ABOUT
What is Layer8?
The OSI model has always had an unofficial Layer 8: the human operator making decisions above the stack. That layer carries some of the most complex, high-stakes work in any organization — and yet most industry events aren't built for the people doing it.
Layer8 by Lightyear is different.
It's a full day built specifically for the enterprise IT and network teams responsible for keeping critical infrastructure running. Join us to celebrate the humans at the center of it all.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Real talk. Real operators. Real outcomes.
01
Real-World Trends & Benchmarks
See how leading enterprises are actually building, running, and optimizing their network in 2026.
02
See What's Actually Shipping
Live demos, technical deep-dives, and an honest look at what's shipping now. Built to help you cut through vendor noise.
03
Small Groups,
Real Talk
Engage in small-group sessions with peers facing the same challenges. Get learnings you can act on the next day.
WHY ATTEND
Built for the people doing the work
Network Engineers & Operators
IT & Network Leaders
TRACKS
The full spectrum of network operations
Track 01
The Future of Enterprise WAN
Track 02
AI-Powered Network Operations
Track 03
Network Optimization & Design Approaches
AGENDA AT A GLANCE
Full schedule is now live!
8:00 – 9:00 AM
Registration &
Breakfast
9:00 – 10:15 AM
Main Stage
Keynotes
10:35 AM – 11:50 PM
Panels: AI NetOps + Analysts Perspectives
11:50 – 1:00 PM
Networking
Lunch
1:00 – 2:30 PM
Sponsored Sessions + Panel: Enterpise WAN
1:00 – 3:30 PM
Workshops + Meet the Analyst + Expo Hour
3:40 – 4:15 PM
Lightyear Luminaries
of Telecom
4:15 – 6:00 PM
Closing Remarks + Happy Hour
VENUE
Arlo Williamsburg
DATE
November 4, 2026
LOCATION
Brooklyn, New York City
GETTING HERE
~20 min from LaGuardia · 35–45 min from JFK
Accessible via rideshare, taxi, and nearby subway lines
ROOM BLOCK
A limited room block is available at the Arlo. Contact the Lightyear Events team for details.
SPONSORS
Our sponsors
♦ Platinum
★ Content
Gold
Sponsorship opportunities are officially sold out! If you're interested in attending Layer8 as a vendor, please reach out to the Lightyear Events team to learn about any remaining vendor passes.