Ask the Experts

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