Features

Features

Managed network services technology

• Healthcare IoT's next steps come into focus

  Industry watchers believe healthcare IoT is approaching an inflection point. Channel partners can assist in the next step in developing a strategy for existing data.  Continue Reading

• SD-WAN for home workers becomes partner opportunity

  SD-WAN technology is seeing increased customer interest due to the sudden expansion of remote workforces. IT service providers are offering product advice and implementation help.  Continue Reading

• OST helps grill maker migrate connected products

  Traeger Grills asked a managed service provider to migrate its IoT-enabled grillers to a new cloud platform. The four-month transition has Traeger cooking with AWS.  Continue Reading

• MSPAlliance: What's next for the managed services industry

  In part two of our interview with the CEO of MSPAlliance, we discuss the continued influence of cybersecurity on the managed services industry and the opportunities that lay ahead.  Continue Reading

• 5G opportunities for channel partners yet to take shape

  At the beginning of 2020, many aspects of 5G technology remain abstract, but channel partners can benefit by preparing their customers for future deployments.  Continue Reading

• How NWN enabled an N.C. town's digital initiatives

  Since 2007, technology services provider NWN has been helping the town of Cary realize its digital aspirations and modernize its IT. Get insight into their enduring partnership.  Continue Reading

• CPaaS market could boost partners with the right skills

  Channel companies that want to become CPaaS partners should expect to encounter a new set of buyers, a rapidly changing technology and the need for coding skills.  Continue Reading

• SD-WAN demo lab lets partner's clients try before they buy

  As the SD-WAN market heats up, MNJ Technologies has launched a demo lab that includes technology from vendors such as Cisco, Fortinet, Oracle and Silver Peak.  Continue Reading

• Skype-to-Teams migration revs Microsoft partner services

  Microsoft partners believe organizations will be in the market for migration planning, change management and governance services as they migrate from Skype to Teams.  Continue Reading

• Workplace by Facebook partners evolve as demand grows

  The Workplace by Facebook partner ecosystem has expanded to include more channel partners, as well as technology providers covering everything from analytics to security.  Continue Reading

• Microsoft Teams platform emerges as training, governance opportunity

  Microsoft Teams governance, training and other services are emerging as business opportunities for channel partners working with Microsoft's collaboration platform.  Continue Reading

• Reseller business model transformation pivots on cultural change

  MNJ Technologies, a once fast-growing VAR, found its sales were stagnating. Here's how it got back on track with its effort to push beyond the reseller business model.  Continue Reading

• Democratization of AI, 5G nets among top 2019 opportunities

  Channel partners may find opportunities in artificial intelligence, 5G networks and the rise of enterprise 3D printing as 2019 unfolds, according to a Deloitte report.  Continue Reading

• Unified communications market sees demand for customized offerings

  Channel partners can use unified communications APIs to help customers simplify business workflows. Learn about this niche opportunity and what trends will shape the market.  Continue Reading

• Cloud, edge, technology for small businesses top 2019 trends

  From the cloud 'foundation of innovation' to intelligent edge computing, channel partners will have numerous technology developments to consider in 2019.  Continue Reading

• Mobile management services offer SI, reseller opportunities

  Mobile lifecycle management services offer opportunities for a range of companies, including resellers, systems integrators, outsourcers and communications service providers.  Continue Reading

• Edge computing market: Far-reaching opportunities for channel partners

  The confluence of edge computing and IoT are generating a broad range of partner opportunities. Learn about the scope of the edge computing market and skills needed to pursue it.  Continue Reading

• Early-stage companies reach out to channel partners

  Bigleaf, CloudZero, Rescale are among the early-stage companies investigating alliances with channel partners as they seek help with sales and support.  Continue Reading

• ERP-EDI integration: Partners rely on speed, flexibility

  BAASS Business Solutions is partnering with trading partner connectivity specialist TrueCommerce to support customers who need core ERP-EDI integration.  Continue Reading

