The Art of Network Engineering

A.J., Andy, Dan, and Tim

Join co-hosts A.J., Andy, Dan, Tim, and our guests as we explore the world of Network Engineering! In each episode, we explore new topics, talk about technology, and interview people in our industry. We peak behind the curtain and get insights into what it's like being a network engineer - and spoiler alert - it's different for everyone! For more information check out our website https://artofnetworkengineering.com | Be sure to follow us on Twitter and Instagram as well @artofneteng | Co-Hosts Twitter Handles: A.J. @noblinkyblinky | Andy @andylapteff | Dan @HowdyPacket | Tim @TimBertino

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Episodes

Ep 141 - TikTok Creator and Network Engineer - AdjacentNode
6d ago
Ep 141 - TikTok Creator and Network Engineer - AdjacentNode
The episode was recorded February 8th, 2024.Ever wondered how a network engineer's career trajectory weaves through the fabric of IT? Buckle up and join us as we unpack the personal stories of transformation and growth in the network engineering landscape. With AJ starting his new position as a Demo Architect at Zscaler and Andy stretching his wings as a Technical Marketing Engineer, we're diving headfirst into how networking smarts blend with new roles in security and tech marketing. Guest star Kevin, balancing public sector network engineering with TikTok fame, gives us a glimpse of how one navigates the complexities of modern IT careers, while Tim sheds light on the training that's powering his journey as a  newly minted Sales Engineer at Cisco.We learn what sparked Kevin's journey into becoming a TikTok creator and what motivates to continue spreading the word on Network Engineering.Are certifications the golden tickets they once were? Let's find out together as we share tales from the trenches—like configuring firewalls sans experience and the intense camaraderie of NOC shifts during holidays. Hear how Kevin's pivot from web design to networking ignited his passion, leading to a CCNA and beyond. We also spar over the continuing relevance of certifications like the CCNP, while coming together in agreement on their potential to open doors, especially in partner-driven professional environments.Finally, as the tech landscape shifts beneath our feet, we explore the future of our field. Will the march of automation and AI spell the end of traditional networking, or is it just another layer to master? We debate the tangibility of physical labs against the allure of virtual environments and muse over how content creation and personal brand cultivation can create unexpected career opportunities. And, despite the tech-heavy discussion, we never underestimate the power of soft skills—because, at the end of the day, it's all about making connections (pun intended).More from Kevin:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adjacentnodeLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinnannsBlog: https://adjacentnode.com/TikTok! - https://www.tiktok.com/@artofnetengCables2Clouds! https://www.cables2clouds.comFollow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/artofneteng​Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/artofneteng/​Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/artofnetengJoin the group on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/artofneteng/Check out our website https://artofnetworkengineering.com​Merch Store – https://artofneteng.com/storeJoin the Discord Study group – https://artofneteng.com/iaatj
Ep 140 - Breaking Down Barriers in Network Automation for Engineers with Danny Wade
Feb 28 2024
Ep 140 - Breaking Down Barriers in Network Automation for Engineers with Danny Wade
This episode was recorded November 2, 2023.Discover the fusion of innovation and expertise as Danny Wade, whose enthusiasm for network automation rivals his hoop dreams. We kick things off with a jocular exchange and dive into our own tech sagas, which evolved from household tech wizard to a networking aficionado at Blue Ally. Our conversation is a testament to the symbiotic relationship between academic learning and practical experience, all while navigating the complexities of enterprise networking.Embark on a journey through the intricacies of network automation as we unwrap the benefits of Cisco DevNet's sandboxes and dissect the importance of starting with read-only tasks when automating network actions. The dialogue then takes an informative turn, examining the juxtaposition of automation within enterprise environments and cloud infrastructures. We analyze the effectiveness of tools like Terraform and the slow yet steady shift towards standardized programmable interfaces, providing a blueprint for those at the crossroads of legacy methods and the new wave of API-driven approaches.As the episode unfolds, we address the elephant in the room: the daunting leap into network automation for traditional network engineers. Sharing candid advice and relatable challenges, we emphasize the power of starting small with Python and Ansible, building up to more complex automation tasks. We also celebrate the craft of technical literature creation, offering encouragement to those aspiring to enrich the network automation knowledge base. So strap in, join the conversation, and elevate your networking game!More from Danny:Twitter - https://twitter.com/devnetdanBlog - https://devnetdan.com/TikTok! - https://www.tiktok.com/@artofnetengCables2Clouds! https://www.cables2clouds.comFollow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/artofneteng​Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/artofneteng/​Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/artofnetengJoin the group on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/artofneteng/Check out our website https://artofnetworkengineering.com​Merch Store – https://artofneteng.com/storeJoin the Discord Study group – https://artofneteng.com/iaatj
