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Why you should attend Networkshop 2026

As digital demands grow and budgets tighten, Networkshop 2026 offers education and research organisations a practical way to rethink secure, sustainable networks this June.

A male delegate smiling at a Networkshop session.

The big challenges we’re facing and why Networkshop matters now

Education and research institutions are under unprecedented pressure to deliver secure networks that drive collaboration and innovation while navigating tighter budgets and rising demands for bandwidth, flexibility and resilience. Networkshop 2026 is built around these needs with three core themes running through the programme:

  • Resilient and sustainable infrastructure — build robust, scalable and responsible networks amid rising costs
  • Inclusive and collaborative education ecosystems — ensuring connectivity supports equity, innovation and collaboration
  • Intelligent networks for adaptive learning and research — understanding how AI is reshaping network operations and creating new opportunities

These themes come together to shape a programme designed to bring clarity, direction and practical guidance to help the sector navigate an increasingly complex digital landscape. Whether you're focused on strategic priorities or hands-on technical delivery, this year’s event will bring our community together to explore the innovations shaping tomorrow’s networks. Taking place 23–24 June 2026 at Nottingham Trent University and online, Networkshop 2026 promises two days of shared learning and exploration into how intelligent connectivity can drive innovation today while shaping a sustainable future.

"Networkshop is the ‘must attend’ event for the research and education networking community in the UK. By bringing together decision-makers and technical specialists, Networkshop offers a unique collaborative experience.

The conference programme this year has something for everyone, and we’re really excited to welcome delegates to Nottingham for two days of engaging and thought provoking content. In today’s world, it’s more important than ever that we engage, share, and collaborate, and Networkshop is the perfect chance to do that.”

– Neil Shewry, director of networks

A programme designed for every level

What makes Networkshop stand out this year is a new structure tailored to strategic, tactical and operational roles. Whether you’re setting institutional strategy or maintaining day‑to‑day network performance, there are tailored insights and practical takeaways designed specifically for you.

For strategic level delegates - strengthen your organisation’s strategic resilience and lead with confidence:

  • Gain a high-level perspective on emerging risks, regulatory expectations and sector-wide digital and data developments
  • Explore opportunities to influence direction, share expertise and contribute to collaborative initiatives that shape the UK digital and research eco-systems
  • Peer networking with senior decision makers navigating similar strategic challenges

For tactical level delegates – improve operational performance and future-ready networks:

  • Strengthen your practical and technical skills to better manage day-to-day digital infrastructure
  • Discover new tools and services to support high-performance network environments
  • Network with peers to find new solutions to shared operational challenges

For operational level delegates – sharpen your skills through hands-on learning and technical deep dives:

  • Experience real-world demos and technical sessions tailored to your role
  • Gain direct engagement with experts, tools and techniques shaping today’s operational environments
  • Explore the practical and technical knowledge needed to keep complex environments running smoothly and securely

With CPD accreditation and two free in-person tickets available for member and customer organisations, it’s easier than ever to invest in your professional development and discover the ideas and innovations shaping the future of digital infrastructure.

Join us at Networkshop 2026

If you’re responsible for shaping, managing or securing your organisation’s digital infrastructure, Networkshop 2026 is the event that will move your institution forward. Join a community of peers, explore new thinking and help build a sector that’s secure, sustainable and ready for the future. Find out more about Networkshop 2026.

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