Tips

Tips

• Best practices for secure network automation workflows

  It's not enough to build network automation workflows. It's important to secure those workflows, as well. Access control, encryption and collaboration all play important roles.  Continue Reading

• Top 5G limitations and challenges for businesses

  While 5G has advanced in recent years, the fifth generation of cellular technology still presents some challenges, such as wavelength limitations and cost considerations.  Continue Reading

• 6 types of quantum network topologies

  Quantum networks require efficient architectures to optimize communication and enable large-scale quantum information processing. Learn about the main quantum network topologies.  Continue Reading

• 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

• 8 network tasks administrators can do quicker from the CLI

  Admins can use the command-line interface to manage network tasks. Learn how to streamline automation, troubleshoot networks and manage services on Linux, macOS and Windows.  Continue Reading

• 5 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

• Top 5 use cases for 5G augmented and virtual reality

  By integrating augmented and virtual reality technologies with 5G, several industries could reap significant benefits. But beware of some important limitations.  Continue Reading

• 5G Advanced features include accurate timing, AI support

  5G Advanced is the latest 5G specification, aiming to deliver enhanced massive MIMO, 5G integration with AI and accurate location positioning. Here's more about recent developments.  Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• An introduction to cloud network architecture

  Enterprises have three main options when it comes to cloud network architecture: Use built-in CSP tools, buy virtual networking appliances or use a multi-cloud management platform.  Continue Reading

• 5G and SD-WAN bring benefits to branch locations and beyond

  Individually, 5G and SD-WAN promise many benefits for businesses. As a pair, 5G and SD-WAN could specifically enhance network connectivity for remote employees.  Continue Reading

• 5 network requirements for cloud computing

  Network and cloud teams should consider factors such as bandwidth and latency optimization, security, network redundancy, QoS and network automation in their cloud strategies.  Continue Reading

• Enterprise 5G deployment options and how to procure them

  The two main types of 5G deployment options are standalone and non-standalone. Find out how they're different, how to procure them and some helpful 5G tips.  Continue Reading

• Indoor 5G gets a boost as small cells come to rescue

  Indoor small cells are becoming more common in consumer and enterprise markets. Along with distributed antenna systems and Wi-Fi networks, small cells increasingly enable RF coverage.  Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• Best practices for network automation with Python

  Python libraries, version control, documentation and object-oriented programming provide helpful best practices for network engineers tackling network automation with Python.  Continue Reading

• How low Earth orbit satellite networks improve internet access

  Compared to traditional satellite setups, LEO satellite internet provides several benefits, such as low latency, reduced costs and better support for remote sites.  Continue Reading

• 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

• How to use NAPALM for efficient network management

  NAPALM is a flexible Python library that can integrate with Ansible modules, support multivendor environments, and ease network management and automation strategies.  Continue Reading

• FWA use cases for next-generation connectivity

  Fixed wireless access provides broadband connectivity for subscribers at fixed locations. FWA use cases include locations with geographical constraints, temporary setups and more.  Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• An introduction to quantum networks and how they work

  Quantum networks hold potential for faster and more secure communication. But true quantum networks are still experimental and require more engineering and scientific research.  Continue Reading

• Types of Nmap scans and best practices

  Nmap scanning helps network teams with network reconnaissance and vulnerability discovery. Common types of scans include TCP SYN, OS detection, vulnerability and version detection.  Continue Reading

• 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

• Top 5 benefits of SASE to enhance network security

  A cloud-based distributed architecture, centralized management and endpoint-specific security policies are just some of the benefits of Secure Access Service Edge.  Continue Reading

• An introduction to Git for network engineers

  Git can be a useful tool for network engineers who manage complex infrastructure, especially as networking increasingly overlaps with software, automation and DevOps.  Continue Reading

• 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

• An introduction to smartNICs and their benefits

  SmartNICs offload packet processing tasks from server CPUs, freeing up resources for application performance. They can run packet capture and load balancing, among other tasks.  Continue Reading

• 5 techniques to debug network issues in Linux and Windows

  Debugging a network issue should start with basic troubleshooting. If that doesn't fix it, admins should check, verify and configure connections to the client, server and network.  Continue Reading

• SmartNICs and the need for evolving network infrastructure

  SmartNICs can meet the increasing demand for high performance, low latency and secure data transfer. But the implementation of smartNICs requires reliable network infrastructure.  Continue Reading

• 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

• What's shaping the future of wireless networking technology?

