Network management and monitoring
Network management and monitoring are vital components of modern IT operations that help businesses run effectively and efficiently. Network observability also provides added visibility into the end-user experience. Find out how innovations such as AI, machine learning, network analytics and network automation are shaping the future of network management and monitoring.
Top Stories
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Answer
11 Jul 2024
CASB vs. SASE: What's the difference?
CASB and SASE enhance network and SaaS application security. CASB acts as a security layer for cloud services, while SASE integrates networking and security into one framework. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jul 2024
A guide on how to learn network automation
Networks are always evolving, and network automation is the next step forward. From soft skills to AI, these skills are essential to understanding network automation. Continue Reading
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News
12 Jun 2018
ONAP Beijing release targets deployment scenarios
With its ONAP Beijing release, the Linux Foundation turns its attention to what makes a system deployment ready to go: usability, stability and security, among others. Continue Reading
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News
11 Jun 2018
Nyansa extends network performance monitor software
In Cisco Live news, Nyansa upgrades its network performance monitor software to track WAN and Wi-Fi connection problems. Also, A10 adds Kubernetes support. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Jun 2018
SDN, machine learning could lead to intelligent networks
The next step for SDN is to integrate network analytics and machine learning to result in automated, intelligent networks. But first, humans need to trust the technology. Continue Reading
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Opinion
11 Jun 2018
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
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News
08 Jun 2018
LiveAction buys Savvius to combine packet monitoring and NPM
LiveAction plans to combine its software for network performance management with Savvius' packet monitoring technology to deliver both in a single product. Continue Reading
- 01 Jun 2018
- 01 Jun 2018
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E-Zine
01 Jun 2018
DevOps in networking begins to gain ground
Software development has benefited from a DevOps framework, which brings together software engineers and operating teams to collaborate in a continuous integration/continuous delivery model that helps automate and deploy code faster. DevOps in networking, however, is still an emerging concept. Many networks are still managed and updated using heavily manual processes.
In this issue of Network Evolution, find out how network virtualization and automation are leading enterprises to consider whether they can manage their networks through DevOps methodologies. As more network elements become software-driven, organizations will see a shift to DevOps in networking.
In addition to an emerging DevOps approach, the software-driven network brings with it a slew of new technologies and approaches to understand. From software-defined networking and software-defined WAN to network functions virtualization and virtual network functions, network professionals have to wade through options aimed at changing everything about how networks are built and managed. Read on as we sort out the subtle differences among these technologies.
And as virtualization enhances network design, it also makes the network a more attractive target for hackers. We also look at what security tools and services enterprises are investing in to boost network security in the cloud.
Finally, read how the Broward Center for the Performing Arts is using cloud-based network monitoring to keep its theater in the spotlight.
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Feature
01 Jun 2018
Cloud-based network monitoring creates management flexibility
Cloud-based network monitoring offers Broward Center's theater campus more flexible and efficient network management so IT can keep performing arts center stage. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Jun 2018
DevOps for networking evolves with software
Enterprises have yet to fully integrate a collaborative approach to DevOps for networking, but that's changing as networks become more automated and software-driven. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 May 2018
ADC, the networking management tool, acquires new abilities
Networking pros should take a new look at what application delivery controllers now offer. ADCs now have some cutting-edge features making the networking workhorse exciting. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 May 2018
New, micro-ADC features can aid enterprise security
The ADC is no hot, new networking tool, but it's evolved dramatically, adding some features in its latest iterations that promise to increase its already important role. Continue Reading
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Opinion
25 May 2018
The growing ties between networking roles and automation
Network automation is here, bringing with it new demands for network professionals. But these changes should go beyond shifting networking roles, responsibilities and skills. Continue Reading
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News
25 May 2018
What makes networking automation so difficult?
Analysts focus on networking automation and the problems facing it, as well as gaming trends that could affect 5G deployment costs and debate questions surrounding the future of blockchain. Continue Reading
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Answer
21 May 2018
How can network analytics tools be used to improve performance?
With pressure and expectations for network and enterprise performance rising, IT professionals are turning to network analytics tools that use machine learning to remain ahead of the game. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 May 2018
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
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Answer
09 May 2018
How do the benefits of SDN improve network automation?
The ability to automate networks isn't new, and while the benefits of SDN reach out to encompass aspects of automation, SDN and network automation don't mean the same thing. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 May 2018
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
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Tip
01 May 2018
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
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Answer
01 May 2018
What tools are needed to build a DevOps management model?
