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Network Infrastructure

• Maintaining network infrastructure in a pandemic and beyond

  Network infrastructure that supports remote workers is essential today and will be far into the future. That includes VPN connectivity, agile collaboration apps and more. Continue Reading

• Discover key OpenStack deployment methods for networks

  In this book excerpt, explore best practices for OpenStack deployment methods, and glean expert advice on how to achieve an efficient OpenStack network deployment. Continue Reading

• Business culture is key in OpenStack network requirements

  Network teams should expect a shift in their day-to-day routines if their organization embraces OpenStack. However, if the business culture is flexible, changes will be positive. Continue Reading

• Plan a VPN and remote access strategy for pandemic, disaster

  Disasters and pandemics occur unexpectedly, affecting companies, workers and networks alike. Plan a remote access strategy that covers VPN requirements, bandwidth demands and licenses. Continue Reading

• Plan for simplicity when approaching HCI networking

  HCI networking isn't as easy as plugging cables in and hoping the HCI system works. IT teams need to strategize around capacity and resiliency to achieve true simplification. Continue Reading

• How to benchmark 25 GbE NICs in converged networks

  Network teams can use an array of tools to benchmark the performance and efficiency of 25 GbE network adapters that support converged networks and HCI environments.Continue Reading

• 7 factors to consider in network redundancy design

  Network pros have multiple factors to consider when it comes to adding redundancy in network design, including network equipment, protocols, backup, processing and subnet connections.Continue Reading

• What is the difference between a managed and unmanaged switch?

  One difference between managed and unmanaged switches is complexity. A managed switch is more complex and requires more skills, but it offers better network control and configuration.Continue Reading

• Educate users when troubleshooting a network connection

  In this roundup of industry blogs, engineers discuss why it's helpful to teach users the basics of troubleshooting a network connection and why it's hard to simulate a network.Continue Reading

• The status of white box networking in the enterprise

  Despite the benefits of white box networking, most enterprises are cautious about deployment. Use these five questions to determine when white box implementation is a smart move.Continue Reading

• 3 tips for proper network provisioning and capacity planning

  To provision the right amount of network resources, be sure to review past network performance, assess upcoming tech projects and consider business strategy changes.Continue Reading

• New options to enable remote access in the network

  Networking pros must enable remote access to corporate networks in more agile ways to keep pace with complex networks using both private and public clouds.Continue Reading

• 3 considerations that can spark modern networking innovations

  In this roundup of networking blogs, experts explore the possibility of network transformations, including where the industry needs the most change and new ways of thinking.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 handle new network monitoring complexities

  New technologies increase the complexity when it comes to monitoring networks. What can network managers do to regain much-needed visibility and control?Continue Reading

• Automated networks mean clearing some key hurdles first

  Obstacles facing IT adoption of automation in the network including training and trust. Now's the time to clear these hurdles and reap the benefits of an automated future.Continue Reading

• Balancing automated vs. manual network configuration management

  Is there still a place for learning manual network configuration management in a world where networks are throttling toward automation? Sure -- but how much is enough?Continue Reading

• The many benefits of SD-WAN for today's networks

  SD-WAN services are how organizations can increase network efficiency and better use their resources. Even Monty Python thinks so ... sort of.Continue Reading

• Cloud-based remote access: Scenarios for success

  The scenarios for installing cloud-based remote access are evolving as vendors bring to market new tools to aid both accessibility and security.Continue Reading

• Network simplification sounds good, but what does it really mean?

  Network simplification is emerging as the latest industry buzzword, but what exactly does it mean?Continue Reading

• A strong SD-WAN business case starts with evaluating your current WAN

  The first step in creating a strong SD-WAN business case is evaluating your organization's current WAN infrastructure. Then, you can compare the potential savings and benefits.Continue Reading

• Networking development takes on voice quality, SD-WAN security

  The old telephone systems set a high bar for engineering its network for call quality. Then came the internet, and with it, new technologies like VoIP and other applications that need to always operate with high reliability and quality standards. In...Continue Reading

• Enterprises learn to lock down SD-WAN security

  SD-WANs are an option for enterprises that want to reduce network expenses, but watch out for internet vulnerabilities. Network pros are choosing a multistep approach to SD-WAN security.Continue Reading

• What is the IP address 0.0.0.0 used for?

