EP 515 | FEBRUARY 24, 2025

Quantum Computing's Future Looking More Certain; Arista Posts Record 2024 Revenues

This week's Network Break observes Microsoft's 8-qubit quantum chip and D-Wave making quantum computers commercially available to researchers and governments. We also discuss Apple rolling its own 5G modem; Meta's intention to lay 50,000 kilometers of subsea fiber optic cabling; financial results from Arista, Cisco, and Palo Alto Networks. Plus even more IT news analysis. | LISTEN NOW

EP 096 | FEBRUARY 25, 2025

Corporate Foresight and How to Get It

Someone needs to scan the horizon for the threats and opportunities that are distant for now--and they need to be able to turn that foresight into action. Heavy Strategy welcomes John Miranda of Intel for a lively discussion of how to look ahead, how to get folks to pay attention to the alerts you raise, and what to do when they don't! | LISTEN NOW

EP 051 | FEBRUARY 25, 2025

Security Certifications From Beginner to Advanced

Certifications are a fact of life in a technical career. They can also provide a pathway to help you earn new roles, sharpen your skills, and boost your salary. On today's Packet Protector we look at security certifications for beginners, experienced professionals, and advanced practitioners. This episode was inspired by a LinkedIn post by Ethan Banks that drew a lot of comments. We also talk about different tracks you can choose, and ways to build an industry portfolio and profile outside of the certification machine. | LISTEN NOW

EP 086 | FEBRUARY 26, 2025

A Reality Check On AI for Network Operations

n today’s episode, we get a reality check on all the hype surrounding AI with guest Phil Gervasi. Phil provides background on Large Language Models (LLMs) and their applications, as well as the current state of AI technology. We also delve into practical use cases for AI in network operations, from AI as an assistant to advanced data analysis. We also look at AI problems, including hallucinations and data accuracy. | LISTEN NOW

EP 015 | FEBRUARY 27, 2025

Spanning Tree Part 3 - Versions, States and Guards

We’re back with the third and last (for now) installment of our spanning tree series. Today’s episode includes an explanation of spanning tree versions, 802.1D, 802.1w, 802.1s, and their practical implications for network design. The discussion then turns to BPDU guard for preventing loops and ensuring rapid connectivity. Bonus material on why you should or shouldn’t turn off spanning tree. | LISTEN NOW

EP 018 | FEBRUARY 28, 2025

The Network Engineer’s Evolution: Thinking Like a Product Owner (Sponsored)

What does it mean for a network engineer to develop a product mindset? And what does a product mindset have to do with network automation? Guest Peter Sprygada connects these concepts in today’s episode of Total Network Operations, sponsored by Itential.

Peter says that as an organization advances its network automation capabilities, the impetus shifts from optimizing tasks to building and supporting a set of automation services that are consumed by internal customers; that is, lines of business, application teams, DevOps teams, and so on. In other words, network engineers are supporting a “product” for internal consumers. | LISTEN NOW

EP 770 | FEBRUARY 28, 2025

Deploying A Global Network in Minutes With Megaport (Sponsored)

In our conversation with CTO Cameron Daniel of Megaport, we discuss their global WAN architecture, PoPs, use cases, the Megaport Cloud Router, and more. Megaport is our sponsor today. Megaport's automated connectivity solutions enable rapid provisioning of circuits, contrasting sharply with traditional telcos. The discussion also covers Megaport's global network, cloud connectivity, dedicated internet access, flexible service plans, security, and more. | LISTEN NOW