Get started

Get started

Bring yourself up to speed with our introductory content.

• What is network automation, and what can it do for you?

  This feature explores what network automation is and its influence on organizations. It also discusses assumptions about its effect on network engineers and similarities with SDN. Continue Reading

• Learn about the top telecom certifications

  Use this expert advice to wade through myriad telecom certifications and pinpoint the top certifications for the industry, like TCO, iNARTE and BICSI certifications. Continue Reading

• What does stateful vs. stateless mean in a networking context?

  When it comes to understanding state from a networking perspective, knowing the difference between stateful vs. stateless firewalls is a crucial starting point. Continue Reading

• BGP tutorial: How the routing protocol works

  Border Gateway Protocol is the complex routing protocol that literally makes the internet work. This tutorial walks you through how BGP functions and offers troubleshooting options. Continue Reading

• A glossary of 10 essential network security terms

  This network security glossary covers both old and new key terms -- such as zero trust networks and microsegmentation -- that can bolster anyone's security vocabulary. Continue Reading

• Definitions to Get Started

  • What is Cisco Performance Routing (PfR)?
  • What is a MAC address and how do I find it?
  • What is cloud networking?
  • What is IPv6 (Internet Protocol version 6)?

  • What is TCP/IP?
  • What is ICMP (Internet Control Message Protocol)?
  • What is asynchronous?
  • What is a URL (Uniform Resource Locator)?

  View All Definitions

• What is NetOps? Start with these 5 common questions

  This compilation is an essential starting point for NetOps novices. These five common questions explore what NetOps is, how it can benefit networks and its effect on network teams.Continue Reading

• An 802.11ax survival guide: Expectations for the Wi-Fi standard

  This 802.11ax survival guide has the information you need for the newest Wi-Fi standard, including various expectations, device advice and available features.Continue Reading

• 4 criteria to consider in your cloud migration strategy

  Organizations that are evaluating a workload migration to the cloud should use this workload placement process to build a consistent cloud migration strategy.Continue Reading

• What do you know about the history of Wi-Fi?

  If you ever wonder how Wi-Fi got to where it is today, this quiz takes you through the vast history of Wi-Fi, from the first generation through 802.11ax's impending ratification.Continue Reading

• How is service mesh architecture different from SDN and NFV?

  Service mesh separates itself from SDN and NFV approaches with its clear focus on managing the communication and forwarding between multiple microservices.Continue Reading

• What's the difference between an edge router vs. core router?

  Clearly, an edge router and core router are placed in different parts of the network, but their routing roles are more complex than their physical locations.Continue Reading

• What are private 5G networks and could they emerge as a major trend?

  In some network environments, businesses may need broader connection options for devices and automation. Private 5G networks, at some point, might be the answer.Continue Reading

• A glossary for the terms and types of WAN technologies

  This introduction to WAN technologies defines several different terms -- such as VPN and SD-WAN -- that are essential in anybody's networking vocabulary.Continue Reading

• Wireless capacity more important than fast Wi-Fi 6 speed

  Wi-Fi 6 speed may be getting all the attention, but the most compelling advantages of the new standard are techniques engineered to increase wireless capacity.Continue Reading

• SD-WAN with IoT enables the enhanced network edge

  In a world teeming with IoT devices -- and the resulting data -- SD-WAN and SD-branch can provide the security, visibility and connectivity the IoT edge requires.Continue Reading

• What are the 5 types of network firewalls and how are they different?

  As they monitor and filter network traffic, some firewalls can provide some pretty advanced security controls. But added packet inspection can slow network performance.Continue Reading

• What is a programmable data plane and where does P4 fit in?

  A programmable data plane presents a versatile way to forward packets and supports various formats and protocols. The P4 language is used to configure the forwarding actions.Continue Reading

• What you need to know about edge computing architecture

  Edge computing makes network operations more responsive, but there are challenges that must be addressed to get this latest network architecture working for you.Continue Reading

• What happens when edge computing hits enterprise networks?

  Is it time to take your network to the edge? Learn what edge networking can do to improve traffic flows, ease demand for high-performing connectivity and more.Continue Reading

• A review of SD-branch and its progression from SD-WAN

  The goal of software-defined branch is to merge network functions and management into a single platform, but the branch architecture still lacks maturity, despite some early deployments.Continue Reading

• A brief glossary of network service provider types

  For network novices and experts alike, this glossary of basic terms covers essential keywords related to network services and the various providers that sell them.Continue Reading

• How are automated network configuration and management changing?