Amy Larsen DeCarlo answers why so many businesses are combining their development and operations teams and what tools are needed to make effective DevOps management happen. Continue Reading
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News
26 Apr 2018
Is programmable infrastructure ready for prime time in networking?
In this week's networking blog roundup, analysts examine whether programmable infrastructure is now a thing, what would make a good AI tool and what's wrong with telcos. Continue Reading
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News
24 Apr 2018
New Accedian SkyLIGHT PVX has root-cause analytics
Accedian Networks has launched its first product from the Performance Vision acquisition. SkyLIGHT PVX includes network monitoring, plus root-cause analytics and remediation. Continue Reading
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News
20 Apr 2018
Analyst balks at blockchain distributed ledger in networking
Blockchain distributed ledger technology is untested, unproven and overly complex, making it unsuitable for networking, GlobalData analyst Mike Fratto argued. Continue Reading
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News
19 Apr 2018
Blockchain technology use in networking? Not so fast
Blockchain technology use has little value in networking, according to one IT analyst. Analysts also examine IoT security and what might happen to AI if disasters occur. Continue Reading
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News
18 Apr 2018
Cisco DNA Center gets access to more IoT devices
Cisco DNA Center can now access an additional 620 IoT device profiles. Cisco also introduced this week a couple of Catalyst 9500 switches, including one with 100 GbE ports. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Apr 2018
Cisco advances Network Assurance Engine, network verification tech
The Cisco Network Assurance Engine, a network verification tool, will add support for more third-party devices and platforms. Cisco's Sundar Iyer shares plans. Continue Reading
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News
10 Apr 2018
Pay as you go with new Cisco Tetration analytics SaaS
The latest versions of Cisco Tetration analytics include a software-as-a-service offering with pay-as-you-go pricing. Cisco is also offering a software-only version. Continue Reading
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Feature
03 Apr 2018
Enterprise network management in the wake of vendor consolidation
Consolidation is a driving force among networking vendors, but network professionals have to actively consider how those changes affect enterprise network management. Continue Reading
- 03 Apr 2018
- 03 Apr 2018
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E-Zine
03 Apr 2018
Big data network analytics: The next big thing
Networking managers are trying to keep track of an ever-increasing number of moving pieces. To do so, they are turning to a new class of big data network analytics that applies machine learning and artificial intelligence to help improve performance of growing networks.
While network professionals can look at various components of their networks and see what's happening on them now, the need to create more meaningful, actionable information is leading to increased demand for more sophisticated big data network analytics. As enterprises continue to use cloud services and advanced networking technologies like software-defined WAN, this need will only grow.
In this issue of Network Evolution, read insights from network professionals who are beginning to apply big data network analytics, machine learning and AI and what enterprises expect from these tools as the industry develops them.
Also in this issue, vendor consolidation in the last several years has wrought changes to what products and services are supported. Traditional networking vendors like Cisco and Juniper have jumped into the software-defined networking space through acquisitions, and several other vendors have merged to streamline products and diversify offerings. Read how the evolving vendor landscape is impacting the way enterprises interact with their suppliers.
In addition, as more workloads are placed in the cloud, enterprises have more options for deploying unified communications. Read best practices and considerations for on-premises or cloud UC or a mix of both to decide which deployment works best.
Finally, read about one organization's mission to improve healthcare through better wireless connectivity in this issue's Subnet.
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Opinion
03 Apr 2018
Network data analytics must work alongside human ingenuity
Network data analytics offer a key tool in the arsenal of monitoring and understanding network behavior. But network professionals can't forget another crucial element -- themselves. Continue Reading
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Feature
03 Apr 2018
Network analytics tools deepen with machine learning and AI
Network analytics tools that utilize machine learning and AI can help IT pros with monitoring and performance evaluation, and provide business insight. But a holistic view of the network using analytics is still on the horizon. Continue Reading
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News
29 Mar 2018
Gluware launches Config Modeling network automation tool
Gluware launches Config Modeling, a new network automation tool intended to help customers overcome the hurdles of CLI as they manage multivendor legacy networks. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Mar 2018
Network data analysis driving business intelligence
According to a study from Enterprise Management Associates, network data analysis tools are now being used by enterprises to deliver valuable information to business units. Continue Reading
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Answer
22 Mar 2018
Which is better for WLAN support: Mac or Windows?
