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Network Evolution
- FeatureSoftware-defined networking technology makes inroads in the LAN
- FeatureKeeping cloud-based unified communications grounded
- FeatureArista Universal Spine lands Network Innovation Award
- FeatureFirst responders rely on improved Wi-Fi to fight fires and save lives
- OpinionLocal area network design gets boost from SDN
- OpinionChecklist to upgrade your network's performance

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Local area network design gets boost from SDN
Network pros improve LAN design, especially in automating policies, with software-defined network functions, or 'SDN-lite,' even if true full-featured SDN is still out of reach.
Imagine organizing a conference and not being sure who the attendees are or what they're interested in. It could...
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be a disorganized mess -- or it could be organized using policies to identify attendees' interests.
Using pure software-defined networking in local area network design could function along similar lines.
Full SDN in local area network design could be forever on the horizon, but not all aspects of it. Some enterprises are looking at "SDN-lite" elements that enable centralized automation of policies that govern users. For example, the ability to automate LAN policies can cut down on the massive amount of manual labor required to provide users and devices with the ever-changing access they need to different parts of the network.
In this month's cover story, we look at the elements of SDN that have begun to filter into local area network design.
Also in this issue, network pros are seeing fast-paced evolution in their fields. What does that mean for their skill sets? At one university, it meant retraining the IT staff. See how Oral Roberts University is transitioning to cloud unified communications, as the IT team is taking on greater data analytics and computing roles.
Finally, in our Subnet Q&A, find out how first responders in the Santa Clara County Fire Department are using new technologies to stay more connected while battling fires and responding to medical emergencies.
Next Steps
Learn more about how LAN works
Understanding the basics of SDN
Comparing the top cloud unified communications products
Related Resources
- Why You Should Consider Adopting a SASE Architecture –TechTarget
- Infographic: Comparing 13 Leading SD-WAN Vendors –TechTarget
- Computer Weekly – 18 July 2017: Airbus secures critical infrastructure –ComputerWeekly.com
- Software-Defined Networks are Creating New Challenges for Enterprise Security –Palo Alto Networks
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