
Cables2Clouds
Join Chris and Tim as they delve into the Cloud Networking world! The goal of this podcast is to help Network Engineers with their Cloud journey. Follow us on Twitter @Cables2Clouds | Co-Hosts Twitter Handles: Chris - @bgp_mane | Tim - @juangolbez
Latest episodes

Nov 27, 2024 • 54min
What Should Network Engineers Know About Offensive Security?
Send us a textGet ready to be inspired by Serena, also known as SheNetworks, as she shares her exciting transformation from a Best Buy employee to a leading voice in cybersecurity. Celebrating Tim's birthday and Election Day, this episode is packed with fascinating insights into Serena's career journey and the unexpected twists that led her from the world of network engineering to the challenging field of penetration testing. You'll hear firsthand how the monotony of network engineering sparked her interest in the fast-paced, ever-evolving world of offensive security.Join us as we uncover the intriguing world of penetration testing, where Serena reveals the techniques and tools employed by professionals to mimic real-world cyber threats. You'll learn about the concept of "assumed compromise," the thrill of privilege escalation, and the critical importance of thorough reporting and documentation. Discover how open-source tools like Mimikatz play a significant role in both protecting and threatening systems and why early detection and a robust incident response strategy are vital to cybersecurity.The ethical challenges faced by cybersecurity experts are also on the table, as Serena shares her experiences in educating clients while maintaining trust and avoiding blame. From the technical details of exploiting network protocols to the complexities of cloud penetration testing, this episode offers a deep dive into the human elements of the industry. Explore the necessity of understanding networking fundamentals, the nuances of zero trust security principles, and the dynamic interplay between pen testing and red teaming. Whether you're a cybersecurity enthusiast or simply curious about the field, this episode promises a wealth of knowledge and engaging anecdotes.How to connect with our guest:@shenetworks on Twitter/XPurchase Chris and Tim's new book on AWS Cloud Networking: https://www.amazon.com/Certified-Advanced-Networking-Certification-certification/dp/1835080839/ Check out the Fortnightly Cloud Networking Newshttps://docs.google.com/document/d/1fkBWCGwXDUX9OfZ9_MvSVup8tJJzJeqrauaE6VPT2b0/Visit our website and subscribe: https://www.cables2clouds.com/Follow us on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/cables2clouds.comFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cables2clouds/Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cables2cloudsMerch Store: https://store.cables2clouds.com/Join the Discord Study group: https://artofneteng.com/iaatj

Nov 20, 2024 • 24min
Is BlueSky the New Tech Twitter?
Send us a textDiscover the seismic shift in social media landscapes as users flock from Twitter, now rebranded as X, to the innovative realm of Blue Sky. Elon Musk's contentious changes, including the removal of the block function, have prompted a mass exodus to this decentralized platform. Join us as we recount our personal journeys of losing followers on Twitter and gaining a community on Blue Sky. Find out why this platform is capturing the tech community's attention with its unique DNS-based handle authentication and its potential for enduring growth. In our insightful conversation on tech evolution, we dissect the trajectory of cloud services as they embrace a SaaS model while navigating vendor trust dynamics. The spotlight is on Microsoft's ongoing antitrust woes, with the FTC's scrutiny echoing past challenges. We unravel the complexities of their strategic bundling tactics, debating whether they are a boon or a bane. Stay tuned for a sneak peek into Google Cloud's pioneering security transparency initiatives, promising to demystify vulnerabilities using a common vulnerabilities and exposure system. This episode is loaded with intriguing discussions for anyone keen on the latest social media and cloud service developments.Purchase Chris and Tim's new book on AWS Cloud Networking: https://www.amazon.com/Certified-Advanced-Networking-Certification-certification/dp/1835080839/ Check out the Fortnightly Cloud Networking Newshttps://docs.google.com/document/d/1fkBWCGwXDUX9OfZ9_MvSVup8tJJzJeqrauaE6VPT2b0/Visit our website and subscribe: https://www.cables2clouds.com/Follow us on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/cables2clouds.comFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cables2clouds/Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cables2cloudsMerch Store: https://store.cables2clouds.com/Join the Discord Study group: https://artofneteng.com/iaatj

