LKNOG9 brings together SL’s network operator community in Colombo

Participants

The ninth annual Lanka Network Operators Group (LKNOG9) conference took place recently at Galle Face Hotel in Colombo, gathering a diverse group of network specialists, academics, policymakers and industry leaders. 

The participants explored the latest advancements in internet infrastructure, network operations and innovative technologies shaping Sri Lanka and the broader South Asian region. 

Renowned entrepreneur and Bhasha CEO Dhanika Perera set the stage with a keynote, discussing how robust internet infrastructure fosters the growth of artificial intelligence. Prof. Roshan Ragel from LEARN demonstrated practical ways generative AI could revolutionise network engineering tasks like planning and troubleshooting. Lia Hestina of RIPE NCC shared an intriguing case study, illustrating how the internet adapted after significant cable damage in the Baltic Sea, providing insights into network resilience.

Dave Phelan from APNIC presented insightful data in his session ‘The Internet by the Numbers Sri Lanka Edition’, highlighting key statistics and trends. Shalika Halpandeniya of Dialog delved into the deployment of 5G networks and their transformative potential for digital connectivity across Sri Lanka. 

R.P.D.C. Kaushalya from SLT-Mobitel emphasised the strategic importance of COLOCIX, Sri Lanka’s leading Internet Exchange. M.M. Zaheer Hussain from the Open University showcased real-world examples of internal bandwidth measurement, while Dumindu Karunanayaka from SLT highlighted the critical role of AI-driven cybersecurity strategies in safeguarding modern data centres. 

Subodha Kumara and Tharindu Meepegama from OREL IT jointly addressed effective approaches to protecting cloud-based environments from DDoS attacks. In an engaging presentation, Tashi Phuntsho from Flexoptix simplified complex optical fibre technologies, making them accessible to non-specialists. 

Dakshina Hettiarachchi from Superloop explained how segment routing is reshaping MPLS networks, enhancing speed and efficiency. 

To encourage and nurture new talent, LKNOG awarded fellowships to eleven promising young engineers, funded by Flexoptix through community nominations. René Fichtmüller of Flexoptix introduced the fellowship initiative, recognising the future contributors to network engineering. 

Following the main conference, LKNOG9 hosted an intensive week of workshops focused on network automation, network virtualisation, KINDNS framework and generative AI, benefiting over 100 participants.