Flexible solutions for a dynamic world

Network management is considered by many to be a mature, well-defined space where there is no longer a need to make careful, deliberative decisions regarding tools, technologies and practices. After all, once everything moved to Ethernet the rest is easy, right? Anyone with that opinion today is clearly unaware of the major tidal wave of challenges facing network managers now. The advent of virtualized server architectures, Cloud services, and a potentially massive onslaught of new network-connected devices raises new levels of concern about the risks posed by anything less than a continuously high performing, highly reliable network. After all, every business- or mission-critical application is of little use if the network is unable to deliver it to workers, partners and customers in a way that meets their needs.

These changes in the operating environment are a wake-up call, and IT leaders should take this opportunity to reassess their network management strategies, making sure their approaches are ready to support the next phase of tactical and strategic growth.