Stephen Foskett was a guest on the Techstrong Gang on September 17, where he discussed his observations from AI Field Day 5. Stephen provided an overview of AI Field Day, emphasizing its focus on practical applications of AI, such as productizing large language models (LLMs) and the development of AI agents that can automate processes, moving past the limited scope of chatbots. He also discussed advances in networking from Cisco and Arista, the radical new Ethernet fabric solution from Enfabrica, and the agentic AI platform created by Integrail.
Cisco Aims to Operationalize GenAI in Enterprises With AI-Ready FlexPod with NVIDIA NIM CVD
Cisco, in collaboration with NVIDIA, is paving the way for the integration of generative AI in enterprise environments with the introduction of the AI-Ready FlexPod. This technology leverages NVIDIA’s NIM CVD to enhance computational capabilities, aiming to streamline the deployment and management of AI applications. This initiative represents a significant step in operationalizing AI technologies, offering scalability and efficiency improvements for enterprise IT systems. Read more in this Techstrong AI article by Sulagna Saha following Cisco’s presentation at AI Field Day 5.
Cisco Ethernet and validated designs at AI Field Day
At AI Field Day, Cisco demonstrated its latest advancements in Ethernet technology and validated designs, underscoring the importance of sturdy network infrastructure for AI applications. Their presentation focused on the improved performance, scalability, and security of their Ethernet solutions, designed to help organizations efficiently utilize AI. This initiative exhibited Cisco’s dedication to innovation in networking and artificial intelligence, ensuring enterprises have the reliable network performance needed to optimize their AI investments. Read more in this LinkedIn Pulse article by Alastair Cooke.
Cisco Says AI Networking Is Just Another Workload
During Cisco’s presentation at AI Field Day 5 the company positioned AI networking as a regular workload appearing in enterprise IT environments. The company highlighted the importance of a flexible network structure capable of handling varied workloads, leveraging their robust cloud networking foundation seen in products like UCS and Nexus to manage the demands of AI technologies. Despite the challenges associated with GPU clusters, Cisco remains optimistic about using its existing software-defined networking solutions to support AI applications, with the pragmatic adoption by early users shaping the future integration of AI in networking strategies. Read more in this LinkedIn Pulse article by Justin Warren.
The Shifting Focus of AI at AI Field Day 5
AI Field Day 5 is coming on September 11-13, reflecting the shift in enterprise AI from large-scale models to practical applications, including vector databases and agentic AI. The event will gather industry leaders like Cisco, VMware, Keysight, and Arista to explore real-world applications, AI-ready infrastructures, and private AI solutions. Attendees will also hear from companies like Integrail, Elastic, and Enfabrica to learn about next-generation AI capabilities. Tune in live on LinkedIn or Techstrong TV!
Taming Architectural Complexities of DCN Fabric Technologies with Cisco Nexus One Fabric Experience
Cisco’s Nexus One Fabric technology, as presented at Tech Field Day Extra at Cisco Live, aims to simplify the complexities of Data Center Network (DCN) fabrics by offering a unified, automated solution. The Cisco Nexus One Fabric Experience centralizes management, allowing users to efficiently oversee diverse networking environments while reducing operational overhead. Through this approach, Cisco addresses the challenges of modern, multi-layered data center architectures, enhancing visibility, control, and scalability for network operators. The solution is designed to streamline operations and support the evolving needs of today’s data centers. Read more in this article by Sulagna Saha for Gestalt IT.
Feeling like a Puppet
Jeff McLaughlin shares his experiences transitioning from Cisco to Juniper Networks, highlighting the challenges he faced while learning about network programmability and Puppet. He describes how he grappled with presenting Puppet’s integration with Nexus devices at Networking Field Day 11 shortly after changing companies, despite his initial unfamiliarity with the technology. McLaughlin reflects on the irony of mastering Puppet for a single presentation, overcoming his public speaking fears, and never using the tool again, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of tech careers and the value of adaptability.
Cisco Talks Wi-Fi 7 MLO Security at MFD11
At Mobility Field Day 11, Cisco’s Nick Swiatecki presented the intricacies of security in Wi-Fi 7, with a focus on Multi-Link Operation (MLO) security enhancements. He stressed the importance of uniform Authentication and Key Management across all bands to ensure seamless client transitions, and also introduced additional, advanced AKMs tailored for Wi-Fi 7 environments. These insights underscore the increasing complexity in network management needed to adapt to new standards like Wi-Fi 7, pointing towards a future where engineers must continually adapt to maintain effective security frameworks. Read more in this article by Mark Houtz.
Building Quantum-Resistant Encryption Systems, with Cisco
Sulagna Saha recently wrote about Cisco’s presentation at Tech Field Day Extra at Cisco Live US 2024, highlighting Cisco’s pivotal role in shaping quantum-resistant technologies to fortify encryption against emerging quantum threats. Cisco’s development of quantum switches, a Quantum Network Design Kit Simulator, and a Quantum Random Number Generator underlines its commitment to pioneering quantum network infrastructure. This initiative not only secures existing encryption methods from quantum computing risks but also advances the fields of cryptography and distributed computing.
