LKNOG Conference 2024 Set to Advance Sri Lanka’s Network Infrastructure Expertise

In today's digital world, computer networks are the backbone of our interconnected society. The LKNOG (the Lanka Network Operators Group) Conference serves as a premier platform for collaborative innovation amongst key stakeholders towards advancing this critical infrastructure. It is scheduled to take place from August 12th to 16th at Galle Face Hotel and Hotel Renuka, the annual event is set to gather Sri Lanka's leading network operators, service providers, and technology professionals. With a robust agenda featuring keynote speeches, technical sessions, and hands-on workshops, the LKNOG Conference is not just a platform for knowledge sharing but a catalyst for shaping the future of network infrastructure in the region. This year's focus on local internet exchanges, 5G deployment, and cybersecurity underscores its critical role in addressing the pressing challenges and opportunities within the industry.

LKNOG (www.lknog.lk) was established in 2017 with the mission to equip Sri Lankan network operators with best practices, standards, and innovative solutions. Supported by key service providers, ISPs, and international partners such as APNIC, ICANN, and the Internet Society, LKNOG fosters collaboration and knowledge sharing among network professionals. By enabling network operators to address complex technical challenges with cutting-edge technologies, LKNOG plays a pivotal role in enhancing the capabilities and resilience of Sri Lanka’s network infrastructure. Its annual conference serves as a vital platform for industry experts to converge, exchange ideas, and drive the future of network operations in Sri Lanka.

With a unique blend of insightful keynotes, technical sessions, and hands-on workshops led by industry experts, the LKNOG Conference promises to be a landmark event for network professionals. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from distinguished speakers such as the CEO of Cyrus, Dr. Beshan Kulapala, Director of Spectrum Management at TRCSL, J.A.S. Gunanandana, CEO of the Just in Time Group, Neranjan Dissanayaka, CISO at SLCERT, Nirosh Ananda, amongst several others. Beginning on the 12th of August 2024, the main conference will be held at the Galle Face Hotel. Its insightful sessions will focus on introducing a local internet exchange (IXP), addressing Sri Lanka's 5G deployment challenges with insights from TRCSL, enhancing network and cybersecurity, and showcasing innovative student projects related to network operations and infrastructure.

Subsequently, the LKNOG Conference will be followed by 3 tracks of workshops, which will run from August 13th to 16th at Hotel Renuka. These workshops cover critical topics such as network security, led by experts from APNIC; DNS/DNSSEC, in collaboration with the LKNOG/LKDomain team and ICANN; and network monitoring, facilitated by the LKNOG team and LEARN. Aimed at all levels of network and IT engineers, these sessions will provide hands-on experience and practical knowledge, empowering participants to tackle the latest challenges in network operations and stay abreast of technological advancements. During these workshops, attendees will gain in-depth insights into current best practices, expand their technical expertise, and benefit from networking opportunities with industry leaders, fostering professional growth and collaboration. Thereby, empowering participants to improve their professional expertise, better contribute to the success of their organisations, and advance their careers in the dynamic field of network operations. 

Over the past seven years, LKNOG has successfully tackled a wide array of topics, from small enterprise networks to critical internet-facing issues, fostering knowledge sharing and operational excellence. By focusing on operational technical topics, understanding metrics, and identifying trends for business opportunities and cost reduction, LKNOG has significantly contributed to the network operations field. The organisation has also championed equal opportunities, promoting women's participation in network engineering and supporting students in launching their careers. Furthermore, by assisting networking professionals in obtaining financial fellowships for regional and international conferences, LKNOG has expanded its impact beyond national borders. Notably, the group's efforts to preserve local internet traffic through advocating for and implementing local internet exchanges have been pivotal in enhancing network efficiency in Sri Lanka. With such a rich history of achievements, the upcoming LKNOG Conference promises to be an invaluable event.

Network professionals of the LKNOG community are set to reconvene at the upcoming LKNOG 8 Conference in August 2024