Ep 139 - Doug Madory, The Man Who can See the Internet
Feb 14 2024
Ep 139 - Doug Madory, The Man Who can See the Internet
This episode was recorded October 26, 2023Ever wonder what it's like to navigate the high-stakes world of military network engineering or to become an authority on the internet's most complex systems? This time around, Doug Madory, of Kentik, joins us to unravel his remarkable journey from the precision of military networks to the forefront of BGP analysis. Alongside Doug, we reminisce about the invaluable in-person connections forged at networking events like the Network User Group meetings driven by the US Network User Association, underscoring the irreplaceable sense of community and collaboration they foster.Prepare for an eye-opening conversation that ventures into the depths of geopolitical tech intrigue, as Doug shares how his career has intersected with pivotal global events. From recounting the adrenaline of managing deployable radar systems in Italy to analyzing the ripple effects of government-induced internet shutdowns, his stories shine a light on the critical role of technology in international affairs. The episode isn't just about the tales of one man's career; it's a broader exploration of how BGP data collection and analysis are vital to understanding and securing the global digital landscape.The digital seas are treacherous, and as Doug discusses the strategic importance of internet resilience, especially in conflict zones like Ukraine, we gain a profound appreciation for the unsung heroes keeping our connections alive. From the mysterious sabotage of submarine cables to the promise of a more connected future through initiatives like Starlink, this episode is a deep dive into the infrastructure that underpins our modern world. Join us for an enthralling discussion regarding the internet's complexities, cybersecurity frontlines, and the ongoing battle for global connectivity.More from Doughttps://twitter.com/DougMadoryhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dougmadory/Links discussed during the show:https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/the-switch/wp/2014/08/06/the-man-who-can-see-the-internet/https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2023/06/30/satellite-hacked-russian-military/https://www.kentik.com/blog/the-mystery-of-as8003/https://www.submarinecablemap.com/TikTok! - https://www.tiktok.com/@artofnetengCables2Clouds! https://www.cables2clouds.comFollow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/artofneteng​Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/artofneteng/​Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/artofnetengJoin the group on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/artofneteng/Check out our website https://artofnetworkengineering.com​Merch Store – https://artofneteng.com/storeJoin the Discord Study group – https://artofneteng.com/iaatj
Ep 138 - Navigating the Convergence of IoT Security in Network Engineering
Jan 31 2024
Ep 138 - Navigating the Convergence of IoT Security in Network Engineering
This episode was recorded on September 28, 2023.This episode is a warm blend of personal reflections and deep dives into the world of network engineering, where laughter and learning go hand in hand. The digital frontier is expanding, and with it, the universe of IoT devices that touch every corner of our lives. From tracking wayward pets to revolutionizing agriculture, we traverse the intricate balance between the allure of smart technology and the vigilance needed to secure it. Join us as we exchange tales from the front lines, illustrating how the convenience of connected gadgets intertwines with the pressing need to safeguard our digital homesteads. Our conversation takes a turn towards the pressing issues of IoT security and the burgeoning role of AI in monitoring these devices. Navigating the choppy waters of enterprise environments, we unpack the strategies to protect non-domain-joinable equipment and wrestle with the shadow IoT lurking in our networks. Plus, we delve into the ways AI is enhancing our capabilities to predict severe weather and monitor critical systems. Grab a cup of your favorite brew and settle in for a journey that’s as much about the heart of networking as it is about the hard-wiring.TikTok! - https://www.tiktok.com/@artofnetengCables2Clouds! https://www.cables2clouds.comFollow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/artofneteng​Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/artofneteng/​Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/artofnetengJoin the group on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/artofneteng/Check out our website https://artofnetworkengineering.com​Merch Store – https://artofneteng.com/storeJoin the Discord Study group – https://artofneteng.com/iaatj
