Aviatrix wants to elevate the work of 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 Pavan Shetty, Senior Consultant – Network Security. See our previous hero spotlights here.
Background: Solving Complex Problems and Driving Innovation
Pavan got started in tech during his college years when he realized that his curiosity and passion for technology could be turned into a career.
“I initially pursued Electronics and Communication Engineering, which gave me a solid foundation in networking and communication protocols,” he said. “After graduation, I jumped into the network engineering field, starting as an Associate Network Engineer, and eventually working my way up to Network Lead.”
Over the last 14 years, he’s worked in different domains—cloud networking, network security, and automation—across a wide variety of industries.
Currently, Pavan leads network design and implementation strategies, focusing on cloud networking and network security in his role. His favorite part of his role is the opportunity to solve complex problems and drive innovation.
“Networking is a constantly evolving field, and being part of that transformation—especially in the cloud networking space—has been both rewarding and challenging,” he said. “One of my top accomplishments was leading the SD-WAN deployment across multiple global locations for a healthcare client, which resulted in a 40% increase in network efficiency and a 30% reduction in operational costs.”
Pavan is also proud of driving automation within the network environment, using tools like Ansible and Terraform, to ensure that his organization could scale rapidly without compromising security or performance.
Tackling Cost Optimization with the Right Tools
Pavan offered some advice for cloud networking professionals facing a common issue: out-of-control costs. He recommended:
Focusing on efficiency and automation – “One of the primary benefits of the cloud is the ability to scale, but with that scalability comes the risk of overspending. Networking professionals should learn to use tools like Terraform and Ansible to automate routine tasks and optimize configurations.”
Using cost visibility solutions – “Implementing cost management tools that provide visibility into cloud resource usage and make sure your cloud providers' services are sized appropriately to avoid over-provisioning.”
Designing with cost in mind – “Always be mindful of traffic patterns and ensure that your cloud network architecture is built to handle the expected load without unnecessary redundancy.”
The Evolution of Networking and the Next Ten Years
Like all our Cloud Networking Heroes, Pavan has watched networking go through drastic shifts throughout his career. “Initially, it was all about traditional LAN/WAN setups and on-premises infrastructure. As cloud technology began to take off, the focus shifted to cloud networking, SDN (Software-Defined Networking), and network automation,” he said.
In the next ten years, he predicts “more AI-powered networks that can self-heal, auto-optimize, and deliver more personalized services. 5G will also play a major role in driving edge networking, where data processing happens closer to the user, making networks faster and more efficient.”
Pavan also notes how the nature of the cloud has changed security conversations. “The cloud has increased the need for continuous security monitoring and zero-trust models because of its distributed nature,” he said.
The Network is the Cloud: A More Virtualized and Distributed Approach
“To me, ‘The Network is the Cloud’ reflects how cloud infrastructure and networking are no longer separate entities—they are intertwined,” Pavan said. “The cloud has reshaped the way we think about networking by removing the physical boundaries of traditional data centers and embracing a more virtualized and distributed approach.” This shift has changed the fundamental identity of the network. “The network is no longer just a transport layer; it’s a core enabler of cloud capabilities—whether that’s providing multicloud connectivity, ensuring security, or optimizing performance,” Pavan explained.
Outside of Work
Outside of work, Pavan enjoys playing strategy games like chess and Go, which helps him unwind and sharpen his focus.
“When I need a break from screens, I love exploring nature trails or indulging in a good book,” he said. “I’m also passionate about bike rides. I’ve done cross-country rides and enjoy the freedom and adventure they bring. Additionally, I enjoy long drives during my days off, whether it’s a scenic route or just driving for the thrill of it.”
A random fun fact about Pavan is a love for cars. “I'm a huge fan of classic cars and occasionally attend car shows to admire and learn about vintage vehicles,” he said.
Curious about other cloud networking heroes like Pavan?
We’ll keep highlighting networking professionals on this blog.
Learn more about the Cloud Networking Heroes program and apply on The Cloud Network Community.
