How GlobalFoundries Keeps Semiconductor Production Running 24/7

What happens when a single lost network packet can disrupt hours of manufacturing?

Recorded at Cisco Live, this episode features John Hoenemier, Director of Network Security Operations at GlobalFoundries, one of the world's leading semiconductor manufacturers. While most people think about microchips only when they buy a smartphone, laptop, car, or connected device, the reality is that modern life depends on a vast ecosystem of manufacturing facilities operating around the clock with extraordinary levels of precision.

During our conversation, John explains why semiconductor manufacturing is one of the most demanding operational environments in the world. Production runs continuously throughout the year, and even minor disruptions can have significant consequences. In this environment, the network serves as the digital nervous system of the factory floor, connecting equipment, systems, data, and people in real time.

We discuss the challenges of maintaining resilience in an environment where downtime is rarely an option. John shares how visibility, observability, security, and automation have become increasingly important as manufacturing operations grow more connected and more dependent on digital infrastructure. The conversation explores what happens when connectivity is interrupted and why reliability remains one of the most important measurements of success.

We also examine the growing role of AI, operational intelligence, and unified management platforms. John explains why bringing together data from multiple systems is helping teams make faster decisions and why technologies such as Cisco Cloud Control are generating so much interest among infrastructure leaders.

Along the way, we discuss cybersecurity, identity management, observability, and the unique realities of protecting highly distributed manufacturing environments. Despite operating in a very different industry, many of the challenges GlobalFoundries faces are remarkably familiar to technology leaders everywhere: balancing innovation with reliability, improving visibility, and finding ways to manage increasing complexity.

What stood out most was the reminder that behind every AI application, cloud service, connected device, and modern technology platform sits a manufacturing ecosystem that must operate with extraordinary consistency and precision.

As industries become increasingly connected, how important will resilient digital infrastructure become to the products and services we rely on every day?