Ask the Experts

Ask the Experts

• What is iPerf and how is it used?

  Expert Chris Partsenidis explains what iPerf is and how iPerf commands can help you measure your network's bandwidth, delay, jitter and potential for data loss.  Continue Reading

• How to achieve secure mobile device management

  Laptops and phones are critically important in the era of BYOD, but safety can only be achieved with secure mobile device management.  Continue Reading

• Defining SD-WAN benefits: Does better QoE make the list?

  The list of SD-WAN benefits often includes cost savings and better routing; does it also include better quality of experience compared to a traditional WAN?  Continue Reading

• How do PKI problems complicate VPN management?

  Securing and managing VPNs can be a challenge, and public key infrastructure can help, but PKI problems are often lurking.  Continue Reading

• What SD-WAN architecture is best for your network?

  When looking for the right SD-WAN architecture to implement, it's important to consider your specific network and the traffic it experiences.  Continue Reading

• NFV vs. VNF: What's the difference?

  NFV versus VNF: SDN engineer Darien Hirotsu explains the differences between network functions virtualization and virtual network functions.  Continue Reading

• Is satellite connectivity a realistic option for WANs?

  What you should know about satellite connectivity, satellite internet, and the costs and benefits of universally available links.  Continue Reading

• What advantages will 400 Gigabit Ethernet bring to the data center?

  What are the use cases and advantages of 400 Gigabit Ethernet in the modern data center?  Continue Reading

• What do I need to do to create successful hybrid WANs?

  The market for hybrid network services is growing, and with it comes the challenge of successfully creating hybrid WANs.  Continue Reading

• What are some ways to reduce IT maintenance costs?

  Enterprises spend millions of dollars each year on IT maintenance, service and support. But there are steps you can take to whittle those costs down.  Continue Reading

• What is the difference between bit rate and baud rate?

  Learn how to understand the difference between bit rate and baud rate in this expert answer.  Continue Reading

• What system administrator responsibilities are paramount today?

  System administrator responsibilities are, fundamentally, about the care and feeding of systems but cover a broad range of possibilities when looking at a specific position.  Continue Reading

• What duties are in the network manager job description?

  Get the inside scoop on a network manager's job description, workload and responsibilities which keep an organization's network infrastructure running smoothly.  Continue Reading

• What does the Intent Framework do in the ONOS SDN platform?

  Our SDN expert looks at how the ONOS SDN platform uses an Intent Framework to let apps make their networking needs known to the controller using policy-based management.  Continue Reading

• How many software-defined networking controllers are needed?

  SDN expert Will Murrell addresses how many software-defined networking controllers organizations need for policy control and network management and the value of investing in backup controllers.  Continue Reading

• How can my company reap the advantages of SDN if its culture is risk-averse?

  SDN expert Will Murrell discusses how the advantages of SDN will speak to cautious companies only when network engineers can make a case for SDN's lower cost and high functionality.  Continue Reading

• How do I choose an SDN certification or training program?

  Network engineer and SDN pro Will Murrell discusses how to choose the right SDN certification or training program, and what types of SDN courses are available.  Continue Reading

• Should I invest in formal SDN training, certification?

  Network engineer and software-defined networking pro Will Murrell considers whether formal SDN certification and training is worth the time, expense and effort.  Continue Reading

• How many SDN programming languages should I know?

  When it comes to programming languages, is it better to become an expert in one or a jack-of-all-trades? Networking pro Will Murrell recommends familiarizing yourself with three.  Continue Reading

• How does SDN automation work?

  Expert Lee Doyle explains how software-defined networking enables network automation -- leading to lower costs, faster provisioning and better scalability.  Continue Reading

• How can I get started with SDN technologies?

  Networking expert Lee Doyle explains how network architects can get started using software-defined networking technologies -- whether in the campus network, WAN or data center.  Continue Reading

• Is fabric necessary for network virtualization overlay?

  A fabric topology may become necessary at some point, but for now, you can get away without one for your SDN overlay.  Continue Reading

• How does Open Network Operating System's 'Emu' update CORD?

  ONOS' latest release, called "Emu," includes updates to the Central Office Re-architected as Datacenter. Analyst Dan Conde explains what they entail.  Continue Reading

• My MPLS service contract expires soon -- should I renew?

  The rise of SD-WAN has many asking: Do we really need MPLS connectivity? Expert John Burke explains what factors to consider before renewing your existing contract.  Continue Reading

• What is the role of the security operations center in SDN?

