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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News
16 Mar 2021
Nokia partners with largest cloud providers on 5G RAN
Nokia's RAN-related partnership with AWS, Microsoft and Google solidifies its strategy of delivering cloud-based 5G infrastructure to service providers and major enterprises. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Mar 2021
CDMA (Code-Division Multiple Access)
CDMA (Code-Division Multiple Access) refers to any of several protocols used in second-generation (2G) and third-generation (3G) wireless communications. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
08 Mar 2021
Will enterprises adopt SONiC OS and disrupt proprietary WAN?
As a cloud-native modular architecture focused on network disaggregation, the SONiC OS can offer several benefits for enterprises, especially at the network edge. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
08 Mar 2021
Enterprise edge is telecom operators' new frontier
Network operators have an opportunity to sell new bundles of dynamic enterprise edge services that include SASE, SD-WAN and virtual security if they size it and price it well. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Mar 2021
NOC performance metrics for optimal operation
NOC best practices include using standardized network designs and automation. But don't forget to identify performance metrics that help track and measure operational success. Continue Reading
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News
03 Mar 2021
Cisco completes $4.5 billion Acacia deal
Cisco said it will sell and support Acacia's optical networking products separately. Cisco will also continue selling the technology with its switches and routers. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Mar 2021
orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM)
Orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) is a method of data transmission where a single information stream is split among several closely spaced narrowband subchannel frequencies instead of a single wideband channel frequency. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Feb 2021
5 benefits of Wi-Fi 6 for enterprise networks
In a perfect world, Wi-Fi 6 could introduce several benefits to business networks. But real-world conditions could curb the wireless technology's true potential. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Feb 2021
OSI model (Open Systems Interconnection)
OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) is a reference model for how applications communicate over a network. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Feb 2021
radio frequency (RF, rf)
Radio frequency (RF) is a measurement representing the oscillation rate of electromagnetic radiation spectrum, or electromagnetic radio waves, from frequencies ranging from 300 GHz to as low as 9 kHz. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Feb 2021
Open RAN architecture gives operators options, challenges
Open RAN architecture could give telecom operators more flexibility as they deliver enterprise-grade 5G services. But making the RAN a virtual function takes careful planning. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Feb 2021
metropolitan area network (MAN)
A metropolitan area network (MAN) is a computer network that is larger than a single building local area network (LAN) but is located in a single geographic area that is smaller than a wide area network (WAN). Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Feb 2021
3 SASE case studies exploring real-world deployments
Three case studies demonstrate how SASE technology helps organizations securely connect geographically distributed workforces. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Feb 2021
Future of NOC transformation unifies IT teams
NOC transformation could lead to unified IT operations with cross-domain teams, but not all enterprises need radical change when smaller upgrades and modernization do the job. Continue Reading
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News
05 Feb 2021
News briefs: Dell, partners to deliver OneBox MEC
OneBox MEC is a 5G-enabled mobile edge computing platform. The hardware will contain turnkey technology for deploying a private 5G network and application services. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Feb 2021
An overview of 3GPP 5G releases and what each one means
3GPP has standardized features and specifications for all cellular technology generations since 3G. Learn about 3GPP's 5G timeline and notable features each 5G release introduces. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Feb 2021
The tradeoffs and cost of network redundancy
Network redundancy costs vary depending on enterprise use cases, but the determining tradeoff usually depends on how long a company can sustain network downtime. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Jan 2021
How to understand networking and the internet for beginners
For beginners, learning how networking and the internet truly work can feel overwhelming. One expert encourages patience, practice and assurance that networking isn't unknowable. Continue Reading
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Answer
20 Jan 2021
VLAN vs. subnet: What's the difference?
While VLANs are a type of subnet, they have their own unique capabilities and characteristics that differentiate them from subnets. However, the OSI model plays a major role in both. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Jan 2021
VPN vs. VLAN: What's the difference?
