Network infrastructure
Network hardware and physical appliances, such as routers, switches, gateways, hubs and bridges, serve as the vital foundation of network infrastructure. Common network protocols and more emergent network software also play major roles in any architecture. While networking has shifted to software-centric principles, see how traditional network infrastructure keeps pace.
Top Stories
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News
29 Oct 2024
Cisco launches integrated AI infrastructure ‘Pods’
In addition to Pods, Cisco launched its first UCS server dedicated to running AI workloads on GPUs. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Oct 2024
Why does DNS use TCP Port 53 and UDP Port 53?
DNS uses both TCP and UDP ports to maintain consistent and reliable network performance. TCP provides zone transfers, while UDP handles name resolution queries and responses. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Oct 2024
What is remote desktop protocol (RDP)?
Remote desktop protocol (RDP) is a secure network communications protocol developed by Microsoft. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Oct 2024
What is a MAC address and how do I find it?
A MAC address (media access control address) is a 12-digit hexadecimal number assigned to each device connected to the network. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Oct 2024
What is cloud networking?
Cloud networking is a type of IT infrastructure in which the cloud hosts some or all of an organization's networking resources. Continue Reading
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Answer
15 Oct 2024
Managed vs. unmanaged switches: What are the differences?
Managed and unmanaged network switches differ in various ways, including control and cost. Managed switches support more granular control, while unmanaged switches are easier to set up. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Oct 2024
Starlink
Starlink is a satellite internet constellation system that aims to deliver global internet coverage. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Oct 2024
What is IPv6 (Internet Protocol version 6)?
Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) is a set of specifications from the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) that is responsible for identifying network devices and routing traffic across the internet. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Sep 2024
The role of network sandboxing and testing
Network sandboxing provides network teams with a risk-free environment to test changes and run potential threat scenarios. This helps prevent outages and other unexpected issues. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Sep 2024
How to tackle network automation challenges and risks
Automation makes networks more efficient, but engineers must first mitigate the risks. With planning and training, enterprises can take advantage of automation's capabilities. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Sep 2024
What is TCP/IP?
TCP/IP stands for Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol and is a suite of communication protocols used to interconnect network devices on the internet. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Sep 2024
What is ICMP (Internet Control Message Protocol)?
ICMP (Internet Control Message Protocol) is a network layer error-reporting protocol that's used to communicate data transmission problems. Continue Reading
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Answer
25 Sep 2024
Network automation vs. orchestration: What's the difference?
Automation and orchestration take different approaches to achieve network efficiency. However, network engineers can use them together to create an efficient, centralized network. Continue Reading
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Answer
24 Sep 2024
Recursive vs. iterative DNS queries: What's the difference?
Name resolution translates human-readable hostnames to IP addresses for device configuration. DNS uses recursive or iterative methods to translate names into IP addresses. Continue Reading
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Answer
11 Sep 2024
HTTP vs. HTTPS: What's the difference?
HTTP and HTTPS are web communication protocols. HTTP lacks security, while HTTPS encrypts data to adhere to the security standards of confidentiality, integrity and authenticity. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Sep 2024
How to implement CI/CD in network automation
CI/CD processes help deploy code changes to networks. Integrating a CI/CD pipeline into automation makes networks more reliable, reducing configuration errors and downtime. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Sep 2024
What is asynchronous?
In general, asynchronous -- from Greek asyn- ('not with/together') and chronos ('time') -- describes objects or events not coordinated in time. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Sep 2024
What is a personal area network (PAN)?
A personal area network (PAN) is a small network that interconnects technology devices within a limited range of just a few meters. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Sep 2024
What is a unique identifier (UID)?
A unique identifier (UID) is a numeric or alphanumeric string that is associated with a single entity within a given system. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Aug 2024
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
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Feature
26 Aug 2024
Wi-Fi upgrades on the horizon as enterprises eye Wi-Fi 7
Enterprises have been slow to adopt Wi-Fi 7, as they find previous generations suit their needs. However, experts predict enterprises will upgrade to Wi-Fi 7 in the next 12 to 18 months. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Aug 2024
What is a URL (Uniform Resource Locator)?
A URL (Uniform Resource Locator) is a unique identifier used to locate a resource on the internet. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Aug 2024
What is a proxy server?