Nov 13, 2024 • 38min
What Does an AI Data Center Look Like? - C2C046
Send us a textWorld-renowned network expert Peter Jones returns to the Cables to Clouds podcast, sharing his unparalleled insights into the electrifying evolution of AI networking. We promise listeners a captivating journey through the latest advancements and investments reshaping data centers to meet the high demands of AI. Explore with us the nuanced differences between AI for networking and networking for AI, as we shed light on how these developments are capturing Wall Street’s attention and web scalers’ ambitions.Venture into the intricate world of networking technology as we tackle the tough challenges of packet reliability and error management, pondering whether the link layer should shoulder more of TCP's load. Discover the strategies of tech behemoths like Google, Meta, and Microsoft as they navigate the complex terrain of cost, power, and reliability. From innovative solutions like liquid cooling and disaggregated power to the futuristic promise of nuclear energy, we'll dive deep into the technological shifts required to power tomorrow's networks.Finally, Peter lends his expertise to unravel the scaling challenges of GPU networks, especially poignant in the realms of Bitcoin mining and cloud computing. Listen as we draw parallels between overclocking and the immense strain on GPUs in mining farms, all while questioning the sustainability of these massive endeavors. As we explore Microsoft's strategic energy maneuvers and the potential of disaggregated systems, this episode promises a comprehensive look at the future of data centers and the efficient management of AI workloads. Join us for an enlightening conversation that paves the way for understanding the dynamic future of networking.Links:https://www.semianalysis.com/Googlehttps://cloud.google.com/blog/topics/systems/the-evolution-of-googles-jupiter-data-center-networkMetahttps://engineering.fb.com/2024/08/05/data-center-engineering/roce-network-distributed-ai-training-at-scale/https://engineering.fb.com/2023/11/15/networking-traffic/watch-metas-engineers-on-building-network-infrastructure-for-ai/MicrosoftPurchase Chris and Tim's new book on AWS Cloud Networking: https://www.amazon.com/Certified-Advanced-Networking-Certification-certification/dp/1835080839/ Check out the Fortnightly Cloud Networking Newshttps://docs.google.com/document/d/1fkBWCGwXDUX9OfZ9_MvSVup8tJJzJeqrauaE6VPT2b0/Visit our website and subscribe: https://www.cables2clouds.com/Follow us on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/cables2clouds.comFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cables2clouds/Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cables2cloudsMerch Store: https://store.cables2clouds.com/Join the Discord Study group: https://artofneteng.com/iaatj

Nov 6, 2024 • 26min
How is AI Affecting CSP Earnings? - NC2C022
Send us a textIs cloud computing just the tip of the iceberg in the tech industry's financial landscape? Join us on Cables2Clouds as we uncover the impressive earnings of Amazon, Microsoft, and Google in their cloud divisions. Amazon's AWS has reached new heights with $26 billion in revenue, while Microsoft's robust performance in cloud computing stands resilient despite bumps in other areas. Meanwhile, Google's cloud business is riding the AI wave, boasting a staggering 33-35% growth. With insights from analyst Dan Ives, we venture beyond the giants to explore the rising curiosity around smaller players like Oracle and Alibaba, and their potential role in AI workloads.As AI's influence grows, so does its impact on cloud networking. We explore how generative AI is not just a buzzword but a transformative force outpacing even cloud computing's evolution. Platforms like ChatGPT have changed the way society engages with AI, presenting new challenges and opportunities. We delve into AWS's CEO's claim of generative AI's rapid expansion and the potential strain on resources it may usher. On the security front, innovations such as distributed cloud firewalls, Zero Trust Network Access, and multi-cloud connectivity are reshaping how enterprises safeguard their digital environments. Tune in to discover how these advancements are setting the stage for the future of cloud and AI.Purchase Chris and Tim's new book on AWS Cloud Networking: https://www.amazon.com/Certified-Advanced-Networking-Certification-certification/dp/1835080839/ Check out the Fortnightly Cloud Networking Newshttps://docs.google.com/document/d/1fkBWCGwXDUX9OfZ9_MvSVup8tJJzJeqrauaE6VPT2b0/Visit our website and subscribe: https://www.cables2clouds.com/Follow us on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/cables2clouds.comFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cables2clouds/Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cables2cloudsMerch Store: https://store.cables2clouds.com/Join the Discord Study group: https://artofneteng.com/iaatj

