The ninth annual Lanka Network Operators Group (LKNOG9) conference took place recently, at the historic Galle Face Hotel in Colombo, gathering a diverse group of network specialists, academics, policymakers, and industry leaders. Participants explored the latest advancements in internet infrastructure, network operations, and innovative technologies shaping Sri Lanka and the broader South Asian region. Dhanika Perera, renowned entrepreneur and CEO of Bhasha, 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 revolutionize 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 emphasized 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 centers. 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 fiber 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, recognizing the future contributors to network engineering. Following the main conference, LKNOG9 hosted an intensive week of workshops focused on Network Automation, Network Virtualization, the KINDNS Framework, and Generative AI, benefiting over 100 participants. Overall, the event created a vital forum for addressing local and regional operational challenges, fostering innovation, and empowering the next generation of network professionals in Sri Lanka and beyond.
