Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Websites
Certification
Interests
Personal Information
Driving License - Category
Timeline
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Kovan Nayager

Network Engineer
Midrand

Summary

I am a highly skilled and certified Network Engineer with a strong track record in managing and maintaining complex network infrastructures across both on-premise and cloud environments. I am solely responsible for the African Bank AWS Network Infrastructure, ensuring seamless connectivity, security, and scalability across multiple cloud services and business applications. With expertise in SD-WAN, routing, switching, firewall security, and AWS cloud networking, I take a proactive approach to troubleshooting, optimizing performance, and implementing cost-effective solutions. My ability to design, deploy, and manage robust network solutions has contributed to the efficiency, security, and resilience of African Bank's IT infrastructure. I hold multiple industry-recognized certifications, including AWS Advanced Networking Specialist, Check Point, and Cisco, demonstrating my commitment to continuous learning and technical excellence. My passion lies in problem-solving, innovation, and driving network reliability, ensuring business continuity and top-tier performance across all network operations. Whether it's leading critical projects, resolving high-priority incidents, or mentoring my colleagues, I am dedicated to delivering secure, high-performance networking solutions that support the businesses long-term success. I thrive in competitive environments, am deeply passionate about my career in networking, and am always driven to support the evolving needs of the business.


Overview

16
16
years of professional experience
20218
20218
years of post-secondary education
4
4
Certifications
1
1
Language

Work History

Network Engineer

African Bank
03.2019 - Current
  • As a Network Engineer, I am responsible for managing and maintaining the entire African Bank Network Infrastructure, including over 400 branches nationwide via the SD-WAN network. Additionally, I am solely responsible for the African Bank AWS Network Infrastructure, ensuring seamless performance, security, and scalability across multiple cloud environments. My role encompasses network diagnostics, issue resolution, and support for service desk staff, ensuring optimal performance and reliability across all network services.
  • Key Responsibilities:
  • AWS Network Infrastructure Management: Solely manage and maintain the bank's AWS cloud network, ensuring secure, high-performance connectivity between cloud services and on-premise data centers. Implement and optimize AWS Direct Connect, VPC configurations, Transit Gateway, and hybrid cloud solutions.
  • Network Infrastructure & Security: Oversee the bank's entire SD-WAN network, including routing, switching, and firewall management across branches, data centers, and cloud environments. Implement security policies, VPNs, F5 Load Balancing, and firewall rules to maintain a secure network posture.
  • Troubleshooting & Support: Diagnose complex network issues, provide efficient solutions, and assist the IT team during outages to minimize downtime. Offer 24/7 standby support for critical incidents.
  • Network Deployment & Configuration: Configure new network devices and deploy replacements using backup configurations. Manage and optimize third-party network links while ensuring seamless integration of banking services.
  • Project Execution: Lead network design, implementation, and management for key projects, including AWS integrations into internet banking services amongst other required business needs, all secured via Check Point CloudGuard firewall security.
  • Innovation & Cost Optimization: Investigate and implement automation methods and cost-effective network solutions to improve efficiency and reduce operational expenses.
  • Documentation & IP Management: Maintain up-to-date network documentation, assign IP addresses, and manage device configurations.
  • Monitored network capacity and performance to diagnose and resolve complex network problems.
  • Reduced downtime with proactive monitoring of network devices and rapid troubleshooting.
  • Optimized routing protocols to improve data transfer speeds across the organization''s network infrastructure.
  • Provided complete end-to-end engineering and installation of route-based IP network solutions.
  • Improved network performance by identifying and resolving bottlenecks, optimizing configurations, and implementing best practices.
  • Created VPN infrastructure and allowed for secure remote connections.
  • Streamlined network management with automated monitoring tools.
  • Evaluated emerging networking technologies to identify infrastructure improvement opportunities.
  • Protected forensic value of data and established monitoring and incident reporting and response procedures.
  • Provided firewall and VPN management, Check Point NGFW security management and incident response.
  • Provided F5 Load Balancing support and incident response.

IT Service Desk Analyst

African Bank
05.2018 - 02.2019
  • Establish the first-line IT support for all African Bank users.
  • Ensuring Incident Management and Application support on the following; incident detection and recording.
  • Incident classification, investigation/research, and diagnosis.
  • Troubleshooting all IT-related incidents and access requests.
  • Managed incident escalation processes effectively, ensuring timely resolutions while minimizing disruption to users'' workflows.
  • Improved customer satisfaction by efficiently resolving IT service desk tickets and providing clear communication to endusers.
  • Assisted in the development of IT service desk policies, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations while maintaining a focus on providing excellent customer service.

IT Technician

Blue Security
09.2015 - 04.2018
  • Provided desktop and IT systems support, on-call 24/7 support for all users within the Blue Security, Blue International organization including but not limited to Workstations, Servers, Network Administration, Telephony PABX/Avaya support, Veeam Backups, Trend Micro, Software Installs/Upgrades and Domain Management.
  • Maintained office PCs, networks and mobile devices.
  • Provided remote technical support, resolving issues quickly without requiring onsite visits whenever possible.
  • Responded to support requests from end-users and patiently walked individuals through basic troubleshooting tasks.
  • Configured systems according to prescribed software and hardware frameworks.
  • Monitored server room, wireless network and other server infrastructure, keeping systems running smoothly.
  • Managed inventory of hardware and software assets, ensuring proper allocation and maintenance throughout their lifecycle.
  • Minimized risk of data breaches, conducting thorough security assessments and implementing robust defense strategies.
  • Reduced downtime, meticulously maintaining and monitoring network infrastructure and server health.
  • Supported seamless remote work transitions by setting up and troubleshooting VPN connections for employees.
  • Installed, configured and maintained computer systems and network connections.
  • Installed and configured operating systems and applications.
  • Diagnosed and troubleshot hardware, software and network issues.
  • Patched software and installed new versions to eliminate security problems and protect data.

