Tips

Tips

• Logical vs. physical topology: What's the difference?

  A complete network topology is a network map that provides a look into the network's hardware components and data flow using physical and logical topologies.  Continue Reading

• A guide to network lifecycle management

  Network pros should use a network lifecycle management process to monitor, manage and implement changes in their network, regardless of if they use PPIDOO or another framework.  Continue Reading

• Basic network management interview questions and answers

  Job interviews should be a two-way conversation. Hiring managers and job applicants should review common network management interview questions before an interview.  Continue Reading

• Overview of network management tasks and best practices

  Network management encompasses a range of tasks and processes. Explore 10 crucial tasks and accompanying best practices to ensure a resilient and functional network.  Continue Reading

• The benefits of network asset management software

  Network asset management software helps network teams keep track of network devices and software to ensure timely upgrades, accurate inventory and updated documentation.  Continue Reading

• The role of network sandboxing and testing

  Network sandboxing provides network teams with a risk-free environment to test changes and run potential threat scenarios. This helps prevent outages and other unexpected issues.  Continue Reading

• How to tackle network automation challenges and risks

  Automation makes networks more efficient, but engineers must first mitigate the risks. With planning and training, enterprises can take advantage of automation's capabilities.  Continue Reading

• How to implement CI/CD in network automation

  CI/CD processes help deploy code changes to networks. Integrating a CI/CD pipeline into automation makes networks more reliable, reducing configuration errors and downtime.  Continue Reading

• How does predictive analytics help network operations?

  Predictive analytics can project network traffic flows, predict future trends and reduce latency. However, tools continue to evolve, so teams should use caution in their selection.  Continue Reading

• How to subnet in cloud network environments

  Cloud and on-premises subnets use IP ranges, subnet masks or prefixes, and security policies. But cloud subnets are simpler to set up, while on-prem configuration is still manual.  Continue Reading

• How to create subnets in IPv4 and IPv6 networks

  Network administrators subnet networks into segments for improved control and efficiency. IPv4 uses subnet masks, while IPv6 uses prefixes, and each has its own unique steps.  Continue Reading

• The pros and cons of optical wireless communication

  OWC transfers data using highly directional light in free space. While OWC delivers high-speed data transfers, it is susceptible to multipath dispersion and interference.  Continue Reading

• How to plan and start a network upgrade

  Network architects face challenges when considering a network upgrade, but enterprises can keep problems to a minimum by following a careful plan and listening to end users.  Continue Reading

• How to calculate a subnet mask from hosts and subnets

  IP addressing and subnetting are important and basic elements of networks. Learn how to calculate a subnet mask based on the required number of subnets and hosts.  Continue Reading

• Tips to provide network support for remote workers

  Enterprises must modernize their networks to support remote work, while IT teams ensure networks have proper bandwidth and security, as well as dedicated help for remote workers.  Continue Reading

• How network data models work with automation

  Network data models can help network engineers with their automation strategies, thanks to the essential data they store about physical components, security and QoS.  Continue Reading

• 7 steps to set up a home network

  This guide teaches networking newbies how to set up a home network, from understanding hardware components to managing network performance and security.  Continue Reading

• A guide on how to learn network automation

  Networks are always evolving, and network automation is the next step forward. From soft skills to AI, these skills are essential to understanding network automation.  Continue Reading

• How AI can improve telecom RAN operations and analytics

  Telecom operators can harness AI to improve their RAN operational efficiency and analytics, which enables them to improve customer experience and network management.  Continue Reading

• Cloud networking sustainability strategies yield benefits

  As enterprises seek ways to reduce their environmental footprints, one popular way is to migrate on-premises networking infrastructure to third-party CSPs.  Continue Reading

• Common types of networking devices explained

  This introduction explores eight network devices that are commonly used within enterprise network infrastructures, including access points, routers and switches.  Continue Reading

• A work-from-home reimbursement policy for network tech

  Organizations should create comprehensive work-from-home reimbursement plans that drive better network and internet connectivity rates rather than offset employee's existing bills.  Continue Reading

• ARP vs. RARP: What's the difference?