Choosing the right laptop for WLAN support usually boils down to Macintosh versus Windows. But of the two, there is only one OS clearly up to the task, our expert maintains. Continue Reading
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News
20 Mar 2018
Network device monitoring beyond NETCONF
This week, bloggers look at alternative methods in network device monitoring, Europe's GDPR legislation and the integration of low-code platforms within cloud offerings. Continue Reading
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Answer
19 Mar 2018
What exactly is a digital business transformation strategy?
What do you need for a digital business transformation strategy that will actually work to boost business value and change the enterprise operations model? Continue Reading
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News
16 Mar 2018
Yahoo Japan deploys intent-based network with Apstra AOS
Yahoo Japan deploys an Apstra intent-based network to oversee multiple vendors. Cisco touts Los Angeles Hospital, as well as the benefits it's getting from its DNA strategy. Continue Reading
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News
15 Mar 2018
Is it best to buy or build a network automation system?
Bloggers explore the question of buying versus building a network automation system, the challenges of hyper-converged infrastructure and the integration of AI into enterprise IT. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Mar 2018
The benefits of machine learning in network management
Enterprises and vendors alike are now undertaking machine learning deployment strategies. What are the benefits of machine learning in networking related to analysis and management tools? Continue Reading
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News
08 Mar 2018
How network automation scripts will affect veteran engineers
This week, bloggers look at how engineers will need to adapt to changes such as network automation scripts, offer projections for RSA 2018 and debate network transformation. Continue Reading
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News
08 Mar 2018
Cisco adds predictive analytics to Viptela SD-WAN
Cisco's new cloud-based service, called vAnalytics, helps companies prepare for changes within the Viptela SD-WAN by giving answers to what-if questions. Continue Reading
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News
27 Feb 2018
Overcoming the hype with advanced network analytics software
Bloggers explore the capabilities of network analytics software, assess the coming impact of GDPR regulations and look into the use of Ethernet VPN with an MPLS data plane in data centers. Continue Reading
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Answer
26 Feb 2018
How can IT asset management tools aid in virtualization era?
IT asset management tools allow businesses to track resources effectively. Platform organization is increasingly necessary in a virtualized enterprise. Continue Reading
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News
22 Feb 2018
PV buy takes Accedian network monitoring to the enterprise
Carrier supplier Accedian heads to the enterprise market with the acquisition of French company Performance Vision. Accedian network monitoring tools complement PV's NPM software. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Feb 2018
DNS functions remain vital, but must adapt as demands shift
The domain name system's tasks are simple, but essential, and the service faces challenges with the proliferation of devices that operate within IPv6 networks. Continue Reading
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Guide
15 Feb 2018
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
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News
09 Feb 2018
Is machine learning needed for network traffic routing?
This week, bloggers assess the role of machine learning for network traffic routing, new hurdles for identity management due to the cloud and what to ask AI vendors. Continue Reading
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Answer
05 Feb 2018
What's automation's role in network provisioning resources?
IT is embracing network automation, but complications with integration disrupt the process. Using automation for provisioning resources can improve efficiency, but reduce the need for IT personnel. Continue Reading
- 01 Feb 2018
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Feature
01 Feb 2018
Engineer uses Cisco DNA Center to combat network challenges
Durham County hopes Cisco DNA Center and network automation create efficient, seamless experiences for IT managers and users, after redesigning its data center with Cisco's ACI. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Feb 2018
New 5G wireless technology trials spark enterprise interest
New 5G wireless technology promises super-fast network speeds and massive capacity. Businesses that require low latency and high throughput could see the advantages first. Continue Reading
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News
30 Jan 2018
Cisco Assurance services verify intent-based networking
Cisco has advanced its intent-based networking plans with a layer of analytics that verify compliance with policies. The new Cisco Assurance is tied to the company's SDN platform. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Jan 2018
Network configuration tools: A primer
Script management, intent-based systems and new strategies with network configuration tools are propelling a paradigm shift in the way that networks are managed. Continue Reading
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News
26 Jan 2018
Selecting network configuration software for automation
This week, bloggers look into choosing the right network configuration software for an automation project, endpoint security and the future of SD-WAN as a stand-alone service. Continue Reading
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News
24 Jan 2018
Apstra bolsters IBN with customizable analytics
Startup Apstra has introduced customizable analytics in its network operating system. The latest AOS upgrade bolsters Apstra's intent-based networking capabilities. Continue Reading
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News
19 Jan 2018
ThousandEyes-Juniper pact focuses on hybrid WANs
ThousandEyes and Juniper boost visibility for hybrid WANs; IDC records sharp rise in cloud spending; and a vendor group issues specifications for optical 100 Gbps interoperability. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Jan 2018
Take network configuration management tools to the next level
Script management systems and intent-based networking are driving the future of network configuration management tools, shifting the paradigm of how networking systems are managed. Continue Reading
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Answer
10 Jan 2018
IBN: Enablement for a configuration management process?
