Evaluate

Evaluate

Weigh the pros and cons of technologies, products and projects you are considering.

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

  Many enterprises use on-premises network management, but some are transitioning to cloud-based management. Enterprises should evaluate both options before deciding which to use. Continue Reading

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

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

• 9 common network issues and how to fix them

  Slow network speeds, weak Wi-Fi signals and damaged cabling are just some of the most common network connection issues that IT departments need to troubleshoot. Continue Reading

• Telemetry vs. SNMP: Which is better for network management?

  Now that networks have become more complex, network management has become a challenge of its own. Enterprises can compare telemetry vs. SNMP to see which better suits their needs. Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• How to tackle network automation challenges and risks

  Automation makes networks more efficient, but engineers must first mitigate the risks. With planning and training, enterprises can take advantage of automation's capabilities.Continue Reading

• How 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

• 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

• 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

• 9 types of networks and their use cases

  Networks differ based on size, connectivity, coverage and design. This guide explores the most common types of networks, their benefits and use cases.Continue Reading

• 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

• MAC address vs. IP address: What's the difference?

  A MAC address and an IP address each identify network devices, but they do the jobs at different levels. Explore the differences between the two and learn why both are necessary.Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• The complete secure access service edge (SASE) guide

  SASE helps organizations manage and secure traffic across locations. But is it the best choice for your environment? Use this guide to learn about SASE architecture and providers.Continue Reading

• Compare 5 single-vendor SASE providers

  SASE has broad enterprise appeal because it combines security and connectivity. With so many vendor options available, enterprises might need help narrowing the search.Continue Reading

• HPE Discover 2024: Aruba Networking moves to center stage

  HPE has made enterprise networking a critical part of its portfolio, with updates around AI, Aruba's networking tools, and the upcoming acquisition of Juniper.Continue Reading

• Wireshark vs. tcpdump: What's the difference?

  Wireshark and tcpdump both aid network administrators in packet analysis. Wireshark's simple GUI contrasts with tcpdump's speed and scripting abilities, which enhances management.Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• First thoughts from Cisco Live: Generative AI, Splunk and more

  During its annual conference, Cisco shined up ThousandEyes, added Splunk integrations and shared details regarding its generative AI strategy.Continue Reading

• Subnet use cases and considerations for network performance

  Network administrators create subnets to split networks and optimize performance. Other reasons for subnetting include traffic management, cloud optimization and security.Continue Reading

• Lessons from deploying private 5G

  Enterprises that have deployed private 5G cite both technical and business benefits, but they might not be what organizations expect. See how expectations compare with reality.Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• Latest AI network trends signal future of network automation

  AI will revolutionize all aspects of network operations, from management to security. Experts discussed AI's potential and the challenges of readiness at ONUG Spring 2024.Continue Reading

• SD-WAN vs. load balancing: How are they different?

  Load balancing is beneficial for network traffic distribution. SD-WAN can use load balancing for WAN connections, but it doesn't require load balancing to reap other benefits.Continue Reading

• The future of network licensing is Opex

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

• How SASE convergence affects organizational silos

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

• SASE reality check: What should organizations expect?

  Enterprises interested in SASE must grapple with challenges and misinformation about the tool. Businesses should discern SASE's true benefits before adoption.Continue Reading

• Why GenAI infrastructure optimization starts with the network

  GenAI deployment requires optimized infrastructure. The networking aspects, such as workload placement and the type of deployment model, could determine GenAI performance.Continue Reading

• What is SD-WAN (software-defined WAN)? Ultimate guide

  Software-defined WAN is a technology that uses software-defined networking concepts to distribute network traffic across a wide area network, or WAN.Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 4 key SD-WAN trends to watch

  Managed services, secure remote access, AI applications and 5G wireless network connectivity are four important trends that should propel the SD-WAN market.Continue Reading

• 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

• Juniper goes AI-native with its networking platform

  Juniper Networks' recent announcements point to its overarching plans to provide end-to-end network context and support GenAI strategies with its networking platform.Continue Reading

• 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

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

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

• What HPE-Juniper tells us about the future of infrastructure

  HPE's planned $14 billion acquisition of Juniper Networks stands to add to its power in the market, and can have long-term implications for the entire infrastructure industry.Continue Reading

• Security implications of HPE's plan to buy Juniper Networks

  While networking is the main driver of HPE's plan to acquire Juniper Networks, security is a big part of the strategy as well.Continue Reading

• Why HPE plans to acquire Juniper Networks

  With its blockbuster acquisition of Juniper Networks, HPE gains more data center networking and AI technologies as well as other important advantages.Continue Reading

• OpenRoaming vs. Passpoint: What's the difference?

  OpenRoaming and Passpoint both provide users with internet access outside of their coverage area via Wi-Fi, but they differ in terms of use cases, implementation, cost and more.Continue Reading

• What the networking job market looks like for 2024

  Networking trends around cloud, NaaS and security are influencing the job market and required skill sets among enterprise employers, but networking fundamentals are still a priority.Continue Reading

• What are the features and benefits of 5G technology?

