer
08 Dec 2023
Network simulation vs. emulation: What's the difference?
Network engineers use simulation and emulation to test changes, which ensures reliable post-change performance. Network simulators create models, while emulators mimic networks. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Nov 2023
How to build a private 5G network architecture
A private 5G network could provide organizations with greater control over their wireless environments. But cost and complexity could be critical deterrents. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Nov 2023
How to simplify network operations
Network challenges include visibility, scalability and security. NetOps teams should follow management best practices and consider cloud networking to simplify operations. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Nov 2023
network assurance
Network assurance is the method of validating whether services and policies configured on and across network appliances appropriately align with operational goals. Continue Reading
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Feature
03 Nov 2023
GSK unifies networking and security for cloud migration
Sessions at ONUG Fall 2023 emphasized the value of a unified networking and security approach. GSK integrated the two to begin its digital transformation journey to the cloud. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
31 Oct 2023
APIs integral to a successful DDI strategy
Research showed DDI success correlated with successful APIs, but few organizations feel satisfied with their API quality. Learn how to mitigate the challenges of DDI APIs. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Oct 2023
The pros and cons of quantum networking
Quantum networking, which is based on quantum physics, offers secure, high-speed communication. Challenges of quantum networking include fragility, costs and integration. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Oct 2023
mean time to innocence
Mean time to innocence is the average elapsed time between when a system problem is detected and any given team's ability to say the team or part of its system is not the root cause of the problem. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Oct 2023
How a DDI platform supports IP-based network management
A DDI platform simplifies IP network management in the cloud networking era. But collaboration among networking and other IT teams is crucial amid ongoing challenges. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Oct 2023
Building data center networks for GenAI fabric enablement
Network scalability, throughput and orchestration are some of the key elements that enterprises need to consider as they build out generative AI data centers. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
15 Sep 2023
Hybrid work drives changes to on-premises networks
Remote and hybrid work are forcing changes to on-premises networks, such as increased bandwidth, upgraded Wi-Fi connectivity and unified network access controls. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Sep 2023
How enterprises can migrate from IPv4 to IPv6
Both IPv4 and IPv6 are suitable for enterprise networks, but organizations that want to switch over to the latest IP address format can follow a few methods to make the transition. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Aug 2023
Are wireless networks more energy-efficient than wired LANs?
The quick, complicated answer is yes and no. Wireless can be more energy-efficient than wired, but businesses need to weigh several variables to reap energy savings. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Aug 2023
How to modernize networks with sustainability in mind
A network modernization project is a good time to consider sustainability initiatives, such as using energy-efficient devices and renewable energy sources. Continue Reading
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Opinion
16 Aug 2023
AI, automation promise bright future for network operations
A closed-loop system can help network operations teams build trust with AI and automation tools that identify network problems, send alerts and recommend repairs. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Aug 2023
Network modernization benefits and challenges
The benefits of network modernization include better visibility and automated configuration. The challenges include integration with existing tools and cost concerns. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Jul 2023
Automation, orchestration software fuel network modernization
In some ways, network modernization means cutting manual configuration errors and relying on automation and orchestration to achieve unified network management. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jul 2023
What are the elements of modern network security architecture?
Modern network security is a mix of several elements, including secure access service edge, virtualization technologies, segmentation and zero-trust models. Continue Reading
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Opinion
05 Jul 2023
Cisco's vision for Networking Cloud becomes clear
Cisco is focused on simplifying, securing and delivering better experiences across networking, security, collaboration and apps in alignment with its vision to connect anything. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Jun 2023
loose coupling
Loose coupling is an approach to interconnecting the components in a system, network or software application so that those components, also called elements, depend on each other to the least extent practicable. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 May 2023
Modular network design benefits and approaches
Modular network design is a strategic way for enterprises to group network building blocks in order to streamline network maintenance, additions and troubleshooting. 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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Feature
02 May 2023
7 characteristics of next-generation networking
Network modernization has become important for many organizations. Discover which technologies -- such as SASE, AI, automation and more -- can help build next-generation networks. 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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Tutorial
27 Apr 2023
How to install Cockpit for Linux
Linux admins will need to use some of these commands to install Cockpit and configure firewalls. Admins can also connect to one or more servers through Cockpit via these steps. 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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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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Answer
03 Apr 2023
What's the difference between network reliability and availability?
Network reliability is how long infrastructure works without disruption. Network availability is the percentage of time infrastructure operates in a given time frame. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Mar 2023
Network documentation best practices for DR teams
In the event of a disaster, IT teams often think of servers and storage, but forget about networks. Find out what you should document as part of your network DR plan. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Mar 2023
Self-healing networks goals, benefits and how they work
With help from automation and AI, self-healing networks promise to detect, remediate and even predict network problems. But can these systems be trusted? Continue Reading
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Answer
24 Mar 2023
Beyond metrics, network SLAs should measure business ops
Enterprises need to ensure network service-level agreements provide a comprehensive view of network service performance to support business operations. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Mar 2023
antivirus software (antivirus program)
Antivirus software (antivirus program) is a security program designed to prevent, detect, search and remove viruses and other types of malware from computers, networks and other devices. 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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Definition
07 Mar 2023
physical layer
The physical layer is the first and lowest layer of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) communications model. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Feb 2023
How to maintain network continuity in a DR strategy
Disaster doesn't just come in the form of fire, flood and ransomware. Loss of network continuity is a real issue and must be appropriately addressed in disaster recovery planning. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Feb 2023
Unify NetOps and DevOps to improve load-balancing strategy
Research showed that many enterprises struggle with their load-balancing strategies. Unifying NetOps and DevOps teams might help simplify some of this complexity. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Feb 2023
Get familiar with who builds 5G infrastructure
Organizations that build 5G data centers may need to upgrade their infrastructure. These 5G providers offer products like virtual RAN options, wireless access routers and others. 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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Opinion
10 Feb 2023
How hybrid access as a service supports hybrid work
Hybrid access as a service from a startup helped a global company secure optimized connectivity over home broadband connections. Could HAaaS replace VPNs? Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Feb 2023
4 ways to reduce network power consumption
A heavy reliance on the network can increase energy use across businesses. Here are some best practices network teams can follow to reduce power consumption. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Feb 2023
8 top Web 3.0 use cases and examples
Smart contracts, automated content creation, targeted advertising, community building and metaverse-like experiences are some of the benefits from anticipated Web 3.0 applications. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Feb 2023
10 core features of Web 3.0 technology
Web 3.0 promises to provide what Web 2.0 can't: autonomy for content creators to monetize their own data through blockchain, decentralization, user data ownership and private keys. 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