VPNs and VLANs are different technologies with some similarities. VPNs connect authorized users to corporate network resources, while VLANs connect geographically separate devices. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Jan 2021
Setting up and using a home VLAN to segment network traffic
Virtual LANs can help homeowners segment their network traffic for enhanced control and security. Network analyst John Fruehe takes you inside his home VLANs. Continue Reading
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News
29 Dec 2020
Private 5G networks to gain momentum in 2021
Enterprises using industrial IoT devices are among the early adopters of private 5G networks, which could become an $8 billion market by 2027. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Dec 2020
Ensure network resilience with redundancy and skills
Ensuring network resilience doesn't just mean building redundancy in network infrastructure. It should also include planning contingencies for people and skills. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Dec 2020
What experts say to expect from 5G in 2021
In this roundup of networking blogs, experts explore 5G's potential in 2021, including new business and technical territories 5G may explore and features to transform enterprises. Continue Reading
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Answer
21 Dec 2020
What are the differences between Wi-Fi and WiMax?
Wi-Fi is the wireless standard used to build wireless LANs, while carriers primarily used WiMax to build wireless metropolitan area networks before moving to LTE. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Dec 2020
Software-defined home offerings drive remote productivity
Say hello to software-defined home, a 'branch of one' package that combines professional-grade Wi-Fi, security, SD-WAN and centralized management for remote workers. Continue Reading
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News
09 Dec 2020
Aruba launches orchestration software for CX fabric
The Aruba Fabric Composer is best suited for a CX switching fabric within a small and midsize data center. The company also introduced the 8360 series of CX hardware. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Nov 2020
Why networks should apply security by design principles
Security by design incorporates security and risk management directly into network architecture, using segmentation and Agile infrastructure design. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Nov 2020
How and why to implement Wi-Fi QoS
Quality of service, as network pros know, prioritizes apps as they cross the network. But Wi-Fi QoS needs to be considered, too, in relation to the overall network. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Oct 2020
SmartNIC market capitalizes on advances in programmability
Traditional NICs are getting an upgrade, thanks to smartNICs and function accelerator cards that add programmability. But this doesn't really change things for enterprises -- yet. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Oct 2020
How COVID-19 will reshape 2021 enterprise network spending
COVID-19 has shifted enterprise network spending. Campus LAN traffic may never be the same, but companies are earmarking funds to better support the remote workforce. Continue Reading
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News
23 Oct 2020
Microsoft's SpaceX partnership sends Azure to the final frontier
Microsoft has partnered with SpaceX to tie Azure to low-orbiting satellites. The company also introduced a modular data center to connect remote locations to satellites. Continue Reading
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News
22 Oct 2020
Bye-bye ISR, hello Catalyst 8000 for Cisco SD-WAN
The new Catalyst 8300 Series of routers replace ISRs that customers said were ill-equipped to run the Cisco SD-WAN. Cisco also introduced Catalyst 8500 aggregation routers. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Oct 2020
Compare low-power Wi-Fi protocols and their roles in IoT
Wi-Fi means more than faster speeds. Low-power Wi-Fi will help companies improve the efficiency of their IoT deployments, thanks to longer signal range and power consumption features. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Oct 2020
How to build a resilient network design
Everything fails eventually, even in networking. Enterprises can prepare for network failure by building resilience and redundancy into their network infrastructure design. Continue Reading
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Answer
07 Oct 2020
Edge computing challenges and ways to address them
Edge computing can reduce processing times and improve application performance, but the architecture has its issues. Here are eight challenges edge computing creates for the network. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Sep 2020
Teleworkers need enhanced home internet access in the US
The COVID-19 pandemic has increased reliance on home networks and highlighted the need in marginalized communities for dedicated resources to enable reliable internet access. Continue Reading
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News
18 Sep 2020
Palo Alto SD-WAN gets analytics, Prisma security
The Prisma integration and root cause analysis in the Palo Alto SD-WAN could help it standout in a market packed with competitors. Palo Alto also launched two SD-WAN appliances. Continue Reading
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News
17 Sep 2020
Extreme launches ExtremeCloud IQ apps, switches
The latest apps for Extreme's cloud-based network management portal include intrusion prevention , IoT onboarding and compliance testing for the wireless LAN. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Sep 2020
Home SD-WAN will redefine next-generation WAN
The need for home-office SD-WAN won't end when the pandemic does. Learn how best to provide this essential tech to your organization's at-home employees. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Sep 2020
Telecommunications book highlights spectrum, fiber cabling
5G touts faster download speeds and new application types, but other major 5G changes will be in spectrum and fixed wireless. Learn more in this telecommunications book excerpt. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Sep 2020
Multimedia data and 5G drive network transformation
Emerging networking trends and touted innovations always showcase faster speeds and new use cases. Yet, new challenges keep pace, too, such as security and privacy issues. Continue Reading
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Answer
17 Aug 2020
What is the difference between SNMP and RMON?
