Smart Upgrades for Smart Education: CSTX Enhances Network Performance and Security at Regional California University
Outcomes:
Enhanced Network Performance:
The new Nexus infrastructure provided a significant boost in network performance, supporting enhanced data throughput and connectivity.
Reliable Wireless Access:
The upgraded WLCs and APs ensured reliable and extensive wireless coverage, enhancing the campus experience for students and faculty.
Robust Security and Management:
The implementation of DNAC, ACI, and Cisco ISE revolutionized how the university manages and secures its network, offering streamlined operations and advanced threat protection.
Introduction:
CSTX was entrusted with a critical project to overhaul the network infrastructure at a prominent regional university in California. The initiative aimed to enhance connectivity, security, and manageability across the entire campus.
Client Overview:
- Client: Regional University in California
- Industry: Education
- Scope: Comprehensive upgrade of core and edge network infrastructure campus-wide.
Challenges:
The university faced several significant challenges with its existing network setup:
- Outdated core and edge network components that hindered efficient data flow and connectivity.
- Inadequate wireless coverage and reliability affecting students and faculty campus-wide.
- Complex network management and security issues that needed modernization for better control and compliance.
Objectives:
The project aimed to achieve the following objectives:
- Modernize the core and edge networking infrastructure to support higher data speeds and connectivity demands.
- Enhance wireless network coverage and reliability throughout the campus.
- Implement advanced network management and security solutions to simplify operations and improve security posture.
Solutions:
- Apporach: The upgrade strategy involved deploying advanced networking hardware and software to meet the current and future needs of the university:
- Network Hardware Upgraded: Transitioned from CAT 6500 switches to cutting-edge Nexus switching infrastructure.
- Network Management Solutions: Deployed Cisco Digital Network Architecture (DNAC), Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI), and Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) for enhanced network management and security.
- Wireless Network Enhancement: Upgraded Wireless LAN controllers (WLCs) and access points (APs) across the campus to improve wireless connectivity and user experience.
- BGP Implementation: Configured Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) across multiple ISPs for robust, redundant internet connectivity.
Project Execution:
- Conducted a detailed assessment of the existing network infrastructure.
- Designed and implemented a phased rollout of network upgrades to minimize disruption to university operations.
- Engaged in rigorous testing and optimization to ensure seamless functionality across all new systems.
Conclusion:
This case study exemplifies CSTX’s expertise in managing and executing complex network upgrades in sensitive and demanding environments like educational institutions. Our commitment to delivering tailored solutions ensures that our clients achieve their operational and educational goals.