Act on the Highest Priority Cyber Incidents with Speed and Success, with Cisco XDR
Cisco XDR enhances cybersecurity operations by implementing the OODA loop decision-making framework to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of Security Operations Centers (SOCs). The system streamlines the process of identifying, prioritizing, and responding to cyber threats by aggregating data from various security tools and using analytics to automate responses. By focusing on high-priority incidents and adapting swiftly to new challenges, Cisco XDR fundamentally transforms incident management in SOCs. Read more in this article by Sulagna Saha for Gestalt IT following Cisco’s presentation at Tech Field Day Extra at Cisco Live.
Take Daily Measurements of User Experience across the Network with New DXA Innovations from Cisco ThousandEyes
When a user wants to use an app, the request goes through many paths and networks before reaching its destination, which makes it essential for network providers to have clear visibility of all these connections. ThousandEyes introduced new solutions at Cisco Live US 2024 to give a top-notch online experience by understanding network issues, monitoring cloud services, and analyzing traffic patterns for better performance. Read more in this article by Sulagna Saha for Gestalt IT following Cisco’s presentation at Tech Field Day Extra at Cisco Live.
Cisco Redefines the Scope of Automation with Crosswork Solutions
Cisco is pushing the boundaries of network management with its innovative Crosswork solutions, emphasizing a holistic and scalable approach to automation across its entire networking portfolio. The Crosswork suite is designed to enhance operational efficiency, improve network visibility, and reduce complexities through sophisticated data analytics and machine learning capabilities. This strategic shift not only responds to the growing demands for more agile and resilient networks but also aligns with modern IT infrastructures’ need for automation to handle increasingly complex tasks. Read more coverage of Cisco Live by Sulagna Saha at Gestalt IT.
Cisco Shifts Direction with SD-WAN for Industrial IoT
Cisco is making significant strides in the Industrial IoT space with its latest directional shift toward SD-WAN technologies. This new strategy enhances connectivity and security for industrial environments, aligning with modern demands for robust, scalable network infrastructure. Writing for Gestalt IT, Sulagna Saha provides an in-depth analysis of how Cisco’s SD-WAN solutions are set to transform IoT deployments in industrial settings following their presentation at Cisco Live.
Cisco Revamps Meraki MX Platform With New Features, and Enables SNOC With XDR Integration
Sulagna Saha from Gestalt IT discusses the latest updates to Cisco’s Meraki MX platform, highlighting new features that enhance its capability as a secure networking solution. The platform’s integration with Secure Network Operations Center (SNOC) and Extended Detection and Response (XDR) positions it as a robust tool for tackling complex security challenges. These advancements are set to offer businesses an improved, unified approach to managing and securing their networks. Read more in this article, inspired by Cisco’s presentation at Cisco Live!
The Legacy of Cisco Live
Tom Hollingsworth reflects on the enduring legacy of Cisco Live, painting a vivid picture of its evolution from a modest professional gathering to a pivotal industry event. His article captures the essence of the conference’s growth, highlighting how it has become a touchstone for networking professionals to learn, collaborate, and be inspired by Cisco’s innovations. Hollingworth’s retrospective underscores the pivotal role Cisco Live plays in shaping the networking community and driving the industry forward.
Tech Field Day Session: Quantum Networking Initiatives at Cisco Live
The Futurum Group analyst Paul Nashawaty considers the latest advancements in Quantum Networking as presented during a Tech Field Day session at Cisco Live. The initiative highlights Cisco’s foray into quantum technologies and their potential integration with current networking frameworks. His piece foresees how these early discussions and pioneering initiatives around Quantum Networking are signposts for the future of connectivity and data processing.
GPS-Enabled Automatic Access Point Placement
Jennifer Huber discusses an innovative development in the networking space with the introduction of GPS-enabled automatic placement for access points. This new technology simplifies the deployment process, ensuring optimal positioning and performance for wireless networks. Her blog post delves into the benefits and potential implications of this advancement, which promises to enhance accuracy and efficiency in network design and implementation. Read more in this article, inspired by Cisco’s presentation at Mobility Field Day 11.
Elevating User Experience With Cisco Digital Experience Assurance
Sulagna Saha explores how Cisco Digital Experience Assurance is poised to elevate user experience by proactively monitoring network performance and application delivery in this Mobility Field Day article. This solution leverages advanced analytics and insights to ensure optimal digital experiences across various environments. The article highlights Cisco’s focus on enhancing the end-user experience, ensuring that IT teams can swiftly address and preempt potential issues.
Cisco’s Update on Digital Experience & Assurance-Where Is It Heading ?
Cisco’s focus on Digital Experience and Assurance was a key topic at the recent Mobility Field Day event, where they outlined the direction and advancements in this crucial area. The update revealed Cisco’s efforts to enhance network reliability and user experiences through innovative technologies and solutions. This pivotal discussion suggests a strategic trajectory toward increasingly sophisticated tools for monitoring and managing network performance and end-user satisfaction. Read more in this article by Dev Nellamakada!
AI is the New Blockchain
AI is at the top of the hype cycle and it feels unstoppable. Once upon a time blockchain was in the same place. In this episode, Tom Hollingsworth is joined by Evan Mintzer and Jody Lemoine.
