N Is For Networking deconstructs the concepts, jargon and acronyms of the data networking industry. Join grumpy old network engineer Ethan Banks with networking...
N4N014: Spanning Tree Part 2 – Root Bridge, Edge Port, Forwarding and Blocking
Welcome to part 2 of our spanning tree series. We start with a quick review and then discuss root bridges, root ports, designated ports, and forwarding and blocked ports. We explain the impact of topology changes on spanning tree and network performance, and discuss how topology changes and convergence events are communicated. Last but not... Read more »
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34:58
N4N013: Spanning Tree Part 1 – An Introduction and Broadcast Storms
Spanning tree is a topic so mysterious and complicated that common advice is just to disable it. In today’s episode, we start a mini-series on spanning tree, hoping to better explain what it is and what it does. We begin with basic spanning tree terminology and its role in preventing loops in an Ethernet network.... Read more »
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52:33
N4N012: Russ White On Why We Need Network Models
Why do we need network models such as OSI? Network architect and author Russ White joins Holly and Ethan to talk about how network models can help engineers ask intelligent questions and understand networking problems. And OSI isn’t your only option–Russ digs into the RINA model and how it compares to OSI (which we covered... Read more »
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49:21
N4N011: What’s the Difference Between LAG, MLAG, MC-LAG, and Stacking?
In today’s episode, we address listener Kieren’s question about the differences between LAG, MLAG, MC-LAG, and stacking. We tackle the nuances of Link Aggregation (LAG) and the Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP), and explain their roles in redundancy and bandwidth efficiency. We also discuss the complexities and differences among vendors and overall benefits of Multi-Chassis... Read more »
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56:22
N4N010: Why Was the Colon Chosen as a Delimiter in IPv6?
It’s history day on N Is For Networking! We learn about the development of IPv6 directly from Bob Hinden, one of the pioneers who made it happen. Bob discusses his journey from early work on ARPANET to his significant contributions to IPv6. We also cover the transition from IPv4, the challenges faced during IPv6’s creation,... Read more »
N Is For Networking deconstructs the concepts, jargon and acronyms of the data networking industry. Join grumpy old network engineer Ethan Banks with networking newcomer Holly Metlitzky for these episodes that will help you place context around networking terminology.