Manage

Manage

Learn to apply best practices and optimize your operations.

• Service providers take cautious approach to NFV implementation

  Service providers' strategies for NFV implementation are designed to minimize disruption while transitioning legacy architectures to a virtualized world. 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

• MPLS fabric is natural fit for ISP backbone overlays

  While data centers typically use an IP fabric under their network overlays, ISPs may find that MPLS fabric makes more sense as backbone underlays. Continue Reading

• How network overlays could benefit provider backbones

  ISPs are weighing potential benefits of network overlays in the backbone, including increased agility, faster service provisioning and lower Opex. Continue Reading

• SN blogs: OpenStack deployments still lacking

  SN blogs: This week, a research director explains that even though OpenStack is a popular open source framework, it's not seeing as many deployments as one might expect. Continue Reading

• Networkers face tough slate of cloud and security decisions

  Deploying a cloud service means it's time to craft new policies that govern security procedures.Continue Reading

• How do you create a secure VPN tunnel?

  Expert Julian Weinberger says that locking your VPN parameters can help secure your VPN tunnel by blocking users from changing configurations.Continue Reading

• Time to replace RJ-45 connectors in the data center?

  Ubiquitous RJ-45 connectors reign supreme even in the wake of newer data center technologies. USB 3.1 cables are out there; can they be the next big thing?Continue Reading

• Hybrid cloud stresses application monitoring tools

  Keeping tabs on application performance gets tougher in hybrid cloud situations. APM tools can help.Continue Reading

• Gigamon gets NIA award for network traffic visibility platform

  Gigamon wins this month's SearchNetworking Network Innovation Award for its HC2 modular fabric node for network traffic visibility.Continue Reading

• Is big data implementation always a custom project?

  An expert says it's important to figure out your big data objectives before purchasing hardware or software from a vendor.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

• Gaps remain in wireless networking education, but need for skills grows

  The WLAN is the new LAN, but many networking education programs don’t reflect that. There’s a wireless skills gap, and it needs to be addressed.Continue Reading

• WAN 2.0: Say goodbye to network provisioning delays

  Network engineers have long suffered the consequences of slow provisioning times for many traditional wide area network (WAN) connections like point-to-point T1 lines or MPLS networks. They're at the mercy of carriers that can take as long as three ...Continue Reading

• Grappling with private WAN provisioning delays in the on-demand era

  Long lead times are not a new problem in private WAN provisioning, but enterprises are feeling the pain of those delays more acutely.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

• Why monitoring will require a networking engineer

  Despite the evolution of networking, monitoring has remained the same. And that's one reason why the role of the network engineer will remain critical.Continue Reading

• Getting clarity on delivering video conferencing services

  The technology that the inventors of the 1960s Picturephone visualized is at last within reach. Here's how to implement and manage video conferencing today, and factor in cloud services too.Continue Reading

• Network management projects top list of 2015 IT initiatives

  According to TechTarget’s 2015 IT Priorities Survey, 44% of enterprises are planning network management projects this year.Continue Reading

• A unified view: How to manage and monitor networks today

  Enterprise networks are increasingly complex, with a variety of wired and wireless connections linking locations that can include multiple clouds, branch offices and headquarters. The enterprise network must provide access to an ever-wider variety ...Continue Reading

• Intuit solves taxing problem with system availability tools

  Intuit uses application monitoring to ensure glitch-free performance during tax time.Continue Reading

• Named Data Networking project wants to retire TCP/IP

  TCP/IP is buckling under the demands of today's Internet, according to researchers who want to replace it with a new Internet protocol stack. Their solution: Named Data Networking.Continue Reading

• How to make legacy and emerging network technologies work together

  Emerging network technologies like SDN and NFV have to interwork with legacy equipment and be managed as one. Find out what it will take to get there.Continue Reading

• How to protect your IPv6 address management

  Expert Fernando Gont explains how to probe whether your IPv6 address components are vulnerable to attack.Continue Reading

• Avoiding the pitfalls of virtual network functions takes planning

  Building a network functions virtualization framework means understanding which features, or functions, are most important. Tread carefully.Continue Reading

• How to avoid IPv6 neighbor discovery threats

  If you're ready to deploy IPv6, get ready to understand neighbor discovery and its vulnerabilities.Continue Reading

• What is the security impact of enterprise IoT?

