Packets Down Range #30:Lumen, Databank, and investments in networks

Greetings from the great frozen Tundra of Indiana. It was 21 degrees today, which has been a heatwave. In this issue, we have a lot of data center news. Lunmen shuts down their CDN, Databank expands, and some great tech topics. Data Center News •DataBank expands in Utah. •DigitalBridge announced a 6.4 Billion equity investment … Read more

Unveiling the Versatile Applications of VXLAN in Modern Networking

close up photo of network switch

VXLAN, standing for Virtual Extensible LAN, offers many applications that cater to the evolving needs of modern networking paradigms. 1. Data Center Interconnectivity VXLAN plays a pivotal role in connecting geographically dispersed data centers. Encapsulating Layer 2 Ethernet frames within Layer 3 UDP packets facilitates seamless communication across disparate data center environments. This empowers businesses … Read more

What is Buffer Bloat in network switches?

fiber optic switch with bright connectors in studio

What is Buffer Bloat? Buffer bloat refers to excessive data buffering within network devices such as routers or switches. These devices utilize buffers to hold incoming and outgoing data packets temporarily. However, when these buffers become overfilled due to congestion or mismatches in data transfer speeds, it increases latency and reduces network performance. How Does … Read more

Demystifying Commonly Misused IT Terms

black and gray laptop computer turned on doing computer codes

In the fast-paced realm of technology, jargon, and buzzwords often take center stage. Yet, amidst the whirlwind of innovation, some terms are misused or misunderstood, leading to confusion rather than clarity. Let’s untangle a few of these commonly misused IT terms and shed light on their accurate definitions. 1. Cloud Computing vs. The Cloud Misconception: … Read more

DWDM C-Band and L-Band channels

Fiber Optic

In my continuing series on DWDM, we are talking about commonly accepted channels in DWDM C-Band and L-Band. In previous posts, I talked about what DWDM is and wavelengths. The chart below showcases the DWDM channel numbers and their respective wavelengths within the C-band, enabling multiplexing and high-capacity data transmission across these frequencies within the … Read more

DWDW wavelength Grid and Bands

fiber optic device with many connected cables

In a previous article, I wrote about understanding what DWDM is. This article will dive into what channels and wavelengths are available in DWDM systems. DWDM systems adhere to a standardized wavelength grid, typically spaced at intervals of 0.8, 0.4, or even 0.2 nanometers. These channels are grouped into bands, such as the C-band (Conventional … Read more

The Challenge of Cell Phone Reception Inside Data Centers: Exploring Connectivity Solutions

Data centers, designed with robust materials to shield against electromagnetic interference and protect sensitive equipment, inadvertently hinder cell phone reception. Thick concrete walls, metal structures, and specialized insulation that secure the integrity of the data center’s environment act as barriers, impeding cellular signals from penetrating the facility. Importance of Cell Phone Connectivity: Bridging the Gap … Read more

The Vital Importance of Diverse Power Entries in Data Centers

black hardwares on data server room

Diverse power entries refer to providing multiple, independent electrical power sources to a data center. Rather than relying solely on a single power feed, this setup involves multiple entry points from distinct utility sources or grids. This redundancy acts as a shield, shielding the data center from unforeseen power failures, outages, or fluctuations. Mitigating Risks: … Read more

How does Power Over Ethernet (POE) work?

cables connected to ethernet ports

Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology allows electrical power and data to be transmitted together over standard Ethernet cables, typically Cat5e, Cat6, or Cat7 cables. It eliminates the need for separate power cables, simplifying installations and providing power to devices like IP cameras, VoIP phones, wireless access points, and other networked devices. 1. Ethernet Cable Transmission: … Read more

Packets Down Range #29:Google,Blu Broadband, L4S

Christmas is rapidly approaching. I hope this edition finds you well and as stress-free as you can be for the holidays. In the networking world, the time between Thanksgiving and New Year’s is fairly laid back. Data Centers scale down their work as do service provider networks. Folks are taking time off, and their customers … Read more

Categories to tags

Over the next several weeks, I will convert some categories to Tags. I am doing this to streamline finding relevant content on this blog as well as my ability to quickly post items.