Oct 30, 2024 • 39min
How Does Zero Trust Translate to Cloud Security?
Send us a textUnlock the secrets of Zero Trust security with insights from Vaibhav Malik, Global Partner Solutions Architect at Cloudflare. Ever wondered how you can transform security from a hindrance into a powerful enabler for your business? Join us as Vaibhav takes us through the strategic importance of Zero Trust beyond the buzzword, illuminating its role as a fundamental framework for modern cloud environments. With his deep expertise in networking and cybersecurity, Vaibhav helps us navigate the challenges and untapped opportunities of integrating Zero Trust into your IT projects.We dissect the transformation from traditional networking practices to a Zero Trust architecture, where every access request is rigorously authenticated and authorized. Learn why relying solely on IP-based networks and VPNs can leave your systems vulnerable, and discover how core principles like least privilege access and micro-segmentation can thwart lateral movement within your networks. This discussion also emphasizes data-centric security, ensuring that your safeguards are focused on protecting your data itself, rather than just fortifying the perimeter. Gain the know-how on leveraging visibility and analytics to spot and neutralize anomalies, setting the stage for a robust architecture adaptable to everything from AI to legacy infrastructures.Explore the complexities and nuances of implementing Zero Trust in cloud-based systems, where identity becomes the new perimeter. Vaibhav shares valuable strategies for transitioning legacy systems and capitalizing on the cloud’s inherent tools, including IAM and multi-factor authentication, to solidify your security posture. We highlight how cloud providers enhance the adoption of Zero Trust with their advanced tools for security posture management and incident response. Equip yourself with the knowledge to align your security strategies with the dynamic nature of cloud environments, making Zero Trust not just a possibility, but an imperative for today’s distributed network landscapes.How to connect with VB:https://www.linkedin.com/in/vaibhavmalik1/Purchase Chris and Tim's new book on AWS Cloud Networking: https://www.amazon.com/Certified-Advanced-Networking-Certification-certification/dp/1835080839/ Check out the Fortnightly Cloud Networking Newshttps://docs.google.com/document/d/1fkBWCGwXDUX9OfZ9_MvSVup8tJJzJeqrauaE6VPT2b0/Visit our website and subscribe: https://www.cables2clouds.com/Follow us on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/cables2clouds.comFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cables2clouds/Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cables2cloudsMerch Store: https://store.cables2clouds.com/Join the Discord Study group: https://artofneteng.com/iaatj

Oct 23, 2024 • 25min
Skills Gaps in Cloud Security: Are certifications the answer? - NC2C021
Send us a textCan the tech industry truly fortify its defenses against burgeoning threats without bridging the glaring skills gap in AI and cloud security? Join us as we explore the O'Reilly 2024 State of Security Survey, which reveals a surprising shortage of AI security expertise among tech professionals at 34%, and an even greater 39% gap in cloud security skills. We unravel the intricacies of these deficits and ponder the ongoing challenges of safeguarding cloud environments, which often lack the traditional 'walled garden' protection. The episode also questions the complexity of implementing zero trust models, despite a 49% reported adoption rate, and highlights how phishing remains a persistent threat leading to network intrusions.In our further exploration, we spotlight the unyielding role of mainframes in enterprise technology. Despite the allure and advancements of cloud computing, many businesses cling to mainframes due to the prohibitive costs and complexities of revamping legacy systems. We discuss the innovative trend of "mainframe as a service," managed by companies like IBM and Accenture, which signals a niche demand for skilled professionals. Shifting gears, we examine the rise of the "zero-click internet," a digital landscape where platforms such as Facebook and LinkedIn focus on keeping users engaged with internally generated content, a phenomenon expedited by generative AI. This captivating conversation bridges the worlds of traditional and emerging technologies, offering insights for tech enthusiasts and professionals alike.Purchase Chris and Tim's new book on AWS Cloud Networking: https://www.amazon.com/Certified-Advanced-Networking-Certification-certification/dp/1835080839/ Check out the Fortnightly Cloud Networking Newshttps://docs.google.com/document/d/1fkBWCGwXDUX9OfZ9_MvSVup8tJJzJeqrauaE6VPT2b0/Visit our website and subscribe: https://www.cables2clouds.com/Follow us on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/cables2clouds.comFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cables2clouds/Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cables2cloudsMerch Store: https://store.cables2clouds.com/Join the Discord Study group: https://artofneteng.com/iaatj

Oct 16, 2024 • 41min
How to Learn AI with a Free Bootcamp!
Andrew Brown, a cloud educator and innovator transforming an old church into a STEM tech center, shares his vision for accessible AI learning. He discusses the potential of on-premise AI solutions that allow businesses direct interaction with models, bypassing reliance on tech giants. Listeners will learn about his upcoming Generative AI Bootcamp in 2025 and a multi-city training roadshow aimed at fostering tech communities. The conversation also demystifies terms like vector storage and generative AI, making the complex world of AI more approachable.