• Unified communications as a service: The next generation

  New-look UCaaS solutions are opening opportunities for channel partners that can navigate differing customer needs, regulatory environments and the security landscape.  Continue Reading

• Expect 5G infrastructure to generate new wave of channel opportunities

  It's time to think about 5G. The widespread rollout of 5G infrastructure is likely to create new prospects for channel-provided solutions and services, industry experts say.  Continue Reading

• SD-WAN market growth sparks new channel services

  SD-WAN services are growing in popularity and IT solutions providers are looking to boost their revenue in the rapidly expanding managed SD-WAN market segment.  Continue Reading

• Cisco strategy bets on software to deal with cloud shift

  Cisco has embarked on a technology transition as it deals with the effects of cloud computing and the virtualization of networking functions via software.  Continue Reading

• IoT managed services: How channel partners can get started in 2017

  Channel partners can capture a slice of the growing IoT managed services market if they can overcome the steep learning curve.  Continue Reading

• Amazon Chime: Channel execs see potential, room for improvement

  Channel partners said Amazon's new Chime unified communications offering has the potential to disrupt the market, but may need additional features to boost its competitive stance.  Continue Reading

• Software defined networking projects: Channel can expect more work

  SDN projects are hindered by complexity and a lack of client skills, but those factors could also help channel partners land consulting gigs with customers seeking expertise.  Continue Reading

• IoT tutorial: Mitigating security risks in connected environments

  In this IoT tutorial, we examine the key security vulnerabilities that your clients face in connected environments and offer strategies to mitigate the risks.  Continue Reading

• Software-defined networking tutorial to improve security

  In this software-defined networking tutorial, we examine SDN's unique vulnerabilities and experts weigh in with advice about protecting your clients against attacks.  Continue Reading

• SD-WAN technology offers channel partner opportunities

  SD-WAN promises to reduce the cost and complexity of WANs, while boosting the performance of real-time applications, according to channel partners and tech vendors.  Continue Reading

• VMware's NSX: Integrator deploys SDN tech at CBOSS

  CBOSS, a payment processing service provider, hired integrator AdvizeX to deploy NSX, the VMware network virtualization platform, as part of a software-defined networking project.  Continue Reading

• Software-defined networking market growth could benefit channel partners

  While SDN market size grows, channel partners stand to benefit from the technology's ease-of-management features.  Continue Reading

• How to deliver a mix of unified communications services

  Channel partners may offer customers a number of unified communications services, such as integration, cloud hosting and infrastructure management.  Continue Reading

• What are the challenges of managed communications services?

  Of all the managed services types that solution providers can potentially offer, managed communications has proven to be among the knottiest. Learn about the difficulties involved in delivering them and evaluating prospective partnerships.  Continue Reading

• Key skill sets for capturing the booming enterprise mobility market

  IT solution providers need a fairly broad set of skills to tap into the range of enterprise mobility demands. Read up on the skill sets that channel firms are obtaining to bolster their mobility practices.  Continue Reading

• IDC: Channel market to grow for server, storage, networking hardware

  The forecast for indirect sales of server, storage and enterprise networking hardware is a good one, says IDC. Analyst Paul Edwards breaks down each channel market.  Continue Reading

• How to add value, boost margin in maturing managed services market

  Managed service providers change their business strategies to overcome commoditization and price erosion in the managed services market.  Continue Reading

• DDI technology takes the work out of IP address administration

  Take note of DNS/DHCP and IPAM (DDI), three behind-the-scenes network infrastructure technologies that have changed IP address administration.  Continue Reading

• Telecom, IT providers engage in turf wars, partnerships as they face the cloud

  Telecom and cable companies are eyeing ground traditionally held by IT solution providers as both face the encroaching cloud services market.  Continue Reading

• Selling unified communications services: One VAR’s story

  Unified communications is no longer considered an extra – it’s a must. One VAR talks about what’s necessary for selling unified communications to customers.  Continue Reading

• FAQ guide: Bandwidth management services projects

  Bandwidth management services can be a lucrative addition to any networking solution provider's portfolio. Learn how to provide bandwidth management products and services in this FAQ guide with IT expert Ron Barrett.  Continue Reading

