With over 12 years of experience in the IT industry, Prasad Danekula, Principal Cloud Developer at Aruba-HPE, is a leading innovator in product development and automation across wired and wireless networking products, cloud-managed network management systems (NMS), AI-driven networking solutions, and the implementation of advanced networking and cloud security protocols. He has successfully led numerous projects that have transformed industries by enabling seamless connectivity, enhanced mobility, improved threat protection, scalability, reliability, and performance of global networks.
Professional Journey
Prasad has developed a broad and versatile skill set through end-to-end contributions—from design and development to system validation and scaling—of edge networking devices, including Cisco switches (Cat3k,4k,9k), Cisco & Aruba wireless controllers (WLCs), security solutions & 802.11n to 802.11be Access points.
Prasad is well-versed in the 802.11 protocols and standards that govern modern networking environments. With expertise in wireless protocols like 802.11i/e/r/k/v, security protocols (WPA, WPA2, and WPA3), and advanced algorithms that optimize services like RRM, Airmatch etc. He has designed, automated, validated, and optimized complex wired/wireless products. A deep understanding of IPv4/IPv6, AP/Client SSO, HA, and wireless standards such as 802.11AX and 802.11AC equips him to design and automate solutions that meet the demands of today’s dynamic network environments.
As networking companies transition from device-centric solutions to cloud-based services, he has gained extensive experience in the design and development of cloud-based NMS products, such as Cisco DNAC and HPE Aruba Central/Nextgen Central i.e. built on microservice architectures. This includes integrating key components like device telemetry, Kubernetes, Kafka, persistent/non-persistent databases, and utilizing AI-driven techniques to enhance security and optimize network efficiency.
Automation and Innovation: Notable Achievements
A key focus of Prasad’s career has been the development and implementation of automation solutions aimed at enhancing the quality of world-class networking products. Skilled in creating frameworks using Python, YAML, JSON, and other technologies, he has significantly improved the early detection of critical software bugs, system validation, customer issue reproduction, and accelerated repetitive tasks. Additionally, his expertise in containerization technologies such as Docker and Kubernetes (with Helm and kubectl) has been instrumental in enhancing scalability and managing cloud-based applications.
As a Principal Cloud Developer at Aruba-HPE, he played a pivotal role in migrating wireless controller services to a cloud-based microservices architecture. This transition empowered HPE Aruba Central to meet the growing demand for regional and local network control, incorporating built-in security, AI-driven optimization, and enhanced observability.
By leveraging both in-house and external networking tools (such as IXIA, Veriwave, and Althea), and developing large-scale workload simulations on cloud infrastructure platforms like Kubernetes, Kafka, Redis, PG and CassandraDB, he identified performance bottlenecks and implemented solutions that optimized resources and scalability.
Leadership and Collaboration: Driving Client-Centric Solutions
In addition to technical expertise, Prasad has demonstrated strong leadership abilities throughout their career. As part of a team of experts at HPE-Aruba, he was instrumental in managing complex cloud services, handling escalated customer issues, and collaborating directly with clients such as Sprint, Ohio State University, and Microsoft. By understanding each client’s network topology and unique challenges, he tailored solutions and training that ensured smoother deployments and greater customer satisfaction.
In their previous role at Cisco, he led multiple initiatives aimed at improving the scalability and security of wireless networks. These included validation and optimization of Wi-Fi 6 features, including RRM, Flex Radio Assignment, Cisco Fastlane, 802.3 (POE+), and DFS. They also drove automation efforts, reducing manual intervention and improving test coverage by developing end-to-end automation frameworks for key wireless features such as roaming, client stateful switchover, and WPA3 security authentication.
Education, Certifications, and Commitment to Innovation
A graduate of JNTU University in Hyderabad, where he earned a Bachelor of Technology in Information Technology, they have further enhanced their qualifications with a Post Graduate Diploma in Advanced Networking from Edinburgh Napier University. These educational achievements have laid the foundation for Prasad Danekula’s career and commitment to continuous professional development.
In line with their dedication to staying at the forefront of technology, he holds several prestigious certifications, including the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate and NVIDIA-Certified Associate in AI Infrastructure and Operations (NCA-AIIO). These certifications reflect his commitment to integrating AI and cloud technologies to optimize network performance and security.
A Vision for the Future of Networking
In the ever-evolving landscape of IT, Prasad remains committed to driving innovation and excellence across all facets of networking, cloud infrastructure, and AI solutions. Whether developing wired/wireless features, leading more scalable and secure cloud systems, or implementing AI solutions, he brings a wealth of knowledge, expertise, and passion to every challenge they encounter.
