Our client required a high speed, resilient link to enable uninterrupted network access between their two offices in Leeds. Their in-house IT department embarked on a thorough IT audit and needs analysis, which showed that the across the board, demand and dependency on the IT infrastructure and systems had grown beyond its capacity. Their report concluded that the current infrastructure could not meet the future needs of the business and should be replaced.
First, our skilled team of mobile network infrastructure engineers worked with our client’s in-house IT department to ensure a complete understanding of their network infrastructure, including:
• The physical layer (cabling type and capacity) •
• The network layer (wired or wireless Local Area Networks or LANs providing the transit layer for data, devices and applications) •
• The connected layer (the array of tech connected to the network, including devices such as IP cameras and Wi-Fi user management to platforms) •
The next stage was to understand our client’s current and future needs.
• Both offices required uninterrupted access to the same high speed, robust network infrastructure. •
• As a legal firm managing sensitive client data, it was also vital that they have a secure intranet and internet connectivity. •
• With the growing use of digital communications and file management, as well as an expanding headcount, it was essential to future-proof the system by boosting potential data capacity and speed. •
Express Data recommended a resilient core switching solution from a leading manufacturer to be deployed at both sites with desktop connectivity provided by the flexible range of integrated edge switches, including Power over Ethernet (PoE).
The high throughput and highly available LAN solution was configured for resilience using OSPF and multilink Gigabit technology. This solution exceeded the current requirements and provides a scalable platform to meet the future needs of the business.
The core Layer 3-7 chassis switches offer customers a network solution that can scale as their organisation changes. It provides feature-rich, resilient switching technology capable of dealing with multi-cast, IP network control and full Layer 3 functionality and security, all at an attractive price point.
In addition, the core configuration would ensure the utmost flexibility. By using Layer 4+ functionality, network traffic and multi-media applications such as VoIP, broadcast TV and video can be prioritised and streamed across the network. This solution provided an immediate improvement to network services by increasing the sustainable bandwidth for the connected nodes at the two main sites.
The problem of efficiently connecting two buildings either side of the main road was solved by the introduction of a highly secure and available gigabit microwave link.
The client was delighted that we planned and carried out all necessary work within budget and following an agreed timetable that did not disrupt the commercial functioning of the business.
Following a thorough review our current IT infrastructure and a needs analysis of our future requirements, it became apparent that we needed to upgrade our network and provide a new high speed, resilient, robust and future-proof platform to take the business forward. Express Data provided a solution which exceeded our requirements.