  As SDN continues to gain traction, it's important that security keeps pace. Expert John Burke explains the role of the security operations center in a software-defined network.  Continue Reading

• What are the WLAN benefits of 802.11ac vs. 802.11n?

  In analyzing wireless 802.11ac versus 802.11n, our expert says the advantages of 802.11ac are many, but the engineering has to be spot on.  Continue Reading

• What is the status of OPNFV?

  Implementing NFV remains a daunting task, but Open Platform for NFV offers a path forward. Our expert explains where the open source platform stands today and where it's headed.  Continue Reading

• How can enterprises manage the cybersecurity skills gap?

  Due to the demand for professionals with backgrounds in both computer science and networking, filling cybersecurity jobs is difficult. Technology will have to play a bigger role.  Continue Reading

• What role does the end-to-end principle play in SDN?

  The end-to-end principle was a core tenet of the early Internet, but where does it fit in the software-defined network? Analyst John Burke explains.  Continue Reading

• What's the best way to handle end-of-sale devices on your network?

  A majority of organizations have end-of-sale and end-of-life devices on their networks. What's the best way to ensure your equipment is up to date?  Continue Reading

• Which SDN protocol should I use?

  At the dawn of software-defined networking, there was one SDN protocol: OpenFlow. Today, users can select from a growing number of options.  Continue Reading

• Software-defined networking security: Should we worry?

  Software-defined networking security concerns are real, and networking expert John Burke says we'll need new mitigation and defense techniques to address them.  Continue Reading

• How will software-defined WANs impact the enterprise?

  SD-WAN has a lot of potential for enterprises, especially as developers cobble together custom services and capabilities.  Continue Reading

• Container networking: How does Docker relate to SDN?

  Networking expert John Burke tackles container networking in this edition of Ask the Expert, explaining how a Docker container relates to SDN.  Continue Reading

• What's the status of SDN deployments in the enterprise?

  When it comes to widespread SDN deployments in the enterprise, are we there yet? Networking expert Lee Doyle says not quite… but we're on the way.  Continue Reading

• What makes an SMB network a target for cyberattacks?

  Small and medium-sized businesses are ripe targets for hackers. What can they do to improve their protection?  Continue Reading

• How can SDN and NFV change the telecom central office?

  SDN engineer Darien Hirotsu discusses the benefits of the Central Office Re-architected as Datacenter concept for the telecom central office.  Continue Reading

• When will software-driven networks become the new normal?

  SDN engineer Darien Hirotsu explains what it will take for SDN to become the industry standard, with software-driven networks outnumbering their traditional counterparts.  Continue Reading

• What's the best way to protect my network from APT attacks?

  If you take some simple steps, you can help prevent advanced persistent threats from plaguing your network.  Continue Reading

• How do you anchor mobile network optimization?

  A successful mobility strategy hinges on how well users can get their jobs done across a variety of devices, operating systems and locations, according to an expert.  Continue Reading

• What is the relationship between east-west traffic and SDN?

  SDN engineer Darien Hirotsu explains how SDN can help solve the challenges presented by east-west traffic flow in the data center.  Continue Reading

• What's the difference between hybrid, virtual and SD-WAN?

  An expert explains the differences between hybrid, virtual and software-defined WANs and tells how they are each related.  Continue Reading

• How do you establish connections across multiple MPLS providers?

  Your company is merging: How do you link disparate WAN service providers to ensure continued connectivity?  Continue Reading

• How do you create a secure VPN tunnel?

  Expert Julian Weinberger says that locking your VPN parameters can help secure your VPN tunnel by blocking users from changing configurations.  Continue Reading

• What's the best way to safely preconfigure VPN access?

  Expert Julian Weinberger says limiting user VPN access can help enterprises enforce security and BYOD policies and reduce risk at the same time.  Continue Reading

• Is big data implementation always a custom project?

  An expert says it's important to figure out your big data objectives before purchasing hardware or software from a vendor.  Continue Reading

• What's involved with global ISP Internet breakout?

  An expert explains how to achieve global Internet breakout connections and gives examples of different connection options.  Continue Reading

• How do you approach global MPLS procurement?

  An expert discussed some of the particular challenges associated with the international procurement of MPLS VPN services.  Continue Reading

• How does the enterprise benefit from IP network transformation?

  An expert explains the benefits and challenges of migrating services from a traditional public-switched telephone network to IP.  Continue Reading

• Price vs. design, how do you choose MPLS service providers?

