Doctor Abdussalam Salama PhD MSc BSc
Solution Architect and Senior Lecturer in Cybersecurity and Computer Networks Solution Architect and Senior Lecturer in Cybersecurity and Computer Networks
Summary
I am a Solution Architect and Senior Lecturer in Cybersecurity and Computer Networks, with deep expertise in wired and wireless networks, network security, Software Defined Networking (SDN), SD-WAN, and cloud-based network solutions using Microsoft Azure. I also have practical experience implementing Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solutions tailored to the needs of modern enterprises.
My academic teaching focuses on enterprise networking, cybersecurity, IoT integration, and designing secure, scalable network-to-cloud solutions for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). I am particularly committed to helping SMEs transition their networks and services to the cloud using Microsoft Azure, enabling them to improve agility, security, and operational efficiency.
With a strong industry background, including my previous role as a Senior Systems Engineer at Cisco, I’ve delivered SME-focused network-to-cloud architectures involving VoIP, Quality of Service (QoS), and IP-MPLS migration strategies.
My research interests include network security, IoT security, and cloud security. I have led multiple applied research projects, such as the development of SASE and SD-WAN architectures for SMEs, and the creation of adaptive and secure eHealth applications for remote patient monitoring.
About
I am a Solution Architect and Senior Lecturer in Cybersecurity and Computer Networks at Sheffield Hallam University, with expertise in wired and wireless networks, including Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7, network security, Software-Defined Networking (SDN), SD-WAN, cloud networking using Microsoft Azure, and Zero Trust Access (ZTA). My teaching and curriculum design focus on enterprise networks, cybersecurity, IoT systems, and network-to-cloud solutions for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) using Microsoft Azure.
I hold several industry-recognised certifications, including Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305) and Microsoft Certified: Azure Network Engineer Associate (AZ-700), along with Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) and Cisco Certified Security Professional (CCSP).
With extensive industry experience, I previously worked as a Senior Systems Engineer at Cisco Systems, where I was responsible for designing and implementing advanced network solutions, delivering technical training, and supporting pre- and post-sales activities. My expertise spans VoIP, intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS), firewalls, Quality of Service (QoS), and IP-MPLS migration. I also have telecommunications experience working with mobile operators and ISPs on the transition from TDM to IP-based networks.
As part of the Digital Innovation for Growth programme, I lead several projects that support SMEs in their digital transformation, providing hands-on expertise in cloud network services (Microsoft Azure), cybersecurity, IoT, and Artificial Intelligence (AI). This includes the practical application of Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) models, and fuzzy logic to develop intelligent, secure systems. This work is carried out in my role as a Digital Innovation Fellow on a large-scale EU-funded project, advancing digital capabilities across the regional SME sector.
I hold a PhD in Computer and Communication Networks from Sheffield Hallam University, with a research focus on hybrid approaches to improving Quality of Service (QoS) and Quality of Experience (QoE). My academic background also includes an MSc in Telecommunication and Electronic Engineering and a BSc in Electrical and Electronic Engineering.
I manage several applied research projects, including SASE and SD-WAN Architectures for SMEs and Adaptive and Secure eHealth Applications for Remote Patient Monitoring. My work addresses emerging challenges in cybersecurity, AI, cloud computing, and SME network architecture, delivering innovative solutions that effectively bridge the gap between academic research and industry practice.
Teaching
School of Computing and Digital Technologies
College of Business, Technology and Engineering
Computer Networks and Cybersecurity
Network Security and Cybersecurity Solutions
Software Defined Networks (SDN) and SD-WAN
MSc Cybersecurity
MSc Advanced Computer Networks
MSc Communication Systems and Networks
BSc Cybersecurity with Forensic
Computer Systems and Networks
Network and Information Security
Software Defined Networks (SDN) and SD-WAN
Enterprise Network Projects
Communication Systems and Computer Networks
Research Principles and Practice
Quality of Service (QoS) and Security in Wireless and Sensor Networks
Voice over IP
Research
- Industry and Innovation Research Institute
SASE and SD-WAN Architecture for SMEs:
Designed and implemented secure Service Access Secure Edge (SASE) and SD-WAN solutions for SMEs, focusing on network security, performance optimization, and seamless cloud integration.
