DISA transforms DODNet operations to drive efficiency


By Michelle Ferris, DISA J-6 Command, Control, Communications and Computers (C4) Enterprise Directorate

June 11, 2025

 
A Marine uses communications equipment in a field.
(U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Luke Rodriguez)
 
The Defense Information Systems Agency is modernizing and streamlining DODNet operations through advanced technology. These improvements are preparing the network for large-scale migrations of Defense Agencies and Field Activities, while delivering data-driven, cloud-based management services, automation tools, Zero Trust cyber compliance and a better user experience. These changes provide the DODNet community with reliable, cost-effective and secure network operations, empowering them to support the Warfighter.

By leveraging partnerships with Infoblox, Ansible and ScienceLogic, DISA has boosted DODNet operations with increased network security, automation-driven efficiencies and AI-powered observability. This integration strengthens cyber resilience in alignment with Defense Department Zero Trust mandates, reduces IT complexity and manual workloads, and optimizes resources and processes. As a result, DISA and the DODNet user community are mission-ready and agile to meet the challenges of the evolving defense landscape.

Enhanced network management

DISA's deployment of Infoblox technology on DODNet provides users automated, secure and resilient network management. Since its deployment, related trouble tickets have decreased by 65%, and there have been no critical or high-severity incidents. The deployment also enhances DODNet’s cybersecurity and network availability by integrating a Zero Trust framework and Domain Name System security. These new services provide real-time threat intelligence to protect data, reduce vulnerabilities, and mitigate DNS-based threats through automated security enforcement and rapid response and recovery. Additionally, Automated IP Address Management facilitates seamless network provisioning, reducing downtime and improving DODNet eperformance.

Faster automation

DISA implemented Ansible's intelligent automation playbooks to streamline DODNet provisioning, configuration management and patching. Ansible’s end-to-end automation and IT orchestration have optimized resource allocation and reduced repetitive manual tasks and IT workload by up to 40%. By enabling zero-touch, reusable software rollouts, Ansible's playbooks allow DISA to accelerate deployment timelines across the DODNet infrastructure by up to 50%, unifying service delivery.

Improved visibility and reliability

DISA is using ScienceLogic’s intelligent and secure IT operations platform to improve DODNet's real-time visibility and system reliability. This platform provides AI-driven insights for proactive issue detection and resolution, maximizing situational awareness. The ScienceLogic platform has helped lower operations and maintenance costs by 20-30% through improved workload and cloud resource management, enabling DISA to operate more effectively and safely.

These technologies are improving the DODNet user experience by modernizing systems, services and network infrastructure. Faster, more resilient connectivity, seamless access to mission-critical applications and AI-driven automation are reducing administrative burdens, allowing users to operate with greater speed, security and efficiency. These advancements contributed to a 92% overall customer satisfaction score in the first quarter of 2025, exceeding DISA’s benchmark of 85%.

As threats evolve, DISA remains committed to continuous innovation, optimizing processes, strengthening cyber defenses and enhancing network reliability. This ensures Warfighters and mission partners stay securely connected and focused on protecting national security in an increasingly complex digital environment.