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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Tip
10 Mar 2025
The 4 different types of wireless networks
The four types of wireless networks -- wireless LAN, wireless MAN, wireless PAN and wireless WAN -- differ in size, range and connectivity requirements. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Mar 2025
802.11 standards: How do 802.11ac, 802.11ax, 802.11be differ?
Wi-Fi standards -- 802.11ac, 802.11ax and 802.11be -- differ based on frequency bands, spatial streams and maximum data rates, with 802.11be offering the most significant improvements. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Dec 2022
Ensure network resilience in a network disaster recovery plan
A network disaster recovery plan doesn't always mean network resilience. Learn how factors like funding, identifying potential risks and constant updates make a difference. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Dec 2022
wireless backhaul
Wireless backhaul is the use of wireless communication systems to transport data between the internet and subnetworks. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Dec 2022
fixed wireless
Fixed wireless networking refers to the operation of wireless devices in fixed locations such as homes and offices. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Dec 2022
network traffic
Network traffic is the amount of data that moves across a network during any given time. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Dec 2022
dynamic and static
In general, dynamic means 'energetic, capable of action and/or change, or forceful,' while static means 'stationary or fixed.' Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Nov 2022
routing table
A routing table is a set of rules, often viewed in table format, that's used to determine where data packets traveling over an Internet Protocol (IP) network will be directed. Continue Reading
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News
28 Nov 2022
Ciena acquires Benu and Tibit for PON, edge
Ciena acquires Benu for advanced subscriber management and Tibit for pluggable PON technology that connects to existing hardware. Acquisitions bring engineers during shortage. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Nov 2022
traffic shaping
Traffic shaping, also known as packet shaping, is a congestion management method that regulates network data transfer by delaying the flow of less important or less desired packets. Continue Reading
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News
18 Nov 2022
Cisco lays off staff, cuts office space in $600M restructuring
Cisco's shake-up will affect about 4,000 workers as the company doubles down on security, enterprise networking and its platform strategy. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Nov 2022
com
On the Internet, "com" is one of the top-level domain names that can be used when choosing a domain name. Continue Reading
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Answer
18 Nov 2022
How to set up backup internet connections for home offices
Reliable connectivity and secure access are must-haves for employees working from home. Here are ideas to consider when designing backup internet connections for home offices. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Nov 2022
managed network services
Managed network services are networking applications, functions and services that enterprises outsource to be remotely operated, monitored and maintained by a managed service provider (MSP). Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Nov 2022
control plane (CP)
The control plane is the part of a network that carries signaling traffic and is responsible for network routing. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Nov 2022
3 types of wireless site surveys and how to conduct them
Network teams can avoid signal coverage issues by performing different wireless site surveys as they evaluate new spaces, set up sites and operate the network. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Nov 2022
USART (universal synchronous/asynchronous receiver/transmitter)
A USART (universal synchronous/asynchronous receiver/transmitter) is hardware that enables a device to communicate using serial protocols. Continue Reading
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Opinion
15 Nov 2022
The multi-cloud networking mandate
With most organizations using more than two public clouds, new multi-cloud networking strategies are essential to enable cross-cloud traffic and visibility across multiple clouds. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Nov 2022
coulomb (C)
A coulomb (C) is the standard unit of electric charge in the International System of Units (SI). Continue Reading
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Answer
10 Nov 2022
What is the difference between WLAN and Wi-Fi?
Although the terms WLAN and Wi-Fi are used interchangeably, the two wireless technologies differ. Wireless LAN uses radio technology to connect nodes, while Wi-Fi is a type of WLAN. Continue Reading
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Answer
09 Nov 2022
IPv4 vs. IPv6: What's the difference?
