Tips

Tips

• The pros and cons of Palo Alto Networks' SASE platform

  Palo Alto Networks is commonly mentioned in SASE discussions. While the vendor has strong security capabilities, it also brings integration complexities and PoP limitations.  Continue Reading

• The role of automation in SD-WAN

  To achieve the benefits of SD-WAN automation -- such as improved QoS, reduction of human error and faster operations -- API integration, machine learning and AIOps are a must.  Continue Reading

• How to pick the best network security service provider

  Managed security service providers have different levels of expertise. Be sure to match your organization's security needs with the right network security provider.  Continue Reading

• 5 steps to achieve network infrastructure modernization

  All networks may be different, but companies have similar goals when they look to upgrade their network infrastructures. Assessing current designs is just the first step.  Continue Reading

• The migration to enterprise network as a service

  Enterprise network as a service is becoming a popular consumption model for networking functions. But, as with any emerging technology, it's important to weigh the options carefully.  Continue Reading

• Enterprise RF spectrum management best practices

  Effective spectrum management requires coordination from company departments to follow certain policies before introducing wireless devices to the enterprise.  Continue Reading

• How to secure your home Wi-Fi network in 7 steps

  When securing your home Wi-Fi, update devices regularly, change passwords consistently, turn off unused services and inspect outdoor network equipment.  Continue Reading

• Hybrid network vs. hybrid network infrastructure

  Hybrid networks and hybrid network infrastructure blend different kinds of equipment, geographic locations, network ownership and technology disciplines.  Continue Reading

• Routed optical networking tactic could be game changer

  A new routing architecture could help eliminate management and service headaches stemming from routing IP traffic on optical networks.  Continue Reading

• How to prepare networks for the return to office

  Network teams should evaluate their UC strategies, VPN capacity and even air conditioning requirements as employees start to return to office environments.  Continue Reading

• 5 common SD-WAN challenges and how to prepare for them

  SD-WAN technology has its fair share of risk factors, some of which include cost reduction and management. Find out how your IT team can prepare for these challenges.  Continue Reading

• How to set up a home network -- a 7-step guide

  From understanding hardware components to managing network performance and security, this guide teaches networking newbies how to set up a home network.  Continue Reading

• Network-as-a-service business model options take shape

  As network as a service gains traction, enterprises and service providers must consider multiple deployment models. SD-WAN, SASE, SDN and policy management could all play a role.  Continue Reading

• Ansible vs. Terraform vs. Vagrant: What's the difference?

  Ansible, Terraform and Vagrant are common infrastructure automation platforms with specific use cases, benefits and drawbacks. But choosing a platform doesn't need to be confusing.  Continue Reading

• 8 remote access security risks and how to prevent them

  Enterprises face myriad remote access security concerns, but training and clear communication can help them bolster their security programs for the long term.  Continue Reading

• 4 attributes key to network-as-a-service model

  For a network-as-a-service model to work for the enterprise, it needs to offer four key attributes: an application-specific, elastic, secure and personalized VPN.  Continue Reading

• Wi-Fi 6 vs. Wi-Fi 6E: Spectrum, not hype, is key difference

  The extended spectrum of Wi-Fi 6E sounds promising. But, when assessing Wi-Fi 6 vs. Wi-Fi 6E, organizations should pay close attention to radio frequency characteristics.  Continue Reading

• Network capacity planning best practices for return to office

  As workers grow comfortable enough to return to the office, network teams will need to plan in advance to make sure the network is ready and ensure proper performance.  Continue Reading

• Wi-Fi 6 rollout requires careful review of network devices

  Wi-Fi 6 is just one part of the overall enterprise network. Organizations need to evaluate several network components to ensure a smooth Wi-Fi 6 deployment.  Continue Reading

• Common network vulnerabilities and how to prevent them

  It's not possible to eliminate all network vulnerabilities, but network teams can implement best practices to limit potential attacks and protect their networks.  Continue Reading

• SASE options for the branch of one -- work from anywhere

  More than ever, enterprises need to support individual employees that make up a branch of one. These setups require reliable connectivity, application performance and security.  Continue Reading

• Modern network infrastructure design taps security, flexibility

  As workers return to office settings, organizations may have to update their on-premises network infrastructure design to improve scalability and connectivity.  Continue Reading

• How cloud-based network monitoring tools expand visibility

  Organizations have become even more distributed and virtual in the wake of COVID-19. Cloud-based network monitoring is well suited to keep tabs on network performance.  Continue Reading

• Best practices for VPN traffic monitoring

  VPNs are still a critical part of many enterprise remote access strategies. Networks teams that monitor VPN traffic should look at factors like application usage and overhead.  Continue Reading

• 5 basic steps for effective cloud network security

  In hybrid infrastructures, old network security systems won't work. Enterprises must adopt effective cloud network security strategies to keep their assets safe.  Continue Reading

