Get started

Get started

Bring yourself up to speed with our introductory content.

• What is a programmable data plane and where does P4 fit in?

  A programmable data plane presents a versatile way to forward packets and supports various formats and protocols. The P4 language is used to configure the forwarding actions. Continue Reading

• client-server model (client-server architecture)

  Client-server is a relationship in which one program (the client) requests a service or resource from another program (the server). At the turn of the last century, the label client-server was used to distinguish distributed computing by personal ... Continue Reading

• What you need to know about edge computing architecture

  Edge computing makes network operations more responsive, but there are challenges that must be addressed to get this latest network architecture working for you. Continue Reading

• What happens when edge computing hits enterprise networks?

  Is it time to take your network to the edge? Learn what edge networking can do to improve traffic flows, ease demand for high-performing connectivity and more. Continue Reading

• Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP)

  Unshielded twisted pair (UTP) is a ubiquitous type of copper cabling used in telephone wiring and local area networks (LANs). Continue Reading

• Definitions to Get Started

  • edge device
  • IEEE 802 wireless standards
  • telecommunications (telecom)
  • millimeter wave (MM wave)

  • thin client (lean client)
  • fiber to the home (FTTH)
  • Universal Service Fund (USF)
  • Cisco Performance Routing (PfR)

  View All Definitions

• network availability

  Network availability is the amount of uptime in a network system over a specific time interval.Continue Reading

• A review of SD-branch and its progression from SD-WAN

  The goal of software-defined branch is to merge network functions and management into a single platform, but the branch architecture still lacks maturity, despite some early deployments.Continue Reading

• A brief glossary of network service provider types

  For network novices and experts alike, this glossary of basic terms covers essential keywords related to network services and the various providers that sell them.Continue Reading

• How are automated network configuration and management changing?

  Could a new generation of network testing and verification tools combine with automated network configuration to mimic intent-based networking systems?Continue Reading

• What is the network edge and how is it different from edge computing?

  The network edge, also known as the WAN edge, is where an enterprise network connects to third-party network services. Edge computing, however, is something different.Continue Reading

• network configuration management (NCM)

  Network configuration management is the process of organizing and maintaining information about all of the components in a computer network.Continue Reading

• How to strategize for WAN and SD-WAN performance monitoring

  The importance of WAN performance monitoring hasn't decreased with the introduction of SD-WAN and other technologies. Enterprises still need to enforce proper monitoring strategies.Continue Reading

• Power over Ethernet (PoE)

  Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a technology for wired Ethernet local area networks (LANs) that allows the electrical current necessary for the operation of each device to be carried by the data cables rather than by power cords.Continue Reading

• 802.3

  802.3 is a standard specification for Ethernet, a method of physical communication in a local area network (LAN), which is maintained by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).Continue Reading

• Cloud connectivity tests the bond between enterprises, WAN providers

  Collaborating on cloud connections can strengthen or strain relationships between enterprises and service providers. Service-level agreements, in particular, can be tested.Continue Reading

• How do cloud data centers affect network bandwidth requirements?

  When deciding which applications to move to a cloud data center, enterprises should consider network bandwidth requirements and latency, among other factors.Continue Reading

• data streaming

  Data streaming is the continuous transfer of data at a steady, high-speed rate. To facilitate the need for real-time analytics from disparate data sources, many companies have replaced traditional batch processing with streaming data architectures ...Continue Reading

• microsegmentation

  Microsegmentation, also known as security segmentation, is a process used by network security professionals to break a network into smaller pieces in order to make it easier to keep the overall system secure.Continue Reading

• Take steps now to ready your network for 802.11ax specification

  The 802.11ax specification promises higher speeds and lower latency. Preparing now will help you make the transition easier. Here's what you need to know.Continue Reading

• Network operating system advantages extend to white box switching

  The network operating system is changing, moving toward software acceleration, open APIs and white box switching. Learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of the new NOS.Continue Reading

• AI in networking presents opportunities for service providers

  Network installers and managed service providers can reap key benefits with AI in networking, including better productivity, staff management and customer response.Continue Reading

• How do SDN protocols compare to those used in SD-WAN?