Ep 137 - The Art of Building a Tech Career with CryptoKnight
Jan 17 2024
Ep 137 - The Art of Building a Tech Career with CryptoKnight
This episode was recorded on October 19th, 2023.In this episode, featuring enterprise architect Brian aka CryptoKnightUS on TikTok, is your field guide, from navigating career crossroads to the power of mentorship, relentless learning, and neurodivergent. When the security gates at Denver International Airport were left ajar, it wasn't just the contractors who raced against time to seal the breach ahead of an audit. We uncover the pulse-racing narrative and the workplace alchemy that turns a professional crisis into a tale of triumph. Advocacy and talent recognition can spark career ascents, as proven by Jen's spotlight on a contractor's hidden genius. We're peeling back the layers on the hiring philosophy that bets on technical skill and problem-solving finesse, often edging out the socially savvy, reshaping what makes IT teams not just function, but flourish.The episode doesn't shy away from shifting paradigms as we debate the merits of remote work and champion asynchronous communication—a godsend for the neurodiverse minds like those with ADHD, navigating the tech sphere. And in a plot twist worthy of its own platform, Brian's adventures on TikTok reveal unexpected lessons on neurodivergence in tech leadership. As we tie together loose ends, you'll walk away with a toolkit of career advice, from the art of networking to the grace of self-awareness, that's as practical as it is transformative for anyone looking to climb the ranks in technology. Join us on this journey; it's one for the cyber chronicles.More from Brian:TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@cryptoknightusTwitter - https://twitter.com/CryptoKnightTikTok! - https://www.tiktok.com/@artofnetengCables2Clouds! https://www.cables2clouds.comFollow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/artofneteng​Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/artofneteng/​Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/artofnetengJoin the group on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/artofneteng/Check out our website https://artofnetworkengineering.com​Merch Store – https://artofneteng.com/storeJoin the Discord Study group – https://artofneteng.com/iaatj
Ep 136 - Journey of a Network Engineer with Ethan
Jan 3 2024
Ep 136 - Journey of a Network Engineer with Ethan
This episode was recorded on July 20th, 2023. Get ready to wrestle with the big debate - IPv4 vs IPv6, and we're not just talking technical here; we're talking personas, rivalries, and the occasional wrestling pun. This episode is a thrilling exploration of technology's incredible power during times of crisis. A.J.'s experiences with recent natural disasters in Vermont showcase just how essential tech can be when disaster strikes, from drones for flood damage assessment to leveraging social media for aid.We’re also thrilled to welcome Ethan, a young network engineer, who shares his unique journey into networking. From college to apprenticeships and finally into service provider representation, Ethan’s story highlights the critical role of hands-on experience in kickstarting a successful career in network engineering. From managed service provider (MSP) to internet service provider (ISP), our conversation navigates the complexities of different working environments, and the varying roles a network engineer may take on.We wrap up this episode with practical advice to all you aspiring network engineers out there. Hear about the process of technical interviews, the importance of being honest about your skills, and the value of passion and involvement in the networking community. The future of networking is here, and it's automated. We delve into the growing importance of automation in service provider networks - so strap in, tune in, and get ready to be inspired, educated, and entertained!More from Ethan:Twitter - https://twitter.com/ETH4N3TTikTok! - https://www.tiktok.com/@artofnetengCables2Clouds! https://www.cables2clouds.comFollow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/artofneteng​Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/artofneteng/​Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/artofnetengJoin the group on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/artofneteng/Check out our website https://artofnetworkengineering.com​Merch Store – https://artofneteng.com/storeJoin the Discord Study group – https://artofneteng.com/iaatj
Ep 135 - Reflecting on a Year of Podcasting: Celebrations, Collaborations, and a Holiday Special
Dec 20 2023
Ep 135 - Reflecting on a Year of Podcasting: Celebrations, Collaborations, and a Holiday Special