How realistic are claims about intent-based networking helping organizations to enhance the network configuration management process? Continue Reading
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News
04 Jan 2018
Managing first-hop router complexity with an IPv6 prefix
This week, bloggers explore IPv6 prefix complexities, the reasons behind high turnover among CISOs and whether the adage 'just reboot it' holds true with advanced wireless LANs. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Dec 2017
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
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Answer
26 Dec 2017
How can network management systems boost troubleshooting?
What can IT teams do to combine network management systems and application performance management tools to boost troubleshooting in enterprise infrastructure? Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Dec 2017
Hyper-convergence gives new choice in network system management
Hyper-convergence is driving network evolution, but engineers need to consider the flexibility of network system management software and performance to ensure best results. Continue Reading
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Opinion
01 Dec 2017
The future of networking technology is playing out right now
To prepare for the future of networking technology, IT managers must understand evolving concepts like hyper-convergence, SD-WAN and intent-based networking. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Nov 2017
How to select the best network monitoring tool
Learn the criteria for choosing the best network monitoring tool for your enterprise. Continue Reading
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News
22 Nov 2017
Why device upgrade strategies fail
The industry is built on 30-year-old code, writes one analyst, and that is one reason why device upgrade strategies often fall short. Continue Reading
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News
16 Nov 2017
LiveAction software focuses on provisioning resources
Bloggers look into LiveAction software aimed at provisioning resources, the threat posed by the cybersecurity skills shortage and using Linux for data center switches. Continue Reading
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News
10 Nov 2017
Remediation engine to improve Nyansa Voyance network monitoring
New remediation engine in Nyansa Voyance flags the cause of network troubles and recommends changes to correct it. Other improvements include more syslog data for better analytics. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Oct 2017
Network validation a first step to intent-based architecture
Network validation is an important first step for enterprises evaluating intent-based networking. Unless you know how things really work, you won't succeed. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Sep 2017
How to use traceroute to troubleshoot network problems
Traceroute is a tool that can provide more insight than you might think. Learn how to use traceroute to troubleshoot network issues. Continue Reading
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Answer
28 Aug 2017
How should IT manage connected devices?
As IT teams become tasked to manage connected devices more often, what steps need to be taken to avoid performance and security-related problems? Continue Reading
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News
17 Aug 2017
ManageEngine launches OpManager Plus deep packet inspection tool
ManageEngine launches OpManager Plus, a new deep packet inspection tool; Nyansa broadens analytics for Voyance; and Aerohive premieres a new combined switch-access point. Continue Reading
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News
26 Jul 2017
Update expands Mist Wi-Fi management platform use cases
The latest update to the Mist Wi-Fi management platform makes it more useful for divvying up network access in hotels, college dormitories and apartment buildings. Continue Reading
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News
21 Jul 2017
SaaS SIEM offers enterprise networks refined analytics
This week, bloggers explore SaaS SIEM, applications as drivers of hybrid cloud, and the benefits and drawbacks of integrated systems. Continue Reading
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News
14 Jun 2017
Enterprises seek operational insight from network analytics
This week, bloggers look into operational insight from network analytics, vulnerabilities in the wake of WannaCry and slow 25 GbE switch adoption. Continue Reading
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News
02 Jun 2017
Chef gets compliments for network automation tool features
Networking industry pros discuss the Chef automation tool and how it can be used as a network automation tool. They also examine the evolution of AI and talk about a controller upgrade gone bad. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 May 2017
Why SDN, DevOps don't share automated network missions
SDN and DevOps may both have a role in automated network device management, but compared to SDN, DevOps has a completely different mission, our expert explains. Continue Reading
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News
01 May 2017
Nyansa premieres new Voyance network analytics tools
This week, Nyansa premieres new Voyance network analytics tools, espionage takes off as a security threat and the midmarket struggles with cybersecurity. Continue Reading
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Opinion
26 Apr 2017
Managing wireless networks: How to address the key challenges
One challenge in managing wireless networks is that the tools and tech are changing rapidly. Here’s what network pros need to know now. Continue Reading
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Opinion
05 Apr 2017
Cloud visibility goal of Ixia CloudLens software update
Ixia takes aim at cloud visibility with its new CloudLens Public for tracking cloud performance. Continue Reading
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Opinion
03 Mar 2017
Customer-focused strategy more key than digital transformation hype
The tech industry's chatter about digital transformation and disruption are scare tactics that shouldn't distract companies from making purchases based on a customer-focused strategy. Continue Reading
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News
16 Feb 2017
Will automation define the future of network technology?