  When you meet with several MPLS service providers, you need to weigh the cost vs. the design of the product. Cheaper products might not give you all the capabilities you need.  Continue Reading

• What is the security impact of enterprise IoT?

  Software management at the device level is key to mitigating security risks in the enterprise when IoT arrives.  Continue Reading

• What is a hybrid WAN service?

  When considering hybrid WAN architecture, organizations must focus on the end-user experience and security.  Continue Reading

• What is generic Ethernet access?

  Generic Ethernet access is a new carrier service rolling out in the United Kingdom. Is this a technology that can work for you?  Continue Reading

• How do you benefit from MPLS provider comparison?

  An expert explains the process of choosing an MPLS provider.  Continue Reading

• SDN and network virtualization: How do they work together?

  There are different ways to implement network virtualization in a software-defined network. Jim Meztler explains network virtualization and SDN, and how the two can work together.  Continue Reading

• Types of link-state advertisements (LSAs) used in Open Shortest Path First (OSPF)

  John Burke explains different types of link-state advertisements (LSAs) that would be used for Open Shortest Path First (OSPF).  Continue Reading

• What is 'real SDN'?

  Networking pros continue to argue about what 'real SDN' is. Here is a breakdown of the major SDN categories that exist in research and real-world environments.  Continue Reading

• What is 'open' SDN?

  Author Chuck Black explains what 'open' means for SDN, and considers open SDN controllers, protocols and APIs.  Continue Reading

• Do I need network quality of service?

  An expert discusses the importance of including quality of service across the network.  Continue Reading

• MPLS vs. virtual private LAN services: Same thing?

  Most IT managers tend to think of MPLS and VPLS as separate entities. Robert Sturt points out that the two products have a lot in common.  Continue Reading

• What's the difference between declarative and imperative networking architecture?

  When talking about network, automation and policy solutions, it's becoming commonplace to hear about declarative and imperative networking architectures. Jason Edelman explains the differences.  Continue Reading

• How to get training on OpenDaylight controllers and APIs

  David Goldberg explains the origins of OpenDaylight controller code and offers resources for developers looking to learn more about the existing code base.  Continue Reading

• Software-defined WAN: The old way of building branch networks is dead

  In the software-defined WAN, we'll provision virtual overlays and move network management to the cloud, limiting costly on-premises equipment.  Continue Reading

• What is the difference between network orchestration and SDN control?

  Glen Kemp discusses the differences between network orchestration, similar to OpenStack, and SDN control, which is happening through OpenDaylight.  Continue Reading

• Broadcom, Intel SDN offerings: What's the difference?

  Glen Kemp breaks down the differences between Broadcom and Intel SDN chips and reference designs.  Continue Reading

• Why are open APIs needed in a software-defined network?

  Open APIs are architectural components of a software-defined network that push configurations or information to routers and switches or other apps.  Continue Reading

• Is passive optical networking good for enterprises?

  An information systems engineer explains passive optical networking and how it can help an enterprise reduce costs.  Continue Reading

• What separates white-box software from bare-metal switches?

  Network administrators can choose between white-box software and bare-metal hardware and receive the same performance.  Continue Reading

• What features do providers need in cloud orchestration software?

  What capabilities should providers look for in cloud orchestration software? Expert Paul Parker-Johnson discusses different features.  Continue Reading

• Remote access security: What is ABAC and can it protect my network?

  Expert Joerg Hirschmann illustrates the need to supplement role-based access control with attribute-based access control to boost enterprise security.  Continue Reading

• Do SDN and NFV mean we don't need to buy network hardware anymore?

  Learn how the roles and requirements of traditional network hardware will change as SDN and NFV mature.  Continue Reading

• What you need to know about duplicate IP address detection

  Read valuable expert advice about what causes IP address conflicts, and learn how to detect duplicate IP addresses in this tip.  Continue Reading

• How many devices can one 802.11n standard access point control?

  Expert Mike Jude reveals the technical and theoretical limitations of 802.11n access points as more enterprises upgrade to the new standard.  Continue Reading

• Subnet basics: Must you set up Wi-Fi subnets in a single building?

  Expert Mike Jude discusses the rationale of creating distinct Wi-Fi subnets in a single building.  Continue Reading

• What is protocol spoofing as it relates to WAN optimization?

  Learn in this expert response what protocol spoofing is and how it can be used as a WAN optimization technique.  Continue Reading

• SDN and the enterprise campus network

  SDN campus solutions have the potential to impact current LAN architecture, changing the enterprise campus network.  Continue Reading

• Are there alternatives to the OpenFlow protocol?

