The modern enterprise network automation strategy is failing. This is due in part to a collection of tools masquerading as an automation solution. In this episode, Tom Hollingsworth is joined by Scott Robohn, Bruno Wollmann, and special guest Mike Bushong of Nokia to discuss the current state of automation in the data center. They discuss how tools are often improperly incorporated as well as why organizations shouldn’t rely on just a single person or team to affect change. They also explore ideas around Nokia Event-Driven Automation (EDA), a new operations platform dedicated to solving these issues.
The Promise of Automation with Michael Bushong of Nokia
At our recent Networking Field Day Exclusive event with Nokia, Michael Bushong from Nokia described the transformative potential of automation in network operations. He discussed how automation could not only streamline processes but also significantly enhance the robustness and agility of network infrastructures. The session underscored how automation stands to redefine the future of networking, promising more efficient and dynamic systems. Read more in this Gestalt IT article and video featuring Tom Hollingsworth.
Rethinking the Data Center with Nokia
Tom Hollingsworth introduces our special Tech Field Day event with Nokia. Nokia’s advanced networking solutions are redefining connectivity and efficiency in data center environments, enabling better scalability, manageability, and sustainability. Watch Networking Field Day Exclusive with Nokia live on September 24!
Ethernet is not Ready to Replace InfiniBand Yet
AI networking is making huge strides toward standardization but Ethernet isn’t ready to displace the leading incumbent InfiniBand yet. In this episode of the Tech Field Day Podcast, Tom Hollingsworth is joined by Scott Robohn and Ray Lucchesi to discuss the state of Ethernet today and how it is continuing to improve. The guests discuss topics such as the dominance of InfiniBand, why basic Ethernet isn’t suited to latency-sensitive workloads, and how the future will improve the technology.
5G Factor: Arrcus, T-Mobile, Ericsson Boost 5G Readiness
In this episode of the 5G Factor by The Futurum Group, Ron Westfall and Tom Hollingsworth discuss recent partnerships between Arrcus, T-Mobile, and Ericsson. They highlight pivotal advancements in 5G readiness, signaling a direction towards increased capacity and customized network solutions. Arrcus’s recent $30 million funding boost, notably supported by NVIDIA, is set to enhance its ACE platform focusing on optimizing 5G networks through a microservices architecture. Meanwhile, T-Mobile’s launch of the Partner Plus program and Ericsson’s push for differentiated 5G services outline industry efforts to improve network efficiency, security, and monetization in the growing 5G landscape. This recording followed Arrcus’ presentation at Networking Field Day 35 last month.
AI Has A Place In Networking Operations
Generative AI tools and features are becoming an indispensable part of the way operations teams do their jobs. Tom Hollingsworth is joined by Keith Parsons, Kerry Kulp, and Ron Westfall for this episode discussing the rise of AI tools and how they are implemented. The guests talk about how AI tools should be used by teams to increase their capabilities. They also discuss where AI still has a lot of room to grow and how to avoid traps that could cause issues for stakeholders and champions.
Experience Expansion
Experience is important because it helps us understand why things are done a certain way. Rushing through gaining experience can lead to gaps in knowledge or being in over our heads in a role that requires more knowledge than we have. It’s better to take the time to gain experience while working, even if it means long hours, rather than trying to skip steps and facing challenges later on. Hiring and giving opportunities to those who need experience is more effective than setting unrealistic requirements for entry-level roles. Read more in Tom Hollingsworth’s recent article, which was inspired by cPacket’s presentation at Networking Field Day 35.
Network as a Service is More of a Financial Model
Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) is a very popular topic in the modern enterprise. It promises a way to consume networking technologies in the same way that one would purchase cloud computing by only charging users for what they need. In this episode of the Tech Field Day podcast, Jordan Martin, Micheline Murphy, and Robb Boyd join Tom Hollingsworth as they discuss the various ways that Network-as-a-Service can be expressed in an organization. They debate the merits of the operational model versus the financial aspects and how NaaS blends into the wider industry trends.
Network Engineering is a Dying Profession
Network Engineering isn’t the hottest profession on the block and people have expressed concerns that the profession is going to be subsumed into other disciplines in the near future. In this episode of the Tech Field Day podcast, Tom Hollingsworth joins Andy Lapteff and Remington Loose at the table to discuss the decline in network engineering roles. They also talk about changes in perceptions as well as the industry. They close out by discussing the future outlook for roles involving network engineering.
