About the Author

Salutations,
You have reached the blog of Christoph Blecker (aka @tophee).

I’m a 23 year old Network Analyst working for PEER1 Network. I work out of their Vancouver Network Operations Centre, and assist in managing their global network backbone (over 25 sites, spanning 2 continents). I ensure that the network backbone is functioning optimally, and monitor the overall health of the network as well as environmental and security systems in all of our data centres. I pro-actively respond to network status alerts, thresholds, and other monitors we have to watch for any network anomalies, DoS attacks, routing issues and other problems that crop up. Additionally, I take escalations of reported network issues from our front line support departments.

My Curriculum Vitae (resume) is also available.

I like to game, but I’m not usually the greatest at it. I also have a passion for programming, although I don’t have the same time to invest in it anymore. I’m fluent in HTML, PHP, SQL, Actionscript, and VB. I tend to dable in other languages as well, time permitting.

I am originally a Windows man, but in December 2007 I took the plunge and gave up Windows cold turkey. At home, I run a beefed up Macbook with Mac OSX 10.5.5. It is a beautiful machine that works great. Not a single problem. At work, I run Ubuntu Linux, and on my server I run Debian Linux. Again, solid operating systems with little problems. I have yet to toss any “Windows” task at these machines and been unable to find an equivalent or superior alternative.

Being raised with computers influenced my passion for learning and extending my knowledge in everything technology. I’ve done everything from network LAN Party’s with hundreds of gamers, to things as simple as building my own “rig”.

My favourite games include the entire Half-Life series, as well as the Splinter Cell series by Tom Clancy. Favorite TV shows include The Office, The Daily Show, The Colbert Report, Undergrads, Family Guy, South Park, Doctor Who, Torchwood, CSI, and Robot Chicken.

I have a deep rooted passion for music of all types. I played in classical and jazz band programs for 7 years (Trumpet & Baritone). I have an appreciation for most music, no matter what genre, or even if I really like it at all. I listen to everything from classical and jazz, to hip hop, rap, country, electronica, or rock. I have recently picked up guitar and am making a feeble attempt to learn it.

I’m a very open person, so feel free to ask me any question. If I not able to, or don’t wish to answer you, I have no problem telling you to sod off.