IF YOU DO THE ELF ON THE SHELF AT HOME DO NOT LISTEN AROUND CHILDREN!Strap in for a holiday special like no other as we gather the largest group  ever for an episode filled with warmth, laughter, and reflections. This lively discussion takes us through personal narratives, the stress and jubilation of holiday traditions, and even a chaotic crack at "Jingle Bells." With the room brimming with camaraderie and holiday cheer, we navigate through the highs and lows of the past year.Our podcasting journey this year has been nothing short of extraordinary. From engaging interactions with guests, to bridging the gap between traditional network engineering and cloud networking in our spinoff podcast, Cables2Clouds - we've covered some ground. Get an insider's view on our favorite episodes, the hurdles we've surmounted, and the innumerable golden opportunities that podcasting has thrown our way.As we bid adieu to an eventful year, we can't help but express our gratitude to our wonderful podcasting community and the insightful guests who've graced our platform. We walk you through our ambitious plans for the future, our experiences meeting other content creators, and discuss potential collaborations. So, curl up with a warm drink, and join us in this insightful, funny, and engaging episode that encapsulates the essence of the year gone by and sets the stage for the exciting one ahead.TikTok! - https://www.tiktok.com/@artofnetengCables2Clouds! https://www.cables2clouds.comFollow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/artofneteng​Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/artofneteng/​Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/artofnetengJoin the group on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/artofneteng/Check out our website https://artofnetworkengineering.com​Merch Store – https://artofneteng.com/storeJoin the Discord Study group – https://artofneteng.com/iaatj
Ep 134 - Delving into the Intricacies of Network Automation with Ansible Expert Tony Dubiel
Dec 6 2023
Ep 134 - Delving into the Intricacies of Network Automation with Ansible Expert Tony Dubiel
Ready to unravel the intricacies of network automation? We've got an insightful conversation lined up for you that promises to enlighten you on this complex topic. We kick off this episode by chatting about our new diverse content, our exciting podcast merchandise, and my upcoming autumn adventures in Vermont. We also welcome our special guest, Tony Dubiel, the Product Solutions Architect for Ansible Network Automation at Red Hat, who offers an insider's perspective on Ansible Network Automation.Our discussion unfolds on a journey from route switching to data center and collaboration, emphasizing the worth of a networking background when stepping into collaboration. We delve into the vast array of automation tools, and debate whether network engineers should stick to one tool or embrace different tools for different scenarios. We also tackle the challenges of network automation, the role of abstraction and orchestration tools, and how ITSM and IPAM can make automation more accessible. We then turn the spotlight on the Ansible Automation Platform, discussing its varied uses and how it's been revamped to be more cloud-native and scalable. We also touch upon the ongoing debate about using a tool like Terraform for immutable and disposable infrastructure, or different tools depending on the situation. Tony shares his thoughts on the evolution of network automation and the advantages of using validated content to lower the barrier to entry. So buckle up and join us on this enlightening journey into the world of network automation with Ansible.Links to references made throughout the show:Ansible4Networking Online Meetup Group (join for free)https://www.meetup.com/ansible4networking/Self service labs: https://www.redhat.com/en/interactive-labs/ansibleNetwork Use cases: https://www.ansible.com/use-cases/network-automationNetwork Automation Ebook: https://www.redhat.com/en/engage/network-automation-guide-20221202Network Blogs: https://www.ansible.com/blog/topic/network-automationGetting Started with Network Automation:https://docs.ansible.com/ansible/latest/network/getting_started/index.htmlhttps://ansible.com/network-automationMore from Tony:https://twitter.com/tdubielTikTok! - https://www.tiktok.com/@artofnetengCables2Clouds! https://www.cables2clouds.comFollow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/artofneteng​Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/artofneteng/​Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/artofnetengJoin the group on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/artofneteng/Check out our website https://artofnetworkengineering.com​Merch Store – https://artofneteng.com/storeJoin the Discord Study group – https://artofneteng.com/iaatj
Ep 133 - An Expert's Perspective on Network Automation and the Cisco DevNet Expert Certification
Nov 22 2023
Ep 133 - An Expert's Perspective on Network Automation and the Cisco DevNet Expert Certification
This episode was originally recorded March 23, 2023Meet Ben Schuster, a man who's journeyed from the Air Force to the cutting-edge world of network automation, and the first to bear the title of Cisco Certified DevNet Expert in 2023. His background, inspirations, and career transitions light up our conversation like a well-configured network. As he reminisces about his father's influence, you'll learn about his initial fascination with networking and his transition into classified networks. Ready to untangle the mysteries of network automation? Ben's got you covered! He'll walk you through the complexities of automation tools such as NautoBot, Ansible, and Git. Plus, he'll share his insights into the challenges of revamping a network, from organizational politics to customer-specific approaches. Our chat then dives into a comparison between the DevNet