• Top 9 SD-WAN benefits for businesses

  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

• Perform a network health check with network testing

  Network engineers can use myriad network testing approaches to ensure their networks are efficient and reliable. The key is incorporating them into a regular maintenance cycle.  Continue Reading

• Why 5G will redefine WWAN and SD-WAN

  The nexus of 5G, WWAN and SD-WAN promises to usher in an array of custom tools and services for enterprises.  Continue Reading

• Key tasks in a network maintenance checklist

  Network technologies and devices might change over time, but certain maintenance tasks, such as data backup and device inventory, will always be essential for network teams.  Continue Reading

• SD-WAN comparison chart: 15 vendor products to assess

  This SD-WAN vendor comparison chart is a useful starting point to get information about deployment options, pricing, cloud connectivity, security and more.  Continue Reading

• 8 ways to make network modernization work

  The pandemic has forced enterprises to rethink their operations. Now, it's time for IT leaders to put their network modernization projects in motion.  Continue Reading

• NOC performance metrics for optimal operation

  NOC best practices include using standardized network designs and automation. But don't forget to identify performance metrics that help track and measure operational success.  Continue Reading

• 5 steps to conduct network penetration testing

  Enterprises that want to ensure competent network security strategies should look at how they can implement penetration testing, considering red teams and physical pen tests.  Continue Reading

• 5 benefits of Wi-Fi 6 for enterprise networks

  In a perfect world, Wi-Fi 6 could introduce several benefits to business networks. But real-world conditions could curb the wireless technology's true potential.  Continue Reading

• Open RAN architecture gives operators options, challenges

  Open RAN architecture could give telecom operators more flexibility as they deliver enterprise-grade 5G services. But making the RAN a virtual function takes careful planning.  Continue Reading

• How to build a private 5G business case

  As you build a private 5G business case, be sure to include private 5G's benefits and challenges, as well as how to prove its ROI. Here's everything you need to know.  Continue Reading

• 7 steps for a network and IT security foundation

  Enterprises should make it a habit to review their IT security systems, following steps that include network segmentation, multifactor authentication and security education.  Continue Reading

• A work-from-home reimbursement policy for network tech

  A work-from-home reimbursement plan should drive better network and internet connectivity rates for remote workers and not just offset employees' existing bills.  Continue Reading

• How to secure remote access for WFH employees in 4 steps

  The global pandemic caused mayhem on network security environments. Enterprises need to bring rigor back to their systems and tighten security for remote workers.  Continue Reading

• Top tips to provide IT support for remote workers

  To support employees working from home, network teams should carefully monitor VPN traffic, review firewall rules and rely on remote access support software.  Continue Reading

• Weighing the advantages of private 5G vs. carrier 5G

  Considering private 5G vs. carrier 5G for your interior networking? No single option fits all, but here are some factors you should consider.  Continue Reading

• SASE hype includes SD-WAN, but does it need to?

  Much of the hype around Secure Access Service Edge features the importance of SD-WAN with SASE, but do the two need each other to thrive? Research says probably not.  Continue Reading

• Long-term remote work empowers SD-WAN for home offices

  Organizations have long relied on VPNs to connect remote workers with company resources. But SD-WAN could also be a viable option for certain employees working from home.  Continue Reading

• How to monitor home network traffic for added security

  When addressing home network monitoring, track all connected devices, and take advantage of open source tools, like packet capture, to sniff out malicious traffic.  Continue Reading

• The tradeoffs and cost of network redundancy

  Network redundancy costs vary depending on enterprise use cases, but the determining tradeoff usually depends on how long a company can sustain network downtime.  Continue Reading

• How the SolarWinds vulnerability affects networking

  The SolarWinds attack resulted in a bevy of network vulnerabilities, like masked traffic and backdoor access. Network teams should take the time to review their security strategies.  Continue Reading

• 7 key SD-WAN trends to evaluate in 2021

  As SD-WAN continues to mature in 2021, the technology is expected to improve in its support for integrated remote access, automation and multi-cloud connectivity.  Continue Reading

• 10 network security tips in response to the SolarWinds hack

  From perimeter protection to persistent patching, enterprises should regularly review, update and test their network security plans, especially in response to the SolarWinds hack.  Continue Reading

• Considerations for SASE management and troubleshooting

  SASE opens new territory for network and security management and troubleshooting. Ultimately, teams should look for system usability and visibility into traffic flows and policies.  Continue Reading

• SASE challenges include network security roles, product choice

  Secure Access Service Edge blends network and security functions. While this integration has its benefits, enterprises still need to address some SASE challenges.  Continue Reading

• Myths and realities of a Wi-Fi 6 upgrade

  Despite the promise of high data rates, longer client battery life and more efficient radio techniques, enterprises need to weigh Wi-Fi 6's limitations.  Continue Reading