  Network devices use ARP to map IP addresses to MAC addresses. RARP, which is less common, accomplishes the reverse and enables network devices to map MAC addresses to IP addresses.  Continue Reading

• Edge computing opportunities for telecom providers

  Compatibility issues and the initial limited release of 5G have hindered edge computing adoption. But widescale 5G rollouts, advances in AI and new use cases could drive deployment.  Continue Reading

• The benefits of network wargaming for enterprises

  Wargaming isn't just for cybersecurity. Network wargaming gives network teams the skills they need to address non-cybersecurity events and emergencies.  Continue Reading

• 12 network automation ideas to implement in your network

  What's your path to network automation? Here are 12 automation ideas that span different levels of expertise to help network teams get comfortable with network automation.  Continue Reading

• How to test changes in a network lab environment

  Test labs are ideal for network engineers to observe potential outcomes of network changes. Successful tests require a solid lab environment and thorough testing process.  Continue Reading

• How to use IPv6 in enterprise networks

  The transition to IPv6 is a learning curve. Here's what to understand about IPv6, including benefits, troubleshooting techniques and best practices for secure integration.  Continue Reading

• The future of network licensing is Opex

  Network licensing is shifting from Capex models to Opex, largely due to SDN and cloud networking evolution. Here are best practices network teams can use to plan for the future.  Continue Reading

• How SASE convergence affects organizational silos

  Most enterprises have siloed departments, but SASE's convergence of network and security functions is disrupting those constructs and driving the need for more team communication.  Continue Reading

• SASE reality check: What should organizations expect?

  Enterprises interested in SASE must grapple with challenges and misinformation about the tool. Businesses should discern SASE's true benefits before adoption.  Continue Reading

• How SD-WAN for home offices supports remote work

  The market maturation of SD-WAN is leading companies to consider extending the technology to remote workers. Companies should ask three important questions before taking that step.  Continue Reading

• The role of generative AI in networking

  As networks grow more complex, generative AI emerges as a tool that can help network teams with a wide range of tasks, such as writing scripts, documentation and incident response.  Continue Reading

• Common network licensing challenges

  Network licensing is anything but straightforward nowadays. But network professionals can take steps to make sure their cost management strategies remain on track.  Continue Reading

• Building networks for AI workloads

  Conventional and high-performance computing networks cannot adequately support AI workloads, so network engineers must build specialized networks to accommodate their massive size.  Continue Reading

• Infrastructure requirements for Kubernetes cluster networking

  A well-architected network infrastructure is vital for Kubernetes cluster networking, providing seamless communication and resource orchestration across containerized workloads.  Continue Reading

• How to handle environmental regulations and green networking

  Green networking is achievable if network managers ensure devices and supporting systems are energy-efficient and comply with established environmental regulations.  Continue Reading

• How cloud drives changes to network licensing

  The cloud's effect on application management and licensing is expected to shift from end-user applications to SDN concepts. Say goodbye to perpetual licensing.  Continue Reading

• How to avoid internet black holes for the network

  Black holes in the network disrupt connectivity and compromise data integrity. Network monitoring, team collaboration and routing optimization help minimize the negative effects.  Continue Reading

• How to ensure optimal network workload placement

  Network and cybersecurity requirements are the most important considerations when designing how to deploy new network workloads across the enterprise.  Continue Reading

• Using microservices and containers in network automation

  Networking can benefit from the modularity of containers. This guide helps network teams navigate the integration of microservices and containers into network automation workflows.  Continue Reading

• How NetOps supports digital transformation

  NetOps uses automation and intent-based networking tools to streamline digital transformation and ensure accurate and flexible network services.  Continue Reading

• A network compliance checklist for remote work

  This network compliance checklist for remote work provides best practices on establishing remote policies and procedures, help desk support and data backup, among other steps.  Continue Reading

• NetSecOps best practices for network engineers

  Network engineers increasingly need to align their duties with security, such as implementing continuous monitoring, deploying threat intelligence and collaborating with security.  Continue Reading

• How ZTNA protects against internal network threats

  ZTNA has grown in popularity as a method to enable remote access and mitigate security risks, but businesses can also use ZTNA to protect against internal threats inside a network.  Continue Reading

• 4 key SD-WAN trends to watch

  Managed services, secure remote access, AI applications and 5G wireless network connectivity are four important trends that should propel the SD-WAN market.  Continue Reading

• Private LTE vs. Wi-Fi: What's the difference?