and CCNA, giving you a crystal clear idea of which path suits you best. Lastly, if you're gearing up for the DevNet Expert Exam, Ben's invaluable tips and experiences are not to be missed. From understanding blueprints to studying effectively to managing the unique challenges of the exam, Ben's got golden nuggets of wisdom to share. He stresses on the need for a 'source of truth' for network configurations and the benefits of automation based on that. He also suggests must-read resources and provides a sneak-peek into the type of questions you can expect in the exam. Be prepared to be inspired and informed by a true expert in network automation!Ben's Book RecommendationModel Drive Devops by Steven Carter and Jason King - https://amzn.to/4701dxLTikTok! - https://www.tiktok.com/@artofnetengCables2Clouds! https://www.cables2clouds.comFollow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/artofneteng​Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/artofneteng/​Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/artofnetengJoin the group on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/artofneteng/Check out our website https://artofnetworkengineering.com​Merch Store – https://artofneteng.com/storeJoin the Discord Study group – https://artofneteng.com/iaatj
Ep 132 - From Air Force One to Cybersecurity: A Journey with John Breth
Nov 8 2023
Ep 132 - From Air Force One to Cybersecurity: A Journey with John Breth
Ever wondered about the path that leads someone to work on the communication network of Air Force One? Our guest, John Breth, has done just that, and he's here to share his journey from the military to the cybersecurity field. With a career spanning roles as a network and security administrator at a Tier 1 ISP, and now a well-known content creator, John's journey is a thrilling blend of education and experience. As we reminisce about personal experiences, from Prime binge-watching to study plans and Vermont fall-time hobbies, we highlight the importance of maintaining technical skills, even in a vendor role. Our conversation takes us deep into the complexities of network engineering, which demands a well-rounded skill set and often requires us to wear multiple hats, particularly in smaller companies. We explore the critical role of cybersecurity in ensuring compliance with regulations, and we discuss the need for an active defense methodology to mitigate cyber threats.Wrapping up this intriguing chat, we delve into the implications of the SolarWinds hack, the increasing importance of coding and automation in cybersecurity, and provide some useful tips for those looking to get their foot in the door of this field. Finally, we spotlight the value of cybersecurity certifications and the role they can play in enhancing your career. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring newbie, John's unique insight is bound to spark your interest and perhaps, inspire your own path in tech.A big thank you to our show sponsor: Unimus! Interested in a device agnostic NCM software to streamline and automation configuration management for your entire network? Check out Unimus! https://unimus.net/More from John:Twitter:  https://twitter.com/JBizzle703YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CYBERINSIGHTThis show was recorded October 5th, 2023.TikTok! - https://www.tiktok.com/@artofnetengCables2Clouds! https://www.cables2clouds.comFollow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/artofneteng​Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/artofneteng/​Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/artofnetengJoin the group on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/artofneteng/Check out our website https://artofnetworkengineering.com​Merch Store – https://artofneteng.com/storeJoin the Discord Study group – https://artofneteng.com/iaatj
Ep 131 - A Comprehensive Guide to Media Networking with Expert Josh Warcop
Oct 25 2023
Ep 131 - A Comprehensive Guide to Media Networking with Expert Josh Warcop
Prepare to be enlightened as we journey into the often-misunderstood realm of media networking with industry expert, Josh Warcop. In this fascinating conversation, Josh demystifies the complexities of the current social media landscape. Have you ever wondered how to packetize voice and video streams into IP packets? Or how digital video and audio from as far back as the 1940s and 1989/1990 are transitioning to accommodate faster ethernet speeds? This episode is packed with those answers and more.Josh further unravels the intricacies of the broadcast TV industry's shift from STI to ethernet and the necessity of this move. You'll discover the unique approach of having two completely separate active networks convey the same data and why this is crucial for live broadcasts. We also delve into the world of remote production, with Josh highlighting the tools and concepts crucial for success, such as LACP and ether channel.As we traverse the exciting terrain of media networking, Josh underscores the importance of Quality of Service (QoS) - even at breakneck speeds of 10 and 100 gig. Hear valuable advice on prioritizing control traffic, avoiding oversubscription, and the role of ethernet in modern media networking. If you're a network engineer curious about the field of media networks, this episode is a treasure trove of insights and practical