A proxy server is an intermediary between a user and the internet. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Aug 2024
How to create subnets in IPv4 and IPv6 networks
Network administrators subnet networks into segments for improved control and efficiency. IPv4 uses subnet masks, while IPv6 uses prefixes, and each has its own unique steps. Continue Reading
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Video
19 Aug 2024
An explanation of subnets
Subnets make networking manageable and ensure efficient communication. Without subnetting, sending emails, texts and documents would be significantly slower. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Aug 2024
What is Real-Time Transport Control Protocol (RTCP)?
Real-Time Transport Control Protocol (RTCP) is a network communication protocol that works alongside Real-Time Protocol (RTP) to monitor and track data delivery on large multicast networks via RTP's associated transmission metrics. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Aug 2024
What is EM shielding (electromagnetic shielding)?
EM shielding (electromagnetic shielding) is the practice of surrounding electronics and cables with conductive or magnetic materials to guard against incoming or outgoing emissions of electromagnetic frequencies (EMF). Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Aug 2024
What is FTP?
File Transfer Protocol (FTP) is a network protocol for transmitting files between computers over TCP/IP connections. Continue Reading
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News
15 Aug 2024
Cisco cuts workforce for third time in 2 years, pursues AI
Cisco cuts its workforce by 7% and forms one unit for networking, security and collaboration to energize AI and security sales. It's the third round of layoffs since 2022. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Aug 2024
The pros and cons of optical wireless communication
OWC transfers data using highly directional light in free space. While OWC delivers high-speed data transfers, it is susceptible to multipath dispersion and interference. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Aug 2024
How to plan and start a network upgrade
Network architects face challenges when considering a network upgrade, but enterprises can keep problems to a minimum by following a careful plan and listening to end users. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Aug 2024
How to calculate a subnet mask from hosts and subnets
IP addressing and subnetting are important and basic elements of networks. Learn how to calculate a subnet mask based on the required number of subnets and hosts. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Aug 2024
Tips to provide network support for remote workers
Enterprises must modernize their networks to support remote work, while IT teams ensure networks have proper bandwidth and security, as well as dedicated help for remote workers. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Aug 2024
Wi-Fi 6 vs. Wi-Fi 5: What's the difference?
Wi-Fi 6 was introduced as the next-generation Wi-Fi standard after Wi-Fi 5. While similar in certain aspects, Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 6 differ in terms of features and capabilities. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Jul 2024
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
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Answer
29 Jul 2024
An introduction to SFP ports on a Gigabit switch
SFP ports enable Gigabit switches to connect to a variety of fiber and Ethernet cables and extend switching functionality throughout the network. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Jul 2024
The benefits and drawbacks of network as a service
NaaS, with its varied definitions and attributes, is hard to define. In a new EMA survey, enterprises laid out their expectations for NaaS, including its benefits and drawbacks. Continue Reading
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Answer
23 Jul 2024
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
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Definition
22 Jul 2024
What is wavelength?
Wavelength is the distance between identical points, or adjacent crests, in the adjacent cycles of a waveform signal propagated in space or along a wire. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Jul 2024
Broadband equity initiatives bridge digital divide in K-12
Federally funded broadband programs support infrastructure upgrades to underserved communities, which address the digital divide in K-12 education. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Jul 2024
WebSocket
WebSocket is a communications protocol that enables two endpoints -- typically a client and a server -- to establish a persistent, bidirectional, full duplex TCP connection between them. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jul 2024
7 steps to set up a home network
This guide teaches networking newbies how to set up a home network, from understanding hardware components to managing network performance and security. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Jul 2024
Cloud networking sustainability strategies yield benefits
As enterprises seek ways to reduce their environmental footprints, one popular way is to migrate on-premises networking infrastructure to third-party CSPs. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Jul 2024
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
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Opinion
01 Jul 2024
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
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Tip
26 Jun 2024
Common types of networking devices explained
This introduction explores eight network devices that are commonly used within enterprise network infrastructures, including access points, routers and switches. Continue Reading
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Answer
26 Jun 2024
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
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Tip
25 Jun 2024
A work-from-home reimbursement policy for network tech
Organizations should create comprehensive work-from-home reimbursement plans that drive better network and internet connectivity rates rather than offset employee's existing bills. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Jun 2024
Strategies for simplifying network complexity
Experts at the Cisco Live 2024 conference discussed the future of AI in networks and how its use can help simplify network and data center operations. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Jun 2024
subnet (subnetwork)
A subnet, or subnetwork, is a segmented piece of a larger network. More specifically, subnets are a logical partition of an IP network broken into multiple, smaller network segments. Continue Reading
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News
20 Jun 2024
Arista, Cisco, HPE answer AI infrastructure demand
Arista, Cisco and HPE are racing to seize a share of the promising GenAI infrastructure market. Cisco and HPE have computing, networking and software; Arista focuses on networking. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Jun 2024
secure access service edge (SASE)
Secure access service edge (SASE), pronounced sassy, is a cloud architecture model that bundles together network and cloud-native security technologies and delivers them as a single cloud service. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Jun 2024
Transmission Control Protocol (TCP)
Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) is a standard protocol on the internet that ensures the reliable transmission of data between devices on a network. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Jun 2024
CIDR (Classless Inter-Domain Routing or supernetting)
CIDR (Classless Inter-Domain Routing or supernetting) is a method of assigning IP addresses that improves the efficiency of address distribution and replaces the previous system based on Class A, Class B and Class C networks. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Jun 2024
Mass General Brigham tackles network upgrade, AI pilots
As Mass General Brigham updated its network and invested in other upgrades, the hospital ecosystem also developed a measured approach to AI implementation. Continue Reading
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Conference Coverage
12 Jun 2024
Cisco Live 2024 conference coverage and analysis
Cisco Live 2024 will focus largely on AI and its potential to transform enterprise networking and IT. Use this guide to follow along with conference news and analysis. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jun 2024
ARP vs. RARP: What's the difference?
