Texas Instruments Software Limited
UK Network Manager (March 1996 - June 1997)
Transformed network infrastructure for 1000-user campus and launched Europe's first Microsoft IIS Intranet server.
Role Overview
As UK Network Manager at Texas Instruments Software Limited, I led a comprehensive network infrastructure transformation for a 1000-user campus spread across three sites. This role positioned me at the forefront of enterprise network modernization during a pivotal period when organizations were transitioning from legacy systems to modern Microsoft-based architectures.
Key Responsibilities
- Complete redesign of network infrastructure across three campus sites
- Migration from NetWare to Microsoft NT network operating systems
- Implementation of high-speed FDDI ring backbone infrastructure
- Launch of first European Microsoft IIS Intranet server
- Management of 1000-user network operations and support
Business Context & Technology Era
TI International Expansion
During 1996-1997, Texas Instruments was executing its international strategy across major European regions including the UK, France, Germany, and Italy, with significant investment in network infrastructure.
Microsoft NT Deployment
TI was pioneering Microsoft NT Server integration across its international operations, implementing trusted networks and advanced features like Remote Access Service (RAS) and Systems Management Server (SMS).
FDDI Technology Leadership
Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI) was the cutting-edge 100 Mbps fiber-optic networking technology for campus backbones, representing the latest in high-speed enterprise networking.
Intranet Innovation
The launch of Microsoft IIS-based Intranet services represented early adoption of web-based internal communication and collaboration technologies in European operations.
Network Infrastructure Transformation
Legacy to Modern Architecture
Transformed the campus network from outdated 64Kb leased lines to a state-of-the-art infrastructure featuring an 8.2km FDDI ring with point-to-point connections and collapsed backbone switch architecture.
Technical Implementation
- FDDI Ring Backbone: 8.2km fiber-optic ring providing 100 Mbps connectivity
- Point-to-Point Links: Direct high-speed connections between major sites
- Collapsed Backbone: Centralized switching architecture for optimal performance
- Multi-Site Integration: Seamless connectivity across three campus locations
Performance Impact
The infrastructure upgrade delivered dramatic performance improvements, moving from 64 kilobits per second to 100 megabits per second - more than 1500 times faster connectivity for the 1000-user campus environment.
NetWare to NT Migration
"The migration from NetWare to NT represented one of the most significant platform transitions in enterprise computing during the mid-1990s."
Migration Challenges & Solutions
- Seamless transition of 1000 users with minimal disruption
- Data migration and application compatibility verification
- User training and support for new Microsoft NT environment
- Integration with TI's broader international NT deployment strategy
Strategic Alignment
This migration aligned with Texas Instruments' global strategy to implement Microsoft NT across its international operations, contributing to the company's trusted network architecture and enabling advanced services like RAS and SMS.
European Intranet Pioneer
First European IIS Deployment
Launched Texas Instruments' first European Intranet server using Microsoft Internet Information Server (IIS), establishing the foundation for web-based internal communications and collaboration across the organization.
Technical Innovation
- Microsoft IIS server implementation
- Web-based internal communication platform
- Employee information and resource portal
- Integration with NT domain infrastructure
Business Impact
- Improved internal communication efficiency
- Enhanced information sharing capabilities
- Foundation for future digital workplace initiatives
- Competitive advantage in European operations
Technical Leadership & Project Management
Campus-Wide Coordination
Led complex project coordination across three separate sites, ensuring seamless integration while maintaining operational continuity for 1000 users throughout the transformation process.
Technology Integration
- FDDI ring design and implementation across 8.2km campus
- Network switching and routing architecture
- Microsoft NT domain and trust relationships
- Web server infrastructure and IIS configuration
- User support and training program development
Industry Impact & Innovation
This role at Texas Instruments positioned me at the forefront of enterprise network transformation during a critical period in computing history. The successful implementation of FDDI ring technology, Microsoft NT migration, and European IIS deployment demonstrated advanced technical capabilities and strategic thinking.
Innovation Achievements
- Successfully deployed cutting-edge FDDI ring technology across 8.2km campus
- Executed complex NetWare to NT migration for 1000 users
- Launched first European Microsoft IIS Intranet server
- Created scalable network architecture supporting future growth
- Established template for enterprise network modernization
Career Development & Learning
Working at Texas Instruments Software Limited provided invaluable experience in large-scale enterprise network design and implementation. The opportunity to work with cutting-edge technologies like FDDI and early Microsoft NT deployments established my expertise in enterprise infrastructure and prepared me for subsequent leadership roles.
Professional Growth
- Advanced expertise in fiber-optic network technologies
- Deep knowledge of Microsoft NT enterprise deployment
- Experience with large-scale network migrations
- Leadership in multinational corporate technology initiatives