• Siemens Partner Program Checklist

  This Partner Program Checklist examines Siemens' partner program, including the different tiers and what partners can expect out of the program.  Continue Reading

• Scenarios for meeting customer network design requirements

  Test your skill at fulfilling customer network design requirements and prepare for the CCDA exam with chapter 17 from 'CCDA Official Exam Certification Guide, 3rd ed.' by Bruno & Jordan.  Continue Reading

• Next-generation network convergence: Transforming the business model

  Service providers need to establish a strong return on investment (ROI) as they build out their converged IP networks. Creating a network transformation plan will enable service providers to maximize the value offered by next-generation networks. ...  Continue Reading

• Designing basic campus and data center networks

  This chapter from "Designing for Cisco Internetwork Solutions (DESGN)" (Authorized CCDA Self-Study Guide) (Exam 640-863), 2nd Edition, introduces general campus switching and data center design considerations. Learn campus design considerations, ...  Continue Reading

• SearchNetworkingChannel.com blogs

  SearchNetworkingChannel.com's collection of blogs is here to help you navigate the news and opinions of all of our networking blogs, including our Changing the Channel networking reseller blog.  Continue Reading

• Offering network analysis in virtualized environments

  Offering network analysis and network monitoring services can be a lucrative business, but needs change when network analysis meets network virtualization. Learn the best practices for offering network analysis services in virtualized environments.  Continue Reading

• Advanced routing and switching considerations

  Routing and switching, the core functions of any network, are becoming more intelligent, with even low-end products now including features once only available to enterprise data centers. Learn the routing and switching considerations that every ...  Continue Reading

• Tech Watch: Telepresence solutions

  Telepresence solutions may just be recession-proof, and solution providers looking to enter the telepresence market will find a range of technologies for companies big and small to choose from.  Continue Reading

• Detecting worms

  This section of our chapter excerpt on network algorithms teaches how to detect worms using Code Red and Smaller technologies and how each can present slow response and constant effort.  Continue Reading

• Searching for multiple strings in packet payloads

  This section of our chapter excerpt on network algorithms explains how to use the Aho-Corasick algorithm for searching for multiple strings in one pass and the the classical approach of the Boyer-Moore algorithm.  Continue Reading

• Network design documentation

  Inadequate network documentation can lead to a multitude of problems for solution providers. Learn the importance of network documentation and what network design documentation a solution provider needs from customers.  Continue Reading

• Implementing robust network design projects

  In order to execute seamless network design projects, it is crucial for solution providers to understand their clients' need for minimum downtime and network flexibility. Learn about some of the most important considerations for a robust network ...  Continue Reading

• Network design considerations checklist for providers

  There are many network design considerations that every solution provider should take into account before embarking on a network design project. Knowing these trends and caveats will help you make the best network design planning and network design ...  Continue Reading

• Network infrastructure FAQ

  There are many components involved in a network infrastructure project. In this FAQ, Allen Zuk discusses how to manage a network infrastructure project, what kinds of technologies and equipment you'll need and how to deal with long-term operational ...  Continue Reading

• Password-protecting a router

  This section of the chapter excerpt focuses on one level of security -- password protection -- for routers.  Continue Reading

• Configuring privilege levels

  This section of the chapter excerpt focuses on supporting multiple administrative levels of router configuration.  Continue Reading

• Cisco Security Device Manager Overview

  This section of the chapter excerpt introduces Security Device Manager (SDM) and how to configure, launch and navigate it.  Continue Reading

• Channel Explained: Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)

  VoIP has emerged as a convenient, reliable and cost-effective network option for businesses of all sizes. In this Channel Explained you'll learn how VoIP works, what to consider before deploying it in a company, and how to take advantage of the ...  Continue Reading

• Tackle WAN connectivity issues before planning network DR

  WAN connectivity is a vulnerable, but critical, issue to consider in network disaster recovery. Learn about some of these issues and how to apply them to successful network disaster recovery planning.  Continue Reading

