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A deep dive into the differences between 5G and Wi-Fi 6
While the latest cellular and Wi-Fi technology generations -- 5G and Wi-Fi 6, respectively -- have been pitted against one another, the technologies make better friends than foes. Continue Reading
CIDR (Classless Inter-Domain Routing or supernetting)
CIDR (Classless Inter-Domain Routing) -- also known as supernetting -- is a method of assigning Internet Protocol (IP) addresses that improves the efficiency of address distribution and replaces the previous system based on class A, class B and ... Continue Reading
How is SD-WAN as a service different from managed SD-WAN?
SD-WAN technology is available in a variety of business models, including SD-WAN as a service and managed SD-WAN. But how do the different consumption models compare? Continue Reading
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What does 'network on demand' mean for enterprises?
Following the on-demand trend, network on-demand options provide enterprises with more flexible consumption models, such as managed network services and cloud-based networking. Continue Reading
Ethernet
Ethernet is the traditional technology for connecting devices in a wired local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN), enabling them to communicate with each other via a protocol -- a set of rules or common network language. Continue Reading
What is the difference between LoRa and LoRaWAN?
LoRa is a modulation technique for specific wireless spectrum, while LoRaWAN is an open protocol that enables IoT devices to use LoRa for communication.Continue Reading
What is network verification and do enterprises need it?
Network verification can help organizations gain critical network performance insight and alleviate network complexity. But aspects of the concept are new and not yet mainstream.Continue Reading
USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data)
USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) is a GSM (Global System for Mobile) communications protocol that is used to send text messages.Continue Reading
The 3 different types of 5G technology for enterprises
5G isn't a single flavor of cellular technology; it's three flavors, and each one can enable advanced capabilities, such as ultrareliable low latency and IoT connectivity.Continue Reading
TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol)
TCP/IP, or the Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol, is a suite of communication protocols used to interconnect network devices on the internet.Continue Reading
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traffic shaping
Traffic shaping, also known as packet shaping, is a congestion management method that regulates network data transfer by delaying the flow of less important or less desired packets.Continue Reading
Try 10 practice questions for the CCNP, CCIE ENCOR 350-401
This practice quiz for CCNP and CCIE ENCOR 350-401 explores what readers must know about IP routing essentials -- including BGP and OSPF -- from the new certification guidebook.Continue Reading
How Cisco certification changes alter CCNP and CCIE tracks
Here's what to expect from the colossal Cisco certification changes to the CCNP and CCIE tracks that aim to increase material relevance and benefit network engineers' daily lives.Continue Reading
Prepare for CCNP, CCIE ENCOR 350-401 with this guide preview
Here's an excerpt from the new 'CCNP and CCIE ENCOR 350-401 Official Cert Guide' that provides the key IP routing essentials network engineers require for their job roles.Continue Reading
An introduction to network automation with Ansible
Ansible is one of the most popular open source network automation tools. Network pros can use it to perform basic network automation tasks, like collecting ARP table data.Continue Reading
How businesses can gear up for Wi-Fi 6 hardware
The latest wireless standard, Wi-Fi 6, is coming to an enterprise near you. As a result, businesses will need to plan accordingly as they evaluate Wi-Fi 6 devices.Continue Reading
How do I build a cloud-ready network?
IT teams can prepare their networks for cloud migrations by planning around their applications, security strategies, remote users and WAN performance.Continue Reading
Cloud networking vs. cloud computing: What's the difference?
Organizations might sometimes consider cloud computing and cloud networking as interchangeable due to their similarities. But the two strategies have different goals and processes.Continue Reading
A glossary of 12 network management and monitoring key terms
This network management and monitoring glossary delves into common issues, processes and capabilities all networks share. Explore these 12 key terms and concise definitions.Continue Reading
Is Wi-Fi 6 backward-compatible? Yes and no
With the advent of a new wireless standard, some users may wonder: Is Wi-Fi 6 backward-compatible? The answer is yes. But do you want full backward compatibility?Continue Reading
Top SD-WAN benefits and the case for deployment
Make the case for an SD-WAN implementation, and explore the benefits and main use cases for SD-WAN in enterprises, beyond traditional hybrid WANs.Continue Reading
Understand business value to advance your networking career
Network pros can use the CAR mindset -- challenge, action and result -- to better match their networking initiatives with business goals and advance their career opportunities.Continue Reading
What's the difference between SD-branch vs. SD-WAN?