  Traditional SDN controllers use northbound and southbound APIs to communicate. But software-defined WAN controllers don't rely on those same SDN protocols.Continue Reading

• Wireless network configuration basics: 5 steps to follow

  Different wireless networks have different requirements. However, some common principles exist for strategizing your wireless network configuration steps.Continue Reading

• network interface card (NIC)

  A network interface card (NIC) is a hardware component, typically a circuit board or chip, that is installed on a computer so that it can connect to a network.Continue Reading

• Why would an organization move to intent-based networking?

  Intent-based networking doesn't use any magical commands. But it does use a heavy dose of automation, which might cause some network teams to be wary of the new approach.Continue Reading

• How to improve your networking career path in 3 steps

  Network technology is always changing. As a result, your IT network skills need to evolve, as well. Take a look at three steps you can take on your networking career path.Continue Reading

• What is intent-based networking and how does it work?

  Intent-based networking might be the future of networking, but it needs to be more than just another networking strategy that offers advanced automation and simplified provisioning.Continue Reading

• How do network virtualization and network abstraction compare?

  Network virtualization and network abstraction share similarities, like supporting the creation of virtual resources, but the two approaches vary in complexity and outcome.Continue Reading

• A brief index of network configuration basics

  This glossary of terms provides a brief overview of network configuration and some of the crucial components involved -- many of which remain as necessary as ever.Continue Reading

• Network configuration basics: Focus on users and software tools

  When configuring a network, keep a detailed and updated document to track user needs and network changes. And, of course, take advantage of network configuration software.Continue Reading

• What is the role of machine learning in networking?

  Analytics tools that incorporate machine learning can monitor network behavior, highlight anomalies, and improve performance management and security.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 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

• SDN controller (software-defined networking controller)

  An SDN controller is an application in a software-defined networking (SDN) architecture that manages flow control for improved network management and application performance.Continue Reading

• 10 metrics to drive a NetOps 2.0 culture shift

  If an object at rest tends to stay at rest, how can IT leaders get the network moving at the speed of DevOps? Start with performance review metrics that reflect NetOps goals, experts suggest.Continue Reading

• Getting started with 5G network planning

  This feature explores the basics of 5G technology, concerns from industry insiders, where it currently stands and predictions for its future.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

• NetOps

  NetOps, also referred to as NetOps 2.0, is a networking approach that encompasses the use of DevOps tools, methods and techniques to create an agile, scalable and programmable infrastructure capable of delivering business-critical applications and ...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

• Where does SDN fit in edge computing architecture?

  SDN and edge computing can work together to apply data processing decisions that make better use of network links and bandwidth, especially when it comes to edge versus cloud.Continue Reading

• A quick guide to important SDN security issues

  Lock down your knowledge of SDN security issues using this compilation that includes expert advice, common pain points and helpful best practices.Continue Reading

• How does software-defined access work?

  Service providers and enterprises use software-defined access to extend SDN beyond the data center and WAN to the edge of the network. Learn about its developments and benefits.Continue Reading

• NetOps, SecOps, DevOps concepts merge to automate security testing

  By adopting DevOps concepts, network teams can automate security testing. But, as development, network and security tasks mingle, some staffing challenges can arise.Continue Reading

• How do last-mile connections work for SD-WAN deployments?

  SD-WAN technology plays well with existing last-mile connections, and it allows enterprises to use more than one type of transport link. But beware of provider sprawl.Continue Reading

• load balancing

  Load balancing is a technique used to distribute workloads uniformly across servers or other compute resources to optimize network efficiency, reliability and capacity.Continue Reading

• optical network (photonic network)

  An optical (photonic) network transmits information as optical rather than electronic signals: It uses light, not electrical currents, to convey data.Continue Reading

• What is the status of VNF deployments among service providers?

  Although service providers are undertaking VNF deployments in the network core, they're hard-pressed to deploy them at the network edge due to complexity and cost.Continue Reading

• modulation

  Modulation is the process of converting data into radio waves by adding information to an electronic or optical carrier signal.Continue Reading

• Time-sensitive networking standards could boost industrial control

  With the help of VLAN priority levels, time-sensitive networking can make packet flow more predictable. The technology could especially benefit the factory floor.Continue Reading

• What effect does NetOps have on enterprise networking teams?