• Mobile computing service opportunities

  The growing trend of mobile computing is creating numerous opportunities for resellers and service providers. Find out how you can grow your business by offering mobile computing services.  Continue Reading

• Mobile device security strategies

  The iPhone 3G is crystallizing the security problems in integrating personal mobile devices with corporate resources. Learn what strategies and tools you can put in place to help customers address the increasing infiltration of mobile devices.  Continue Reading

• Performing server agent installations

  This section of the chapter excerpt covers performing server agent installations of the OSSEC HIDS.  Continue Reading

• Downloading OSSEC HIDS

  This section of the chapter excerpt reviews and provides step-by-step approaches downloading OSSEC HIDS.  Continue Reading

• Installing the Windows agent

  This section of the chapter excerpt covers the steps to undertake when installing the windows agent of the OSSEC HIDS.  Continue Reading

• Network IDS/IPS vendors

  Before deciding on a network intrusion detection or intrusion prevention system (IDS/IPS), check out this Partner Program Directory. Use these checklists to compare partner programs of network IDS/IPS vendors.  Continue Reading

• The mobile device management problem (and opportunity)

  Mobile devices are proliferating in enterprises, and IT managers are faced with trying to manage a problem that's out of control. This first installment of our Hot Spot Tutorial on mobile device management analyzes the implications of smart phones, ...  Continue Reading

• Cisco Unified Communications Manager review quiz

  This section provides review questions on the material covered in the previous sections of the chapter excerpt.  Continue Reading

• Channel Explained: 10 Gigabit Ethernet

  Businesses are demanding more from their networks, and technology is responding. With the availability of 10 Gigabit Ethernet (10 GigE) and compatible products, should you be upgrading your clients' infrastructures? In this Channel Explained you'll ...  Continue Reading

• What are the criteria for successful network performance management?

  Network performance management must meet the client's goals, and every client is different. Solution providers must understand the client's definition of success and apply those criteria to the current project.  Continue Reading

• What are the challenges of a network performance management project?

  Ultimately the solution provider is responsible for effective and efficient deployments, and verifying that the client's network performance management project meets their expectations. A solution provider should take the time to master a particular...  Continue Reading

• Cisco Unified Communications Manager summary

  This section summarizes and reviews the topics covered in this chapter excerpt of Cisco Unified Communications Manager.  Continue Reading

• Cisco Unified Communications Manager licensing

  This section of the chapter excerpt focuses on the certification and licensing opportunities of Cisco Unified Communications Manager.  Continue Reading

• Cisco Unified Communications Manager - Hardware, Software and Clustering

  This chapter excerpt covers the compatible hardware and software for Cisco Unified Communications Manager, as well as its clustering capabilities.  Continue Reading

• Cisco Unified Communications Manager Architecture - Introduction

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• Cisco Unified Communications Manager Overview

  This chapter excerpt provides a general overview and explains some of the new features of Cisco Unified Communications Manager.  Continue Reading

• Summary of Check Point's NGX R65

  This last section of the chapter excerpt will summarize the material covered in the previous chapters.  Continue Reading

• Understanding the impact of high-availability applications on the network

  Applications and their data must be available in order to be useful. Value-added resellers and solution providers must ensure application availability any time new software is added or updated, or any time that changes are made to the client's ...  Continue Reading

• The best networking products as chosen by customers

  Choosing networking products for your line card can be a challenge. We recommend you begin by considering the hardware and software businesses like best. Here you'll find the top three networking products as chosen by SearchNetworking.com readers in...  Continue Reading

• What routing protocols will you use in a network design project?

  OSPF and EIGRP are popular routing protocols and both can play a role in network design projects. Learn the differences between OSPF and EIGRP routing protocols and why each one brings benefits to your network design.  Continue Reading

• What are the physical network considerations?

