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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Feature
06 Nov 2024
AI skills for network professionals
Networking professionals must develop basic networking skills and AI to thrive in a complex landscape. Learn how AI's integration into network management will change the field. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Nov 2024
How AI in the NOC will transform network operations
AI can improve network operations through automation and troubleshooting. Experts at ONUG emphasized phased adoption and methods that enhance NOC monitoring and support. 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
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Definition
06 Dec 2023
User Datagram Protocol (UDP)
User Datagram Protocol (UDP) is a communications protocol primarily used to establish low-latency and loss-tolerating connections between applications on the internet. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Dec 2023
Telnet
Telnet is a network protocol used to virtually access a computer and provide a two-way, collaborative and text-based communication channel between two machines. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Dec 2023
big-endian and little-endian
The term endianness describes the order in which computer memory stores a sequence of bytes. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Dec 2023
Address Resolution Protocol (ARP)
Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) is a protocol that maps dynamic IP addresses to permanent physical machine addresses in a local area network (LAN). Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Dec 2023
single-user multiple input, multiple output (SU-MIMO)
Single-user multiple input, multiple output (SU-MIMO) is a multitransmitter and receiver technology that lets a wireless access point send multiple, simultaneous data streams to one compatible endpoint at a time. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Nov 2023
ternary content-addressable memory (TCAM)
Ternary content-addressable memory (TCAM) is a specialized type of high-speed memory that searches its entire contents in a single clock cycle. Continue Reading
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Opinion
22 Nov 2023
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
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Definition
21 Nov 2023
5G standalone (5G SA)
5G standalone (5G SA) is a cellular infrastructure built specifically for 5G services by implementing 5G standards and protocols in the radio network and controller core. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Nov 2023
Cisco IOS (Cisco Internetwork Operating System)
Cisco IOS (Internetwork Operating System) is a collection of proprietary operating systems (OSes) that runs on Cisco hardware devices, including Cisco Systems network devices, routers and network switches. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Nov 2023
small cell
A small cell is an umbrella term used to describe a miniature radio access point or wireless network base station with a low radio frequency power output, footprint and range. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Nov 2023
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
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Definition
16 Nov 2023
data link layer
The data link layer is the protocol layer in a program that handles how data moves in and out of a physical link in a network. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Nov 2023
carrier cloud
A carrier cloud is a cloud computing environment that is owned and operated by a traditional telecommunications service provider. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Nov 2023
How to build a private 5G network architecture
A private 5G network could provide organizations with greater control over their wireless environments. But cost and complexity could be critical deterrents. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Nov 2023
CPRI (Common Public Radio Interface)
CPRI (Common Public Radio Interface) is a specification for wireless communication networks that defines the key criteria for interfacing transport, connectivity and control communications between baseband units (BBUs) and remote radio units (RRUs), which are also called remote radio heads (RRHs). Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Nov 2023
network hub
A network hub is a node that broadcasts data to every computer or Ethernet-based device connected to it. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Nov 2023
router
A router is a physical or virtual appliance that passes information between two or more packet-switched computer networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Nov 2023
OpenFlow
OpenFlow, an open source standard supported by many vendors, is the first software defined networking (SDN) control protocol. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Nov 2023
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
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Definition
13 Nov 2023
Generic Routing Encapsulation (GRE)
Generic Routing Encapsulation (GRE) is a protocol that encapsulates packets in order to route various protocols over Internet Protocol (IP) networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Oct 2023
application delivery controller (ADC)
An application delivery controller (ADC) is a network component that manages and optimizes how client machines connect to web and enterprise application servers. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Oct 2023
Open Shortest Path First (OSPF)