  One of a handful of special-purpose addresses, 0.0.0.0 has several applications in networking. It stands in as a placeholder address, identifies a default route and more.Continue Reading

• Open source network software matures, but needs incentives for use

  Open source network software is maturing, but the networking industry needs to create compelling economic incentives for large suppliers and buyers to contribute, as well.Continue Reading

• Time to get your digital transformation defined and developed

  There's no avoiding the need for a digital transformation framework anymore. Learn how to take charge of this major IT development and turn it to your company's advantage.Continue Reading

• How to prevent network downtime in the modern enterprise

  Today's enterprise network finds itself under unprecedented strain, with the number of connected devices and "things" increasing and end-user expectations of speed and performance growing. Meanwhile, as IT professionals strive to offer the latest ...Continue Reading

• When you should consider leaf-spine network architecture

  One solution to the dilemma of dramatic shifts in data flows is for data centers to adopt a leaf-spine network architecture.Continue Reading

• Integrate UC platform with business-critical SaaS for competitive edge

  By one current estimate, the average business operates across six different clouds. With many software-as-a-service platforms still unable to communicate with each other, enterprise workers must straddle the space between them -- leading to ...Continue Reading

• USB cable connection and connector types explained

  The USB cable connection remains popular -- particularly with home users -- in part, because of its easy setup. Take a closer look at standard USB and related connection types.Continue Reading

• IT technical skills need to adapt as IT architecture shifts

  As IT architecture shifts and cloud computing grows, some IT departments may have outdated IT technical skills. How can IT departments close the skills gap?Continue Reading

• How to set up a serial cable connection in your network

  Serial direct cable connection is examined in this cable networking lesson, which defines the term and explains how it works, as well as the technology required to set one up.Continue Reading

• Introduction to Windows direct cable connection

  Methods of direct cable connection have evolved. This tip explains how, as well as what each method -- including UTP crossovers and straight-through cabling -- requires.Continue Reading

• Learn about fiber optic cable types and why smaller is better

  Learn about fiber optic cable types, how the most widely used one -- 62.5/125-micron loose tube -- is constructed, and why smaller is better when it comes to fiber optics.Continue Reading

• Undersea cables keep global enterprise networks afloat

  Subsea cabling is out of sight, but it shouldn't be out of mind. Many organizations don't realize just how dependent they are on underwater fiber to stay online and in business.Continue Reading

• 100Base-TX cable, or Fast Ethernet, explained

  This tip reviews 100Base-TX cable fundamentals, including a breakdown of the term's meaning, how it works and related cable types that network pros need to know.Continue Reading

• How the 10Base-T cable evolved and its use today

  This tip reviews how 10Base-T cable developed and what the elements of the term mean. It also reviews the variations of this cabling type and how they are used now.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

• Straight-through cable: Learn about UTP wiring and color coding

  Straight-through UTP cables and CAT5 networks are discussed in this tip.Continue Reading

• Undersea cable sends Ethernet to observatory on ocean floor

  Thanks to donated undersea cabling from AT&T, the ALOHA Cabled Observatory provides real-time data from the ocean floor. It took a longtime networking pro to get it up to speed.Continue Reading

• In virtualized environments, importance of hardware remains

  It's tempting to get swept up in the hype around software-defined everything and cloud mania, but even in virtualized environments, networking hardware is still critical.Continue Reading

• Physical network gear isn't going anywhere

  For decades, hardware has reigned as king in the network, but the deluge of hype surrounding cloud, virtualization and software-defined networking has some asking how long physical network gear can hold on to its crown.

