NetFlash: What the next generation of LAN switch will look like

What the next generation of LAN switch will look like

The LAN switch of the near future could be a device that does a heck of a lot more than LAN switching. Vendors are looking to include more security functions and a multitude of functions to optimize application traffic. Take a peek into the future with our in-depth story.

Day 1 video highlights from DEMO 2006

In today’s special edition of Cool Tools, Keith looks at the hottest companies and products at DEMO 2006, including Ugobe’s Pleo dinosaur and two services that could get you organized: Plum and Kaboodle. Watch it now.

Feds back go-slow approach on IPv6

IPv6 advocates looking for the U.S. federal government to make a major financial commitment to the next-generation of the Internet’s main communications protocol will be disappointed with the findings of a new report from the Department of Commerce. Get the full details in our story.

IPO and new CEO at Vonage

Vonage Holdings filed its initial public offering with the Securities and Exchange Commission on Wednesday. Click here for more.

Nortel agrees to settle shareholder lawsuits

Nortel said it has reached an agreement to settle two shareholder class-action lawsuits for $575 million in cash and 14.5% of Nortel’s current equity. The proposed settlement would total nearly $2.5 billion on an after-tax basis, Nortel said in a statement. Click here for more.

IBM unveils new BladeCenter chassis, blades

IBM Wednesday rolled out a new BladeCenter chassis and several blade servers, including a blade based on the Cell processor IBM is developing with Sony and Toshiba that is used in Sony’s PlayStation game console. Click here for more.

Kevin Tolly: Ethernet looks a lot like token ring

Kevin Tolly argues that “today’s Ethernet is token ring ‘under the hood.'” Follow his reasoning in the full opinion column.

For news updated throughout the day, go to Network World’s NetFlash news page.