  Software management at the device level is key to mitigating security risks in the enterprise when IoT arrives.Continue Reading

• Managing mobility means understanding EMM

  As enterprises become more mobile, enterprises need to understand the tools available to help them manage that growth.Continue Reading

• What buyers need from Wi-Fi access point upgrades

  A recap of SearchNetworking's How to Buy series, which teaches IT professionals what to keep an eye on when buying new products for their networks.Continue Reading

• Hotel Wi-Fi security crumbles in wake of bored IT admin

  What happens when a bored IT admin meets a hotel Wi-Fi network that does not want to cooperate?Continue Reading

• Three VoIP quality killers

  Managing VoIP quality is a constant headache for engineers. Here are some ways to avoid some common problems.Continue Reading

• Faster wireless means wireless security policies need an update

  Faster wireless technology is now widely available, but are your network's security policies up to the task?Continue Reading

• Cloud-managed wireless: Why network engineers love it

  Cloud-managed wireless is growing three times faster than the wireless LAN market as a whole. Network engineers rave about its benefits, but it's not for everyone.Continue Reading

• How to build a network for Open vSwitch testing

  Setting up an Open vSwitch test network can be as simple as downloading code, deploying it on x86 servers and attaching storage disks. Here's how to get started.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

• NFV basics: A guide to NFV implementation, challenges and benefits

  A network functions virtualization implementation brings challenges and benefits for users. Learn how NFV works, its relation to SDN, and real-life use cases in this Essential Guide.Continue Reading

• With MPLS-TP and SDN, a simpler dynamic control plane

  MPLS-TP transforms carrier networks for packet switching, but SDN could take it a step further. Combining the technologies, engineers could reduce complexity in the dynamic control plane and gain flexible service creation.Continue Reading

• SDN and network virtualization: How do they work together?

  There are different ways to implement network virtualization in a software-defined network. Jim Meztler explains network virtualization and SDN, and how the two can work together.Continue Reading

• Why you need software-defined security for your SDN

  The network architecture shift to software-defined networking requires software-defined security, not a hard-wired security approach.Continue Reading

• Picking the best firewall software, hardware or application

  Transforming the image of securityContinue Reading

• Six considerations for big data networks

  Big data networks must be built to handle distributed resources that are simultaneously working on a single task. That'll require network resiliency, consistency and application awareness.Continue Reading

• Aggregation in IPv6 routing curbs effects of Internet growth

  IPv6 addresses are four times larger than those based on IPv4, but experts say that doesn't mean IPv6 will slow down routers. In fact, IPv6 routing makes route aggregation simpler, which leads to smaller routing tables.Continue Reading

• Open Network Install Environment gives end users network OS choices

  The Open Network Install Environment's community of vendors offers an open install environment for bare-metal switches using its Linux-based OS installer.Continue Reading

• Three new takes on WAN optimization

  Once considered new technology, WAN optimization is now widespread, and enterprises are including it in their networks from the start. Now that WAN optimization is mature, what's the next step for WAN management? Application delivery optimization ...Continue Reading

• Using the Link Layer Discovery Protocol to reveal disparate devices

  The Link Layer Discovery Protocol is a helpful tool when you need to know what's connected in your network -- regardless of vendor.Continue Reading

• Upgrading the core when network downtime isn't an option

  Network downtime is often a necessary evil for network upgrades, but in the world of 24/7 broadcast media, maintenance windows are hard to come by.Continue Reading

• Network programming skills from scripting to DevOps: What to learn

  Networking pros don't need to become code monkeys, but a little network programming can go a long way toward advancing their careers.Continue Reading

• Pervasive protection is the new security paradigm

  Pervasive protection encompasses risk management, forensics, identity authentication and risk management to provide a centralized approach to security management that protects your enterprise network in a modern IT landscape.Continue Reading

• Implementing a new security management plan

  To respond to increased cyberthreats, enterprises need to form their network's security plan around the idea of pervasive protection, which is based on the notion of a centrally managed security system.Continue Reading