• How to calculate SASE return on investment and costs

  SASE return on investment will vary for each organization, depending on use cases and architecture requirements. But the metrics used to determine ROI and cost factors are the same.  Continue Reading

• Top 5 SASE use cases balance network connectivity, security

  Secure Access Service Edge can enhance network performance and security controls for remote sites. Discover some of the other top SASE use cases and deployment options.  Continue Reading

• The 4 different types of wireless networks

  The four types of wireless networks -- wireless LAN, wireless MAN, wireless PAN and wireless WAN -- differ when it comes to size, range and connectivity requirements.  Continue Reading

• Troubleshoot wireless network connection problems in 10 steps

  When troubleshooting wireless network issues, several scenarios can emerge. But valuable end-user insights can help network administrators root out problems.  Continue Reading

• Setting up and using a home VLAN to segment network traffic

  Virtual LANs can help homeowners segment their network traffic for enhanced control and security. Network analyst John Fruehe takes you inside his home VLANs.  Continue Reading

• How SASE convergence affects network and security roles

  Most enterprises have siloed departments, but SASE's convergence of network and security functions could disrupt those constructs and drive more communication between teams.  Continue Reading

• Software-defined home offerings drive remote productivity

  Say hello to software-defined home, a 'branch of one' package that combines professional-grade Wi-Fi, security, SD-WAN and centralized management for remote workers.  Continue Reading

• How to calculate a subnet mask from hosts and subnets

  IP addressing and subnetting are important and basic elements of networks. In this article, learn how to calculate a subnet mask based on the required number of subnets and hosts.  Continue Reading

• 3 types of wireless site surveys and how to conduct them

  Network teams can avoid signal coverage issues by performing different wireless site surveys as they evaluate new spaces, set up sites and operate the network.  Continue Reading

• With SASE, security and networking tech come together

  SD-WAN, SASE or some combination of the two -- which approach will deliver the best and most secure network connectivity in your organization going forward?  Continue Reading

• Cloud automation use cases for managing and troubleshooting

  Cloud automation use cases highlight the benefits these tools can provide to companies evaluating how best to manage and troubleshoot their cloud connections.  Continue Reading

• Implementing an SDP architecture for added network security

  A key component of a software-defined perimeter requires client authentication before connection, while also making a network's internals invisible to outsiders.  Continue Reading

• What network managers need to know about SaaS optimization

  When strategizing SaaS optimization tactics, network management teams should consider their traffic steering preferences and geographically dispersed access points.  Continue Reading

• Indoor 5G gets a boost as small cells come to the rescue

  5G is good, but indoor 5G is a challenge. Enterprises are examining the introduction of small cells to help them take advantage of the new cellular standard.  Continue Reading

• How service mesh enables microservices networking

  As microservices applications grow more popular, IT teams need to enable reliable networking between them for proper communication. That's where service mesh comes in.  Continue Reading

• How to use ChatOps to automate network tasks

  Integrating team collaboration chat systems with network automation results in the ability to automate tedious workflows, enabling faster problem resolution and streamlined operations.  Continue Reading

• Why networks should apply security by design principles

  Security by design incorporates security and risk management directly into network architecture, using segmentation and Agile infrastructure design.  Continue Reading

• How and why to implement Wi-Fi QoS

  Quality of service, as network pros know, prioritizes apps as they cross the network. But Wi-Fi QoS needs to be considered, too, in relation to the overall network.  Continue Reading

• The top 5 benefits of SASE to enhance network security

  A cloud-based distributed architecture, centralized management and endpoint-specific security policies are just some of the benefits of Secure Access Service Edge.  Continue Reading

• How COVID-19 will reshape 2021 enterprise network spending

  COVID-19 has shifted enterprise network spending. Campus LAN traffic may never be the same, but companies are earmarking funds to better support the remote workforce.  Continue Reading

• The basics of zero-trust network access explained

  Some experts believe VPNs have struggled to adapt to an increasingly cloud-based, internet-dependent world. Enter zero-trust network access, which may be network security's future.  Continue Reading

• How to ensure a scalable SASE architecture

  Don't assume all SASE architecture is the same, especially when it comes to scalability. Enterprises should consider distance to vendor PoPs, office locations and agent onboarding.  Continue Reading

• Compare low-power Wi-Fi protocols and their roles in IoT

  Wi-Fi means more than faster speeds. Low-power Wi-Fi will help companies improve the efficiency of their IoT deployments, thanks to longer signal range and power consumption features.  Continue Reading

• How to build a resilient network design

  Everything fails eventually, even in networking. Enterprises can prepare for network failure by building resilience and redundancy into their network infrastructure design.  Continue Reading

• Global company weighs 5G for manufacturing, IoT analytics

  Global manufacturer Sanmina is studying the benefits of deploying 5G on its manufacturing floor to improve the speed of IoT and analytics data exchanges to the cloud.  Continue Reading

• How to build a network automation architecture in 5 phases

  The implementation of a network automation architecture involves several elements, including a core orchestration engine, assorted databases and proper network testing.  Continue Reading

• 5G network security concerns and how to prepare for them

  Enterprises looking forward to deploying 5G must first assess their security concerns upfront and review their policies and procedures, despite 5G's security improvements.  Continue Reading

• What's involved in VPN maintenance and management?