While Simple Network Management Protocol tracks network devices, Remote Network Monitoring tracks traffic. As a team, SNMP and RMON are essential for network management. Continue Reading
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News
07 Aug 2020
T-Mobile 5G progresses, Samsung intros 5G tablets
This week's 5G news includes T-Mobile 5G taking a significant step forward, Samsung releasing tablets and Intel and VMware joining forces on network infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Aug 2020
8 network diagramming tools for architects
Network design tools help architects map out the company infrastructure but only with the right product. Explore these eight vendors and their tools to make the right buy. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 Aug 2020
5G for enterprises requires other tech to reap full benefits
5G won't solve all an organization's problems or fully replace existing 4G LTE architecture. In fact, 5G needs other technology for it to truly succeed and be useful. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 Aug 2020
What IT pros can expect from 5G core network architecture
5G is the first 'G' in the cloud, which means its network architecture can enable functions, services and capabilities past cellular generations couldn't. Here's what to expect. Continue Reading
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Feature
03 Aug 2020
5 edge computing basics you need to know
Edge computing is forcing IT teams to rethink legacy architectures. In this guide, explore edge computing basics, including its pros and cons and its effect on enterprise networks. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Jul 2020
How to select and set up SD-WAN and DIA
When evaluating different options for SD-WAN and direct internet access, IT teams can't forget to consider application performance, network uptime and support for each option. Continue Reading
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29 Jul 2020
A Deep Dive Into Border Gateway Protocol
This step-by-step training guides you through all the border gateway protocol components -- from how the protocol works to how to verify that it is working correctly. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Jul 2020
5G enterprise market will overtake consumer cellular by 2036
5G is the first cellular technology generation that enterprise use cases will play a larger role than consumer use cases. Learn more from ABI Research's 5G Technology Summit. Continue Reading
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News
22 Jul 2020
VMware load balancing aimed at NSX-T
Users reacted positively to the latest VMware load-balancing product. The NSX Advanced Load Balancer promises to improve application performance in a VMware NSX-T virtual network. Continue Reading
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Answer
21 Jul 2020
What's the difference between GRE and IPsec tunnels?
IPsec provides more comprehensive security for IP tunneling, while GRE tunnels work well when network teams need to tunnel with multiple protocols or multicast. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Jul 2020
IT spending priorities in 2020 shift to network management, UC
The global pandemic has temporarily slowed SD-WAN and campus network spending, but enterprises are still investing in network infrastructure, focusing on network management and UC. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Jul 2020
How to set up a new business network
Building a new network can be complicated, but IT teams can ease the design process and future management by choosing the right architecture and documenting each decision. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Jul 2020
Evolution of WLAN technology improves data rates, security
WLAN technology has evolved dramatically -- most notably, in terms of network speeds and security. Innovations in Wi-Fi 6 show that the WLAN evolution isn't slowing, either. Continue Reading
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News
02 Jul 2020
Tech pros focus on application delivery during pandemic
Tech pros have added security, automation and session capacity to their application delivery infrastructure to support business operations during the pandemic. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Jul 2020
How the cloud fractures application delivery infrastructure ops
Within a single IT organization, traditional network teams may clash with cloud teams over application delivery infrastructure operations and management. Continue Reading
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Answer
01 Jul 2020
What's the difference between a Layer 3 switch and a router?
Even though they have common traits, there is a difference between a Layer 3 switch and a router. Each plays a key role in making sure packets get sent to their proper destination. Continue Reading
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Answer
26 Jun 2020
What's the difference between OFDMA vs. MU-MIMO in Wi-Fi 6?
