Ask the Experts

Ask the Experts

• What's the difference between network availability and reliability?

  Network availability provides a glimpse into infrastructure accessibility, while network reliability highlights how well the infrastructure runs to support functional processes.  Continue Reading

• Intent-based networking vs. SDN: How do they differ?

  When it comes to the primary differentiators between intent-based networking and SDN, abstraction and administrator commands are at the top of the list.  Continue Reading

• What is a software-defined perimeter, and do I need it?

  An evolving network world requires evolving network security. Learn how software-defined perimeter offers a compelling answer to network vulnerabilities.  Continue Reading

• Which core network functions are being virtualized?

  Network functions virtualization can virtualize both data center and branch office network services. But a couple of special cases, like virtual switches, require clarification.  Continue Reading

• What roles do vCPE and uCPE have at the network edge?

  As service providers look to virtualize the edge and deliver network services faster, they're turning to vCPE and uCPE that run services as software on generic hardware.  Continue Reading

• What are the top benefits of CDN services for enterprises?

  You might be asking yourself, 'Do I need a CDN?' According to one network analyst, the answer is most likely yes, as CDNs provide faster access to internet content.  Continue Reading

• Which KPIs should I measure for security in SDN?

  KPIs provide useful guidelines to measure how network performance and security align with business objectives. Here are some KPIs to help keep track of an SDN environment.  Continue Reading

• How might NFV in IoT enhance network edge security?

  The emergence of IoT devices has considerable network security implications. An NFV architecture, however, could add another layer of network defense.  Continue Reading

• What is a service mesh, and how does it relate to networking?

  A service mesh can ease the deployment of microservices and container-based applications, while supporting the delivery of network services, like load balancing and authentication.  Continue Reading

• What are the top 3 benefits of NFV technology?

  The use of standard hardware, consolidation of network functions and machines, and flexible system upgrades are some of the key benefits of NFV technology.  Continue Reading

• How can organizations improve their network change management?

  Organizations can optimize their network change management processes with dedicated change management services for improved planning, monitoring and communication capabilities.  Continue Reading

• Site-to-site VPN vs. remote-access VPNs: What's the difference?

  Learn the differences between site-to-site VPNs vs. remote-access VPNs and find out about the protocols, benefits and the data security methods used to support each approach.  Continue Reading

• What are the differences between network security vs. cybersecurity?

  IT groups need to consider varying layers of security. For instance, the similarities and differences between cybersecurity and network security are closely entwined.  Continue Reading

• What is the difference between circuit switching and packet switching?

  In this Ask the Expert, John Burke explains the difference between packet switching and circuit switching and compares the two models.  Continue Reading

• What are the pros and cons of deploying containers?

  Containers can reduce a company's OS licensing costs and required CPU usage, while acting as a bridge to serverless computing. But IT teams need to evaluate the potential drawbacks.  Continue Reading