SMEs Network-to-Cloud Solutions:
Delivered network-to-cloud solutions for SMEs, integrating Firewall as a Service (FWaaS) and Intrusion Prevention System as a Service (IPSaaS) to ensure robust security and smooth cloud migration.
Adaptive and Secure eHealth Applications:
Developed a secure and adaptive network architecture for IoT-based remote health monitoring, addressing security, scalability, and real-time communication challenges in eHealth systems.
Digital Innovation for Growth:
Served as a Digital Innovation Fellow, providing consultancy to SMEs for digital transformation, focusing on network security, cloud integration, and IoT adoption under a large EU-funded project.
Hybrid Network Quality of Service and Experience:
Developing innovative solutions to improve Quality of Service (QoS) and Quality of Experience (QoE) for wired and wireless networks.
VoIP over 802.11ax Wi-Fi 6.0 Wireless Networks using NS-3.45:
Evaluated the performance of Voice over IP (VoIP) over 802.11ax wireless networks, analysing the impact of MU-MIMO configurations on call quality.
Network Transition from TDM to IP/MPLS:
Led a large-scale network transition from TDM to IP/MPLS for a mobile operator and ISP, enhancing network scalability, performance, and Quality of Service (QoS).
SASE and SD-WAN Architecture for SMEs:
Designed and implemented secure Service Access Secure Edge (SASE) and SD-WAN solutions for SMEs, focusing on network security, performance optimization, and seamless cloud integration.
SMEs Network-to-Cloud Solutions:
Delivered network-to-cloud solutions for SMEs, integrating Firewall as a Service (FWaaS) and Intrusion Prevention System as a Service (IPSaaS) to ensure robust security and smooth cloud migration.
Adaptive and Secure eHealth Applications:
Developed a secure and adaptive network architecture for IoT-based remote health monitoring, addressing security, scalability, and real-time communication challenges in eHealth systems.
Digital Innovation for Growth:
Served as a Digital Innovation Fellow, providing consultancy to SMEs for digital transformation, focusing on network security, cloud integration, and IoT adoption under a large EU-funded project.
Hybrid Network Quality of Service and Experience:
Developing innovative solutions to improve Quality of Service (QoS) and Quality of Experience (QoE) for wired and wireless networks.
VoIP over 802.11ax Wi-Fi 6.0 Wireless Networks:
Evaluated the performance of Voice over IP (VoIP) over 802.11ax wireless networks, analysing the impact of MU-MIMO configurations on call quality.
Network Transition from TDM to IP/MPLS:
Led a large-scale network transition from TDM to IP/MPLS for a mobile operator and ISP, enhancing network scalability, performance, and Quality of Service (QoS).
2020-2023: Digital Innovation for Growth (DIfG)
The Digital Innovation for Growth (DIfG) was a large-scale European-funded project that supported SMEs in the region with their digital transformation. Key projects included cybersecurity solutions, network-to-cloud architectures, Software-Defined Networking (SD-WAN), Zero Trust architecture, and cloud computing solutions, all aimed at enhancing security and optimizing digital infrastructures for SMEs. In addition, I collaborated with Rotherham Foundation Trust - NHS for eHealth application.
Publications
Journal articles
Salama, A., Saatchi, R., Bagheri, M., Shebani, K., Javed, Y., Balaraman, R., & Adhikari, K. (2025). A Fuzzy Logic-Based eHealth Mobile App for Activity Detection and Behavioral Analysis in Remote Monitoring of Elderly People: A Pilot Study. Symmetry, 17, 988.