IPv4 and IPv6 are two forms of IP addresses, but they differ in length and style. Compare the two, and find out why organizations might implement one over the other. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Nov 2022
CBRS (Citizens Broadband Radio Service)
Citizens Broadband Radio Service, or CBRS, is the set of operational rules given to a slice of the shared wireless spectrum and the technologies used in that spectrum. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Nov 2022
Include VXLANs in data centers for quicker network speeds
VXLANs add network isolation and enable organizations to scale data center networks more efficiently. Consider VXLANs to expand a data center network and improve performance. Continue Reading
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Answer
07 Nov 2022
Wireless access point vs. router: What's the difference?
The choice of a wireless access point vs. a router for wireless network connectivity depends on the physical size of the network, needs of the organization and the number of users. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Nov 2022
Troubleshoot wireless network connection problems in 10 steps
When troubleshooting wireless network issues, several scenarios can emerge. But valuable end-user insights can help network administrators root out problems. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Oct 2022
How to set up a VPN for enterprise use
VPNs are nearly ubiquitous, but does your organization know how to deploy one? Learn about use cases, requirements, deployment options and best practices for VPN deployment. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Oct 2022
How to perform VLAN troubleshooting
Common VLAN issues include physical connectivity problems, duplex mismatches, forwarding loops, unicast flooding and Layer 3 configuration errors. These troubleshooting steps can help. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Oct 2022
DPUs vs. SmartNICs: What storage admins need to know
To determine whether a SmartNIC or DPU is right for their organization, admins must understand the capabilities of different kinds of NICs and DPUs. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Oct 2022
4 tips for network capacity planning and provisioning
To avoid network overprovisioning, teams should review baselines and roadmaps, assess limitations and consider business strategy changes when focusing on network capacity planning. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Sep 2022
microsegmentation
Microsegmentation is a security technique that splits a network into definable zones and uses policies to dictate how data and applications within those zones can be accessed and controlled. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Sep 2022
How AI and ML in Open RAN alleviates network complexity
Incorporating AI and ML into Open RAN networks could help MNOs simplify operations and deliver 5G enhanced capabilities of high bandwidth, low latency and quality of service. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Sep 2022
DNS server troubleshooting for Linux and Windows
Steps in DNS server troubleshooting include checking the DNS status, looking at zone configurations and evaluating logs. Follow these best practices for Windows and Linux servers. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
01 Sep 2022
How to create and add an SPF record for email authentication
Learn how to create Sender Policy Framework records to list authenticated mail servers for an email domain to fight spam, phishing, email forgery and other malicious email. Continue Reading
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News
31 Aug 2022
VMware CEO reveals big changes amid multi-cloud shift
VMware plans to change products, strategic direction and marketing to keep up with customers rushing to deploy multi-cloud architectures. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Aug 2022
How does SD-access work?
SD-access is a combination of two elements: SDN and the access edge. The result is a network with a centralized management system and improved security policies. Continue Reading
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News
18 Aug 2022
Cisco earnings improve with easing supply shortage
Cisco expects component shortages to continue through fiscal 2023, holding revenue growth to between 4% and 6%. Component prices could ease after the current quarter. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Aug 2022
VXLAN vs. VLAN: What's the difference?