• Cisco iWAN marries MPLS and Internet for WAN aggregation

  With Cisco iWAN, engineers optimize WAN performance by dynamically aggregating MPLS and Internet resources.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

• 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

• MPLS networks not obsolete, but Internet as WAN catches up

  MPLS networks have been the undisputed king of WAN services for years, but more enterprises are looking at supplementing them with Internet services.Continue Reading

• How to buy: What to look for in 802.11ac access points

  If you're in the market for 802.11ac access points for your wireless LAN, find out what features are essential when it's time to buy.Continue Reading

• Wireless expense management shouldn't spook employees

  Tom Nolle discusses the dos and don'ts of wireless accounting and the steps enterprises must take to address BYOD expense management.Continue Reading

• Overlay networks: Understanding the basics, making it a reality

  Network overlays place a virtual network over the physical infrastructure for dynamic provisioning and orchestration of network resources.Continue Reading

• Good BYOD expense management hinges on clear telecom expense policies

  A cohesive telecom expense management program must be based on clear policies governing how employees are reimbursed for using their own devices.Continue Reading

• How to manage bandwidth hogs of the mobile device age

  Personal mobile devices will hog your network resources unless you are prepared. Here is what network admins must do now.Continue Reading

• Five software-defined data center tips to consider before investing

  The software-defined data center combines programmable networks, servers and storage. But these SDDC tips show you what to look for beyond basic flexibility.Continue Reading

• 802.11ac Wi-Fi takes the lead, but wired network has to play backup

  As adoption of the new 802.11ac Wi-Fi standard picks up, wired networks must be ready to support faster speeds and greater capacities it brings.Continue Reading

• Complex apps need network-based application performance management tools

  As more networking pros get pulled into application performance management, they need tools that speak their language. Meet network-based APM.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

• Using dynamic ARP inspection to stop sniffing attacks

  Expert Michael Gregg discusses how dynamic Address Resolution Protocol inspection helps prevent hackers from penetrating enterprise switches.Continue Reading

• OpenStack networking and orchestration: What's possible?

  OpenStack's networking service, Neutron, integrates provisioning and management of network resources into the orchestration of IT infrastructure.Continue Reading

• Network engineer job description will evolve, not evaporate, with SDN

  Most networking pros won't need to become programmers to survive. SDN will expand the network engineer's job description, not invalidate it.Continue Reading

• Expert discusses must-haves for secure VPN implementations

  Expert lists strong encryption settings and security policies, among others, as ways to use security and design to strengthen VPNs.Continue Reading

• In SDN optical networks, centralized control and scalability

  Technology for SDN optical networks is emerging and with it comes centralized control and dynamic bandwidth provisioning in the WAN.Continue Reading

• SDN security issues: How secure is the SDN stack?

  The security and integrity of software-defined networking remains unproven, particularly the controller, which is a single point of failure.Continue Reading

• Enhance service delivery model with WAN, application optimization

  This Essential Guide looks at today's WAN and the steps needed to ensure your WAN remains reliable, secure and scalable enough for tomorrow's needs.Continue Reading

• Hyper-V logical networks: The answer to scalability

  When it comes time to scale Microsoft virtual environments, engineers must use Hyper-V logical networks, which enable wider connectivity.Continue Reading

• Hyper-V networking: The three virtual switches that fuel connectivity

  In this Hyper-V networking primer, learn about the three virtual switches behind Microsoft virtualization connectivity.Continue Reading

• F5 wins networking award for BIG-IP's platform intelligence

  F5 wins this month's SearchNetworking Network Innovation Award for the programmability and intelligence added to version 11.4 of its BIG-IP software.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

• SDN and NFV: Show me the business benefits

  SDN and NFV offer exciting new features, such as network automation, but are we able to prove the business benefits of this new technology?Continue Reading

• Aerohive helps manage mobile devices and Wi-Fi infrastructure together

  Aerohive adds the ability to manage mobile devices to its Wi-Fi management platform, combining mobile device management and network management.Continue Reading

• The SDN transition: Understanding SDN vendors, concepts and challenges

  SDN expert Ethan Banks breaks down what network engineers need to know about SDN vendors, architectures, products and operational requirements.Continue Reading

• What features do providers need in cloud orchestration software?