Network devices use ARP to map IP addresses to MAC addresses. RARP, which is less common, accomplishes the reverse and enables network devices to map MAC addresses to IP addresses. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jun 2024
Edge computing opportunities for telecom providers
Compatibility issues and the initial limited release of 5G have hindered edge computing adoption. But widescale 5G rollouts, advances in AI and new use cases could drive deployment. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Jun 2024
Link Layer Discovery Protocol (LLDP)
The Link Layer Discovery Protocol (LLDP) is an open and extendable part of the Internet Protocol Suite, commonly known as TCP/IP, used in the IEEE 802.1AB standard to advertise a device's identity and abilities to other connected devices within the same network. Continue Reading
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News
07 Jun 2024
Cisco makes Splunk the center of observability
Cisco is integrating Splunk, AppDynamics and ThousandEyes to create a critical differentiator in the observability market. Networking integration will come later. Continue Reading
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Opinion
06 Jun 2024
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
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Definition
03 Jun 2024
NBASE-T Ethernet
NBASE-T Ethernet is an IEEE standard and Ethernet-signaling technology that enables existing twisted-pair copper cabling to exceed the cable's specified limit of 1 gigabit per second (Gbps) for distances of up to 100 meters. Continue Reading
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Feature
03 Jun 2024
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
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Guest Post
29 May 2024
How network engineers can prepare for the future with AI
The rapid rise of AI has left some professionals feeling unprepared. GenAI is beneficial to networks, but engineers must have the proper tools to adapt to this new change. Continue Reading
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Answer
13 May 2024
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
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Tip
13 May 2024
How to use IPv6 in enterprise networks
The transition to IPv6 is a learning curve. Here's what to understand about IPv6, including benefits, troubleshooting techniques and best practices for secure integration. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 May 2024
net neutrality
Net neutrality is the concept of an open, equal internet for everyone, regardless of content consumed or the device, application or platform used. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Apr 2024
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
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Definition
23 Apr 2024
networking (computer)
Networking, also known as computer networking, is the practice of transporting and exchanging data between nodes over a shared medium in an information system. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Apr 2024
host virtual machine (host VM)
A host virtual machine is the server component of a virtual machine the underlying hardware that provides computing resources to support a particular guest VM. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Apr 2024
IT operations (IT ops)
The term IT operations (IT ops) describes the many processes and services an IT department manages and maintains within an organization. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Apr 2024
Is network automation adoption necessary?