VLANs offer security and traffic management benefits but have limitations in routing and scale. VXLANs address those challenges by creating a Layer 3 network overlay. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Aug 2022
Understanding the FTP PORT command
FTP uses control and data channels, each using a separate TCP port. Port 21 is for the control channel, and port 20 is for the data channel. Learn how these two channels are used. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Aug 2022
Spine-leaf (spine-leaf architecture)
Spine-leaf, or leaf-spine, is a two-layer network topology composed of spine and leaf switches. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
10 Aug 2022
Learn to perform a DNS backup and restore
DNS outages cause connectivity issues that prevent basic tasks from executing properly. Understand how to perform a restore for a DNS zone, which is not always intuitive. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Aug 2022
Stefan-Boltzmann constant
The Stefan-Boltzmann constant, symbolized by the lowercase Greek letter sigma (σ), is a physical constant expressing the relationship between the heat radiation emitted by a black body and its absolute temperature. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Aug 2022
domain
Specific to the internet, the term domain can refer to how the internet is structured, and domain also refers to how an organization's network resources are organized. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Aug 2022
Troubleshoot name resolution on Windows, Linux and macOS
Network administrators can troubleshoot name resolution using a variety of methods, including ping, nslookup and PowerShell cmdlets. Here are some troubleshooting best practices. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Aug 2022
streaming media
Streaming media is video or audio content sent in compressed form over the internet and played immediately over a user's device, rather than being saved to the device hard drive or solid-state drive. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Jul 2022
How vendors support sustainable networking initiatives
Organizations are focusing on sustainability in all business divisions, including network operations. These tools could help organizations make their enterprise networks green. Continue Reading
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News
12 Jul 2022
Counterfeit scheme trafficked in $1 billion in Cisco gear
A Florida man has been charged with running a counterfeit operation that duped hospitals, schools, government agencies and the military. Continue Reading
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News
11 Jul 2022
Chinese vendor H3C introduces first Wi-Fi 7 router
The H3C Magic BE18000, powered by a Qualcomm chipset, offers several significant Wi-Fi 7 features, including multilink operation and 320 MHz of channel bandwidth. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Jul 2022
BGP vs. EIGRP: What's the difference?
BGP is an exterior gateway protocol optimized for routing between large networks. EIGRP is an interior gateway protocol that is well suited for routing within smaller networks. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Jul 2022
A guide to distributed network architectures
Distributed network architectures have become popular because of their adaptability, reliability and scalability. But every new technology also has its challenges. Continue Reading
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News
06 Jul 2022
Evernote, Home Depot outsource network management
Offloading daily network management to networking vendors allowed Home Depot and Evernote to direct in-house IT staff to business-critical projects. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Jul 2022
The role of name resolution in networking
Name resolution is essential in converting hostnames and IP addresses for network communications. Here's how the process resolves hostnames, queries servers and finds IP addresses. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Jun 2022
How to convert binary to decimal
It's helpful for network admins to know how to convert binary to decimal, and vice versa, for IPv4 addressing, subnet masks, default gateways and network IDs. Continue Reading
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Opinion
27 Jun 2022
5 factors that form the future of Wi-Fi
For businesses, mounting ownership costs, unrealistic performance expectations, client device chaos and competing technologies all play a role in the future of Wi-Fi. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Jun 2022
virtual network functions (VNFs)
Virtual network functions (VNFs) are virtualized tasks formerly carried out by proprietary, dedicated hardware. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Jun 2022
network functions virtualization (NFV)
Network functions virtualization (NFV) is a network architecture model designed to virtualize network services that have traditionally run on proprietary, dedicated network appliances. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Jun 2022
converged network adapter (CNA)
A converged network adapter (CNA) is a single network interface device that provides the functionality of both a Fibre Channel (FC) host bus adapter (HBA) and a TCP/IP Ethernet network interface card (NIC). Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Jun 2022
overlay network
An overlay network is a virtual or logical network that is created on top of an existing physical network. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Jun 2022
What is network virtualization? Everything you need to know
Network virtualization is a method of combining the available resources in a network to consolidate multiple physical networks, divide a network into segments or create software networks between VMs. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Jun 2022
VLAN (virtual LAN)
A virtual LAN (VLAN) is a logical overlay network that groups together a subset of devices that share a physical LAN, isolating the traffic for each group. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Jun 2022
5 network virtualization challenges and how to solve them
The challenges of network virtualization include an overhaul of network architecture, thorough staff training and breaking down knowledge silos among IT departments. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Jun 2022
How zero trust unifies network virtualization
The combination of zero trust and network virtualization creates opportunities to strengthen security policies, increase cross-domain collaboration and improve overall visibility. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 May 2022
What software-defined LAN means for campus virtualization
LAN virtualization has long encompassed VLANs to segment network traffic. But software-defined LAN is emerging with zero-trust strategies to provide more comprehensive security. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 May 2022
virtual networking
Virtual networking is the abstraction of network resources from the underlying physical network infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 May 2022
How enterprise networks use WAN virtualization
SD-WAN is the most common form of WAN virtualization. But virtual WAN strategies are evolving to include software-defined perimeter and cloud concepts. Continue Reading
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Answer
20 May 2022
Ethernet vs. Carrier Ethernet: How do they differ?