  Could a new generation of network testing and verification tools combine with automated network configuration to mimic intent-based networking systems?Continue Reading

• How to strategize for WAN and SD-WAN performance monitoring

  The importance of WAN performance monitoring hasn't decreased with the introduction of SD-WAN and other technologies. Enterprises still need to enforce proper monitoring strategies.Continue Reading

• Cloud connectivity tests the bond between enterprises, WAN providers

  Collaborating on cloud connections can strengthen or strain relationships between enterprises and service providers. Service-level agreements, in particular, can be tested.Continue Reading

• How do cloud data centers affect network bandwidth requirements?

  When deciding which applications to move to a cloud data center, enterprises should consider network bandwidth requirements and latency, among other factors.Continue Reading

• Take steps now to ready your network for 802.11ax specification

  The 802.11ax specification promises higher speeds and lower latency. Preparing now will help you make the transition easier. Here's what you need to know.Continue Reading

• Network operating system advantages extend to white box switching

  The network operating system is changing, moving toward software acceleration, open APIs and white box switching. Learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of the new NOS.Continue Reading

• AI in networking presents opportunities for service providers

  Network installers and managed service providers can reap key benefits with AI in networking, including better productivity, staff management and customer response.Continue Reading

• How do SDN protocols compare to those used in SD-WAN?

  Traditional SDN controllers use northbound and southbound APIs to communicate. But software-defined WAN controllers don't rely on those same SDN protocols.Continue Reading

• Wireless network configuration basics: 5 steps to follow

  Different wireless networks have different requirements. However, some common principles exist for strategizing your wireless network configuration steps.Continue Reading

• Why would an organization move to intent-based networking?

  Intent-based networking doesn't use any magical commands. But it does use a heavy dose of automation, which might cause some network teams to be wary of the new approach.Continue Reading

• How to improve your networking career path in 3 steps

  Network technology is always changing. As a result, your IT network skills need to evolve, as well. Take a look at three steps you can take on your networking career path.Continue Reading

• What is intent-based networking and how does it work?

  Intent-based networking might be the future of networking, but it needs to be more than just another networking strategy that offers advanced automation and simplified provisioning.Continue Reading

• How do network virtualization and network abstraction compare?

  Network virtualization and network abstraction share similarities, like supporting the creation of virtual resources, but the two approaches vary in complexity and outcome.Continue Reading

• A brief index of network configuration basics

  This glossary of terms provides a brief overview of network configuration and some of the crucial components involved -- many of which remain as necessary as ever.Continue Reading

• Network configuration basics: Focus on users and software tools

  When configuring a network, keep a detailed and updated document to track user needs and network changes. And, of course, take advantage of network configuration software.Continue Reading

• What is a software-defined perimeter, and do I need it?

  An evolving network world requires evolving network security. Learn how software-defined perimeter offers a compelling answer to network vulnerabilities.Continue Reading

• Which core network functions are being virtualized?

  Network functions virtualization can virtualize both data center and branch office network services. But a couple of special cases, like virtual switches, require clarification.Continue Reading

• What is a service mesh, and how does it relate to networking?

  A service mesh can ease the deployment of microservices and container-based applications, while supporting the delivery of network services, like load balancing and authentication.Continue Reading

• 10 metrics to drive a NetOps 2.0 culture shift

  If an object at rest tends to stay at rest, how can IT leaders get the network moving at the speed of DevOps? Start with performance review metrics that reflect NetOps goals, experts suggest.Continue Reading

• Getting started with 5G network planning

  This feature explores the basics of 5G technology, concerns from industry insiders, where it currently stands and predictions for its future.Continue Reading

• What are the pros and cons of deploying containers?

  Containers can reduce a company's OS licensing costs and required CPU usage, while acting as a bridge to serverless computing. But IT teams need to evaluate the potential drawbacks.Continue Reading

• Where does SDN fit in edge computing architecture?

  SDN and edge computing can work together to apply data processing decisions that make better use of network links and bandwidth, especially when it comes to edge versus cloud.Continue Reading

• A quick guide to important SDN security issues

  Lock down your knowledge of SDN security issues using this compilation that includes expert advice, common pain points and helpful best practices.Continue Reading

• NetOps, SecOps, DevOps concepts merge to automate security testing

  By adopting DevOps concepts, network teams can automate security testing. But, as development, network and security tasks mingle, some staffing challenges can arise.Continue Reading

• How do last-mile connections work for SD-WAN deployments?

  SD-WAN technology plays well with existing last-mile connections, and it allows enterprises to use more than one type of transport link. But beware of provider sprawl.Continue Reading

• What is the status of VNF deployments among service providers?

  Although service providers are undertaking VNF deployments in the network core, they're hard-pressed to deploy them at the network edge due to complexity and cost.Continue Reading

• Time-sensitive networking standards could boost industrial control

  With the help of VLAN priority levels, time-sensitive networking can make packet flow more predictable. The technology could especially benefit the factory floor.Continue Reading

• A 7-step checklist for designing a cloud migration plan

  Enterprises want their applications to be portable and able to shift easily among multiple cloud providers. To do that, putting together a good cloud migration plan is a must.Continue Reading

• Does software-defined networking architecture use segment routing?