As networking pros evaluate SD-branch vs. SD-WAN, they'll notice a key distinction between the two technologies, namely how network functions are managed and orchestrated.Continue Reading
Try these 6 official practice questions for CCNA 200-301
These practice questions for CCNA 200-301 lay out what readers need to know about network security best practices from 'CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 2.'Continue Reading
A look inside 'CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 2'
Network security is a crucial skills area for network engineers, and the CCNA 200-301 reflects this. Here's a chapter excerpt on network security from the new guide.Continue Reading
Traditional, emerging topics unite in the new CCNA exam
As of Feb. 24, all eyes are on the CCNA 200-301 exam -- Cisco's latest update to the CCNA track. Here's a look at what's on the exam and how it compares to previous CCNA exams.Continue Reading
What's the difference between thin and thick SD-WAN branch offices?
When rolling out software-defined WAN, you'll need to consider the current makeup of your branch offices. For instance, are applications on-site or in the cloud?Continue Reading
Network automation with Python, Paramiko, Netmiko and NAPALM
Python is a useful language, but it can't do everything. Explore some basic network automation scripts that use Python with three automation libraries: Paramiko, Netmiko and NAPALM.Continue Reading
A deep dive into the differences between Wi-Fi 6 vs. Wi-Fi 5
While Wi-Fi 5 is still sufficient for organizations, Wi-Fi 6 is worth learning about. Here are the major differences between the standards and what they mean for your organization.Continue Reading
Consider these 6 SD-WAN challenges and the flip-side benefits
Cost, complexity, security, training, troubleshooting and software bugs are some of the top SD-WAN challenges. Discover more about these issues and how to offset them.Continue Reading
5G
Fifth-generation wireless (5G) is the latest iteration of cellular technology, engineered to greatly increase the speed and responsiveness of wireless networks.Continue Reading
A glossary of 12 terms and phrases for Wi-Fi 6 technology
This Wi-Fi 6 glossary delves into various features and capabilities the new generation of Wi-Fi technology offers, as well as what organizations can expect from Wi-Fi 6 devices.Continue Reading
How to start building an SD-WAN RFP
An SD-WAN request for proposal should include comprehensive questions that dive into vendor features and capabilities, architecture, cost savings and PoCs.Continue Reading
WAN optimization (WAN acceleration)
WAN optimization -- also known as WAN acceleration -- is the category of technologies and techniques used to maximize the efficiency of data's flow across a wide area network (WAN), between organizations' centralized data centers and their remote ...Continue Reading
SD-WAN (Software-defined WAN)
Software-defined WAN (SD-WAN) is technology that uses software-defined networking (SDN) concepts to distribute network traffic across a wide area network (WAN).Continue Reading
edge router
An edge router is a specialized router located at a network boundary that enables an internal network to connect to external networks.Continue Reading
computer network
A computer network, also referred to as a data network, is a series of interconnected nodes that can transmit, receive and exchange data, voice and video traffic.Continue Reading
SD-WAN vs. load balancing: How are they different?
SD-WAN can use load balancing for WAN connections, but it doesn't require load balancing to work. Compare some of the similarities and differences between the two.Continue Reading
SD-WAN vs. DMVPN vs. IPsec tunnels: How do I choose?
Software-defined WAN, DMVPN and IPsec tunnels each have a place among enterprises. Our network expert compares each one and explains where they can be most beneficial.Continue Reading
What is the difference between WLAN and Wi-Fi?
Although the terms WLAN and Wi-Fi are used interchangeably, the two wireless technologies are quite different. Fundamentally, Wi-Fi is just a type of WLAN.Continue Reading
Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS)
Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) is a protocol-agnostic routing technique designed to speed up and shape traffic flows across enterprise wide area and service provider networks.Continue Reading
Test your knowledge of SD-WAN deployments and testing
As SD-WAN becomes more mainstream, organizations must learn what to expect during all phases of deployment. Try your knowledge of SD-WAN testing, deployments and troubleshooting.Continue Reading
bandwidth
Network bandwidth is the capacity of a wired or wireless network communications link to transmit the maximum amount of data from one point to another over a computer network or internet connection in a given amount of time -- usually, one second.Continue Reading
Asynchronous
In general, asynchronous -- pronounced ay-SIHN-kro-nuhs, from Greek asyn-, meaning "not with," and chronos, meaning "time" -- is an adjective describing objects or events that are not coordinated in time.Continue Reading
A deep dive into the differences between 4G and 5G networks
Yes, 4G and 5G network architectures will differ, but organizations may not see change for some time. This feature explores 4G and 5G differences and lays out what you should know.Continue Reading
DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol)
DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) is a network management protocol used to dynamically assign an Internet Protocol (IP) address to any device, or node, on a network so they can communicate using IP.Continue Reading
TCP (Transmission Control Protocol)
TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) is a standard that defines how to establish and maintain a network conversation through which application programs can exchange data.Continue Reading
How do I build the right cloud network design?
