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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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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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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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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Tip
29 Sep 2023
Network considerations for cloud migration to data center
Performance, security concerns and high costs are factors that prompt organizations to migrate workloads from cloud to data centers. Here's what to consider. 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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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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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
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Tip
31 Jan 2023
5 ways Web 3.0 will impact digital marketing
If Web 3.0 can provide greater privacy, more marketing reach and better targeting, the World Wide Web's latest iteration could ease the online customer personalization problem. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
25 Jan 2023
Everything you need to know about Linux man pages
Admins who aren't familiar with a command can use Linux man pages for better understanding. This tutorial outlines how to access Linux manuals and the value they provide. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Jan 2023
Evaluate Wi-Fi mapping tools and best practices
As Wi-Fi is now a critical component of enterprise network connectivity, Wi-Fi mapping helps teams evaluate their wireless coverage. Learn the basics of Wi-Fi mapping. Continue Reading
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Opinion
06 Jan 2023
Five networking trends teams should focus on in 2023
Distributed IT and hybrid work create network complexity, which is driving adoption of AIOps, network and security convergence, multi-cloud, private 5G and digital twins in 2023. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Dec 2022
Wireless network capacity planning and requirements
When planning wireless network capacity needs, tally your total endpoints, monitor application bandwidth usage and consider future growth. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Dec 2022
Are private wireless networks worth the investment?
Private wireless networks enable more control over networks, but they aren't right for every organization. Here's what to evaluate for a private wireless network deployment. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Dec 2022
How to use Nmap to scan a network for documentation
Nmap might be more common for security tasks, but it's also useful for network documentation and inventory. Follow these best practices to make the most of Nmap scan results. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Dec 2022
Ensure network resilience in a network disaster recovery plan
A network disaster recovery plan doesn't always mean network resilience. Learn how factors like funding, identifying potential risks and constant updates make a difference. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Dec 2022
How to set up a business Wi-Fi network
A Wi-Fi network is a business necessity, but setting it up takes skill and effective troubleshooting. Learn how to make Wi-Fi work and keep it running smoothly. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Nov 2022
Evaluate various SASE approaches for deployment
Enterprises must choose between single- or multivendor SASE approaches, as well as DIY or managed service options. Experts suggest considering use cases to simplify SASE deployment. Continue Reading
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News
28 Nov 2022
Ciena acquires Benu and Tibit for PON, edge
Ciena acquires Benu for advanced subscriber management and Tibit for pluggable PON technology that connects to existing hardware. Acquisitions bring engineers during shortage. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Nov 2022
Learn what SDN data center controllers do in a network
In a software-defined network, SDN data center controllers are a crucial component. Consider factors such as performance and compatibility when examining controller options. Continue Reading
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News
23 Nov 2022
Warriors joins other NBA teams in building smart arenas
The Golden State Warriors installed 250 Wi-Fi 6E access points in Chase Center to deliver high-speed internet almost anywhere in the arena. Faster networks are a trend in the NBA. Continue Reading
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News
18 Nov 2022
Cisco lays off staff, cuts office space in $600M restructuring
Cisco's shake-up will affect about 4,000 workers as the company doubles down on security, enterprise networking and its platform strategy. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Nov 2022
Best practices for enterprise CBRS deployment
Enterprises can use CBRS spectrum to deploy private cellular networks that offer reliable and predictable coverage. Learn about installation, AP mounting and device compatibility. Continue Reading
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Answer
18 Nov 2022
How to set up backup internet connections for home offices
Reliable connectivity and secure access are must-haves for employees working from home. Here are ideas to consider when designing backup internet connections for home offices. 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
02 Nov 2022
9 steps for wireless network planning and design
Wireless network planning may appear daunting. But IT teams can tackle this task in nine key phases, which include capacity, redundancy and site surveys. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Oct 2022
Cloud, security and automation alter networking roles
Networking pros are no longer in their own bubbles, even if they prefer it that way. The growth of cloud, security and automation is expanding traditional networking roles. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Oct 2022
Best practices for data center network optimization
Data center network optimization can improve business impact and promote long-term equipment health. Look to pilot new equipment, consolidate servers and improve energy efficiency. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 Oct 2022
VPN use prevails despite interest in VPN alternatives
Despite claims that VPNs are on their way out of enterprise networks, to be replaced by alternative technologies, research suggests VPNs are, in fact, here to stay. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Oct 2022
Best practices for network documentation and auditing
Network documentation helps enterprises resolve problems more quickly and create more reliable networks. But documentation needs to include various components to be effective. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Oct 2022
What to include in a network disaster recovery plan checklist
A network disaster recovery plan should include components like documentation, emergency contacts, step-by-step procedures, provider and vendor details, backup info and more. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Oct 2022
4 tips for network capacity planning and provisioning
To avoid network overprovisioning, teams should review baselines and roadmaps, assess limitations and consider business strategy changes when focusing on network capacity planning. 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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Feature
31 Aug 2022
Techniques to get started with green networking
'Emerging Green Technologies' details how technology is a flexible tool organizations can use to make business operations more sustainable. Here's how to make your network green. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Aug 2022
How energy-efficient networking supports sustainability
In this Q&A, 'Emerging Green Technologies' author Matthew N. O. Sadiku discusses the importance of going green and how to make networks energy-efficient to achieve this goal. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Aug 2022
New data center demands reshape enterprise app delivery
Discover how modern application delivery controllers and web application firewalls can improve network provisioning processes and help secure distributed workloads. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Aug 2022
Network bandwidth vs. throughput: What's the difference?
Bandwidth and throughput both indicate network performance. The terms are often used together, but bandwidth refers to capacity, while throughput details how much data actually transmits. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Aug 2022
How does SD-access work?
SD-access is a combination of two elements: SDN and the access edge. The result is a network with a centralized management system and improved security policies. Continue Reading
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News
09 Aug 2022
IT pros weigh COVID-19 risks, safety at tech conferences
Companies preparing to send employees to tech conferences should have a COVID-19 safety plan and prepare for the possibility that some workers will bring the virus back to the office. Continue Reading
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Opinion
02 Aug 2022
Next-gen network management difficult without AIOps
Complicated networks mean complicated network management. AIOps can help manage next-generation networks by monitoring, adding visibility and fixing errors within the network. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Jul 2022
How vendors support sustainable networking initiatives
Organizations are focusing on sustainability in all business divisions, including network operations. These tools could help organizations make their enterprise networks green. Continue Reading
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Guide
01 Nov 2018
What is SD-WAN? Future, challenges, benefits of SD-WAN technology
What is SD-WAN and how can it change the way networks operate? Discover its advantages, challenges, important key terms and where the future of SD-WAN could take you. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Oct 2018
Edge computing in IoT: Increasing network efficiency to ease traffic
Edge computing in IoT is tied to IoT's growth in a number of vertical markets due to the benefits of processing data close to the data source, which relieves network overload. Continue Reading
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News
09 May 2018
New Arista campus switches aim to simplify designs
The Arista campus switches are an effort by the company to target enterprises with the same set of features used by large data centers and carriers. Continue Reading
- Answer 03 Mar 2005
- Answer 14 Oct 2004
