Ask the Experts

Ask the Experts

• What is the difference between a managed and unmanaged switch?

  One difference between managed and unmanaged switches is complexity. A managed switch is more complex and requires more skills, but it offers better network control and configuration.  Continue Reading

• How realistic are compact SD-WAN appliances compared to VPNs?

  The battle between VPN vs. SD-WAN returns. In this clash, see how realistic SD-WAN appliances are for remote and mobile workers compared to VPN connections.  Continue Reading

• Network security vs. application security: What's the difference?

  Different tools protect different assets at the network and application layers. But both network and application security need to support the larger security plan.  Continue Reading

• What's the difference between a wireless access point and router?

  Is there a difference between a wireless access point vs. a router? Yes -- while the two wireless devices are related, they meet different needs in a Wi-Fi network.  Continue Reading

• What SD-WAN certifications and courses are available?

  A few SD-WAN certifications do exist, but they're heavily focused on specific vendors and their respective products. Find out why market-wide certs are unlikely.  Continue Reading

• How to compare Cisco vs. HPE Aruba switches

  Organizations have much to consider when evaluating Cisco vs. HPE Aruba switches, such as device architecture, Opex, Capex and analytics capabilities.  Continue Reading

• Traditional WAN vs. SD-WAN: How do they compare?

  While comparing traditional WAN vs. SD-WAN, network professionals can see the many benefits of SD-WAN, including centralized control and dynamic traffic management.  Continue Reading

• What are SFP ports on a Gigabit switch and what are they used for?

  SFP ports enable Gigabit switches to connect to a wide variety of fiber and Ethernet cables in order to extend switching functionality throughout the network.  Continue Reading

• How do I create proper documentation of network automation?

  Despite network automation's advantages, organizations can face disadvantages if they have improper network documentation. These four components can help enable proper documentation.  Continue Reading

• How will BSS coloring boost Wi-Fi 6 performance?

  BSS coloring is a feature that will help accelerate Wi-Fi 6 performance. Find out how the new mechanism will help access points transmit more efficiently.  Continue Reading

• What's the difference between a MAC address and IP address?

  A MAC address and an IP address each identify network devices, but they do the job at different levels. Explore the differences between the two and learn why both are necessary.  Continue Reading

• Bridge vs. switch comparison: What's the difference?

  A network bridge connects two local area networks. A network switch, on the other hand, connects multiple clients to a network. Learn more about these two network components.  Continue Reading

• How does 802.11ax security benefit from WPA3?

  Security methods like WPA3 and Opportunistic Wireless Encryption will give a boost to 802.11ax security, but securing the new wireless standard is still pretty complicated.  Continue Reading

• What network tools are available for public cloud monitoring?

  Multi-tenant public cloud monitoring can pose significant challenges. Luckily, some tools can help track these environments and even flag potential security threats.  Continue Reading

• What is the difference between SDN and NFV?

  SDN and NFV are siblings but not twins -- while they have a lot in common, they aren't identical. Here's what you need to know about their differences.  Continue Reading