Is there a difference between OFDMA and MU-MIMO? The two important Wi-Fi 6 features are complementary but distinct. Here's why. Continue Reading
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Answer
25 Jun 2020
Compare the 2 common types of technical debt
While enterprises often incur technical debt inadvertently through inexperience or poor management, sometimes, developers will plan technical debt to establish a market presence. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Jun 2020
Edge computing and 5G bring the edge to remote workers
As remote work increases, edge computing services must extend to employees' homes. While 5G could help, internet connectivity must improve to enable edge access before 5G prevails. Continue Reading
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Answer
16 Jun 2020
Is Wi-Fi 6 backward-compatible? Yes and no
With the advent of a new wireless standard, some users may wonder: Is Wi-Fi 6 backward-compatible? The answer is yes. But do you want full backward compatibility? Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Jun 2020
Network traffic pattern shifts reflect COVID-19 changes
The novel coronavirus pandemic spurred initial changes in network traffic patterns, but other trends are playing important roles in perpetuating permanent traffic shifts. Continue Reading
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News
09 Jun 2020
Aruba Central touches more devices, gets better analytics
A new version of Aruba Central will include features for managing as many as 50,000 network devices from the cloud. The upgrade also includes better analytics for troubleshooting. Continue Reading
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Answer
08 Jun 2020
Wi-Fi vs. Ethernet: What's the difference and which is better?
When assessing Wi-Fi vs. Ethernet, each connection type has its benefits and drawbacks. Find out why one standard might be more reliable for your network. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Jun 2020
A glossary of home network basics for the networking novice
A remote employee's home network requires basics such as routers, modems and VPN services. For the networking novice, this glossary explains and defines these terms and more. Continue Reading
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News
29 May 2020
Wi-Fi vendors pitch people tracking for COVID-19 safety
Wi-Fi vendors Aruba and Juniper Networks work with partners to offer in-office people tracking to defend against a COVID-19 outbreak. Cisco focuses on managing gatherings in physical spaces. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 May 2020
5 things to know about MU-MIMO technology in Wi-Fi networks
'Multiuser multiple input, multiple output' might not roll off the tongue, but MU-MIMO technology is increasingly important in modern wireless networks. Here's what you should know. Continue Reading
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Feature
14 May 2020
Explore real-world edge computing examples for network teams
Developed out of a necessity to handle increasing amounts of data, edge computing will disrupt traditional computing and benefit various modern use cases. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 May 2020
Edge computing book introduces edge laws and techniques
In this book excerpt, discover the three laws of edge computing, as well as how to use edge computing techniques to solve common IT problems within organizations. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 May 2020
COVID-19 speeds SD-WAN evolution to elastic infrastructure
The next phase of SD-WAN requires elastic infrastructure and distributed edge access to better support remote workers. The COVID-19 pandemic is accelerating that evolution. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 May 2020
Remote access best practices emphasize security, ease of use
COVID-19 has forced companies to determine the best way to keep remote employees supported. Not sure which way to proceed? Consider these remote access best practices. Continue Reading
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Answer
01 May 2020
What is the difference between a socket and a port?
Sockets, ports and port numbers have functional overlap, but the terms are distinct. A socket is part of a port, while a port number is part of a socket. We explain. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 May 2020
Remote work infrastructure requires on-prem network changes
Demilitarized zone, network access control and VPN termination points are some of the on-premises components that need to be addressed in a remote work infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Apr 2020
ISPs rely on capacity for COVID-19 internet traffic spikes
As COVID-19 causes surges in internet traffic, internet and network providers have responded by increasing capacity and installing more fiber. So far, it's worked. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Apr 2020
SD-WAN, 5G remote work technologies enable future networks
In this roundup of networking blogs, learn how SD-WAN and 5G can benefit business continuity plans for network infrastructure and whether split tunneling is necessary -- or safe. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Apr 2020
How ISPs and operators ensure network quality in a pandemic
COVID-19 has caused a spike in remote workers, increased internet usage and traffic surges. Here's how ISPs and telecom operators plan for continuity and quality during the pandemic. Continue Reading
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News
16 Apr 2020
Cisco, HPE counter COVID-19 impact with tech financing
Cisco and HPE are offering special tech financing to businesses struggling to keep IT projects going in an economy rocked by the COVID-19 crisis. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Apr 2020
Wi-Fi 6 explained: Speed, range, latency, frequency and security
Wi-Fi 6 is more than just another wireless upgrade, boasting substantial gains over Wi-Fi 5. Learn how frequency, speed, range, latency and security change with the new standard. Continue Reading
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News
15 Apr 2020
Short-depth Supermicro SuperServer targets 5G telecoms
New 2U Supermicro SuperServer provides compute in micro data centers. The vendor said it aims to help telecommunications firms adopt open systems to support edge computing. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Apr 2020
How Wi-Fi experts can help during times of crisis management
When faced with disaster response, wireless network professionals can volunteer their Wi-Fi skills and advise friends and family about home network security. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Apr 2020
Software-based routing on its way to become the new normal
SD-WAN took the networking world by storm, and software-based routing aims to do the same in the router market. Here's what to expect from the move to software. Continue Reading
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Answer
07 Apr 2020
SNMP vs. CMIP: What's the difference?