  The physical network, including the network cables, is an important part of any network design project. Learn best practices for making sure the physical network is properly configured and the WANs and LANs are able to support the business needs of ...  Continue Reading

• How to set up a network to optimize performance and reliability

  A reliable network begins with a sound setup. Learn five tips for optimizing your customers' networks for performance and reliability.  Continue Reading

• What is the purpose of the network being designed?

  Before beginning any network infrastructure design project for a client, the first question to ask is what the purpose of the network is. Knowing the answer to this question is vital as you scope out the project.  Continue Reading

• What is the client's IT budget for the network design project?

  While all clients have expectations for their network design projects, not all have allocated the money needed to accomplish their objectives. Learn why asking about IT budget will help you and your customers get more clarity about what can and ...  Continue Reading

• How to install a wireless LAN for businesses

  Installing a WLAN for business clients requires careful planning, as explained in this second installment of our Hot Spot Tutorial on WLAN installation services.  Continue Reading

• Introduction to network centralization and decentralization

  Network centralization is an attempt to improve efficiency by taking advantage of potential economies of scale. Decentralization is an attempt to improve speed and flexibility by reorganizing networks to increase local control and execution of a ...  Continue Reading

• Guiding principles of network centralization and decentralization

  You don't have to guess whether it makes sense to opt for network centralization or network decentralization for your clients. Using these best practices, such as listening to the needs of your clients and tapping your professional experience, ...  Continue Reading

• Conclusions about network centralization and decentralization

  Network centralization and network decentralization are about making changes. When making such pervasive changes, experts recommend that you consider these guiding principles: know what specific problem you are solving; understand your motivation ...  Continue Reading

• Case studies in network centralization and decentralization

  Network centralization and decentralization projects promise to save companies money, improve network performance and help everyone to do their job more efficiently. But sometimes such projects fail to deliver on some of those promises. By looking ...  Continue Reading

• How can the operator test Snort?

  There are various ways to test Snort's intrusion detection capabilities, including setting rules and running tools such as IDSWakeup.  Continue Reading

• How does Snort's flavor of intrusion detection work?

  Snort is a powerful intrusion detection tool. Learn how it leverages traffic patterns to detect security risks.  Continue Reading

• How to provide VoIP services and generate new leads

  If you provide VoIP services, your business has the potential to add new features to your clients' communications systems, as compared to providing traditional TDM-based systems. Learn how providing VoIP services could be a great way to increase ...  Continue Reading

• Should I use a large central network firewall at the core or smaller distributed firewalls?

  Learn when to recommend a large distributed network to a client as opposed to smaller distributed firewalls.  Continue Reading

• Is it possible to measure network firewall throughput?

  Learn why rating firewalls by network throughput is a challenge and can lead to a large disparity between the vendor rating and the firewall's actual performance. The problem is compounded because few organizations know how many packets per second ...  Continue Reading

• What are the benefits of seperating network firewall and VPN services?

  Learn the two cases where separating a client's network firewall and VPN functions can be a significant benefit to an organization.  Continue Reading

• The benefits of VoIP

  VoIP's features can save your customers money and integrate with other services to round out your sales and service options. Learn about the benefits of VoIP, from cost efficiency to customer satisfaction.  Continue Reading

• Top five Snort tips

  Snort can be immensely helpful as an intrusion detection system on your clients' networks. Check out our most useful tips on basics such configuration and troubleshooting, and advanced topics, such as upgrading, compiled from the Snort Report.  Continue Reading

• Top five network security concerns

  Securing a computer network requires mastery of many skills and concepts -- network design, device configuration, protocols, etc. As an expert on sister site SearchSecurity.com, Mike Chapple, CISSP, answers end users questions on these topics and ...  Continue Reading

• How to design and implement a business VoIP network

  Once you've established that a customer's hardware and network connection can support business VoIP services, the next step is to design and the implement those services. Learn the basics of designing and implementing a simple end-to-end VoIP ...  Continue Reading

• Examining unified Snort output

  Take a look at Snort's unified output.  Continue Reading

• Barnyard processing logs for Snort

  How Barnyard processes Snort IDS logs.  Continue Reading