Cloud Network Architect · Microsoft MVP for Cloud and Datacenter Management
I'm a cloud network architect with roots in traditional enterprise networking, focused on hybrid connectivity, multi-cloud architecture, and the protocols that tie it all together — particularly BGP and DNS. I became a Microsoft MVP after turning my technical notes into a blog that apparently a few people found useful.
Over on simonpainter.com I write deep-dive technical articles aimed at network engineers navigating the transition into cloud. Recent topics include:
- BGP for enterprise cloud connectivity — hybrid, multi-cloud, and everything in between
- Encrypted DNS — DoH, DoT, SVCB/HTTPS records, DDR, and what Microsoft's DoH preview means for enterprise networks
- Azure networking — Virtual Network Routing Appliance, hub-and-spoke patterns, and AZ-700 prep
- Zero Trust & ZTNA — how much has really changed since the SSL VPN era?
- AI & automation — BGP Route Server MCP, reducing meeting overhead with intent capture
| Repo | Stars | Forks | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| pyflare |  |
 |
Python script that keeps Cloudflare DNS records updated with your current public IP |
| netbox-mcp |  |
 |
MCP server for NetBox, letting AI assistants query and interact with your network source of truth |
| MoodBadger |  |
 |
Assistive tech for neurodivergent children — a Pimoroni Badger2040 e-ink display for expressing emotional state |
| bgp-lg-mcp |  |
 |
BGP route server MCP proxy, covered in depth on the blog |
The blog started as a personal notebook — somewhere to record solutions so I wouldn't have to solve the same problem twice. If you've ever googled a problem and landed on your own post, you'll understand exactly why.