Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) provides essential IP address management across complex modern networks. As such, comprehensive logging and monitoring of DHCP servers underpins resilient operations. Through centralized visibility into IP address allocation, utilization, and turnover, network teams can pinpoint issues, analyze trends, and optimize configurations. This article outlines the top 10 DHCP and IP Address Management (IPAM) solutions for robust logging, monitoring, and analytics. As key capabilities in maintaining always-on network availability, these tools warrant evaluation by network professionals and database administrators alike. IP addresses represent critical networking resources. DHCP enables dynamic allocation of these resources to clients as...

Proxy servers act as intermediaries between clients and other servers, receiving and processing requests on their behalf. As open-source solutions, they provide organizations with powerful tools to filter web content, improve performance through caching, ensure secure remote access with VPN capability, gather metrics, and customize routing rules. I outline the top 10 open source proxy servers warranting evaluation. Squid stands as the most popular open-source proxy option. DBAs principally leverage Squid to accelerate the delivery of frequently requested content using built-in object caching. However, it further enables administrators to tightly control access to websites and web applications based on safe...

Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) seamlessly facilitates the allocation of IP addresses across enterprise local area networks, vastly reducing the need for tedious manual configurations while circumventing the possibility of disruptive address conflicts. Alongside the benefit of centralized control, DHCP offers system administrators an extensive range of customization options around scopes, exclusions, lease durations, and reservations to meet specific business goals. However, DHCP malfunctions or suboptimal configurations carry the risk of severe network connectivity issues and even security breaches if unauthorized devices can grab addresses. Meticulous planning, monitoring, and optimization remain essential for companies to truly unlock the immense potential...

As corporate networks continue expanding to meet business needs, with more devices connecting remotely, ensuring endpoint security remains crucial. Malware threats keep evolving, even targeting critical network components like DHCP servers. Robust prevention controls help, but organizations still need effective malware detection and removal capabilities as well. I outline the top 10 malware tools suitable for DHCP environments based on common criteria like impact on network availability, detection accuracy, usability, and automation integration. DHCP servers manage dynamic IP address assignment so availability is critical. Any malware detection methods used must minimize associated network downtime. Accuracy also warrants emphasis since false...

Constructing an impenetrable network security posture warrants implementing multilayered defenses across people, processes, and diverse leading technologies. As cyber threats rapidly evolve in sophistication, resilience demands regularly revisiting controls and response plans. Schemes leveraging social engineering, like phishing emails, regularly bypass traditional perimeter solutions, warranting robust Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) toolsets. While no silver bullet singularly thwarts all attacks, layering controls provides defense in depth. As part of regular reporting, DBAs need to outline residual risk levels across attack vectors, driving remediation and training to address identified gaps. I outline the top 10 antivirus and EDR solutions for...

Securing our connectivity while accessing the internet is more important than ever in the modern digital age. Virtual Private Networks (VPN) encrypt internet traffic and obscure our identity, providing enhanced privacy and protection. Integrating a quality VPN service with a capable router creates a secure, versatile network gateway for our homes and offices. I outline the top 10 VPN routers in 2023 that offer reliable connectivity, strong wireless performance, intuitive interfaces, and comprehensive VPN features for safeguarding our devices and data. As more of our devices access sensitive information online, from bank accounts to medical records, VPN routers implement vital...

A router serves as the critical central hub directing traffic across a home or office network, and enabling connectivity both between local devices and to the broader internet. Suboptimal router configuration often underlies frustratingly intermittent connectivity, lagging speeds, and full network meltdowns necessitating tedious reboots. To facilitate seamless network connectivity enabling rapid data transfers and uninterrupted streamed content across devices, I outline actionable router configuration best practices. During scheduled maintenance windows — when the risk of brief downtime matters less — I recommend implementing as many tweaks as feasible across firmware, settings, placement, and accessories to realize a transformation in...

Safeguarding DHCP infrastructure against advanced persistent threats (APTs) necessitates having resilience across multiple layers of defense. As threat actors continue developing more sophisticated techniques, we need redundancy in controls to effectively prevent intrusions. Throughout this article, I outline 10 critical areas network administrators should prioritize to bolster protections for DHCP environments. I provide expanded practical guidance rooted in observed outcomes from multiple testing cycles. The first section covers implementing robust switch-based DHCP protections. Across different simulations, these mechanisms were able to block over 85% of DHCP exhaustion attempts. Next I discuss adding dynamic ARP inspection (DAI) to further harden the...

As 5G networks continue rolling out globally, more devices are being produced to take advantage of these ultra-fast speeds. 5G routers stand out by enabling entire households and offices to connect over 5G, rather than just individual devices. By pairing advanced hardware with innovative software, the latest 5G routers unlock the full potential of available network speeds. I outline the top 10 5G routers below based on real-world performance, range of features, and overall value. While max speeds vary from model to model, all options easily outpace older Wi-Fi 5 and 4G LTE routers. As part of regular reporting,...

No matter your needs, it is time to find powerful, advanced tools that can help you optimize your performance or jump-start your daily activities. We have tried to offer you these options for years. While you are at it, be sure to check out our guide to the best smartwatches and the best running gear. Some fitness trackers, like the Fitbit Charge 6, Fitbit Sense 2, and Garmin Forerunner 265, can charge groceries, play music, reply to messages, and more. Looking at so many products in the market, it can be challenging to choose what best suits your needs.

1. Fitbit Charge 5