Wainwright, R., Bagheri, M., Salama, A., & Saatchi, R. (2025). Software-Defined Networking Security Detection Strategies and Their Limitations with a Focus on Distributed Denial-of-Service for Small to Medium-Sized Enterprises. Applied Sciences, 15 (23), 1-21. http://doi.org/10.3390/app152312389
Salama, A., Saatchi, R., Bagheri, M., Shebani, K., Javed, Y., Balaraman, R., & Adhikari, K. (2025). A Fuzzy Logic-Based eHealth Mobile App for Activity Detection and Behavioral Analysis in Remote Monitoring of Elderly People: A Pilot Study. Symmetry, 17 (7), 1-22. http://doi.org/10.3390/sym17070988
Salama, A., & Saatchi, R. (2019). Evaluation of Wirelessly Transmitted Video Quality Using a Modular Fuzzy Logic System. Technologies, 7 (3), 67. http://doi.org/10.3390/technologies7030067
Salama, A., & Saatchi, R. (2018). Probabilistic classification of quality of service in wireless computer networks. ICT Express. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.icte.2018.09.001
Salama, A., Saatchi, R., & Burke, D. (2018). Fuzzy Logic and Regression Approaches for Adaptive Sampling of Multimedia Traffic in Wireless Computer Networks. Technologies, 6(1) (24), 1-17. http://doi.org/10.3390/technologies6010024
Salama, A., Saatchi, R., & Burke, D. (2018). Fuzzy logic and Regression Approaches for Adaptive Sampling of Multimedia Traffic in Wireless Computer Networks. Technologies, 6 (1). http://doi.org/10.3390/technologies6010024
Salama, A., Saatchi, R., & Burke, D. (2017). Adaptive sampling for QoS traffic parameters using fuzzy system and regression model. International Journal of Mathematical Models and Methods in Applied Sciences, 11, 212-220. https://www.naun.org/main/NAUN/ijmmas/2017/a582001-abx.pdf
Conference papers
Jesukomaiya, O.E., Bagheri, M., & Salama, A. (2025). End-to-End MACsec Encryption in a Two-Data Centre Network Over Routed WAN. In Barolli, L. (Ed.) AINA 2025, (pp. 22-35). Springer Cham: https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-031-87763-6_3
Salama, A., Bagheri, M., & Peter, E.O. (2024). Comparative Performance Evaluation of Real-Time Traffic on Wi-Fi Standards: 802.11ax vs. 802.11ac. 2024 34th International Telecommunication Networks and Applications Conference (ITNAC), 1-4. http://doi.org/10.1109/itnac62915.2024.10815245
Saatchi, R., & Abdussalam, S. (2020). Quality of Service in IEEE 802.11ac and 802.11n Wireless Protocols with Applications in Medical Environments. Springer, Cham eBook Packages Engineering, 166 (166), 1345-1358. http://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-57745-2_111
Salama, A., Saatchi, R., & Burke, D. (2018). Adaptive sampling technique for computer network traffic parameters using a combination of fuzzy system and regression model. Journal of Association of Computing Machinary, 206-211. http://doi.org/10.1109/MCSI.2017.43
Salama, A., Saatchi, R., & Burke, D. (2018). Quality of Service Evaluation and Assessment Methods in Wireless Networks. In The 4th International Conference on Information and Communication Technologies for Disaster Management, Munster, Germany, 2017 - 2017. http://ict-dm2017.ercis.org/
Salama, A., Saatchi, R., & Burke, D. (2017). Adaptive sampling technique using regression modelling and fuzzy inference system for network traffic. In Cudd, P., & de Witte, L. (Eds.) http://www.aaate2017.eu/, Sheffield, UK, 11 September 2017 - 15 September 2017 (pp. 592-599). IOS Press: http://doi.org/10.3233/978-1-61499-798-6-592
Other activities
I am a member of the RIKE (Research Innovation Knowledge Exchange) group and the ERCIF (Early Career Research and Innovation Fellowship), where I actively contribute to research initiatives, peer reviewing, and collaborative efforts with colleagues within the School to enhance research outcomes. My role also involves partnering with industry stakeholders to foster innovation and ensure the real-world impact and practical application of our research.
Postgraduate supervision
I supervise postgraduate students in the areas of network security, cloud computing, Software-Defined Networking (SDN), SD-WAN, Zero Trust architecture, SASE (Secure Access Service Edge), and IoT security. My research supervision focuses on applied and theoretical aspects of network security, cloud security, and network performance optimization, particularly for enterprise networks and SMEs.
Notable current and past doctoral researchers under my supervision have worked on topics such as network QoS, secure network-to-cloud solutions, SASE architectures, and eHealth applications. These projects have contributed to advancements in secure and scalable network designs, focusing on practical implementations in the real world.