About
Edge Cloud is a technical blog focused on cloud computing, networking, and data center technologies. I’m Christian Elsen, a Principal Networking Solutions Architect at AWS, sharing insights on modern infrastructure and emerging technologies.
TL;DR
💼 Current Role: Principal Networking Solutions Architect at AWS
🎯 Expertise: Cloud networking, data centers, virtualization, IPv6
📝 Blog Focus: AWS networking, infrastructure design, technical deep-dives
🌐 Background: 15+ years across Cisco, VMware, Cloudflare, and AWS
What I Do Now
As a Principal Networking Solutions Architect at AWS, I:
- Design networking solutions for enterprise customers and partners
- Author technical content including blogs, whitepapers, and reference architectures
- Develop internal training programs and best practices
- Advise on complex networking challenges and emerging technologies
Career Highlights
Amazon Web Services (2016-Present)
Enterprise Support Lead → Principal Solutions Architect
- Served as dedicated technical contact for strategic enterprise customers
- Led application performance optimization and cost reduction initiatives
- Designed networking solutions for large-scale AWS deployments
- Contributed to AWS networking best practices and documentation
Cloudflare (2015-2016)
Product Manager
- Launched HTTP/2 support across Cloudflare’s global network
- Quadrupled HTTP/2 adoption on the internet
- Drove product strategy for web performance optimization
VMware (2012-2015)
Integration Engineer → Integration Architect
- Architected VMware Validated Designs for Software Defined Data Centers
- Led IPv6 readiness initiatives across vSphere product suite
- Designed VMworld Hands-on Labs experiences
- Provided feedback on emerging VMware technologies
Cisco Systems (2008-2012)
Software Engineer → Technology Advisory → Product Manager
- Spearheaded Technology Intelligence initiatives for executive decision-making
- Advised on M&A deals and strategy alignment in data center/virtualization space
- Developed prototypes for remote collaboration systems
- Contributed to disruptive innovation projects
Beyond Work
When I’m not designing networks or writing technical content, I enjoy exploring New Zealand’s stunning landscapes and staying current with emerging technologies. I’m passionate about IPv6 adoption, sustainable infrastructure, and making complex technical concepts accessible.
I’m also the creator of TAK.NZ (Team Awareness Kit), New Zealand’s common operating platform providing a real-time Common Operating Picture (COP) for emergency responders.
Support My Work
If you find my content valuable, consider supporting:
Connect
Find me on Mastodon, Bluesky, LinkedIn, or GitHub. I’m always interested in discussing networking challenges, cloud architecture, or emerging technologies.
Disclaimer: Views expressed here are my own and don’t represent Amazon Web Services or any employer. This is a personal blog where I share technical insights and experiences.