Open Shortest Path First, often shortened to OSPF, is an IP routing protocol used to find the best path to distribute packets as they pass through IP networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Oct 2023
Ethernet
Ethernet is the traditional technology for connecting devices in a wired local area network (LAN) or wide area network. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Oct 2023
data plane
The data plane -- sometimes known as the user plane, forwarding plane, carrier plane or bearer plane -- is the part of a network that carries user traffic. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Oct 2023
fiber optics (optical fiber)
Fiber optics, or optical fiber, refers to the technology that transmits information as light pulses along a glass or plastic fiber. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Oct 2023
Macrocell vs. small cell vs. femtocell: A 5G introduction
Small cells provide fast connectivity speeds for 5G networks and capable devices, but 5G won't stop there. Macrocells and femtocells are also key to connect 5G networks. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Oct 2023
The essential 5G glossary of key terms and phrases
To understand 5G, delve into the terminology that shapes the technology. This glossary of 14 5G keywords explains what 5G is and how its features work. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Oct 2023
The 3 different types of 5G technology for enterprises
5G isn't a single flavor of cellular technology; it's three flavors, and each one can enable advanced capabilities, such as ultrareliable low latency and IoT connectivity. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Oct 2023
The pros and cons of quantum networking
Quantum networking, which is based on quantum physics, offers secure, high-speed communication. Challenges of quantum networking include fragility, costs and integration. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Oct 2023
jumbo frames
A jumbo frame is an Ethernet frame, or data packet, with a payload greater than the standard size of 1,500 bytes. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Oct 2023
OFDMA (orthogonal frequency-division multiple access)
Orthogonal frequency-division multiple access (OFDMA) is a technology of Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) that lets access points serve multiple clients at the same time. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Oct 2023
Building data center networks for GenAI fabric enablement
Network scalability, throughput and orchestration are some of the key elements that enterprises need to consider as they build out generative AI data centers. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Oct 2023
telecommunications (telecom)
Telecommunications, also known as telecom, is the exchange of information over significant distances by electronic means and refers to all types of voice, data and video transmission. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Sep 2023
remote infrastructure management
Remote infrastructure management, or RIM, is a comprehensive approach to handling and overseeing an organization's IT infrastructure, systems and services from a remote location. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
15 Sep 2023
Hybrid work drives changes to on-premises networks
Remote and hybrid work are forcing changes to on-premises networks, such as increased bandwidth, upgraded Wi-Fi connectivity and unified network access controls. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Sep 2023
How enterprises can migrate from IPv4 to IPv6
Both IPv4 and IPv6 are suitable for enterprise networks, but organizations that want to switch over to the latest IP address format can follow a few methods to make the transition. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Sep 2023
port address translation (PAT)
Port address translation (PAT) is a type of network address translation (NAT) that maps a network's private internal IPv4 addresses to a single public IP address. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Aug 2023
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
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Tip
25 Aug 2023
How to modernize networks with sustainability in mind
A network modernization project is a good time to consider sustainability initiatives, such as using energy-efficient devices and renewable energy sources. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Aug 2023
forward error correction (FEC)
Forward error correction (FEC) is a method for obtaining error control in data transmission in which the source (transmitter) sends redundant data and the destination (receiver) recognizes only the portion of the data that contains no apparent errors. Continue Reading
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News
22 Aug 2023
VMware remakes NSX for companies using multiple clouds
VMware designed NSX+ to simplify multi-cloud networking for customers. The update will eventually replace NSX and the more advanced NSX-T within VMware Cloud. Continue Reading
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News
07 Aug 2023
SDI swaps Cisco wired, wireless LAN for Nile NaaS
Supply chain software maker SDI claims it cut LAN costs by a third with Nile. But Gartner says NaaS is unlikely to become a dominant option for on-premises networking. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Aug 2023
serial peripheral interface (SPI)
A serial peripheral interface (SPI) is an interface commonly used in computers and embedded systems to facilitate short-distance communication between a microcontroller and one or more peripheral integrated circuits (ICs). Continue Reading
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Answer
28 Jul 2023
Networking vs. telecom: What's the difference?