  Cloud-managed Wi-Fi, radio spectrum expansion and the hybrid workplace are some of the converging developments that are modernizing wireless networks.  Continue Reading

• How to interact with network APIs using cURL, Postman tools

  Network engineers can use cURL and Postman tools to work with network APIs. Use cases include getting interface information and manipulating device configuration data.  Continue Reading

• 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

• 9 ways to make network modernization work

  More cloud computing, container networking and network capacity are some of the ways businesses could modernize their networks. AI and automation can help, too.  Continue Reading

• Python interpreter vs. IDE: What network engineers should know

  When using Python for network automation, network engineers often work with interpreters and integrated development environment tools to test modules and debug code.  Continue Reading

• 7 factors to consider in network redundancy design

  Network pros should consider multiple factors when adding redundancy to network design, including network equipment, protocols, backup, processing and subnet connections.  Continue Reading

• Review the components of VMware SASE Platform

  VMware SASE Platform provides many strong networking and security capabilities, but it comes in an offering that feels like many individual products packaged together.  Continue Reading

• The pros and cons of VPNs for enterprises

  VPNs use different protocols and encryption to protect data and prevent unauthorized users from accessing company resources. But those protocols come with their own benefits and challenges.  Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• SD-WAN vs. VPN: How do they compare?

  When comparing SD-WAN and VPN, enterprises choosing between the two technologies should consider factors like cost, management and routing intelligence.  Continue Reading

• Is cloud-based network management right for your business?

  Many enterprises use on-premises network management, but moving network management to the cloud might make more sense for some. Compare pros, cons and features of both options.  Continue Reading

• Use cases of digital twins for networks

  Network engineers can use digital twins for design, testing, security and maintenance. But limitations with vendor specificity and a lack of standards hinder wider adoption for now.  Continue Reading

• 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

• 5 common SD-WAN challenges and how to prepare for them

  SD-WAN technology has its fair share of risk factors, some of which include cost reduction and management. Find out how your IT team can prepare for these challenges.  Continue Reading

• How to build an SD-WAN RFP to evaluate vendors

  There are key questions that belong in your SD-WAN request for proposal. Use them to better assess vendor features and capabilities, architecture, cost savings and PoCs.  Continue Reading

• How network perimeters secure enterprise networks

  Network perimeters serve as essential network security to block unwanted traffic. Find out how they differ from the network edge and how they help secure enterprise networks.  Continue Reading

• 5 steps to migrate from MPLS to SD-WAN

  To migrate from MPLS to SD-WAN, you need a plan. Use these five steps as a guideline to avoid MPLS contract disasters, unexpected costs and delayed installation.  Continue Reading

• Follow these 9 steps for SD-WAN testing before deployment

  Before an SD-WAN implementation, you'll want to run the system through a battery of tests to check for things like failover, packet delivery and traffic segregation.  Continue Reading

• Configure NIC teaming in Windows Server

  NIC teaming maximizes network bandwidth and provides redundancy benefits. These steps guide users through NIC teaming configuration in Windows Server with GUI and PowerShell.  Continue Reading

• Top 9 SD-WAN benefits for businesses

  Make the case for an SD-WAN implementation, and explore the benefits and main use cases for SD-WAN in enterprises, beyond traditional hybrid WANs.  Continue Reading

• White box networking use cases and how to get started

  Rising cloud costs have prompted organizations to consider white box switches to lower costs and simplify network management. Here's what to know about white box networking.  Continue Reading

• SD-WAN comparison chart: 10 vendors to assess

  This SD-WAN vendor comparison chart is a useful starting point to evaluate information about deployment options, pricing, security, cloud connectivity and more.  Continue Reading

• 3 important SD-WAN security considerations and features

  Device onboarding, control plane security and data plane security are three crucial SD-WAN security considerations enterprises should research when choosing an SD-WAN vendor.  Continue Reading

• 4 key SD-WAN trends to watch in 2023

  The challenges of managing networks during a pandemic prompted many organizations to delay SD-WAN rollouts. Four trends, however, could spark an SD-WAN resurgence in 2023.  Continue Reading

• The role of automation in SD-WAN

  API integration, machine learning and AIOps are vital to achieve the benefits of SD-WAN automation, which include better network performance and faster operations.  Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• Compare 6 major network certifications for 2023

  Network certifications can span networking fundamentals to product-specific knowledge. Evaluate six certifications, and weigh factors like job roles, cost, prerequisites and skills.  Continue Reading