  As we see in this edition...Continue Reading

• Hardware vs. Software: The role of hardware in a software age

  In this software age, is there any role left for hardware? In our three-part guide, our experts' response is a resounding, "yes." It may feel like this is the era of Continue Reading

• Network designs for dynamic route pacing

  The new generation of network devices means network designs based on dynamic routing. But there are pitfalls to keep in mind.Continue Reading

• Building enterprise network platforms for tomorrow

  As more and more devices become connected -- ushering in new management, security and big data challenges -- network platform requirements will continue to evolve.Continue Reading

• SD-WAN makes secure networks possible in hybrid WANs

  As enterprises became more distributed over the years, a curious trend emerged: MPLS was no longer the golden child of the wide area ...Continue Reading

• When network reliability matters more than performance

  In the world of motorsport, there's no question that speed is everything. But for the IT team that supports this Formula 1 team, network reliability is the top priority.Continue Reading

• Unusual network locations: How engineers make it work

  Almost anyone who has installed a network knows that much of it cannot be done from the relative comfort of an office chair. Whether you have to mount wireless access points on ceilings or pull Ethernet cables behind the walls, challenging ...Continue Reading

• Persuading management to support the IT buying process

  What steps should you take to get your network buying needs approved by top management? One piece of advice: Learn what your manager needs.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

• Overcoming the challenges of wiring farm networks

  The sound of mooing and the smell of diesel fuel are just part of what makes wiring a farm for networking a special experience.Continue Reading

• SN blogs: New Cisco CEO Robbins' strategy praised, panned

  An analyst says incoming Cisco CEO Chuck Robbins' move to prioritize strategies will help the vendor. But there are areas that still need attention.Continue Reading

• Data warehousing projects benefit from cloud and Hadoop

  SN blogs: This week, analysts discuss a new way to network a campus LAN and if ACI and NSX can work well together.Continue Reading

• Layer 4-7 network orchestration: Are we there yet?

  Software-defined data centers and cloud are driving a need for Layer 4-7 network orchestration tools that can automate provisioning and lifecycle management.Continue Reading

• Why one IT pro’s network upgrade led him from Cisco to Dell

  In this Q&A, one network admin explains how rapid growth at his company prompted a massive network upgrade that included migrating from Cisco to Dell.Continue Reading

• The race toward multigigabit speeds, and more

  Ethernet -- that most fundamental of network technologies -- is occupying center stage again as the IEEE and vendors release new standards and products governing its deployment. But this time, faster speed isn't the whole story. The advent of ...Continue Reading

• 'Network Know-How' offers network troubleshooting techniques

  Download this free chapter excerpt from "Network Know-How" to gain insight into basic network troubleshooting techniques. Identify and solve most networking errors in your environment.Continue Reading

• Common DNS record types: What they mean

  The domain name resolution process has many steps. Our expert walks you through some of the most common.Continue Reading

• What does WebRTC video mean for the network?

  WebRTC, an emerging standard for embedding voice and video-conferencing applications into Web browsers, is aimed at making real-time communications as simple as clicking a link. It eliminates the need to download and install any clients or plug-ins,...Continue Reading

• What you need to know about switch upgrades

  Next-generation switches have a lot of capabilities, especially as vendors retool their product lines to support application awareness and other features. But make sure you get the switch you need.Continue Reading

• Content distribution networks: Separating fact from hype

  Content distribution networks can accelerate cloud applications and services, but only if companies know what they're looking for.Continue Reading

• What you need to set a global MPLS network architecture

  When searching for a global MPLS provider, make sure business requirements align with network requirements. The first of a three-part series.Continue Reading

• Why not replace routers with smart switches?