Networks look different now than they did a decade ago, and that continuous change isn't slowing down. Cloud networking plays a large role in the transformation of legacy networks.Continue Reading
What SD-WAN devices do I need in an SD-WAN deployment?
Despite the software-centric nature of software-defined WAN, certain SD-WAN devices are still required to help transport traffic and complete network connections.Continue Reading
Test your cloud networking knowledge with these 10 questions
As cloud networks become more common, IT teams must understand how cloud architectures can benefit -- or impede -- business requirements. Take this quiz to see how much you know.Continue Reading
Understanding the evolution of Ethernet
First developed by Xerox PARC in the 1970s and ratified by IEEE as a standard in 1983, the evolution of Ethernet has taken this LAN technology through dozens of specifications.Continue Reading
SD-WAN explained in 15 key terms and phrases
This SD-WAN glossary delves into the various capabilities, technologies and components that encompass SD-WAN, explained with 15 concise definitions.Continue Reading
What is the difference between a bridge and a router?
While a bridge and router share some similarities, the difference between a bridge and router is significant, including how the devices interpret network connections.Continue Reading
What's the difference between half-duplex and full-duplex?
A half-duplex transmission could be considered a one-way street between sender and receiver. Full-duplex, on the other hand, enables two-way traffic at the same time.Continue Reading
computer hardware
Computer hardware is a collective term used to describe any of the physical components of an analog or digital computer.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
Learn how to master network traffic analysis with Python
In this book excerpt, explore key components of network security and network traffic analysis with Python scripting from Packt Publishing author José Manuel Ortega.Continue Reading
An overview of how BGP works
Border Gateway Protocol makes the internet work, but how does BGP work? This animated video explains the basics of BGP and discusses its role in the internet.Continue Reading
Routing Information Protocol (RIP)
Routing Information Protocol (RIP) is a distance vector protocol that uses hop count as its primary metric.Continue Reading
An introduction to cloud network architecture
Enterprises have myriad cloud networking options: private cloud, public cloud, hybrid cloud and multi-cloud. Find out which architecture and tool sets best fit your business.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
Discover 5 key cloud networking basics for your organization
Clear away the fog, and explore these five key cloud networking fundamentals -- such as models, challenges and tools -- you need to know before you adopt a cloud network strategy.Continue Reading
Prep for SD-WAN challenges, and you'll reap its rewards
Reap SD-WAN's multiple benefits by knowing ahead of time what the likely issues will be and the options available at the implementation and management stages.Continue Reading
SD-WAN deployment in the works? Consider these 3 things
SD-WAN can simplify the deployment and management of new branch WANs, but there are some key configuration and technical choices you must make to get started.Continue Reading
How to develop and implement a network security plan
When formulating a focused network security plan, you'll need to address specific questions about outbound traffic, user logins and government regulations.Continue Reading
A glossary of key edge computing architecture terms
Bolster your networking vocabulary and get to know the various features and technologies that constitute edge computing in this comprehensive glossary of key terms and phrases.Continue Reading
Data center transformation drives the ADC security use case
Application delivery controllers play many roles, but the ADC security use case might be most important. Learn about ADC features and how they boost data center security.Continue Reading
5G explained: A deep dive into the features and facts
In this 5G guide, learn about key features, challenges and deployment tips. This 5G explanation goes beyond the fundamentals and explores 5G's relationship to other technologies.Continue Reading
Differences among WEP, WPA and WPA2 wireless security protocols
As wireless network technologies have evolved, so too have the wireless security protocols for securing them. Get a quick overview of the three WLAN security standards, and learn the differences among WEP, WPA and WPA2.Continue Reading
Introduction to 5G: Your guide to fifth-generation wireless
This straightforward guide provides an introduction to 5G and encompasses the 5G basics you need to know. Learn what 5G is, use cases to consider and benefits for organizations.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
How does 5G network slicing work, and what are the benefits?
