I am currently a Principal Engineer at a network integrator based in Bristol, UK. My role encompasses a diverse array of responsibilities, including managing firewalls, security devices, and log/information management systems. I also design, support, and optimize switched, routed, and ADSL networks, as well as WAN solutions, VPN provisioning, managed services, and pre-sales support for new customers.

A significant part of my work revolves around leveraging Open Source architectures to develop cost-effective solutions, particularly in security monitoring using IoT devices and sensors, and implementing robust network management and monitoring systems. On a daily basis, I manage, design, and support network and security solutions across various enterprise verticals, including transport, agriculture, utilities, and education.

Areas of Expertise

I specialize in a wide range of products and vendors, including:

Allot: NetEnforcer, NetXplorer, SMP
Barracuda: Web Filter, Anti-Spam Firewall
Blue Coat/Symantec: ProxySG, ProxyAV/CAS, SSL Visibility, PacketShaper, Secure Analytics Platform, ThreatPulse, Malware Analysis Appliance, Reporter, Management Center
Juniper: SRX, EX, Mist (Wired, Wireless, WAN Assurance)
Ivanti: Pulse Connect Secure, vADC
VMware: ESXi, vCenter
Linux Distributions: Debian, CentOS, Red Hat, Ubuntu, ZeroShell, VyOS, Kali
Graylog: Log processing, threat intelligence enrichment, reporting, and alerting
Zeek IDS: Network traffic collection and metadata extraction
Elastic Stack: Event processing, threat intelligence enrichment, reporting, and alerting
Ansible: Automation for Linux and JunOS
Wallix: Privileged Access Management
Ruckus: SmartZone and Unleashed Wireless
Netbox: DCIM management and documentation.

Projects & Development

In addition to my networking expertise, I have developed custom applications and integrations to streamline internal processes. These include:

DeviceDB: A PHP/MySQL-based device database for tracking and scheduling device support renewals.
EPR (Engineer Part Request): A system for automated booking of on-site support jobs across 3,500+ sites and 22,000+ devices.
Netbox/Netdisco : A platform integration between the two Open Source platforms which allows for data in NetDisco to be imported into Netbox in a semi-automated way.
Netbox/Juniper/Cisco: Automation processes which allow for Cisco Catalyst and Juniper EX switch ports to be configured from Netbox.

Passion for Problem-Solving

I thrive on tackling technical challenges, whether it’s replicating customer environments in virtual labs or finding innovative solutions to complex problems on their behalf. I am driven by a desire to continuously learn, optimize, and deliver the best possible outcomes for my clients.