IT Officer
Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund
Total years of experience :13 years, 11 Months
As an IT Officer at PPAF, an apex institution for community-driven development and poverty alleviation, I manage servers and network infrastructure for about 200 users. PPAF partners with public and private sectors to drive social and economic change in Pakistan, focusing on poverty alleviation. My responsibilities include:
• Maintain and troubleshoot the organizations technology infrastructure, including data center, servers, active directory, firewalls, backup systems, and disaster recovery (DR) sites.
• Support the IT Manager in developing and executing technology initiatives and implementing new technology solutions with user training sessions as needed.
• Troubleshoot network-related issues and optimize IT network operations, including the deployment and configuration of network switches, while ensuring smooth service for authorized users.
• Provide technical support for video/audio conferencing tools like Zoom, MS Teams, and Webex, and handle daily IT issues including printer connectivity, software installations, and operating system updates.
• Implement a help desk portal to track IT troubleshooting efforts, generate reports on network performance and compliance, and ensure timely resolution of user requests.
ACHIEVEMENTS
• Firewall High Availability and Disaster Recovery Setup
Configured FortiGate 401e firewalls in High Availability (HA) mode for enhanced network security and set up a secure Disaster Recovery (DR) link for rapid failover and minimized downtime.
• Storage Solution Conceptualization and Implementation
Designed and implemented a scalable storage system using Synology servers and Veeam software for data backup and security, providing optimized data management, seamless scalability, and compliance.
• Kaspersky Endpoint Security Implementation
Deployed Kaspersky Endpoint Security across a corporate network, resolving conflicts and integrating with existing IT infrastructure for robust network protection.
• Network Monitoring and Configuration
Implemented Zabbix for real-time network monitoring, enabling early issue detection and rapid response through custom dashboards and email alerts.
• Wi-Fi 6 Wireless Network Deployment
Deployed a Wi-Fi 6 network using Cisco 9800 WLC and 9120 Access Points, ensuring high-speed, secure wireless connectivity across a multi-floor building with centralized management.
I was a LAN Technician at NUST College of E&ME, one of Pakistans top engineering schools. The Electrical and Mechanical Engineers of E&ME maintain the Pakistan Armys equipment. At E&ME, I managed servers and network infrastructure for about 3, 500 users, with key responsibilities such as:
• Managed OpenStack components like users, roles, networks, instances, and volumes. Handled system tasks such as creating new images and troubleshooting issues.
• Managed data center and network operations, resolving issues on-site and remotely.
• Installed and configured upgraded networks, providing specialized support for troubleshooting issues.
• Deployed and upgraded IP telephony devices, troubleshooting VoIP issues to ensure clear and reliable calls.
• Diagnosed and resolved hardware and software issues, including server problems, and supporting infrastructure like NVRs, IP Cameras, and CCTV systems.
ACHIEVEMENTS
• Private Cloud Computing
Launched a private cloud project using OpenStack with a multi-node HA setup, deploying a VDI solution and HPC.
• IP Telephony/VoIP
Migrated voice infrastructure from legacy PBX to VoIP, configuring and maintaining over 500 IP phones, with SIP trunk setup, QoS on Cisco switches, and core LAN/WAN monitoring for reliable IP telephony.
• Network Infrastructure
The Network Infrastructure project, worth around 20 million rupees, involves redesigning a network with over 100 Cisco devices for improved performance, scalability, and high availability, along with data center relocation, server re-racking, cable management, etc.
I worked as a Network Administrator at KeyStone IT Services, a software house known for quality software and IT solutions. I managed servers and network infrastructure for about 50 users, with key responsibilities such as:
• Resolved network issues with TCP/IP, DHCP, and DNS. Set up Windows 2003 domains, including Active Directory and organizational units.
• Managed user accounts and permissions; installed Windows Software Update Service, and applied service packs and drivers to maintain system efficiency.
• Handled backups, configured remote access for remote users, and upgraded network components. Monitored network activity and maintained documentation to ensure quality.
Gained expertise in computer science to optimize technology through a focus on software, networking, and operating systems.