On-Premises Networks Need to Work Like Cloud Networks
On-premises networks are still very common for specialize applications and need to adopt cloud network operational models. In this episode, Tom Hollingsworth is joined by experts Ron Westfall, Chris Grundemann, and Jeremy Schulman as they discuss how to better implement these preferred methods. They also debate how each model has different requirements and may face headwinds in an enterprise.
Summertime Fun With Networking Field Day 35
Tom Hollingsworth looks forward to Networking Field Day 35, next week’s must-watch event. Tune in Wednesday as Hedgehog debuts their exciting cloud networking solution, promising scalability and robust security features. Following them, Intel’s IPU team will showcase the transformative power of accelerators with compelling use cases. Thursday features cPacket unveiling their analytics solution, aiming for real-time feedback from our live audience. Arrcus then updates us on their latest developments in data center networking. Closing the event, Selector AI returns to showcase their latest AI features. Join us for two days of cutting-edge insights and innovation at Networking Field Day!
It’s Time for Private 5G in the Enterprise
Wi-Fi has changed the way we work in the office but it’s not the only wireless technology. Challenging environments require new solutions like private 5G. In this episode, Tom Hollingsworth is joined by Mark Houtz and Shaun Neal as they discuss the rise of private LTE/5G technologies outside of the carrier space.
Discovering New Things at Networking Field Day Exclusive
Tom Hollingsworth gives an overview of what to expect at Networking Field Day Exclusive at HPE Discover and Aruba Atmosphere this week. The Tech Field Day delegates are attending the HPE Aruba Networking presentations and will be attending exclusive Tech Field Day presentations and demos, which stream live on Tuesday afternoon. Watch for coverage, content, and fun all week long!
Interviewing Brandon Heller of Forward Networks About Digital Twin
Tom Hollingsworth delivers key insights from his interview with Brandon Heller of Forward Networks regarding the concept and applications of Digital Twin technology. Highlighting its utility in network management, Hollingsworth discusses how Digital Twins can simulate and analyze complex networking environments, providing a valuable tool for optimization and problem-solving. The conversation delves into the ways Forward Networks is leveraging Digital Twin to revolutionize the planning and operational capabilities for IT professionals. Watch the Gestalt IT interview recorded on-site 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.
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.
Nerdy Summer Camp With Tech Field Day Extra at Cisco Live US 2024!
Tom Hollingsworth offers a preview of Tech Field Extra at Cisco Live US, likening it to a “nerdy summer camp” for IT professionals and enthusiasts. He emphasizes the value in bringing together a diverse group of delegates and industry leaders to exchange ideas, insights, and the latest technological trends. Join Tech Field Day live from Las Vegas for deep dives from various Cisco product organizations as well as Opengear and lots more!
Cyber Insurance Premiums Rise Amid a Flurry of High-Profile Cyberattacks
As the frequency of high-profile cyberattacks intensifies, businesses are facing a surge in cyber insurance premiums, a trend underscored in Sulagna Saha’s article. This increase reflects the growing recognition of the financial risks associated with data breaches and the essential role of insurance in a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy. The market shift signals an urgent need for companies to bolster their security measures and evaluate their insurance coverage to navigate the challenging cyber threat landscape. Read more in this Gestalt IT article, inspired by a delegate discussion at Security Field Day.
Dissecting Cloud Networking
Sulagna Saha’s recent piece on dives into the complexities and challenges of networking within the cloud ecosystem. The article sheds light on how organizations can navigate the intricacies of cloud connectivity, security, and architecture to optimize their network operations. Readers are guided through the nuances of cloud networking, based on a roundtable discussion hosted by Tom Hollingsworth at Networking Field Day last month.
Platform Engineering Is the Revenge of IT Operations
The rise of platform engineering demonstrates how difficult it has been to balance DevOps between developers and operations. This episode of the Tech Field Day podcast features a discussion of platform engineering with Mitch Ashley and Mike Vizard of Techstrong Group and Stephen Foskett and Tom Hollingsworth of Gestalt IT.