At NetSTAR, we believe that securing the internet is a collective responsibility. That’s why we are proud to participate in the OpenSSL Conference 2025, taking place October 7–9 in Prague. This annual event is the world’s premier forum dedicated to the future of open-source cryptography and secure communications.
The conference brings together developers, researchers, and industry leaders committed to advancing the standards of trust on which our digital world depends. As both a sponsor and contributor, NetSTAR is honored to share insights on how OpenSSL underpins innovation at the intersection of cryptography, AI, and large-scale threat intelligence.
Shaping the Dialogue on Security and Open Source
Daniel Ashby – OpenSSL as a Strategic Enabler: Building Scalable Security for OEM Threat Intelligence
Daniel’s presentation will explore how OpenSSL functions as a strategic enabler for the global infrastructure that powers secure, scalable, and interoperable solutions. He will emphasize the importance of standardized, open-source cryptographic libraries in achieving compliance, vendor neutrality, and audit readiness. Looking forward, Daniel will also share NetSTAR’s vision for community-driven initiatives such as browser extensions that enhance certificate health and transparency.
Daniel brings over 25 years of leadership experience across telecom, networking, and cybersecurity. He has founded and helped lead companies later acquired by Oracle, Cisco, Blue Coat Systems, and Akamai, as well as a successful IPO. Today, as COO of NetSTAR, he leads the global leader in OEM integrated solutions for URL categorization, web and SaaS app categorization, and threat intelligence—powering the products of many of the industry’s largest vendors and providers.
Aaron Escamilla – Making OpenSSL Approachable: Interactive Labs, Automation, and AI Insights
Aaron will highlight how we can demystify OpenSSL for both students and professionals. His session introduces a custom-built learning platform that combines simulated terminals, visual aids, and interactive labs to simplify certificate operations. Drawing from hands-on deployments, Aaron will also share lessons on automating certificate revocation and ensuring compliance in high-security environments—before turning to the future role of AI in enhancing usability.
Aaron leads AI-driven threat intelligence and detection engineering at NetSTAR, applying machine learning to certificate analysis, graph neural networks, and threat attribution. He has developed layered certificate scoring models for real-time SSL/TLS inspection and is integrating human-centric AI design into SOC workflows. Currently pursuing a master’s in Cyber Operations and Security, Aaron bridges research with operational impact—bringing a practical yet forward-looking lens to applied cryptography.
Building on Open Standards for Global Security
The internet’s trust layer depends on cryptography that is open, transparent, and accessible. OpenSSL has been central to that mission for decades, and its future will be shaped by how we as an industry embrace innovation while preserving openness.
NetSTAR’s participation reflects our belief that securing the internet is not just about protecting endpoints, but about contributing to the foundational tools and communities that make global trust possible. By engaging in events like the OpenSSL Conference, we reaffirm our investment in open collaboration and our commitment to building a safer, more resilient digital future.
About the Event
The OpenSSL Conference 2025 will be held at the Vienna House by Wyndham Diplomat Prague from October 7–9. Learn more at openssl-conference.org.
