There is no question that wireless networks are taking over. Offices may still have Ethernet cables to each cubicle, but they usually go unused. Wi-Fi is the new LAN. So many devices, tablets, smartphones and even some laptop-type devices, are now wireless only. Today, Wi-Fi is often the primary way end users connect. “While a wired Ethernet connection is generally faster and more reliable, it forces users to be tethered to their desks.

Virtualization is everywhere. We think of virtualization as beginning with PC-based servers then moving onto Linux boxes. But the origins are very different, going all the way back to 1968, when IBM invented virtualization with the release of the IBM System/360 Model 67 mainframe. We all know where it has gone since. PCs, storage and even networks are virtualized. Nowadays, enterprises and SMBs have a wealth of virtual devices and services they must manage and secure, with servers still leading the way.

What is one thing IT can do to make end users the happiest? Deliver a killer network with blazing speed and rock-solid reliability, that’s what. You can’t get that just by tossing in a bunch of bigger, faster pipes. Pipes are not the only answer. You need a holistic view of your network to build a complete and comprehensive plan to keep all your connections on top.

Ever try to fix a network problem with a blindfold on? Do you wonder why users are complaining about crashes and shoddy performance without knowing where to look? This sorry state is because you can’t SEE the network, which makes it murder to DO anything about it.

At Progress, we understand the challenges faced by IT teams in maintaining operational networks. Everything we do is to best serve those tasked with maintaining more seamless operations for an entire environment including network systems, servers, applications and services. We want to confirm that the greenest, first-day sysadmin can sit down in front of a product like Progress WhatsUp Gold and figure out how to use it in minutes.