  Fixed wireless access, increased bandwidth, faster cellular speeds and new technology enablement in vertical markets are just some of the business benefits of 5G.Continue Reading

• How AI in Wi-Fi will shape wireless connectivity

  AI will become an integral technology in networks in the next few years. Find out what an automated Wi-Fi network can do for businesses and learn best practices to get started.Continue Reading

• 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

• Wi-Fi 7 development grows but adoption interest lags

  Despite early discussions about the potential of Wi-Fi 7, many enterprises are still catching up with the rapid pace of Wi-Fi development for new standards.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

• 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

• Enterprise 5G: Guide to planning, architecture and benefits

  An enterprise 5G deployment requires extensive planning. Prepare for advances in wireless technology using this 5G guide that covers use cases, architecture integration and more.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

• Palo Alto Networks SASE Converge updates boost security, UX

  With the announcement of its latest SASE portfolio updates and the acquisition of Talon, Palo Alto Networks connects the dots between security and performance.Continue Reading

• The status of the US 5G fixed wireless access market

  FWA's ability to deliver high-speed connectivity to rural areas has high revenue potential and has prompted U.S. MNOs AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile to expand national deployment.Continue Reading

• What are the pros and cons of 5G?

  Enterprises are evaluating 5G and its effect on their operations. Before they can reap the benefits, they have to consider these 5G pros and cons.Continue Reading

• Red Hat Analyst Day vision focuses on AI and automation

  Organizations are embracing modern distributed cloud environments. At its analyst day, Red Hat advised taking a platform approach to simplify operations and speed innovation.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

• 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

• 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

• NaaS use cases include hardware refreshes, pop-up sites

  NaaS is an Opex-based consumption model that simplifies deployment, policy configuration and purchasing. The model is beneficial for small and large enterprises alike.Continue Reading

• Private 5G, NaaS, automation among top networking trends

  Presentations at ONUG Fall 2023 focused on private 5G, network as a service and network automation, which have all become more important as network complexity intensifies.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

• Open RAN revenue falls but 5G remains on track

  New research showed the market for Open RAN, a once-promising 5G enabler, has slowed down. Challenges persist, but experts expect 5G to continue to grow with Open RAN involvement.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

• 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

• 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

• Cisco makes big splash with Splunk

  The integration of Cisco and Splunk could result in a full-stack offering that provides comprehensive visibility across enterprise locations and AI-driven insights.Continue Reading

• Cut through 5G hype with the latest insights

  Network complexity has made 5G difficult for telecom providers to enable, which has delayed global development. These insights examine the status of 5G.Continue Reading

• 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

• What are 5G's killer applications?

  5G's killer applications have yet to be fully realized -- or defined -- but some potentials include higher capacity, improved connectivity, private 5G and more.Continue Reading

• Empower intelligence at the edge with AI deployment

  AI deployment at the edge has the potential to unleash powerful real-time analysis and processing. Use cases include industrial automation, remote monitoring and healthcare.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

• SD-WAN consumption to change as NaaS market matures

  NaaS is a cloud model that could provide a compelling way for enterprises to consume SD-WAN and other network services. Despite its potential, though, growth projections are slow.Continue Reading

• 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

• What's the difference between Wi-Fi and the internet?

  The internet connects users to the outside world. Wi-Fi connects devices within a business, which then connect to other network devices and out to the internet.Continue Reading

• 5 trends for SD-WAN managed services

  Enterprises interested in managed SD-WAN must evaluate essential considerations. Top trends include hybrid operations, vendor consolidation and AI-driven networking.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

• Reasons to build and buy network automation tools

  Most enterprises are building and buying network automation tools, and the reasons for both approaches are abundant. Find out why your organization might want to do the same.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

• Network engineer vs. software engineer: What's the difference?

  Despite potential overlaps in software skills, the roles of network engineers and software engineers vary in terms of skill sets, salaries, certifications and more.Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• Compare network management vs. network monitoring

  Network management and monitoring relate to NetOps. Network management helps NetOps teams maintain network performance, while network monitoring is a subset of network management.Continue Reading

• New Cisco tools aim to enable green networks, data centers

  At Cisco Live 2023, Cisco unveiled new products and updates to its portfolio to help organizations create sustainable data center networks as they modernize their infrastructures.Continue Reading

• The networking imperative for AI applications

  Networking is vital to support the requirements of AI applications. Technologies such as smartNICs and RDMA can improve efficiency and scalability.Continue Reading

• NetworkGPT, ChatGPT plugins show promise for NetOps

  NetworkGPT, a ChatGPT plugin revealed at Cisco Live 2023, shows the potential of how generative AI can integrate with and support network operations.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

• MLB simplifies operations with network automation platform

  Network automation enables Major League Baseball to monitor its networks across dozens of stadiums and locations, automate mundane tasks, schedule upgrades and more.Continue Reading

• AI in network management poses challenges for network pros

  Research shows that, while AI helps increase business success, network pros struggle to use it more than their peers. Find out how organizations can encourage network pros to use AI.Continue Reading