How to Define, Measure, & Improve Network Bandwidth
Network bandwidth refers to the maximum amount of data that can be transmitted over a network connection in a given period of time. It's typically measured in bits per second (bps), kilobits per second (Kbps), megabits per second (Mbps), or gigabits per second (Gbps). In simpler terms, network bandwidth is like a pipe, and the data streams are like water flowing through that pipe. The larger the pipe (or higher the bandwidth), the more water (or data) can flow through it at one time, leading to faster transmission speeds. High-bandwidth networks are especially important for applications that require rapid data transmission, like video streaming, online gaming, or video conferencing.
What Is a Zero Trust Network? Principles & Advantages
A zero trust Network is a security model that assumes no user or device can be trusted by default, regardless of whether they are inside or outside the network perimeter. Instead of relying on traditional methods of network security, a Zero-Trust Network requires verification for every person and device. In a zero-trust network, access is granted strictly based on necessity. Every device, user, and network flow must be authenticated and authorized before accessing resources. The guiding principle of this model is "never trust, always verify."
How to Measure, Improve & Maximize Network Efficiency
Network efficiency refers to the effectiveness of a network in achieving its objectives such as fast communication, smooth data transfer, and minimal disruption or downtime. It involves how well the network can handle traffic, how quickly data can be sent and received, and how reliably the network can operate. Network efficiency can be improved by different methods like updating the network infrastructure, optimizing the network configuration, managing network traffic, and implementing strategic prevention of network issues.
What Is Network Utilization & How to Monitor It
Network utilization refers to the amount or percentage of available network capacity that is currently being used. It's often expressed as a percentage. It measures how much data is being transmitted over a network at a given time, compared to the maximum data that the network can transmit. High network utilization can slow down the transmission speed and overall performance of the network, while low or optimal network utilization ensures that the network is performing efficiently. Monitoring and managing network utilization is critical in preventing poor performance and ensuring smooth operation.
Top Network Vulnerabilities & How to Prevent Them
Network vulnerabilities refer to weaknesses or gaps within a network infrastructure that can be exploited by cyber threats to gain unauthorized access or cause harm. These vulnerabilities are potential security risks that can be leveraged by malicious actors to disrupt or compromise network integrity and data security. Understanding these vulnerabilities is crucial for organizations as they lay the foundation for implementing robust network security measures.
Top Network Threats & Risks (And How to Protect Yourself)
A network threat refers to any potential activity or event that could harm or interrupt the systems, applications and services operating on a network. These threats can compromise the security of the network by attacking its infrastructure with the primary target usually being information theft or service disruption. Examples of network threats include malware attacks, phishing attacks, ransomware, denial of service (DoS) attacks, unauthorized access, and data breaches, among others. Network threats can be initiated intentionally by threat actors such as hackers or unintentionally via software vulnerabilities and user errors.
What is a Rogue Access Point & How to Protect Against Them
A rogue access point is a wireless access point (AP) that has been installed on a network without the network administrator's authorization. These access points can be set up maliciously by attackers or innocently by employees seeking to bypass network restrictions or improve connectivity results. Regardless of intent, rogue APs can expose an organization to various security risks, making their detection and management critical.
What Is Network Capacity Planning? How to Measure & Plan
Network capacity refers to the total amount of data that can be transmitted over a network at any given time. It is usually measured in terms of bandwidth, which is the volume of data per second that can be handled by the network. Various factors, including the physical hardware, the quality of network connections, and the protocols in use influence this capacity. In the context of organizations that depend heavily on digital communications and data transfer, understanding and effectively managing network capacity is vital for maintaining optimal operational efficiency.
What Is Network Availability?
Network availability refers to the amount of time a network infrastructure is up and accessible to users for connectivity and digital data transmission. It's typically measured as a percentage of the total time (such as a month or a year), representing when the system was fully functioning and available. This concept refers to the measure of time that a network is operational and available for use. It's a cornerstone in understanding the overall health and efficiency of a network, reflecting its ability to meet the demands of users and applications. As we delve into this topic, we'll explore how network availability is not just about having a connection, but about ensuring that the connection is robust and dependable.
Network Diagnostic Tools for Troubleshooting Issues
Network diagnostics refers to the process of evaluating, analyzing, and resolving issues within a network infrastructure. It encompasses a wide range of activities, from simple checks like ensuring cables are properly connected, to more complex tasks like analyzing network traffic and identifying bottlenecks. The goal is to maintain optimal network performance and ensure the smooth functioning of all connected systems and services. This fundamental step in network management is crucial for organizations to maintain efficient and reliable connectivity.
Wireless Site Survey Types, Costs, Tools, & How to Do Them
A wireless site survey, also known as a WLAN or RF site survey, is the process of planning and designing a wireless network. It is performed to ensure that the wireless network provides sufficient coverage, bandwidth, connectivity, and quality of service for its intended purpose. During the survey, various factors, such as the size and layout of the site, the building material, the number of network users, the type of network usage, and potential sources of interference are all taken into account. The goal is to determine the optimal locations for wireless access points (APs) to provide the best possible signal coverage and strength.
Network Isolation: What it is & How it Works for Security
Network isolation is a design approach that divides or partitions a network into separate segments or subnets, each acting as its own small network. This tactic is used to improve security and performance within a larger network structure. This concept is particularly relevant in complex environments like financial institutions, healthcare, enterprise and college campuses, where the need to protect sensitive data and ensure reliable network performance is paramount. By isolating network segments, organizations can better manage and secure their digital infrastructure.