  Segment routing steers packets using a list of instructions, and it can be used in MPLS and IPv6 architecture. But does software-defined networking architecture support it?Continue Reading

• How do I begin network infrastructure planning for SD-WAN?

  When gearing up for SD-WAN upgrades, enterprises should take their time with network infrastructure planning. These three steps can help get them started.Continue Reading

• What is multi-access edge computing, and how has it evolved?

  Multi-access edge computing provides the processing capacity needed to support the increase of 'things' at the network edge. But for all its promise, MEC has challenges to face.Continue Reading

• What you need to know about managed SD-WAN services

  This guide offers easy access to information on five major topics related to managed SD-WAN services and directs you toward the latest advice, tips and recommendations.Continue Reading

• Will network management functions as a service arrive soon?

  Network management as a service isn't widespread, at least not yet. But if past history is any indication, its popularity is bound to grow, once certain hurdles are overcome.Continue Reading

• How can network analytics tools benefit IT staff?

  Network analytics tools can help IT managers proactively pinpoint network performance issues and trends -- even before the underlying problem is revealed.Continue Reading

• Does software-defined networking architecture need network overlays?

  Network overlays and software-defined networking architecture share a history. But while overlays offer flexibility, they also bring extra overhead and troubleshooting complications.Continue Reading

• Is NaaS the answer to bolster network infrastructure security strategy?

  Network security as a service can be a beneficial part of a network infrastructure security strategy, but you have to ask the right questions.Continue Reading

• Three goals of multiple cloud management and how to reach them

  Attaining the benefits of the cloud is getting ever more complex. Learn ways to enable efficient and effective management of hybrid and multi-cloud environments.Continue Reading

• Challenges of blockchain muddle understanding of the technology

  There is a lot of hype about blockchain and how it might be used within networking operations. But just understanding the technology and what it actually does might be among the biggest challenges of blockchain.Continue Reading

• Clarifying network disaggregation and related technologies

  Trying to explain network disaggregation and related trends -- like SDN, NFV and white boxes -- can be complicated. Our expert pins the terms down and explains the tradeoffs.Continue Reading

• Software-based networks lay foundation of networking's future

  Software-based networks are evolving, reshaping how companies do business and blending into legacy networking. Enterprises will have to sort out which approaches work best.Continue Reading

• A refresher course on white box networking equipment

  This white box networking review sheds some light on the variations, as it's all too easy to confuse the intricacies of white boxes, universal CPEs and brite boxes.Continue Reading

• Optical interconnect DCI frameworks need more flexibility to keep pace

  An optical interconnect framework can support high-speed DCI deployments. But it's important that optical networks become programmable to ensure reliability.Continue Reading

• App delivery controllers are vital networking hardware tools

  With new capabilities, the future of ADCs is bright. Learn what features this networking workhorse has acquired and what it means for data center networking.Continue Reading

• Private CDN services fill specific needs for some businesses

  In addition to shared CDN service options, private CDNs with dedicated edge servers are the obvious answer for businesses with specific content delivery needs.Continue Reading

• How do I improve my network programming knowledge?

  When it comes to SDN and programmable network skills, combining training with practice and hands-on experience can help advance your programming knowledge.Continue Reading

• Q3 Cisco financials show another uptick in sales, services

  Cisco financials show a 4% boost in sales as Cisco records its second consecutive quarter of revenue growth and continues to embrace software services.Continue Reading

• SN blogs: Is Arista making right move with campus switches?

  Bloggers discuss Arista's new strategy to market campus switches, examine container security risks and ask the question of whether networking is a commodity.Continue Reading

• Helping enterprises adapt to open source switching

  Enterprise adoption of open source switching hasn't kept pace with cloud providers and telcos. What are some of the barriers blocking the use of disaggregation?Continue Reading

• What is ONAP, and how does it tie into NFV architecture?

  Network expert Lee Doyle looks at ONAP, its role in NFV architecture and its progress in becoming the standard platform for NFV management and orchestration.Continue Reading

• Network infrastructure design for network-as-a-service

  When it comes to network as a service, network infrastructure design depends on if you want services delivered across the LAN, WAN or data center. Find out what you need to know.Continue Reading

• Software drives the promise of the interoperable network

  Interoperability in networks is essential now, a reality that vendors increasingly acknowledge. Learn how the networking industry is changing to accommodate the need for openness.Continue Reading

• Software-driven network access ups enterprise agility

  Network access to service provider systems is becoming software-based. Learn more about how software-defined access works and the flexibility inherent in software.Continue Reading