While SNMP and CMIP originally competed as network management protocols in the 1980s, SNMP has emerged as the more relevant protocol, largely due to its simplicity. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Apr 2020
Take a look at 6 top VPN service providers for remote work
The right VPN connection ensures workers can do their jobs with an efficient and secure connection. Explore the leading options and their pricing and protection details. Continue Reading
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Opinion
06 Apr 2020
How free Wi-Fi hotspots help in emergency response situations
Emergency and disaster response require teamwork among businesses, governments and community groups. In these times, free Wi-Fi hotspots help people feel connected. Continue Reading
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News
03 Apr 2020
Tech users weigh in on upcoming approval of more Wi-Fi 6 spectrum
Technology users say the pending Federal Communications approval of additional spectrum for Wi-Fi 6 should bring much higher wireless performance than available today. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Mar 2020
DriveNets' disaggregated router tech wins innovation award
Networking startup DriveNets is bringing cloud principles to carrier networks with disaggregated router technology that could change how providers manage their infrastructure. Continue Reading
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News
26 Mar 2020
U-turn in network market forecast amid coronavirus pandemic
IDC predicts the global market for switches and wireless LAN products will fall in 2020, with revenues from switches below last year and wireless LAN sales rising less than 1%. Continue Reading
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Answer
26 Mar 2020
What's the latest on NFV and VNFs for enterprises?
As virtualized network functions become more and more common, will that change NFV and VNF roles in businesses? Probably not, but other roadblocks may hinder further results. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Mar 2020
802.3cg standard extends single-pair Ethernet range and speed
IEEE 802.3cg is a single-pair Ethernet standard that aims to support speeds up to 10 Mbps, extend Ethernet range up to 1,000 meters and offer multidrop capabilities. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Mar 2020
4 lasting effects of growing remote workforces on networks
In this roundup of network blogs, explore expert advice on increasing remote workers' efficiency, potential lasting effects of COVID-19 on networks and the future of networking. Continue Reading
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News
20 Mar 2020
Coronavirus: VPN hardware becomes a chokepoint for remote workers
VPN hardware has become a bottleneck for companies with a high number of employees working from home as a result of efforts to combat the coronavirus. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Mar 2020
Discover key OpenStack deployment methods for networks
In this book excerpt, explore best practices for OpenStack deployment methods, and glean expert advice on how to achieve an efficient OpenStack network deployment. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Mar 2020
Business culture is key in OpenStack network requirements
Network teams should expect a shift in their day-to-day routines if their organization embraces OpenStack. However, if the business culture is flexible, changes will be positive. Continue Reading
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News
19 Mar 2020
Remote work could cause mobile network problems in a pandemic
Experts said the extra traffic caused by new remote workers could put a strain on mobile networks, but it could also cause businesses to rethink how work gets done. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Mar 2020
Build up your knowledge of leaf-spine network technology
As organizations deal with challenges of single tree path networks, many admins are considering leaf-spine architectures. Learn the ways its topology helps latency and data flow. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Mar 2020
Kessler Syndrome
The Kessler Syndrome is a theoretical scenario in which Earth's orbit is overpopulated with objects and debris, preventing the use of satellites in certain sections of Earth's orbit. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Mar 2020
How supporting a remote workforce stresses the network
Make sure your network can support a remote workforce by analyzing 12 potential issues that can cause stress on your network, including VPN concentrator capacity and traffic routing. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Mar 2020
Remote work tests corporate pandemic plans
IT leaders share what's working and how they are supporting remote work mandates for employees as part of their corporate pandemic plans, as well as social distancing among IT. Continue Reading