  In this Q&A, one network manager discusses how he's ripping out routers and replacing them with smart switches at sites with Ethernet WAN transport.Continue Reading

• As users carry more devices, wireless network design must evolve

  The average person carries three mobile devices, according to an informal poll conducted last year by Sophos Labs. While Kindles and Fitbits probably aren't making their way onto corporate wireless LANs (WLANs), more enterprises must provide ...Continue Reading

• Software-based routers on x86 servers are becoming reality

  With stronger processing power and advanced software features, software-based routers are becoming a reality -- but only in some cases.Continue Reading

• Will white box switches be needed in an enterprise network?

  Glen Kemp explains why white box switches are a result of increased commoditization in the marketplace and why they're needed in enterprise networks.Continue Reading

• Networking engineer with a badge: IT where you least expect it

  When Fast Packet contributor Patrick Hubbard was pulled over for speeding, he got an IT tour he didn't expect.Continue Reading

• New network architectures and traditional components: Why both are key

  The next stage in network architecture's evolution is upon us. An SDN future is certain. What's less clear is how quickly it will become the norm, and what network architects should do in the meantime to keep their systems healthy and operational.Continue Reading

• Next-stage high-density switch options: What's right for you?

  All major switch vendors have rolled out new high-density, low-latency data center switches. Expert Glen Kemp looks at what makes them special.Continue Reading

• White box switches: Understanding the basics

  White box switches are finally emerging, offering a choice in network OS as well as flexibility. Are they poised to take over your network?Continue Reading

• Understanding the new WAN: Management and design

  This TechGuide will help you understand the demise of the traditional WAN and the emergence of the new WAN. Articles focus on how mobile devices and an increase in teleworkers have forced IT departments to find new ways to connect users to corporate...Continue Reading

• Multi-layer SDN: Programmability across packet and optical layers

  Multi-layer SDN lets engineers use controllers for centralized programmability across both packet and optical layers for a more efficient WAN.Continue Reading

• Arista upgrades 7500 for massive leaf-and-spine network architecture

  With its new, high-density 10/40/100 GbE 7500E switch, Arista Networks enables customers to build massive leaf-and-spine networks.Continue Reading

• ISSU (in-service software upgrade)

  An ISSU (in-service software upgrade) is a technique for updating software on a network device without taking that device offline and thereby disrupting network services.Continue Reading

• Cisco software business to double with help from Cisco SDN strategy

  Executives Rob Lloyd and Pankaj Patel say the Cisco software business will double in five years, partly with help from the Cisco SDN strategy.Continue Reading

• Juniper SDN strategy targets BGP and XMPP-based control, service chains

  Juniper's SDN strategy focuses on centralizing the management and services planes of the network, and it partially centralizes the control plane.Continue Reading

• 40 Gigabit Ethernet: The migration begins

  Experts and early adopters of 40 Gigabit Ethernet share successes and pitfalls.Continue Reading

• It’s not too early to worry about 40 and 100 GbE migration

  It may seem early to consider 40 and 100 GbE migration since 10 GbE is so young, but with the explosion of video and cloud applications, users must build 10 GbE networks today that can be easily migrated in the future.Continue Reading

• Let the 40 Gigabit Ethernet migration begin

  The need for capacity and speed explodes as network teams build private and hybrid clouds and deliver video throughout their campuses and branch offices. So even if they don’t need 40 GbE today, they’ll need to build networks that can be ...Continue Reading

• 40 Gigabit Ethernet: The migration begins

  Continue Reading

• Catalyst 6500 upgrade: OpenFlow, LISP, next-gen VSS

  Cisco will add new services to its Catalyst 6500 campus core switch, including OpenFlow, LISP and maybe fabric extenders.Continue Reading

• Cisco Nexus switches: Layer 2 configuration strategies

  In this chapter, you'll learn the basics of Cisco Nexus switches and configuration of Layer 2 networking.Continue Reading

• Catalyst 6500 Supervisor 2T may not be your upgrade answer

  When Cisco realized customers might not be ready for the Nexus line, it launched the Catalyst 6500 Supervisor 2T upgrade. But why not go with the Nexus 7009?Continue Reading

• Cisco Live 2011: Catalyst 6500 upgrade the game changer?