Connectivity over longer distances and higher data rates are some of the major differences that separate Carrier Ethernet from traditional wired Ethernet. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 May 2022
The role of network virtualization and SDN in data centers
SDN, zero trust and infrastructure as code are popular forms of network virtualization within the data center, moving away from manual VLANs toward policy-driven virtualization. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 May 2022
Carrier network virtualization leads to enterprise services
Starting with MPLS VPNs and SD-WAN, new carrier network virtualization options, like 5G network slicing, are becoming virtual enterprise network services, and more will follow. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 May 2022
software-defined networking (SDN)
Software-defined networking (SDN) is an architecture that abstracts different, distinguishable layers of a network to make networks agile and flexible. Continue Reading
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News
09 May 2022
Cisco warns of hardware failure in DIMM memory components
A manufacturing defect affecting some DIMMs made in late 2020 could cause persistent memory errors and server failure. Cisco recommends customers replace impacted DIMMs. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 May 2022
How network virtualization works
Network virtualization uses abstraction to isolate applications and resources from the physical infrastructure. Benefits include faster provisioning, agility and operational efficiency. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 May 2022
6 types of network topologies
Network topology is essential to network configuration, as it determines the arrangement of a network and defines how nodes connect. Here are six common types of network topologies. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Apr 2022
Common types of enterprise network connections
The goal of every network is to connect devices. The connections that form those links -- such as wired cabling and wireless technologies -- are crucial in network infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Apr 2022
Windows Server 2022 security hardening guide for admins
Emerging threats continue to target the Windows ecosystem, but there are multiple methods to make it tougher to be the victim of a malicious hack attempt. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Apr 2022
Power over Ethernet basics for network architects
Power over Ethernet provides a way to supply electricity to low-power devices through a standard Ethernet cable. Learn about the different standards and PoE types. Continue Reading
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News
22 Apr 2022
Linux Foundation control helps ready SONiC for enterprise
Under the Linux Foundation, SONiC could get enterprise features that make the open source network operating system more useful within campus and edge environments. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Apr 2022
Fibre Channel (FC) port types
A Fibre Channel port is a hardware pathway into and out of a node that performs data communications over an FC link. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Apr 2022
OSGi (Open Service Gateway Initiative)
The OSGi (Open Service Gateway Initiative) specification is a Java framework for developing and deploying modular software programs and libraries. Continue Reading
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News
06 Apr 2022
Channel partners crucial to Arista CUE's midmarket success
For Arista's new Cognitive Unified Edge product to succeed, the company will have to nurture midmarket channel partners. Continue Reading
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News
30 Mar 2022
Aruba urges customers to adopt network as a service
Aruba wants more customers to switch to network as a service, but companies benefiting from a standard product license are hesitant to embrace the subscription model. Continue Reading
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News
29 Mar 2022
Aruba launches VXLAN management, GPS-enabled Wi-Fi networks
Aruba's Central NetConductor is a cloud-based service that delivers automation and identity-based network access to enforce zero-trust policies for users and devices. Continue Reading
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News
25 Mar 2022
Cisco adds HCI, UCS, software to hybrid cloud infrastructure
Cisco's latest hardware and Intersight tie-in to public cloud Kubernetes bolster its hybrid cloud products for customers. But their appeal outside the user base is uncertain. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Mar 2022
application layer
The application layer sits at Layer 7, the top of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) communications model. It ensures an application can effectively communicate with other applications on different computer systems and networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Mar 2022
What is NetOps? Everything you need to know