Networking describes how devices interconnect to share resources with each other. Telecom, which includes networking, broadly refers to the exchange of data across long distances. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Jul 2023
fediverse
The fediverse is a collection of independently hosted interconnected server instances. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Jul 2023
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
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News
14 Jul 2023
IOTech Edge Connect frees data from factory floor devices
IOTech designed Edge Connect to collect data from operational technology and send it to IT systems that monitor and control devices in manufacturing and other industries. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jul 2023
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
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Definition
07 Jul 2023
bridge
A bridge is a class of network device designed to connect networks at OSI Level 2, which is the data link layer of a local area network. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Jul 2023
network fabric
'Network fabric' is a general term used to describe underlying data network infrastructure as a whole. Continue Reading
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News
30 Jun 2023
Prosimo offers free multi-cloud connectivity
The new MCN Foundation can find and connect to public clouds and provide visibility. The company's full-stack product powers the limited free version. Continue Reading
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News
29 Jun 2023
Cisco to add SamKnows broadband visibility to ThousandEyes
SamKnows data in ThousandEyes will let enterprises monitor the broadband connections of employees working from home. The information can help companies troubleshoot problems. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Jun 2023
blade server
A blade server, sometimes referred to as a high-density server, is a compact device containing a computer used to manage and distribute data in a collection of computers and systems, called a network. Continue Reading
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Answer
29 Jun 2023
Traditional networks vs. IoT networks: What's the difference?
An enterprise network is a system of interconnected devices that share information, while IoT is a system of devices connected to the internet that provides key analytics. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Jun 2023
loose coupling
Loose coupling is an approach to interconnecting the components in a system, network or software application so that those components, also called elements, depend on each other to the least extent practicable. Continue Reading
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Quiz
28 Jun 2023
10 edge computing quiz questions
Edge computing isn't new, but it has grown in popularity due to 5G and the influx of IoT devices. This quiz covers edge computing basics, such as pros, cons and differentiators. Continue Reading
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News
22 Jun 2023
Cisco acquires Accedian for Network Assurance portfolio
Cisco expects Accedian to bolster its Network Assurance portfolio for service providers. The product line provides network troubleshooting, root-cause analysis, and remediation. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Jun 2023
uplink and downlink
In satellite telecommunication, a downlink is the link from a satellite down to one or more ground stations or receivers, and an uplink is the link from a ground station up to a satellite. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Jun 2023
Nessus
Nessus is a platform developed by Tenable that scans for security vulnerabilities in devices, applications, operating systems, cloud services and other network resources. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Jun 2023
logical network
A logical network is a software-defined network topology or routing that is often different than the physical network. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Jun 2023
geostationary satellite
A geostationary satellite is an Earth-orbiting satellite placed at an altitude of approximately 22,300 miles or 35,800 kilometers directly above the equator. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Jun 2023
peer-to-peer (P2P)
Peer-to-peer (P2P) is a decentralized communications model in which each party has the same capabilities and either party can initiate a communication session. Continue Reading
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Feature
14 Jun 2023
Evaluate top 5G fixed wireless access benefits
Fixed wireless access, when enabled by 5G, makes wireless network connectivity accessible to users at affordable rates. Learn the benefits FWA brings to operators and enterprises. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Jun 2023
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
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Guest Post
09 Jun 2023
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
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News
06 Jun 2023
Cisco releases plans for Networking Cloud
Cisco's introduction of Networking Cloud lacked technical details and delivery dates for the high-level console for accessing all the company's network management platforms. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Jun 2023
CAPWAP (Control and Provisioning of Wireless Access Points)
CAPWAP (Control and Provisioning of Wireless Access Points) is a protocol that enables an access controller to manage a collection of wireless termination points. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Jun 2023
infrared radiation (IR)
Infrared radiation (IR), sometimes referred to simply as infrared, is a region of the electromagnetic radiation spectrum where wavelengths range from about 700 nm to 1 mm. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Jun 2023
BGP (Border Gateway Protocol)
BGP (Border Gateway Protocol) is the protocol that enables the global routing system of the internet. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 May 2023
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
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Tip
31 May 2023
Modular network design benefits and approaches
Modular network design is a strategic way for enterprises to group network building blocks in order to streamline network maintenance, additions and troubleshooting. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 May 2023
An overview of 802.1X authentication methods and EAP