  Enterprises have a lot of options when designing networks for specialized uses. Wi-Fi supports high-volume environments, but private LTE also provides important benefits.  Continue Reading

• How to close the networking skills gap

  The networking skills gap stems from tech shifts, generational turnover and hiring complexities. Bridge the gap with skills gained through study, training and employer support.  Continue Reading

• Hyperscalers use 5G to make an edge play into space

  As telecom providers struggle to monetize 5G, hyperscalers like AWS, Google Cloud and Microsoft Azure are betting big on LEO satellites to extend 5G connectivity.  Continue Reading

• Effective soft skills for network engineers

  Soft skills such as empathy, active listening and problem-solving can be valuable assets to network engineers who interact with nontechnical business stakeholders.  Continue Reading

• Beam division multiple access features and their effect on 5G

  BDMA, a new multiple access technology, has the potential to boost the efficiency of 5G networks through its use of beam formation and orthogonality.  Continue Reading

• OpenRoaming vs. Passpoint: What's the difference?

  OpenRoaming and Passpoint both provide users with internet access outside of their coverage area via Wi-Fi, but they differ in terms of use cases, implementation, cost and more.  Continue Reading

• 5G security: Everything you should know for a secure network

  5G touts better security controls than 4G, including stronger encryption, privacy and authentication. But enterprises need to consider the challenges, too.  Continue Reading

• What are the features and benefits of 5G technology?

  Fixed wireless access, increased bandwidth, faster cellular speeds and new technology enablement in vertical markets are just some of the business benefits of 5G.  Continue Reading

• Introduction to IP addressing and subnetting

  IP addresses and subnets are necessary for effective network communications. Learn how IP addresses and subnets work, and compare classful and classless IP addresses.  Continue Reading

• Best practices for secure network automation workflows

  It's not enough to build network automation workflows. It's important to secure those workflows, as well. Access control, encryption and collaboration all play important roles.  Continue Reading

• Top 5G limitations and challenges for businesses

  While 5G has advanced in recent years, the fifth generation of cellular technology still presents some challenges, such as wavelength limitations and cost considerations.  Continue Reading

• 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

• What 5G skills are most in demand?

  In the evolving 5G job market, service providers, systems integrators and enterprises are looking for applicants who have experience and aspirations in five broad areas.  Continue Reading

• 8 network tasks administrators can do quicker from the CLI

  Admins can use the command-line interface to manage network tasks. Learn how to streamline automation, troubleshoot networks and manage services on Linux, macOS and Windows.  Continue Reading

• 5 phases to build a network automation architecture

  The implementation of a network automation architecture involves several elements, including a core orchestration engine, assorted databases and proper network testing.  Continue Reading

• Top 5 use cases for 5G augmented and virtual reality

  By integrating augmented and virtual reality technologies with 5G, several industries could reap significant benefits. But beware of some important limitations.  Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• How to simplify network operations

  Network challenges include visibility, scalability and security. NetOps teams should follow management best practices and consider cloud networking to simplify operations.  Continue Reading

• An introduction to cloud network architecture

  Enterprises have three main options when it comes to cloud network architecture: Use built-in CSP tools, buy virtual networking appliances or use a multi-cloud management platform.  Continue Reading

• 5G and SD-WAN bring benefits to branch locations and beyond

  Individually, 5G and SD-WAN promise many benefits for businesses. As a pair, 5G and SD-WAN could specifically enhance network connectivity for remote employees.  Continue Reading

• 5 network requirements for cloud computing

  Network and cloud teams should consider factors such as bandwidth and latency optimization, security, network redundancy, QoS and network automation in their cloud strategies.  Continue Reading