This week, bloggers look at automation as the future of network technology, weigh in on Cumulus' EVPN features and examine ExtraHop's Addy machine learning analytics. Continue Reading
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News
01 Feb 2017
SN blogs: Are dropped packets better than delayed packets?
This week, bloggers look into whether dropped packets are better than delayed packets, discuss cloud-based shadow IT and clarify the meaning of microservices. Continue Reading
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News
19 Jan 2017
Trigger gets props among hot next-gen network automation tools
This week, bloggers look into network automation tools, incident response, and the new reality of MPLS and SD-WAN. Continue Reading
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News
03 Jan 2017
Nyansa user experience tools platform garners Network Innovation Award
Nyansa uses a blend of cloud-based analytics, real-time DPI and an easy-to-understand console for its user experience tools platform. Continue Reading
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News
14 Dec 2016
Why 2017 promises to bring more network automation systems
Arista, Cisco and Juniper took steps this year toward providing better network automation systems. Next year, companies can expect to see technology from other vendors. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Nov 2016
Identifying the IT operations analytics product your enterprise needs
This guide to IT operations analytics tools explains how ITOA works so networking pros can determine the most important features and assess vendor offerings. Continue Reading
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News
15 Nov 2016
Startups launch verification technology to help manage networks
Forward Networks and Veriflow Systems have introduced verification technology to help engineers manage corporate networks. Continue Reading
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News
08 Nov 2016
Nyansa adds app monitoring to network traffic analytics
Nyansa has widened the capabilities of its network traffic analytics system with the addition of application monitoring. The latest capabilities are packaged as Voyance+. Continue Reading
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News
03 Nov 2016
Cisco pledges a quicker rollout of network automation tools
Cisco tells Partner Summit attendees it will move faster to deliver the network automation tools the vendor has been slow to provide. Continue Reading
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News
03 Nov 2016
Is API adoption necessary for successful network automation?
This week, bloggers explore API adoption for network automation, Igneous Systems' hyperconverged cloud management and NetBeez's troubleshooting. Continue Reading
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News
27 Oct 2016
Riverbed software update boosts performance monitoring
A Riverbed software update blends SteelCentral; Gigamon intros a security appliance; Check Point warns of 2017 ransomware threats. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Oct 2016
Intent-driven networking reshaping network service delivery
When configuring a network, engineers often focus on individual tasks to enable network service delivery. Intent-driven networking transfers the focus to the overall network. Continue Reading
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News
14 Oct 2016
Mist introduces new analytics capabilities for wireless
ICYMI: Mist premieres new analytics capabilities on its Wi-Fi platform, while Broadcom targets large data centers with its new switches and IDC sees more security spending. Continue Reading
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Opinion
03 Oct 2016
Amidst complex infrastructures, network visualization is needed
Today's networks are increasingly complex. An overhaul in network visualization is needed to help parse and diagnose modern networks. Continue Reading
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News
16 Sep 2016
ExtraHop 6.0 adds new packet search to IT analytics platform
ExtraHop introduces a new IT analytics appliance that lets IT search and download packets associated with a particular transaction. Continue Reading
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Opinion
06 Sep 2016
Automation key element in network monitoring best practices
The fundamentals underpinning network monitoring might be simple, but it doesn't mean keeping tabs on your network is easy. What can you do to improve your monitoring tool framework? Continue Reading
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Opinion
04 Aug 2016
Infinite options tempt, but cutting proprietary management even better
Are the bad old days of control interface proliferation back again? Patrick Hubbard says it's time for network administrators to put their foot down. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Aug 2016
ScienceLogic EM7: Network performance monitor overview
ScienceLogic EM7 is still a newcomer to the network performance monitoring market, but it offers flexible deployment options, including VMs and software-as-a-service installations. Continue Reading