  Similar to the DevOps framework, a NetOps approach provides networking teams with a way to use automation and virtualization to create more agile networks and deploy applications faster.Continue Reading

• A 7-step checklist for designing a cloud migration plan

  Enterprises want their applications to be portable and able to shift easily among multiple cloud providers. To do that, putting together a good cloud migration plan is a must.Continue Reading

• Does software-defined networking architecture use segment routing?

  Segment routing steers packets using a list of instructions, and it can be used in MPLS and IPv6 architecture. But does software-defined networking architecture support it?Continue Reading

• How do I begin network infrastructure planning for SD-WAN?

  When gearing up for SD-WAN upgrades, enterprises should take their time with network infrastructure planning. These three steps can help get them started.Continue Reading

• network analytics

  Network analytics is the application of big data principles and tools to the management and security of data networks.Continue Reading

• What is multi-access edge computing, and how has it evolved?

  Multi-access edge computing provides the processing capacity needed to support the increase of 'things' at the network edge. But for all its promise, MEC has challenges to face.Continue Reading

• dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM)

  Dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) is a technology that puts together -- multiplexes -- data signals from different sources so they can share a single optical fiber pair while maintaining complete separation of the data streams.Continue Reading

• The fundamentals of network availability monitoring tools

  The use of network availability monitoring tools is an essential way to reduce downtime and to increase network reliability. What features are most important?Continue Reading

• What you need to know about managed SD-WAN services

  This guide offers easy access to information on five major topics related to managed SD-WAN services and directs you toward the latest advice, tips and recommendations.Continue Reading

• Will network management functions as a service arrive soon?

  Network management as a service isn't widespread, at least not yet. But if past history is any indication, its popularity is bound to grow, once certain hurdles are overcome.Continue Reading

• How can network analytics tools benefit IT staff?

  Network analytics tools can help IT managers proactively pinpoint network performance issues and trends -- even before the underlying problem is revealed.Continue Reading

• Does software-defined networking architecture need network overlays?

  Network overlays and software-defined networking architecture share a history. But while overlays offer flexibility, they also bring extra overhead and troubleshooting complications.Continue Reading

• Networking (computer)

  Networking, also known as computer networking, is the practice of transporting and exchanging data between nodes over a shared medium in an information system.Continue Reading

• Is NaaS the answer to bolster network infrastructure security strategy?

  Network security as a service can be a beneficial part of a network infrastructure security strategy, but you have to ask the right questions.Continue Reading

• Three goals of multiple cloud management and how to reach them

  Attaining the benefits of the cloud is getting ever more complex. Learn ways to enable efficient and effective management of hybrid and multi-cloud environments.Continue Reading

• Challenges of blockchain muddle understanding of the technology

  There is a lot of hype about blockchain and how it might be used within networking operations. But just understanding the technology and what it actually does might be among the biggest challenges of blockchain.Continue Reading

• Net Neutrality

  Net neutrality is the principle that data packets on the Internet should be moved impartially, without regard to content, destination or source.Continue Reading

• Clarifying network disaggregation and related technologies

  Trying to explain network disaggregation and related trends -- like SDN, NFV and white boxes -- can be complicated. Our expert pins the terms down and explains the tradeoffs.Continue Reading

• Software-based networks lay foundation of networking's future

  Software-based networks are evolving, reshaping how companies do business and blending into legacy networking. Enterprises will have to sort out which approaches work best.Continue Reading

• A refresher course on white box networking equipment

  This white box networking review sheds some light on the variations, as it's all too easy to confuse the intricacies of white boxes, universal CPEs and brite boxes.Continue Reading

• Optical interconnect DCI frameworks need more flexibility to keep pace

  An optical interconnect framework can support high-speed DCI deployments. But it's important that optical networks become programmable to ensure reliability.Continue Reading

• App delivery controllers are vital networking hardware tools

  With new capabilities, the future of ADCs is bright. Learn what features this networking workhorse has acquired and what it means for data center networking.Continue Reading

• Network as a Service (NaaS)

  Network as a service (NaaS) is a business model for delivering enterprise-wide area network services virtually on a subscription basis.Continue Reading

• Private CDN services fill specific needs for some businesses

  In addition to shared CDN service options, private CDNs with dedicated edge servers are the obvious answer for businesses with specific content delivery needs.Continue Reading

• How do I improve my network programming knowledge?

