Aviatrix Blog 
Aviatrix wants to elevate the work of secure cloud networking heroes who labor to keep networks secure, effective, and performant. We’re proud to highlight people who have taught themselves the necessary skills, designed and managed successful networks, and have the expertise to share.
Our next hero spotlight is on Akarsh Lavania, CyberSecurity Consultant/ SOC Analyst. See our previous hero spotlights here.
Background: A Passion for Cybersecurity and Networking
“As a professional, I began my work in the technology sector because of my intense passion for cybersecurity together with networking capabilities,” Akarsh explained. He started by taking practical training programs that gave him a solid base of knowledge in network protocols, security frameworks, and monitoring techniques.
At LTIMindtree, Akarsh functions as a cybersecurity professional who focuses on threat analysis, incident response, and complex network infrastructure protection. “My work responsibilities include monitoring network traffic for suspicious patterns, researching security breaches, and implementing protective measures to prevent the loss of digital assets from rising dangers,” he said.
Through his years of experience, Akarsh has honed his ability to spot security weaknesses while simultaneously strengthening protective systems. “My activities with cross-functional teams ensure both best practices execution and security integration throughout networking operational elements,” he said.
Akarsh enjoys the challenges and constant changes in cybersecurity. “The dynamic nature of this field motivates me the most because each day brings fresh tests that urge me to advance my skills and stay ahead of modern cyber dangers,” he explained.
Accomplishments and Proudest Moments
In his current role, Akarsh thrives on analyzing threats, solving complex problems, and contributing to the security and resilience of critical systems. “The sense of purpose that comes from protecting digital assets and staying ahead of emerging threats keeps me motivated every day,” he said.
He’s also been recognized for his cybersecurity work, including:
- Being recognized as a Top Cybersecurity Voice on LinkedIn and ranked in the Top 5% Industrial Rank Globally in the Cyber Community. “The interactions I had allowed me to acquire new viewpoints regarding security problems and technological solutions,” he said.
- Winning a ticket to DEFCON 33, a hacking conference in Las Vegas, showcasing his commitment to learning and engaging with the global security community.
- Earning the TryHackMe [0xA] [WIZARD] title, ranking in the Top 3% for consistently securing top positions in various events.
- Receiving an award for his commitment to excellence and completing tasks with accuracy and speed, which significantly improved the experience for his team and stakeholders.
- Within his organization, he also received the “Super Crew” Award for displaying exemplary team spirit, initiative, and exceeding expectations.
Challenges Overcome
A major difficulty in Akarsh’s work as a cybersecurity professional comes from continuously tracking rising security threats while protecting networks against complex attacks. “Security brings an ongoing need for both constant education along with fast learning capabilities,” he said. “My role requires sustained efforts to handle short-term risks simultaneously with developing strategic enhancements.”
Akarsh has risen to the challenge by adopting “unorthodox methods to improve my learning and innovation strategies.” One nontraditional method he used to build his skillset was joining TryHackMe, as mentioned above. “Practical experiences at TryHackMe built my skills in analysis and technology, which enables me to tackle complex systems as they appear in real-life operations,” he explained.
The Evolution and Future of Networking
During his career, Akarsh has observed both technological innovation and a growing business need for enhanced secure and flexible infrastructure. New technologies like hybrid structures have improved speed and operations, but have also created fresh security threats for networks.
“Security concerns are now being redefined through zero-trust architecture implementation since it enforces monitored continuous access controls across networks,” he said.
He predicted some growing trends over the next ten years:
- Cloud networking systems will become more integrated because edge computing and 5G networks and AI-based automation have become standard business practice.
- Security efforts will intensify to protect distributed networks because IoT (internet of things) will continue to multiply, thus requiring enhanced real-time data flow control.
- Cloud-native security technology will grow with the development of artificial intelligence threat detection through machine learning and automated incident response as well as robust identity and access management systems.
- Security professionals will need to stay informed about emerging changes through constant learning and active threat intelligence work.
The Network is the Cloud
To Akarsh, “the network is the cloud” means “network boundaries and cloud infrastructure operators become one unified system. Under this view the network develops into an intelligent fabric which exhibits automated control abilities to link computing resources with data and applications that exist across multiple distributed areas.” This new concept will affect:
- Integration – “Through integration this method enables unlimited speedy adaptations of systems to change as well as instant decision capabilities and limitless system capacity.”
- Speed and architecture – “The realization of this concept will erase latency from use and remove the necessity of centralized infrastructure.”
- Security – “Security models will undergo changes to develop identity-based and context-aware protective systems which defend data in a decentralizing and ever-shifting digital world.”
Outside of Work
Outside of work, Akarsh enjoys:
- Staying active by playing basketball – “It’s not only a great way to unwind but also helps me stay disciplined and focused.”
- Photography – “Capturing the perfect shot allows me to see the world from different perspectives and fuels my creative side.”
- Engaging with the security community – “It keeps me connected to new ideas and fresh perspectives. I thrive on learning and pushing my boundaries both professionally and personally.”
“Whether it’s finding the perfect lighting for a photo or cracking a complex puzzle, I’m always looking for that next challenge!” Akarsh said.
Curious about other cloud networking heroes like Akarsh?
- We’ll keep highlighting networking professionals on this blog.
- Learn more about the Cloud Networking Heroes program and apply on The Cloud Network Community.