Hardware Specialist

Incredible Connection
01.2012 - 11.2014
  • Specialized in sales of networking, printers, hardware and software, tablets, phones, and Apple products.
  • Provided customers with in-store services, sales, and technical assistance.
  • Improved client satisfaction by providing timely and accurate hardware solutions for technical issues.
  • Exceeded sales targets consistently, demonstrating strong negotiation skills and closing deals.
  • Collaborated with technical teams to provide customized solutions for clients, resulting in increased customer satisfaction.
  • Collaborated with customers and asked questions to assess needs and budgets.
  • Attended product-related technical shows and other activities to represent company products and services.
  • Worked with sales team to collaboratively reach targets, consistently meeting or exceeding personal quotas.
  • Contacted customers and prospects to generate new business to achieve company growth goals.
  • Branded products through effective salesmanship and maintained long-term relationships with clients.

Technical Support Agent

BIZWORKS BPO
01.2009 - 10.2010
  • I worked for the BT/Plusnet/Waitrose/Madasafish campaign that provided Broadband and Phone services to UK clients.
  • As an outsourced inbound/outbound call Centre, I worked in Technical Support, Customer Services, and Provisioning.
  • Walked individuals through basic troubleshooting tasks.
  • Resolved issues with systems, hardware and telephones quickly and accurately.
  • Followed up with clients to verify optimal customer satisfaction following support engagement and problem resolution.
  • Resolved complex technical issues for better client experience and smoother operations.
  • Explained technical information in clear terms to promote better understanding for non-technical users.
  • Submitted service tickets for equipment maintenance requests.
  • Assisted customers in identifying issues and explained solutions to restore service and functionality.
  • Documented support interactions for future reference.
  • Improved customer satisfaction by providing timely and efficient technical support to clients.
  • Collaborated with supervisors to escalate and address customer inquiries or technical issues.
  • Activated accounts for clients interested in new services.
  • Removed malware, ransomware, and other threats from laptops and desktop systems.
  • Managed high levels of call flow and responded to technical support needs.
  • Used ticketing systems to manage and process support actions and requests.
  • Educated customers on product features and usage, fostering a positive relationship between the company and its clients.
  • Installed, configured and maintained computer systems and network connections.

Education

Certificate - Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)

Cisco Academy
01-2026

Certificate - AWS Certified Advanced Networking Specialist

Amazon Web Services
08-2025

Cisco ISE

Cisco Academy
09-2024

Cisco Umbrella

Cisco Academy
08-2024

Certificate - Check Point Certified Security Administrator (CCSA)

Check Point Technologies
12-2023

Certificate - Check Point Certified VSX Specialist (CCVS)

Check Point Technologies
10-2023

Certificate - Check Point Troubleshooting Administrator (CCTA)

Check Point Technologies
03-2022

Certificate - AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate

Amazon Web Services
12-2021

Certificate - Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Cisco Academy
10-2019

Certificate - Network +

Comptia
08-2015

Certificate - A +

Comptia
07-2015

Matriculated - GRADE 12

Strelitzia Secondary
12-2007

Skills

Supervisor/Team Leader/Management qualities

Microsoft Suite Proficient

Critical Thinking

Adaptability

Active Listener

Typing Skills

Motivation

Agile

Punctual/Dedicated

Customer Focused

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Certification

AWS Advanced Networking Specialist (Certified)

Interests

Research and Design
Reading
Listening to music
Gamer

Personal Information

  • Date of Birth: 02/08/90
  • Nationality: South African Indian
  • Marital Status: Married
  • Visa Status: Not specified

Driving License - Category

Code 10 License (C1)

Timeline

Network Engineer

African Bank
03.2019 - Current

IT Service Desk Analyst

African Bank
05.2018 - 02.2019

IT Technician

Blue Security
09.2015 - 04.2018

Hardware Specialist

Incredible Connection
01.2012 - 11.2014

Technical Support Agent

BIZWORKS BPO
01.2009 - 10.2010

Certificate - Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)

Cisco Academy

Certificate - AWS Certified Advanced Networking Specialist

Amazon Web Services

Cisco ISE

Cisco Academy

Cisco Umbrella

Cisco Academy

Certificate - Check Point Certified Security Administrator (CCSA)

Check Point Technologies

Certificate - Check Point Certified VSX Specialist (CCVS)

Check Point Technologies

Certificate - Check Point Troubleshooting Administrator (CCTA)

Check Point Technologies

Certificate - AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate

Amazon Web Services

Certificate - Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Cisco Academy

Certificate - Network +

Comptia

Certificate - A +

Comptia

Matriculated - GRADE 12

Strelitzia Secondary

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