Oct 9, 2024 • 29min
AI Ethics and Technology Giants: Where Do We Go from Here? - NC2C020
Send us a textDiscover how OpenAI’s transformation from a nonprofit to a B Corp is reshaping the AI landscape and sparking ethical debates. We discuss Sam Altman's pivotal role in this transition and how it mirrors the trajectory of other AI startups like Anthropic. As we navigate the complexities of AI governance, California Governor Gavin Newsom's veto of a bill requiring AI "kill switches" prompts us to question the future of regulatory measures in this rapidly evolving field.Meanwhile, AWS users have reason to celebrate with the introduction of security group referencing across AWS Transit Gateway—a feature that promises enhanced security and flexibility. Why did it take AWS so long to roll this out? Join us as we weigh in on networking innovation and its implications for global communication, particularly through the lens of subsea cable connectivity. The mounting influence of tech giants like AWS and Azure raises critical discussions about an open internet and consumer choice. Connect with us at the upcoming re:Invent conference to keep these critical conversations going.Purchase Chris and Tim's new book on AWS Cloud Networking: https://www.amazon.com/Certified-Advanced-Networking-Certification-certification/dp/1835080839/ Check out the Fortnightly Cloud Networking Newshttps://docs.google.com/document/d/1fkBWCGwXDUX9OfZ9_MvSVup8tJJzJeqrauaE6VPT2b0/Visit our website and subscribe: https://www.cables2clouds.com/Follow us on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/cables2clouds.comFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cables2clouds/Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cables2cloudsMerch Store: https://store.cables2clouds.com/Join the Discord Study group: https://artofneteng.com/iaatj

Oct 2, 2024 • 48min
How to Become a Cloud Network Engineer
In this discussion, Kam Agahian, a cloud network engineering expert at Oracle with over 20 years of experience, shares the evolution of networking from the 90s to the cloud era. He highlights the transition from traditional roles to specialized cloud engineers and stresses the importance of a cloud-native mindset. Kam explains vital skills like load balancing and BGP configurations, while addressing the financial complexities of cloud migration. He also underscores the necessity of continuous learning in this fast-paced field, showcasing its significance in adapting to new technologies.

Sep 25, 2024 • 38min
Will Amazon Change Remote Work for Everyone Else? - NC2C019
Send us a textIs the 9-5 workday truly the key to innovation, or is it an outdated relic? Join us in this week's episode of Cables2Clouds as we navigate through a pivotal moment in our podcast's history. With heavy hearts, we announce that our dear co-host Alex Perkins is stepping back to prioritize his personal life, including work, family, and returning to college. While we'll miss Alex's invaluable contributions, Tim and Chris are committed to continuing your fortnightly dose of critical cloud news, even as we adjust our editing process.Amidst these changes, we dive into some of the latest industry shakeups, starting with Andy Jassy's announcement of Amazon's organizational restructuring and mandatory return-to-office orders. The debate over remote versus in-office work is hotter than ever, and we challenge the notion that a five-day return to the office fosters better innovation. We also speculate on Qualcomm's potential takeover of Intel, discussing Intel's recent struggles and the far-reaching implications this could have for the tech industry. In the latter part of the episode, we analyze Verizon's acquisition of Frontier's fiber network and its impact on the market, including opportunities for Nile. We also explore NVIDIA's strategic move by joining the Ultra Ethernet Consortium and the surprising Oracle-AWS partnership. Finally, we tackle the sustainability concerns of the rapidly expanding data center industry, debating solutions like carbon credits and grid modernization. As always, we welcome your thoughts and feedback on these pressing issues. Tune in for an insightful discussion!Purchase Chris and Tim's new book on AWS Cloud Networking: https://www.amazon.com/Certified-Advanced-Networking-Certification-certification/dp/1835080839/ Check out the Fortnightly Cloud Networking Newshttps://docs.google.com/document/d/1fkBWCGwXDUX9OfZ9_MvSVup8tJJzJeqrauaE6VPT2b0/Visit our website and subscribe: https://www.cables2clouds.com/Follow us on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/cables2clouds.comFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cables2clouds/Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cables2cloudsMerch Store: https://store.cables2clouds.com/Join the Discord Study group: https://artofneteng.com/iaatj
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