• 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

• How cloud-managed Wi-Fi simplifies policy and AP controls

  Cloud-managed Wi-Fi provides IT groups with several benefits, including policy enforcement, network management and consistent AP configuration across multiple sites.  Continue Reading

• The benefits of network asset management software

  Network asset management software helps network teams keep track of network devices and software, ensuring timely upgrades, accurate inventory and updated documentation.  Continue Reading

• A guide to network APIs and their use cases

  An API enables communication between two applications, while a network API provides communication between the network infrastructure -- and its protocols -- and applications.  Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• An overview of wireless WAN

  Hybrid work, modernized cellular networks, and the convergence of 5G and software-defined networking are driving factors in the maturation of wireless WAN.  Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• 5 most valuable wireless network certifications

  Wireless networking skills are in high demand. Having a top-notch wireless network certification can help networking newbies and pros stand out among job candidates.  Continue Reading

• A history of wireless for business and a look forward

  This history of enterprise wireless takes you from WLAN development inside the enterprise to cellular data services outside the walls to make wireless-first a possibility.  Continue Reading

• LEO satellite communications come to Earth

  Apple, T-Mobile and others are kicking off early satellite communications projects. Direct satellite communications should become available on some new midband 5G phones in 2024.  Continue Reading

• 3 types of wireless site surveys and how to conduct them

  Network teams can avoid signal coverage issues by performing different wireless site surveys as they evaluate new spaces, set up sites and operate the network.  Continue Reading

• 16 PowerShell commands for network troubleshooting

  These 16 Windows PowerShell cmdlets, including Get-NetIPAddress and Test-Connection, help network administrators troubleshoot their network environments.  Continue Reading

• Troubleshoot wireless network connection problems in 10 steps

  When troubleshooting wireless network issues, several scenarios can emerge. But valuable end-user insights can help network administrators root out problems.  Continue Reading

• 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

• What's the difference between 802.11ac vs. 802.11ax?

  The difference between 802.11ac and 802.11ax is significant. The two wireless standards differ notably in features such as AP capacity, spatial streams and data rates.  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 when it comes to size, range and connectivity requirements.  Continue Reading

• How to set up a VPN for enterprise use

  VPNs are nearly ubiquitous, but does your organization know how to deploy one? Learn about use cases, requirements, deployment options and best practices for VPN deployment.  Continue Reading

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

  Citizens Broadband Radio Service enables private LTE networks and supports enterprise WAN deployments. But that doesn't mean Wi-Fi is going away anytime soon.  Continue Reading

• The future of VPNs in the enterprise

  VPNs have been the workhorse of online connectivity. Enhancements to software and processing power in end devices will transform how companies use the technology going forward.  Continue Reading

• How to perform VLAN troubleshooting

  Common VLAN issues include physical connectivity problems, duplex mismatches, forwarding loops, unicast flooding and Layer 3 configuration errors. These troubleshooting steps can help.  Continue Reading

• 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

• What is zero-trust network access? ZTNA basics explained

  Zero-trust network access is touted as the solution to replace the VPN. As the potential future of network security, learn more about ZTNA, including its benefits and challenges.  Continue Reading

• 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

• How to build a zero-trust network in 4 steps

  While network teams are responsible for deploying the elements of a zero-trust network, security teams should also be involved in developing the overall zero-trust framework.  Continue Reading

• 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

• Tips to prepare for a network disaster recovery audit

  Enterprises can audit their network disaster recovery plans to ensure thorough protection and preparation. Consider factors like documentation, management support and audit type.  Continue Reading

• DNS server troubleshooting for Linux and Windows

  Steps in DNS server troubleshooting include checking the DNS status, looking at zone configurations and evaluating logs. Follow these best practices for Windows and Linux servers.  Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• VXLAN vs. VLAN: What's the difference?

  VLANs offer security and traffic management benefits but have limitations in routing and scale. VXLANs address those challenges by creating a Layer 3 network overlay.  Continue Reading

• Understanding the FTP PORT command

  FTP uses control and data channels, each using a separate TCP port. Port 21 is for the control channel, and port 20 is for the data channel. Learn how these two channels are used.  Continue Reading

• Private 5G in a box simplifies deployment, mobility

  Vendors are offering private 5G in a box -- a condensed and streamlined form of standalone 5G -- to simplify the complexity of typical private 5G deployments.  Continue Reading

• Wi-Fi sensing has the potential to be disruptive

  With help from AI and machine learning, Wi-Fi sensing detects movement in the Wi-Fi environment. While it sounds promising, the technology still has a long way to go.  Continue Reading