  Jason Edelman explains OpenFlow protocol alternatives and what's important in determining which southbound protocol will work for you.  Continue Reading

• How to choose the right SDN controller platform

  When choosing the best SDN controller platform for your company, look at the problem you need to solve, the end goal and various end-to-end solutions.  Continue Reading

• Building a scalable infrastructure: How can cloud providers do it?

  There are a few different steps a provider can take in order to create an efficient, scalable infrastructure, says cloud expert Paul Parker-Johnson.  Continue Reading

• When it comes to BYOD security risks, which VPN is best, IPsec or SSL?

  By 2016, 40% of the workforce will be mobile. IPsec VPNs are being widely discussed for BYOD security. But should we also be talking about SSL VPNs?  Continue Reading

• SDN network interoperability: Integrating with existing networks

  Derick Winkworth outlines whether it's possible to reach SDN network interoperability.  Continue Reading

• Is it time to consider FCoE adoption in your storage network plan?

  Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FCoE) adoption is growing. But is it right for your organization?  Continue Reading

• How long does the IPv4 to IPv6 transition take?

  Various factors, including financial burden, will influence how long the transition from IPv4 to IPv6 will take, says IPv6 expert Chip Popoviciu.  Continue Reading

• What are the best use cases for public cloud services?

  Enterprises increasingly see public cloud services as secure and stable enough for specific non-core applications if they have effective SLAs.  Continue Reading

• What security issues arise with IPv6 and IPv4 in a multi-tenant cloud?

  When supporting IPv6 and IPv4 in a multi-tenant cloud, the attack surface for this type of environment is increased, says IPv6 expert Chip Popoviciu.  Continue Reading

• How can cloud providers offer sensitive data protection?

  Cloud expert Mooney Sherman offers tips on how to evaluate various security architectures to provide optimal sensitive data protection in the cloud.  Continue Reading

• Should I use the OpenFlow protocol in software-defined networks?

  The OpenFlow protocol isn't required for SDN, although the Open Network Foundation recommends it, which means networking vendors have options.  Continue Reading

• Why do I need SDN technology?

  SDN is valuable, but uses extend to other parts of the network for increased network flexibility, dynamic traffic flow, decreased latency and QoS.  Continue Reading

• Is SDN a centralized or distributed network architecture?

  A software-defined network can have a centralized or distributed network architecture in the data center, LAN and WAN, depending on business needs.  Continue Reading

• What is the difference between an overlay network and SDN?

  A software-defined network can be deployed as an overlay network to a physical network or natively as the primary network to improve flexibility.  Continue Reading

• Does software-defined networking require special SDN switches?

  Software-defined networks do not require special SDN switches; instead, vendors offer a variety of SDN controllers, network fabrics and hardware.  Continue Reading

• Where do network fabric and SDN technologies intersect?

  Networks can use a network fabric and SDN technologies together, and vendors' SDN architectures integrate them in a variety different ways.  Continue Reading

• The role of northbound APIs in an SDN environment

  Northbound APIs on SDN controllers enable applications and orchestration systems to program the network and request services from it.  Continue Reading

• SDN, network virtualization: Are they the same?

  Despite differences, SDN and network virtualization share common elements to direct network resources to VMs and segment or consolidate networks.  Continue Reading

• Do I need to use an SDN controller for software-defined networking?

  An SDN controller, with or without OpenFlow, is not required for a software-defined network, and SDN architecture vendors take different approaches.  Continue Reading

• How do cloud elasticity and cloud scalability differ?

  Cloud elasticity and cloud scalability are both characteristics of cloud services, but support different goals, says cloud expert Chip Popoviciu.  Continue Reading

• Application performance management should include packet capture

  Expert Jesse Rothstein explains the importance and challenges of packet capture abilities in application performance management (APM) solutions.  Continue Reading

• What are the benefits of IPv6 in SDN and network virtualization?

  One of the benefits of IPv6 is that it makes software defined networking and network virtualization scale easily, IPv6 expert Ciprian Popoviciu says.  Continue Reading

• What are some of the challenges of running a dual-stack IPv6 cloud?

  When running a dual-stack IPv6 cloud, you must remember that the two protocols share infrastructure resources, says IPv6 expert Ciprian Popoviciu.  Continue Reading

• How the 802.11ac standard impacts security

  The upcoming 802.11ac standard is an improvement over 802.11n, but how could security be impacted? Wireless expert Lisa A. Phifer explains.  Continue Reading