  What capabilities should providers look for in cloud orchestration software? Expert Paul Parker-Johnson discusses different features.Continue Reading

• Brocade SDN certification: What to know about its product credentials

  Brocade now offers two SDN certification credentials focused on its virtual router product platform. Here's what you need to know.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

• SDN essentials: Why network orchestration and virtualization?

  The goal of SDN is dynamic networks, so it's crucial to understand the concepts of network orchestration and virtualization -- the keys to flexibility.Continue Reading

• SDN basics: Understanding centralized control and programmability

  Network engineers who want to learn about SDN basics must begin with the concepts of centralized control and network programmability.Continue Reading

• Do SDN and NFV mean we don't need to buy network hardware anymore?

  Learn how the roles and requirements of traditional network hardware will change as SDN and NFV mature.Continue Reading

• Between Cisco and VMware SDN, which will network engineers choose?

  In the Cisco vs. VMware SDN battle, Cisco ACI may win out among network engineers, who are more comfortable with the hardware-centric approach.Continue Reading

• How SDN and NFV simplify network service chain provisioning

  SDN and NFV simplify service chain provisioning, making it easier and cheaper to spin up applications in enterprise and service provider networks.Continue Reading

• VMware adds NSX firewall integration with Palo Alto Networks

  VMware NSX integration with Palo Alto Networks applies advanced security policies to network virtualization overlay traffic.Continue Reading

• Securing from anywhere: Your mobile device VPN strategy

  Virtual private networks have long secured remote users. Learn how a mobile device VPN factors into your security strategy.Continue Reading

• Network programming languages Frenetic and Pyretic simplify OpenFlow

  OpenFlow can simplify networks, yet the protocol itself is complex. Network programming languages Frenetic and Pyretic streamline OpenFlow SDN.Continue Reading

• How many devices can one 802.11n standard access point control?

  Expert Mike Jude reveals the technical and theoretical limitations of 802.11n access points as more enterprises upgrade to the new standard.Continue Reading

• Rob Cannistra talks OpenFlow development on the Floodlight controller

  Marist's Robert Cannistra talks SDN research and current OpenFlow development for the OpenDaylight Floodlight controller.Continue Reading

• Is virtual networking the link to end-to-end management?

  Network virtualization has lagged behind server and storage virtualization, which means “single-pane-of-glass management and monitoring” in the data center is still on the horizon. Although the advent of software-defined networking (SDN) may make ...Continue Reading

• Competitors on Cisco SDN strategy: Is hardware really the answer?

  Cisco competitors blasted the new Cisco SDN strategy, saying it uses inflexible hardware for software-driven networks and bypasses SDN standards.Continue Reading

• WAN aggregation: Why you should consider this application delivery optimization technique

  What is WAN aggregation, and how does it work? Our expert explains why all companies should consider this type of application delivery optimization.Continue Reading

• Subnet basics: Must you set up Wi-Fi subnets in a single building?

  Expert Mike Jude discusses the rationale of creating distinct Wi-Fi subnets in a single building.Continue Reading

• Take steps to defend your network using DHCP snooping

  Learn how to enable DHCP snooping to secure your network against common breaches including man in the middle attacks and ARP poisoning.Continue Reading

• Aruba introduces reliable cloud-based network, Wi-Fi management tools

  Aruba introduces reliable cloud-based network options to the enterprise with embedded control in APs and cloud-based Wi-Fi management.Continue Reading

• Identifying and mitigating cloud computing vulnerabilities

  How successful a cloud provider is in growing its business depends on its ability to dispel customer concerns about data security and privacy.Continue Reading

• Mapping your wireless local area network: How to make your WLAN shine

  In this essential guide, get acquainted with wireless local area network basics and uncover steps you can take to improve your WLAN infrastructure.Continue Reading

• Not all OpenFlow hardware is created equal: Understanding the options

  In this Q&A, Ixia's Mike Haugh explains why OpenFlow hardware support varies so much from vendor to vendor.Continue Reading