Conference Description
Key Takeaways
- NANOG 98 convenes network engineers, operators, and architects focused on internet infrastructure and large-scale network management.
- Core topics include global connectivity, internet routing geography, subsea cable investment, and network automation.
- Keynotes examine shifts in global infrastructure, physical network layer vulnerabilities, and the gap between autonomous vehicle technology and autonomous networks.
- The program features peer-reviewed presentations, workshops, and peering forums.
- Sponsors include Larus (host sponsor), AT&T, and Juniper Networks.
About NANOG 98
NANOG 98 is the 98th gathering of the North American Network Operators’ Group, taking place October 19 to 21, 2026, in Miami, FL. The event brings together professionals involved in network engineering, operations, and architecture to share knowledge and collaborate on challenges facing internet infrastructure. The in-person format includes peer-reviewed presentations, keynotes, workshops, peering forums, and networking events.
Global Connectivity and Infrastructure Challenges
A significant portion of the program addresses global connectivity and the physical realities underpinning internet infrastructure. Sessions cover internet routing geography and subsea cable investment, examining how geographic and geopolitical factors shape network architecture. Keynote presentations focus on vulnerabilities in physical network layers and the broader shifts occurring in global infrastructure, providing context for operators managing networks that span multiple regions and jurisdictions.
Network Automation and Autonomous Networks
Network automation features prominently in the agenda, with discussions exploring the challenges of building autonomous networks. One keynote draws a comparison between the progress made in self-driving car technology and the slower advancement toward truly autonomous network operations. Content localization also appears as a topic, reflecting the operational complexities of serving distributed user bases while maintaining performance and reliability.
Who Should Attend
NANOG 98 serves professionals working in backbone connectivity, peering, routing, and large-scale network management. The event is designed for network engineers, architects, operators, peering coordinators, and technical leaders from ISPs, cloud providers, data centers, telecommunications companies, and large enterprises. Attendees range from entry-level professionals to senior executives and decision-makers responsible for network operations and engineering.
Operational and Strategic Focus
The event addresses both technical and strategic challenges: optimizing global connectivity, managing network vulnerabilities, adapting to geopolitical and physical risks, and automating network operations. The peering forum provides a dedicated venue for coordination among operators, while workshops offer hands-on engagement with specific technical topics.