Proximus Think NXT is a one-day event focused on new innovations in technology. The most recent event which I attended with Omer Mokhamed Makhmud, took place on 30th November 2023. The next event is scheduled for 28th November 2024 at Nekkerhal, Mechelen.
The event features keynote speakers, interactive demos, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities. It’s designed to be a place to learn about new technologies, exchange ideas with other attendees, network, and get inspired by industry leaders.
Think NXT 2023 at Tour & Taxis in Brussels was a center of innovation and inspiration. We had the chance to connect with some of the biggest names in the industry.
One of the more interesting topics was at the Google booth. We talked to them about AI and cybersecurity, as well as a new LLM model they’re working on, SecPalm2. AI will start being used as a powerful tool in the fight against cybercrime. They also showed us some information on Operation Aurora, a glimpse into Google’s efforts to combat state-sponsored attacks and Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) by setting up their own hacking operation.
They’re also working with Academic Software to provide more tools to students, such as Chronicle and Mandiant.
Fortinet
Fortinet showed us some of the solutions they were working on for numerous security challenges, along with their new incident response team.
They’re also working to integrate their technology environment with third-party systems and even some of their competitor systems.
Cisco
The employees at the Cisco booth talked about their Meraki system, a great option for businesses seeking a streamlined network management solution. They also talked about their work on cloud-based technology and cloud monitoring which will be integrated into ALL Cisco products such as cameras, switches, access points, and more.
They are also working to integrate Snort IDS (Intrusion Detection System) into their Meraki system.
PaloAlto
Palo Alto talked about their “3 pillars of security” framework. They also discussed their “Unit 42” incident response team, showing they are going into the business of handling security breaches. They even introduced “Leap”, a new academic program being set up to teach new cybersecurity professionals.
360° Security
The gentleman at this booth told us about the upcoming NIS2 directive, the important points of consideration, differences from the previous NIS framework, and the kind of work they do for companies which mainly focuses on cybersecurity consultation.
Jabra
Strange to see a headphones company here, but they are more business-focused. Their work also focuses on conferencing equipment for companies, such as speakers, microphones, work headphones, etc.
At this booth they were demonstrating their new conferencing equipment, sleek and stylish, with all the features one could need for any board meeting.
Infoblox
Infoblox focused their talk on DNS incident detection, DNS security and incident response.
KnowBe4
KnowBe4 is a well-known phishing company, offering services to run phishing campaigns targeted toward companies that hire them. They offer a suite of social engineering services. At the booth they were also chatting about security in the corporate space.
Think NXT 2023 was an interesting experience for us, but it had to be cut short. We left the event with good insights into the newest advancements in technology and security. However, we did not realize beforehand that the event was more focused on selling new products to clients instead of just showing off new ideas and innovations in the tech space. We left the event with mixed feelings, having gleaned new knowledge at the cost of feeling treated like customers instead of security experts. However, the opportunity to connect with industry leaders and fellow tech enthusiasts was appreciated. If you’re in the IT field and interested to take a look at some of the new pieces in the security space, be sure to attend the next event later this year.
One response to “Proximus Think NXT”
hehehehhehe :3