takeaways. Get ready to expand your knowledge and understanding of an industry that's shaping our digital era.More from Josh:Twitter - https://twitter.com/WarcopA big thank you to our sponsor: Unimus! Interested in a device agnostic NCM software to streamline and automation configuration management for your entire network? Check out Unimus! https://unimus.net/TikTok! - https://www.tiktok.com/@artofnetengCables2Clouds! https://www.cables2clouds.comFollow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/artofneteng​Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/artofneteng/​Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/artofnetengJoin the group on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/artofneteng/Check out our website https://artofnetworkengineering.com​Merch Store – https://artofneteng.com/storeJoin the Discord Study group – https://artofneteng.com/iaatj
Ep 130 - Exploring the Influence of AI on Network Engineering
Oct 11 2023
Ep 130 - Exploring the Influence of AI on Network Engineering
Imagine, if you will, a world where AI streamlines your network configuration changes, manages your network and even troubleshoots for you. Sounds like a far-off dream, right? Well, the future is here and we're discussing exactly that. We weigh the pros and cons of using AI in network management, touching on issues like data accuracy and false positives. But it's not all gloom and doom as we explore the positive impacts conversational AI can have on the networking industry.Finally, we throw light on how AI can revolutionize network security and enterprise. Picture IT administrators making informed decisions about upgrades and patches swiftly and accurately, thanks to the assistance of AI. We consider the implications of using public data lakes and protecting intellectual property. We then delve into the exciting potential of AI for network optimization, self-healing, and even ordering new equipment. Trust us,  this is an episode you don't want to miss.A big thank you to our sponsor: Unimus! Interested in a device agnostic NCM software to streamline and automation configuration management for your entire network? Check out Unimus! https://unimus.net/TikTok! - https://www.tiktok.com/@artofnetengCables2Clouds! https://www.cables2clouds.comFollow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/artofneteng​Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/artofneteng/​Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/artofnetengJoin the group on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/artofneteng/Check out our website https://artofnetworkengineering.com​Merch Store – https://artofneteng.com/storeJoin the Discord Study group – https://artofneteng.com/iaatj
Ep 129 - Exploring Tech Certification Challenges with Brent Morris
Sep 27 2023
Ep 129 - Exploring Tech Certification Challenges with Brent Morris
Imagine this: you're a tech enthusiast who's just passed the Security Plus exam. You're filled with immense pride, but also a newfound understanding of the importance of failure and taking training seriously. We explore this in depth with Tim Bertino, a fellow tech enthusiast who shares his candid insights and experiences. A.J. also talks about his first USNUA meeting and the local NUG network user group he formed — a testament to the power and value of community in the tech world.We then shift gears and delve into the world of exam security as we welcome Brent Morris, the Program Manager for Cisco's certification, security, investigations, and enforcement. He shares the critical role exam security plays in safeguarding customer investments and maintaining the integrity of Cisco's certification program. From discussing potential cheating methods to the severe consequences of violations, Brent gives us a riveting look at the complexities and challenges in maintaining exam security.Finally, we unpack the nitty-gritty of Cisco's approach to combat cheating. Brent discusses the development of valid exam questions and the intricate collaboration between Cisco and its testing vendor, PearsonVue. He talks about the complexities of mobile CCIE labs, expert-level exams, and the constant challenge of cheating. By the end of this episode, you'll understand the lengths Cisco goes to preserve the integrity of their certification exams and gain a deeper appreciation for the value of genuine knowledge and skill in the tech industry.Contact Cisco Exam Security for questions or to report a violation:security-tipline@cisco.comFollow Cisco Exam Security on Twitter: @CiscoExamSecA big thank you to our sponsor: Unimus! Interested in a device agnostic NCM software to streamline and automation configuration management for your entire network? Check out Unimus! https://unimus.net/TikTok! - https://www.tiktok.com/@artofnetengCables2Clouds! https://www.cables2clouds.comFollow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/artofneteng​Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/artofneteng/​Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/artofnetengJoin the group on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/artofneteng/Check out our website https://artofnetworkengineering.com​Merch Store – https://artofneteng.com/storeJoin the Discord Study group – https://artofneteng.com/iaatj
Ep 128 - Navigating the CCIE Landscape w/help from 3 CCIEs!