• Test yourself on open networking, open source and SDN

  The open networking concept follows the likes of SDN and open source, but the lines separating them all are often blurred. This quiz can help you understand the differences.Continue Reading

• How to bridge the network engineering skills gap

  Training for new network engineering skills should emphasize basic concepts behind building a network, whether it's software-defined, intent-based or disaggregated.Continue Reading

• What cloud data center interconnect technologies can do

  Data center interconnect technologies and services now use cloud. Learn how CDCI improves traffic delivery and how to choose the right equipment and services.Continue Reading

• Meet network management goals with new tech and techniques

  Get up to speed on the new technological advances, improved products and advanced techniques that make enterprise network monitoring and management a bit less daunting.Continue Reading

• Network configuration tools: A primer

  Script management, intent-based systems and new strategies with network configuration tools are propelling a paradigm shift in the way that networks are managed.Continue Reading

• Software-defined branch networks: Why and how to do them

  Software networking virtualization has reached branch networks. Learn the whys and hows of creating the software-defined branch using the latest software networking technologies.Continue Reading

• Comparison of popular technical SD-WAN service models

  Two main SD-WAN service model options exist for users to choose from, but more could be on the way due to regulatory and industry development efforts. Find out what works for you in this comparison.Continue Reading

• Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE certification)

  Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE certification) is a series of technical certifications for senior networking professionals who design, build, implement, maintain and troubleshoot complex enterprise networking infrastructures.Continue Reading

• Layer 3 switches explained

  Layer 3 switches are important in enterprise networks -- particularly in designs with many subnets and virtual LANs. What is a Layer 3 switch, what can it do for you, and how does it differ from a regular switch or router?Continue Reading

• What do I need to do to create successful hybrid WANs?

  The market for hybrid network services is growing, and with it comes the challenge of successfully creating hybrid WANs.Continue Reading

• WAN-cloud eXchange extends the private WAN to the cloud

  Enterprises can reap cloud benefits while relieving concerns about security and reliability with a WAN-cloud eXchange, or WAN-CX.Continue Reading

• Discover three ways to get your WAN software defined

  There are three ways to get your WAN software defined: overlay, replace and as a service. Learn what these entail and how they can reduce costs and improve WAN performance.Continue Reading

• IPv6 connectivity: Ignore at your own peril

  Gathering knowledge on IPv6 connectivity and implementation is critical to success in modern IP networking.Continue Reading

• Five essential network security topics and trends to watch

  With a constant drumbeat of security and data breaches in 2015, it's no wonder networking pros have questions and concerns about network security topics. These five stats can get you started.Continue Reading

• Time to get your cloud network architecture ready

  Enterprises need to ensure their cloud network architecture is ready for the future. Here are some concepts network managers should think about.Continue Reading

• WAN optimization techniques pace IT investment

  TechTarget's most recent Networking Purchasing Intentions survey reveals IT's priority to invest in WAN optimization techniques in the next 12 months.Continue Reading

• Network timing: Everything you need to know about NTP

  As more applications use IP networks, reliable distribution of authoritative timing information is becoming critical.Continue Reading

• Network programming skills from scripting to DevOps: What to learn

  Networking pros don't need to become code monkeys, but a little network programming can go a long way toward advancing their careers.Continue Reading

• Hyper-V networking: The three virtual switches that fuel connectivity

  In this Hyper-V networking primer, learn about the three virtual switches behind Microsoft virtualization connectivity.Continue Reading

• Your next job may be 'network programmer': What you'll need to know

  SDN brings flexibility to networking, but this will require engineers to gain new skills in order to fill the emerging role of network programmer.Continue Reading

• Subnet basics: Must you set up Wi-Fi subnets in a single building?

  Expert Mike Jude discusses the rationale of creating distinct Wi-Fi subnets in a single building.Continue Reading

• The evolution of network control

  The degree of network control IT pros possess is expanding with new tools and solutions. Learn the latest about network management and monitoring.Continue Reading

• Are there alternatives to the OpenFlow protocol?

  Jason Edelman explains OpenFlow protocol alternatives and what's important in determining which southbound protocol will work for you.Continue Reading

• Primer: A new generation of programmable ASICs

  Programmable application-specific integrated circuits allow the data plane of switches to support new technologies, like software-defined networking.Continue Reading

• How to plan for a campus core switch refresh: Basic requirements

  Network architects and engineers discuss the features and functions they look for when planning a campus core upgrade.Continue Reading

• software-defined networking monitoring application (SDN monitoring application)

  An SDN monitoring application is a software program that oversees the traffic in a software-defined network (SDN) as a component of network management.Continue Reading

• fiber to the x (FTTx)

  Fiber to the x (FTTx) is a collective term for various optical fiber delivery topologies that are categorized according to where the fiber terminatesContinue Reading