  Before an organization's VPN is up and running, IT teams must address four important aspects of VPN maintenance and management to keep abreast of transforming security concerns.  Continue Reading

• Enterprise 5G deployment options and how to procure them

  Enterprises have to choose from three main 5G deployment options to make 5G work: public services from a mobile operator, network slicing or building their own 5G networks.  Continue Reading

• How and when to establish enterprise 5G partnerships

  Enterprises that buy 5G public services, procure network slices or build their own private 5G networks need to establish the right partnerships for mobile services, equipment and software.  Continue Reading

• How to build a private 5G network architecture

  A private 5G network could provide organizations with greater control over their wireless environments. But cost and complexity could be critical deterrents.  Continue Reading

• Home SD-WAN will redefine next-generation WAN

  The need for home-office SD-WAN won't end when the pandemic does. Learn how best to provide this essential tech to your organization's at-home employees.  Continue Reading

• 7 top 5G enterprise use cases and business opportunities

  While 5G is not fully baked yet, early business use cases are intriguing. Connections between branch offices and headquarters, for instance, could be improved with fixed wireless.  Continue Reading

• Top 5G limitations and challenges for businesses

  Currently, the next wave of cellular technology certainly has its shortcomings. For instance, 5G faces a dearth of devices, smaller coverage ranges and hefty premiums.  Continue Reading

• Best practices to maintain VPN security

  Enterprises looking to maintain VPN security should focus on proper endpoint security and authentication, VPN server security and documentation for security policies.  Continue Reading

• Benefits of intent-based networking for modern networks

  Intent-based networking can benefit network teams working remotely with increased workloads due to COVID-19. Benefits include reduced human error and automated manual tasks.  Continue Reading

• 3 SD-WAN cloud connectivity options to explore

  Enterprises can connect their SD-WAN infrastructure to cloud providers' platforms using three methods: back-to-back access, private PoP connections and internet VPN.  Continue Reading

• 3 DDoS mitigation strategies for enterprise networks

  Enterprises can choose from three major approaches to mitigate DDoS attacks on their networks: Buy from an ISP, do it themselves or use a CDN service.  Continue Reading

• The benefits of building a network automation lab

  Network teams can build network automation labs to create a safe environment to test and validate automation tasks before running them in production networks.  Continue Reading

• How to select and set up SD-WAN and DIA

  When evaluating different options for SD-WAN and direct internet access, IT teams can't forget to consider application performance, network uptime and support for each option.  Continue Reading

• The future of VPNs in a post-pandemic world

  Pre-pandemic, many experts touted VPN's demise. During the pandemic, VPNs became lifelines for remote workers to do their jobs. Here's what the future may hold for VPNs.  Continue Reading

• How to secure a home network for remote workforces

  Remote workers rarely achieve the same network security at home that offices provide. Yet, with the right tools, remote workers can efficiently learn how to secure a home network.  Continue Reading

• How to set up a new business network

  Building a new network can be complicated, but IT teams can ease the design process and future management by choosing the right architecture and documenting each decision.  Continue Reading

• Gain SD-branch benefits through automation, orchestration

  SD-branch technology is evolving, but don't put off learning about what this tool can do now and the advantages it will deliver in the near future.  Continue Reading

• 5G and SD-WAN pair is a game changer for branch connectivity

  Individually, 5G and SD-WAN promise various benefits for organizations. But, as a pair, 5G and SD-WAN could make the ideal network connectivity option for branch offices.  Continue Reading

• What to know about VPN termination

  Network teams make several decisions when designing a secure VPN. One of those is where in the network, logically, they will terminate the VPN tunnels.  Continue Reading

• Network traffic pattern shifts reflect COVID-19 changes

  The novel coronavirus pandemic spurred initial changes in network traffic patterns, but other trends are playing important roles in perpetuating permanent traffic shifts.  Continue Reading

• 5 principles of the network change management process

  Network change management includes five basic principles, including risk analysis and peer review. These best practices can help network teams limit failed network changes and outages.  Continue Reading

• How to build a network monitoring business case

  As network teams construct a business case for a new network monitoring tool, they should include a cost comparison of alternative tools and a strong defense for the selected tool.  Continue Reading