Enterprises use 802.1X authentication to manage their wireless LANs, and that process relies on the Extensible Authentication Protocol and its various types. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 May 2023
CSU/DSU (Channel Service Unit/Data Service Unit)
A CSU/DSU (Channel Service Unit/Data Service Unit) is a hardware device about the size of a modem. It converts a digital data frame from local area network (LAN) communication technology into a frame appropriate for a wide area network (WAN) and vice versa. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 May 2023
data streaming
Data streaming is the continuous transfer of data from one or more sources at a steady, high speed for processing into specific outputs. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 May 2023
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
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News
16 May 2023
SONiC NOS faces challenges fitting in with mainstream
Gartner estimates that fewer than 200 enterprises have SONiC in production, out of a potential data center market of 100,000. One startup describes the NOS as 'a mess' to deploy. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 May 2023
12 common network protocols and their functions explained
Networking makes the internet work, but neither can succeed without protocols. Common network protocols and their functions are key for communication and connection across the internet. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 May 2023
frequency band
In telecommunications, a frequency band -- sometimes called a band -- refers to a specific range of frequencies in the electromagnetic frequency spectrum assigned to certain applications. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 May 2023
LA County Registrar's network extends voting accessibility
LA County Registrar's modernized network uses technologies such as 5G, SD-WAN and AI in voting centers across the county to make voting more accessible to constituents. Continue Reading
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Opinion
09 May 2023
Aruba Atmosphere '23 emphasizes agility matters
HPE Aruba Networking positioned its Atmosphere conference as looking at what comes next, but the subtext was all about agility as the company tightens its integration. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 May 2023
mutual exclusion (mutex)
In computer programming, a mutual exclusion (mutex) is a program object that prevents multiple threads from accessing the same shared resource simultaneously. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 May 2023
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
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News
03 May 2023
Baptist Health leaves Cisco for Arista
Baptist Health in Jacksonville, Fla., expects Arista's single wired, wireless and data center network operating system to eliminate partial outages during infrastructure upgrades. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 May 2023
Synchronous Optical Network (SONET)
Synchronous Optical Network (SONET) is a North American standard for synchronous data transmission over optical fibers. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 May 2023
SDN controller (software-defined networking controller)
A software-defined networking controller is an application in SDN architecture that manages flow control for improved network management and application performance. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Apr 2023
5 steps to achieve UC network modernization for hybrid work
The shift to hybrid work is putting new demands on the unified communications network infrastructure. Split tunneling and an enterprise CDN are two ways to meet those needs. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Apr 2023
fax
A fax -- short for 'facsimile' and sometimes called 'telecopying' -- is the telephonic transmission of scanned-in printed material, including text or images. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Apr 2023
Clos network
A Clos network is a type of nonblocking, multistage switching network used today in large-scale data center switching fabrics. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Apr 2023
collision in networking
In a half-duplex Ethernet network, a collision is the result of two devices on the same Ethernet network attempting to transmit data at the same time. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Apr 2023
Smart contracts, blockchain and decentralized computing
Industries such as manufacturing and finance are turning to decentralized computing technologies, in the form of smart contracts and blockchains, to solve complex problems. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Apr 2023
keystone jack
A keystone jack is a female connector used in audio, video and data communications. It serves as a receptacle for a matching plug, which is a male connector of the same type as the jack. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Apr 2023
encapsulation (object-orientated programming)
In object-oriented programming (OOP), encapsulation is the practice of bundling related data into a structured unit, along with the methods used to work with that data. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Apr 2023
baseband
Baseband in the transmission of communications signals means only one path is available to send and receive digital signals between devices. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Apr 2023
broadband
Broadband refers to telecommunications in which a wide band of frequencies is available to transmit information. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Apr 2023
fiber to the home (FTTH)
Fiber to the home (FTTH), also called fiber to the premises (FTTP), is the installation and use of optical fiber from a central point to individual buildings to provide high-speed internet access. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Apr 2023
Manchester encoding
In data transmission, Manchester encoding is a form of digital encoding in which a data bit's state -- 0 or 1 -- is represented by the transition from one voltage level to another. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Apr 2023
CDN (content delivery network)
A CDN (content delivery network), also called a content distribution network, is a group of geographically distributed and interconnected servers. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Apr 2023
session layer
The session layer is Layer 5 of the OSI communications model. It is the long-lived logical connection that persists between endpoints over time. Continue Reading