Sep 13 2023
Ep 128 - Navigating the CCIE Landscape w/help from 3 CCIEs!
Picture yourself acing the CCIE certification exams with confidence and coming out victorious. Seems like a far-fetched dream, right? Not when you have CCIEs Erica Cooper, Tim McConaughey, and Chris Miles sharing their insider tips and strategies on navigating the tough terrain of CCIE certification. Pulling back the curtain on their own journeys, they reveal their motivations, preparation methodologies, and the value this certification has brought to their careers. Erica’s narrative especially stands out, as she shares her inspiring journey from failing the route switch exam to succeeding in the data center track.CCIE isn't just an exam; it's a strategic marathon that requires planning, resourcing, and an unwavering commitment. Our esteemed guests shed light on the importance of having a plan, the power of study groups, and the resources that can be harnessed for CCIE preparation. We delve into the nitty-gritties of accountability in studying, choosing the right study group, and the advantages of cohort-based learning. But the CCIE journey isn't all rosy; there are challenges too. We dissect the differences between the written and lab exams, the necessity of quick problem-solving skills, and the financial burden it carries. But rest assured, we've also got you covered on how to approach your employers for sponsorship.As we wind up, we take a creative turn and delve into future gazing. What does the future hold for CCIE certification? It's a battle of multiple-choice exams versus practical applications, and the need to demonstrate continual learning. We explore alternative validation methods like panel discussions, blog posts, and more. The goal? To keep you ahead in the game. So, tune into this enlightening episode and get a head start on your CCIE journey. Don't miss it!More from our guest:Erica Cooper - https://twitter.com/TechLayDeeTikTok! - https://www.tiktok.com/@artofnetengCables2Clouds! https://www.cables2clouds.comFollow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/artofneteng​Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/artofneteng/​Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/artofnetengJoin the group on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/artofneteng/Check out our website https://artofnetworkengineering.com​Merch Store – https://artofneteng.com/storeJoin the Discord Study group – https://artofneteng.com/iaatj
Ep 127 - Observability with Phil Gervasi and Kentik!
Aug 30 2023
Ep 127 - Observability with Phil Gervasi and Kentik!
This episode is sponsored by Kentik!Ever felt baffled by your network's performance? It's time to join us on a journey into the world of network engineering with our esteemed guest, Phil Gervasi. We'll explore the intricate world of network visibility and discuss the importance of diagnosing network issues. The episode takes an exciting turn as we delve into the intriguing concept of network observability. Extending beyond mere data gathering, observability is the key to answering any question about your network. Phil Gervasi will guide us through the maze of network observability, its historical roots, the challenges of modern networks, and Kentik's unique approach to network observability. Discover how it empowers customers to pinpoint potential causes of network changes, breathing fresh life into network operations.Are you ready to supercharge your network operations? We'll show you how with synthetic testing, an active testing form that simulates a wide range of conditions. We'll discuss how Kentik uses automated insights and troubleshooting tools to lower customers' Mean Time To Repair (MTTR). And that's not all; we'll also explore DDoS Mitigation and Network Security Solutions, demonstrating how Kentik's platform can discern different types of attacks and help manage false positives and threat feeds. By the end of our journey, you'll have a broad understanding of the impact of cloud technology, containerization, and AI on enterprise workloads. Don't miss out on this networking masterclass!Follow Phil for his awesome Networking memes and more great content!Twitter: https://twitter.com/network_philMore from KentikGet Started! - https://www.kentik.com/get-started/Website: https://www.kentik.com/TikTok! - https://www.tiktok.com/@artofnetengCables2Clouds! https://www.cables2clouds.comFollow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/artofneteng​Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/artofneteng/​Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/artofnetengJoin the group on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/artofneteng/Check out our website https://artofnetworkengineering.com​Merch Store – https://artofneteng.com/storeJoin the Discord Study group – https://artofneteng.com/iaatj