  At Cisco 2011, Cisco played to its core audience, announcing a Catalyst 6500 upgrade that will triple the switch's speed and capacity and beef up security and management.Continue Reading

• Best practices for connecting virtualization hosts to DMZ networks

  DMZ networks can be used to protect virtualization hosts, but best practices must be considered, including combing virtual and physical firewalls and locking down virtual switches.Continue Reading

• 10 Gigabit Ethernet migration: What you need to consider

  DeepStorage.net chief scientist Howard Marks discusses considerations for a 10 Gigabit Ethernet migration in a data center, including building 10 GbE into the core.Continue Reading

• Network disaster recovery planning guide: Best practices

  This network disaster recovery planning guide provides essentials for protecting a network in the event of a disaster and offers knowledge necessary to execute a successful plan.Continue Reading

• Virtual cluster switching: Finding management in a flat network

  Using virtual cluster switching, the UCLA Laboratory of Neuro Imaging manages dozens of switches as one switch in a flat Layer 2 network for high-performance computing.Continue Reading

• 10 Gigabit Ethernet: Upgrading for consolidation and virtualization

  In this workshop, you'll learn how 10 Gigabit Ethernet (10 GbE) enables consolidation and virtualization. You'll discover the benefits and challenges of implementing converged data center and storage networking on 10 Gigabit Ethernet to support a ...Continue Reading

• Implementing networked enterprise energy management systems

  Building an IP-based enterprise energy management system can bring an organization's power, heating and cooling systems into the network fold, but implementing that system will require coordination between the network and facilities management teams...Continue Reading

• Enterprise energy management networks

  Enterprises are implementing IP-based energy management networks that can monitor and manage energy use across building facilities and IT resources alike. Network admins must learn enterprise energy management systems quickly.Continue Reading

• Cisco UCS testing shows throughput constraints, one lab says

  Cisco UCS testing results from the Tolly Group indicate that throughput is much lower than Cisco claims. Tolly claims Cisco unified computing architecture relies on oversubscribed blade servers and clumsy external switches.Continue Reading

• Managing unified networking and storage fabric: Who's in charge?

  When it comes to managing unified fabric, the jury is out on who's in charge. FCoE switches and adapters have LAN and SAN elements and can be managed by existing network or storage interfaces. But the two teams have very different approaches.Continue Reading

• IP network design guide: Managing an IP-based network

  Network design underlies the performance of your enterprise IP network. This four part guide by Cormac Long offers you a comprehensive roadmap to designing IP-based networks, from the basic principles involved to the more complex finishing touches.Continue Reading

• How to test LAN switch energy efficiency

  Vendors promise energy-efficient networks, but they often can't provide actual measurements for LAN switch power consumption. In this best practices guide, learn methods for measuring LAN switch energy efficiency.Continue Reading

• Five steps to cut WAN network costs, prepare for economic recovery

  Unless you start thinking about projects and taking some action now, it may be too late to launch plans later that will kick into high gear next year. What is needed are some immediate strategies to create win-win situations instead of trade-offs ...Continue Reading

• How much bandwidth is enough?

  Bandwidth is discussed in this tip on fact versus fiction and how it can affect network performance.Continue Reading

• Top Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) scripting books, websites

  Once you've learned how to write Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) scripts to manage various aspects of Windows-based networks, check out the top resources recommended for your study. In this tip, Mitch Tulloch lists the best books and ...Continue Reading

• The essential guide for upgrading your network

  This e-book explores the challenges, best practices and technologies for responding to the shortcomings of today's network, as well as future-proofing for tomorrow's challenges.Continue Reading

• Remote scripting tips and tricks -- Managing Windows networks using scripts, Part 10

  Learn how to manage your Windows networks using scripts with these two tricks involving remote scripting using WMI scripts written in VBScript.Continue Reading