  When it comes to SDN and programmable network skills, combining training with practice and hands-on experience can help advance your programming knowledge.Continue Reading

• network management system

  A network management system (NMS) is an application or set of applications that lets network engineers manage a network's independent components inside a bigger network management framework and performs several key functions.Continue Reading

• CDN (content delivery network)

  A CDN (content delivery network), also called a content distribution network, is a group of geographically distributed and interconnected servers that provide cached internet content from a network location closest to a user to accelerate its ...Continue Reading

• Q3 Cisco financials show another uptick in sales, services

  Cisco financials show a 4% boost in sales as Cisco records its second consecutive quarter of revenue growth and continues to embrace software services.Continue Reading

• SN blogs: Is Arista making right move with campus switches?

  Bloggers discuss Arista's new strategy to market campus switches, examine container security risks and ask the question of whether networking is a commodity.Continue Reading

• Helping enterprises adapt to open source switching

  Enterprise adoption of open source switching hasn't kept pace with cloud providers and telcos. What are some of the barriers blocking the use of disaggregation?Continue Reading

• What is ONAP, and how does it tie into NFV architecture?

  Network expert Lee Doyle looks at ONAP, its role in NFV architecture and its progress in becoming the standard platform for NFV management and orchestration.Continue Reading

• Network infrastructure design for network-as-a-service

  When it comes to network as a service, network infrastructure design depends on if you want services delivered across the LAN, WAN or data center. Find out what you need to know.Continue Reading

• Software drives the promise of the interoperable network

  Interoperability in networks is essential now, a reality that vendors increasingly acknowledge. Learn how the networking industry is changing to accommodate the need for openness.Continue Reading

• Software-driven network access ups enterprise agility

  Network access to service provider systems is becoming software-based. Learn more about how software-defined access works and the flexibility inherent in software.Continue Reading

• Test yourself on open networking, open source and SDN

  The open networking concept follows the likes of SDN and open source, but the lines separating them all are often blurred. This quiz can help you understand the differences.Continue Reading

• network service provider (NSP)

  A network service provider (NSP) is a company that owns, operates and sells access to internet backbone infrastructure and services.Continue Reading

• Session layer

  In the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) communications model, the session layer resides at Layer 5 and manages the setup and teardown of the association between two communicating endpoints.Continue Reading

• presentation layer

  Residing at Layer 6 of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) communications model, the presentation layer ensures that the communications that pass through it are in the appropriate form for the recipient application.Continue Reading

• data center interconnect (DCI)

  Data center interconnect (DCI) is a segment of the networking market that focuses on the technology used to link two or more data centers so the facilities can share resources. There are many options for DCI connectivity and selecting the right one ...Continue Reading

• How to bridge the network engineering skills gap

  Training for new network engineering skills should emphasize basic concepts behind building a network, whether it's software-defined, intent-based or disaggregated.Continue Reading

• Understand the basics of 5G wireless networks

  5G wireless networks offer enterprises a lot of intriguing possibilities. What is 5G, and what has to happen before the high-speed, low-latency technology becomes a reality?Continue Reading

• Application layer

  Sitting at Layer 7 -- the very top of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) communications model -- the application layer provides services for an application program to ensure that effective communication with another application program on a ...Continue Reading

• physical layer

  Located at the lowest layer of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) communications model, the physical layer's function is to transport data using electrical, mechanical or procedural interfaces.Continue Reading

• transport layer

  Positioned at Layer 4 of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) communications model, the transport layer ensures the reliable arrival of messages across a network and provides error-checking mechanisms and data flow controls.Continue Reading

• Network layer

  Located at Layer 3 of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) communications model, the network layer's primary function is to move data into and through other networks.Continue Reading

• Data-Link layer

  The data link layer is the protocol layer in a program that handles the moving of data into and out of a physical link in a network.Continue Reading

• What cloud data center interconnect technologies can do

  Data center interconnect technologies and services now use cloud. Learn how CDCI improves traffic delivery and how to choose the right equipment and services.Continue Reading

• network orchestration

  Network orchestration is a policy-driven approach to network automation that coordinates the hardware and software components a software application or service requires to run.Continue Reading

• fault management

  Fault management is the component of network management concerned with detecting, isolating and resolving problems.Continue Reading

• Meet network management goals with new tech and techniques

  Get up to speed on the new technological advances, improved products and advanced techniques that make enterprise network monitoring and management a bit less daunting.Continue Reading