• Enterprise 5G deployment options and how to procure them

  The two main types of 5G deployment options are standalone and non-standalone. Find out how they're different, how to procure them and some helpful 5G tips.  Continue Reading

• Indoor 5G gets a boost as small cells come to rescue

  Indoor small cells are becoming more common in consumer and enterprise markets. Along with distributed antenna systems and Wi-Fi networks, small cells increasingly enable RF coverage.  Continue Reading

• 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

• 7 top 5G enterprise use cases and business opportunities

  As 5G cellular networking continues to roll out, some key business use cases have emerged. Fixed wireless access, for example, could improve office connectivity.  Continue Reading

• 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

• Network considerations for cloud migration to data center

  Performance, security concerns and high costs are factors that prompt organizations to migrate workloads from cloud to data centers. Here's what to consider.  Continue Reading

• Best practices for network automation with Python

  Python libraries, version control, documentation and object-oriented programming provide helpful best practices for network engineers tackling network automation with Python.  Continue Reading

• How low Earth orbit satellite networks improve internet access

  Compared to traditional satellite setups, LEO satellite internet provides several benefits, such as low latency, reduced costs and better support for remote sites.  Continue Reading

• 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

• How to use NAPALM for efficient network management

  NAPALM is a flexible Python library that can integrate with Ansible modules, support multivendor environments, and ease network management and automation strategies.  Continue Reading

• 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

• Are wireless networks more energy-efficient than wired LANs?

  The quick, complicated answer is yes and no. Wireless can be more energy-efficient than wired, but businesses need to weigh several variables to reap energy savings.  Continue Reading

• 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

• An introduction to quantum networks and how they work

  Quantum networks hold potential for faster and more secure communication. But true quantum networks are still experimental and require more engineering and scientific research.  Continue Reading

• Types of Nmap scans and best practices

  Nmap scanning helps network teams with network reconnaissance and vulnerability discovery. Common types of scans include TCP SYN, OS detection, vulnerability and version detection.  Continue Reading

• Network modernization benefits and challenges

  The benefits of network modernization include better visibility and automated configuration. The challenges include integration with existing tools and cost concerns.  Continue Reading

• Top 5 benefits of SASE to enhance network security

  A cloud-based distributed architecture, centralized management and endpoint-specific security policies are just some of the benefits of Secure Access Service Edge.  Continue Reading

• An introduction to Git for network engineers

  Git can be a useful tool for network engineers who manage complex infrastructure, especially as networking increasingly overlaps with software, automation and DevOps.  Continue Reading

• Automation, orchestration software fuel network modernization

  In some ways, network modernization means cutting manual configuration errors and relying on automation and orchestration to achieve unified network management.  Continue Reading

• 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

• 5 techniques to debug network issues in Linux and Windows

  Debugging a network issue should start with basic troubleshooting. If that doesn't fix it, admins should check, verify and configure connections to the client, server and network.  Continue Reading

• 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

• What are the elements of modern network security architecture?

  Modern network security is a mix of several elements, including secure access service edge, virtualization technologies, segmentation and zero-trust models.  Continue Reading

• What's shaping the future of wireless networking technology?

  Cloud-managed Wi-Fi, radio spectrum expansion and the hybrid workplace are some of the converging developments that are modernizing wireless networks.  Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• 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

• Python interpreter vs. IDE: What network engineers should know

  When using Python for network automation, network engineers often work with interpreters and integrated development environment tools to test modules and debug code.  Continue Reading

• 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

• Review the components of VMware SASE Platform

  VMware SASE Platform provides many strong networking and security capabilities, but it comes in an offering that feels like many individual products packaged together.  Continue Reading

• The pros and cons of VPNs for enterprises

  VPNs use different protocols and encryption to protect data and prevent unauthorized users from accessing company resources. But those protocols come with their own benefits and challenges.  Continue Reading

• 6 steps for rapid geographic network segmentation

  When segmenting network operations in certain parts of the world, modular network design and geographic domain definition are two vital elements to consider.  Continue Reading