Sharavana Kumar

8+ years specializing in Palo Alto Networks technologies: Strata NGFW, Prisma Access, and Prisma SD-WAN. Skilled in designing, deploying, and optimizing firewall policies, implementing Zero Trust architecture, and configuring advanced threat prevention. Proficient in SD-WAN deployment, policy management via Panorama, and troubleshooting complex network security issues. Strong technical leadership in cross-functional, global projects to ensure scalable, reliable, and secure enterprise networks.

Senior Network Security Engineer - Ashley Furniture Industries, Inc.

(2023-05)

Led the design, implementation, and operation of robust network security architectures using Palo Alto Networks technologies, including Strata NGFW, Prisma Access, Prisma SD-WAN, and Panorama, significantly enhancing the organization's defense posture against evolving cyber threats.

• Worked extensively on GlobalProtect, Strata Cloud Manager, Strata Logging Service (CDL), and Prisma Access Browser to deliver end-to-end SASE visibility and control.
• Experienced in managing and securing large-scale enterprise network infrastructures, ensuring high availability, scalability, and compliance across global environments.
• Designed and deployed Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) for secure, hybrid workforce connectivity.
• Managed firewall policy optimization, NAT configurations, SSL decryption, and custom security profiles.
• Integrated Prisma Access with on-premises and cloud networks using service connections and remote network onboarding.
• Automated policy audits and configuration validation using Python and XML/REST API integrations.
• Collaborated with the Network, Platform, and GRC teams to ensure compliance and governance alignment.
• Conducted periodic configuration reviews, threat analysis, and firewall migration projects to improve security posture.
• Managed and optimized firewall configurations and intrusion detection systems, improving response times to security incidents.
• Mentored junior engineers, sharing best practices in network security to enhance team capabilities and knowledge retention.

Senior TAC Engineer - iOPEX Technologies (Palo Alto Networks)

(2021-08 - 2023-05)

Provided advanced technical support to global enterprise customers for Palo Alto Networks products.

• Troubleshot complex issues involving Prisma Access, Panorama, and next-generation firewalls.
• Assisted customers in configuring VPNs, SSL decryption, threat prevention, and authentication mechanisms.
• Analyzed packet captures, system logs, and configuration files to diagnose and resolve security incidents.
• Delivered root cause analysis (RCA) and proactive recommendations to enhance network performance.
• Collaborated directly with Palo Alto engineering teams to escalate and resolve high-severity issues.
• Led troubleshooting initiatives for complex network issues, enhancing resolution speed and improving client satisfaction.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to implement system upgrades, ensuring seamless integration and minimal downtime.
• Mentored junior engineers in technical problem-solving, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development.
• Analyzed user feedback to optimize support documentation, resulting in improved accuracy and efficiency in service delivery.

NOC Engineer - LTI Mindtree

(2019-01 - 2021-08)

• Monitored enterprise networks using SolarWinds Orion and responded to alerts, ensuring 24/7 uptime.
• Performed incident triage, connectivity diagnostics, and escalation to core networking teams.
• Supported network maintenance tasks, including password resets, interface monitoring, and performance reporting.
• Maintained documentation and ensured timely escalation and resolution within SLA guidelines.
• Led network monitoring initiatives to enhance system reliability, resulting in decreased downtime and improved incident response times.
• Developed and implemented troubleshooting procedures, streamlining resolution processes and accelerating service restoration efforts.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to optimize network performance, contributing to enhanced user experience and operational efficiency.
• Mentored junior engineers on NOC best practices, fostering skill development and ensuring adherence to operational standards.

Bachelor of Computer Applications - Software development, programming, databases, networking, and web technologies - A. M. Jain College, Chennai (2015 - 2018)