5G network slicing promises the delivery of a new generation of high-speed services, including the transmission of 4K and augmented virtual reality apps to users' cellphones.Continue Reading
Cisco CCNA practice test: Try these 20 exam questions
Use this CCNA practice test as study material to prepare for the Cisco CCNA Routing and Switching 200-125 exam. With 20 questions on a range of topics, we're not playing around.Continue Reading
Try a CCNA 200-301 practice quiz from the official cert guide
This practice quiz provides a sneak peek into the new 'CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 1,' which reflects Cisco's CCNA certification and exam redesigns.Continue Reading
Prepare for the CCNA 200-301 exam with this guide preview
Here's a sneak peek at what to expect from Cisco's redesigned CCNA exam directly from 'CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 1' by author Wendell Odom.Continue Reading
UDP (User Datagram Protocol)
UDP (User Datagram Protocol) is an alternative communications protocol to Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) used primarily for establishing low-latency and loss-tolerating connections between applications on the internet.Continue Reading
URL (Uniform Resource Locator)
A URL (Uniform Resource Locator) is a unique identifier used to locate a resource on the internet. It is also referred to as a web address.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
IPv6 (Internet Protocol Version 6)
IPv6 is a set of specifications from the Internet Engineering Task Force that improves IPv4 by extending IP addresses from 32 bits to 128 bits.Continue Reading
fiber optics (optical fiber)
Fiber optics, or optical fiber, refers to the medium and the technology associated with the transmission of information as light pulses along a glass or plastic strand or fiber.Continue Reading
Learn how to get started with your networking career
Wherever you are on your networking career path, these expert insights can help you decide where to go and give advice about job requirements, certifications and industry changes.Continue Reading
Discover the wireless certifications that matter
Find out which wireless certifications are worth pursuing with this expert advice that dives into vendor-specific, vendor-neutral and specialized certification options.Continue Reading
Network pros on new Cisco DevNet certification: 'Finally!'
Want to learn infrastructure as code? Now, there's a Cisco cert for that. Learn more about the new network automation certification suite, plus changes to the CCNA, CCNP and CCIE.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
nslookup
nslookup is the name of a program that lets an Internet server administrator or any computer user enter a host name (for example, "whatis.com") and find out the corresponding IP address or domain name system (DNS) record.Continue Reading
What is Citizens Broadband Radio Service?
Citizens Broadband Radio Service gives enterprises another tool to manage the performance of their Wi-Fi and 5G networks. How does CBRS work?Continue Reading
VPN (virtual private network)
A virtual private network (VPN) is programming that creates a safe, encrypted connection over a less secure network, such as the public internet. A VPN uses tunneling protocols to encrypt data at the sending end and decrypt it at the receiving end.Continue Reading
What is data center networking, and how can you get started?
This feature explores the basics of data center networks, such as how to plan for data center consolidation, the effects of cloud services and how to handle data center interconnects.Continue Reading
software-defined networking (SDN)
Software-defined networking (SDN) is a network architecture that aims to make data center networks agile and flexible.Continue Reading
WAN (Wide Area Network)
A wide area network (WAN) is a geographically distributed telecommunications network that interconnects multiple local area networks (LANs).Continue Reading
The top 5 capabilities your edge infrastructure should have
The network edge plays a vital role in the future of networking and digital transformation. Make sure your infrastructure has these five components to help it on its way.Continue Reading
What are network firewalls? Test your network security IQ
Network firewalls have been an essential part of network security since the internet began. This quiz covers what network firewalls are and tests your security expertise.Continue Reading
VLAN (virtual LAN)
A VLAN (virtual LAN) is a subnetwork which can group together collections of devices on separate physical local area networks (LANs).Continue Reading
What are the steps I should take for network transformation?
The path to digital transformation has three points that all organizations should reach to ensure their network is ready for digital transformation.Continue Reading
What is 5G massive MIMO and how can it boost bandwidth?
With a large array of small antennas and time division duplex communication, 5G massive MIMO is expected to support more bandwidth and users with lower latency.Continue Reading
How does SD-WAN analytics monitor network performance?
With SD-WAN analytics, administrators can fine-tune their WAN connections and determine how well their network is performing.Continue Reading
Better security through software-defined perimeter know-how
Network attacks keep changing, which means your strategy for protecting the network must too. Learn one advancement that's replacing traditional network architectures.Continue Reading
network switch
A network switch is a hardware device that channels incoming data from multiple input ports to a specific output port that will take it toward its intended destination.Continue Reading
The essential 5G glossary of key terms and phrases
To understand 5G, go beyond the hype and into various elements that encompass the new technology. This glossary of 5G keywords explains what 5G is and how its new features work.Continue Reading
dynamic and static
In general, dynamic means energetic, capable of action and/or change, or forceful, while static means stationary or fixed.Continue Reading