Automation is not a one-size-fits-all strategy for every network problem. Enterprises must examine their network's needs to determine if automation is a worthwhile investment. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Apr 2024
subnet mask
A subnet mask is a 32-bit binary number used in modern network addressing schemes to differentiate between a network's location and the specific location of a host or device on that network. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Apr 2024
local area network (LAN)
A local area network (LAN) is a group of computers and peripheral devices that are connected together within a distinct geographic area, such as an office building or campus. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Apr 2024
Building networks for AI workloads
Conventional and high-performance computing networks cannot adequately support AI workloads, so network engineers must build specialized networks to accommodate their massive size. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Apr 2024
Using Power over Ethernet for UC: Pros and cons
Harnessing Power over Ethernet in unified communications deployments can pay dividends. But the technology isn't suitable for every environment. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Mar 2024
How to handle environmental regulations and green networking
Green networking is achievable if network managers ensure devices and supporting systems are energy-efficient and comply with established environmental regulations. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
14 Mar 2024
How to use the LFTP client to download files
The open source LFTP client supports multiple file transport types, such as FTP and HTTPS, enabling administrators to use a single interface to upload and download files. Continue Reading
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News
12 Mar 2024
Arista adds network change analysis to CloudVision
Arista's CloudVision Universal Network Observability analyses network changes to assess their impact on applications and workloads, including those on virtualization platforms. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Mar 2024
How to secure on-prem apps with Entra Application Proxy
There's nothing wrong with using a VPN to securely connect to on-premises web apps, but Microsoft Entra Application Proxy is an alternative with a more streamlined approach. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Mar 2024
How to ensure optimal network workload placement
Network and cybersecurity requirements are the most important considerations when designing how to deploy new network workloads across the enterprise. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Mar 2024
VPNs persist amid the rise of ZTNA, other VPN alternatives
VPN use continues despite its outdated status in the networking industry. But usage has declined as enterprises make room for remote access alternatives, like ZTNA, SASE and more. Continue Reading
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News
15 Feb 2024
Declining revenues lead to 4,000 job cuts at Cisco
A 12% drop in networking revenue contributed to the company's overall revenue decline and its decision to cut 5% of its workforce. Continue Reading
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News
07 Feb 2024
Latest Cisco products show measured approach to AI
Cisco has launched a SaaS product for applying policy controls to AI model-bound data and an Nvidia partnership to bolster Cisco UCS servers for AI at the edge and data centers. Continue Reading
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News
31 Jan 2024
Astera Labs uses CXL to accelerate AI, expand memory
Astera Labs is using the CXL interface in its now longer Smart Cable Module to spread out energy consumption while enabling GPU clusters to meet growing AI demands. Continue Reading
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News
29 Jan 2024
Juniper adds data center networks to Mist AI
Juniper's Mist AI update will include using the Marvis virtual network assistant to obtain information on data center cabling, configurations and connectivity issues. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Jan 2024
NFVi (network functions virtualization infrastructure)
NFVi (network functions virtualization infrastructure) encompasses all of the networking hardware and software needed to support and connect virtual network functions in carrier networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Jan 2024
millimeter wave (mmWave)
Millimeter wave (mmWave), also known as millimeter band, is a range of electromagnetic frequencies between microwaves and infrared. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Jan 2024
network slicing
Network slicing is a technique that creates multiple virtual networks on top of a shared physical network to provide greater flexibility in the use and allocation of network resources. Continue Reading
- Definition 23 Jan 2024
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Opinion
19 Jan 2024
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
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Tutorial
19 Jan 2024
How to use TFTP to transfer files across the network
Trivial File Transfer Protocol is one of the oldest and simplest TCP/IP file exchange protocols. Here are use cases and best practices for installation and security. Continue Reading
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Quiz
16 Jan 2024
8 practice network hardware questions for CCST exam
Prepare for the CCST Networking exam with this network hardware quiz from Chapter 10 of 'Cisco Certified Support Technician CCST Networking 100-150 Official Cert Guide.' Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Jan 2024
Introduction to network hardware components
This excerpt from 'Cisco Certified Support Technician CCST Networking 100-150 Official Cert Guide' provides beginners with knowledge and best practices on network hardware. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Jan 2024
Best practices to install network hardware
Network practitioners might get tangled in the confusion of wires, switches and other hardware components. A networking expert offers best practices for network hardware. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Jan 2024
Evolved Packet Core (EPC)
Evolved Packet Core (EPC) is a framework for providing converged voice and data services on a 4G Long-Term Evolution (LTE) network. Continue Reading
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Opinion
11 Jan 2024
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
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Definition
02 Jan 2024
Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FCoE)
Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FcoE) is a storage protocol that enables Fibre Channel (FC) communications to run directly over Ethernet. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Dec 2023
top-of-rack switching
Top-of-rack switching is a data center architecture design in which computing equipment like servers, appliances and other switches located within the same or adjacent rack connect to an in-rack network switch. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Dec 2023
edge device
An edge device is any piece of hardware that controls data flow at the boundary between two networks. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Dec 2023
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
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Definition
08 Dec 2023
network interface card (NIC)
A network interface card (NIC) is a hardware component, typically a circuit board or chip, installed on a computer so it can connect to a network. Continue Reading