NetOps, also referred to as NetOps 2.0 and NetDevOps, is an approach to networking operations that uses DevOps tools and techniques to make network changes more efficiently and effectively than in the past. Continue Reading
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News
18 Mar 2022
Russia-Ukraine war has tech buyers reassessing spending
The Russia-Ukraine war, which affects everything from inflation to chip availability, has left half of enterprise tech leaders reassessing IT and communication spending, IDC said. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Mar 2022
programmable network (network programmability)
A programmable network is one in which the behavior of network devices and flow control is handled by software that operates independently of network hardware. Continue Reading
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News
16 Mar 2022
Pluribus taps the DPU for a distributed network fabric
Pluribus Networks' United Cloud Fabric shifts distributed network functions from a switch CPU to a DPU on the server. The technology unifies network management across switches and servers, the company said. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Mar 2022
How to secure NetOps initiatives using Agile methodology
As more NetOps teams implement Agile methods, network and security testing must be part of a holistic approach that involves developers, networking and security teams working together. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Mar 2022
NetOps meets DevOps concepts to tackle network problems
NetOps and DevOps are converging, due to increased use of infrastructure as code to automate enterprise networks. Shared concepts include structured coding practices and automated testing. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Mar 2022
Configure DHCP failover for Windows Server
DHCP is a critical service, and network admins should take the time to create fault tolerance. Windows Server makes it easy to configure both failover and load balancing. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Mar 2022
electromagnetic interference (EMI)
Electromagnetic interference (EMI) is unwanted noise or interference in an electrical path or circuit caused by an outside source. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
07 Mar 2022
Demand for effective telecom service assurance to increase
As the markets for 5G, IoT and other emerging technologies continue to grow, the service assurance market that ensures the quality of these services will also increase. Continue Reading
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Quiz
01 Mar 2022
Try a network configuration quiz to study for Network+ exam
Use these sample questions from CompTIA's 'Official CompTIA Network+ Self-Paced Study Guide (Exam N10-008)' in preparation for your certification exam. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Mar 2022
Study various network types, topologies for configuration
Those looking to earn a Network+ certification need to learn about network types, topologies, network design best practices and more. James Pengelly's book covers those topics. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Mar 2022
Network design considerations for Network+ exam prep
One of the first things network pros should learn is how to design a network. In this Q&A, author James Pengelly discusses best practices for network configuration. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Feb 2022
Network Time Protocol (NTP)
Network Time Protocol (NTP) is an internet protocol used to synchronize with computer clock time sources in a network. Continue Reading
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News
24 Feb 2022
Dell, Marvell partner on telco 5G hardware
The combination Dell PowerEdge server and Marvell-powered inline 5G Layer 1 processing card can run carriers' open or virtualized radio access networks. Continue Reading
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Answer
23 Feb 2022
Load sharing vs. load balancing: What's the difference?
Load sharing and load balancing are two techniques that work to distribute traffic across a network. However, their methods of balancing differ significantly. Here's how. Continue Reading
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Answer
10 Feb 2022
Application vs. network load balancing: What's the difference?
Network load balancing and application load balancing both handle traffic requests. But they process and direct requests with different levels of speed and efficiency. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
07 Feb 2022
Compare smartNIC products and use cases
Not all smartNIC use cases are the same, and not all products offer the same functionality and features. Compare offerings from three of the main smartNIC market segments. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Feb 2022
Categories of twisted-pair cabling systems
A twisted-pair cabling system is a cable consisting of one or several pairs of copper wires. Continue Reading
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News
03 Feb 2022
Cisco launches APs, switches to enhance hybrid workplaces
Cisco has launched two Wi-Fi 6E APs and four switches to update campus networks and improve hybrid workplaces. Continue Reading