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Roadblocks:
- Legacy RADIUS solution with MAC address-based authentication had years of old stale MAC address entries.
- Large number of wired switches (175-200) with static ports.
- Many configurations required on each switch making it difficult to manage as policy configuration and port configuration was manual and up to 70-80 lines.
- High dependency on network admins if the users are switching location for the access.
- Huge number of VLANs with separate Production network and LAB network.
- Lack of monitoring features on the current network making it difficult to identify failed devices and unauthorized devices.
- No control over LAB devices connecting to production network and vice versa.
- Lack of reporting on user level access.
- Lack of internet access for guests.
Smart Solutions:
- STI along with HPE Aruba Presales got deeply involved in understanding the real needs of the customer.
- STI & HPE Aruba team formulated a solution document aligning all the needs with appropriate Aruba solution.
- Organized a site visit for the customer to the ARUBA Experience center
- Assisted the IT team to visualizing how the new environment will look like.
- Optimized their networking infrastructure by deploying the following Aruba hardware:
- ClearPass: Controls network access, sets rules based on roles, supports different networks and authentication sources.
- 7220 series mobility controllers: Enforces wired and wireless access policies to simplify and secure the network.
- Mobility masters: Manages up to 10,000 access points for large campus requirements & automates deployment.
- Airwave: Unifies wired & wireless network management, offering users visibility, control and troubleshooting.
- 8400 core switches: Connects devices, provides fast data transfer, and ensures reliable network connectivity.
- 3810 series L3 Switches | 2930M series POE & Non-POE Access Switches: Enables Advanced security and network management via Aruba ClearPass Policy Manager, Aruba AirWave and Aruba Central.
- 345 series Wireless Access points: Provides reliable and high-speed Wi-Fi connections.
Breakthroughs:
- We beat the competition solution hands-down with ARUBA’s colourless port, and ClearPass was a complete game changer that exceeded customer’s security requirements.
- After conducting the POC (Proof of Concept) at the customer site, we started gaining a competitive advantage.
- We submitted the ROI (Return on Investment) document compared to competition and that helped to clinch the deal.
Insights:
- Deep research is required to understand customer requirements in order to create a bespoke networking solution.
- Customers need to visualize & experience the solution before implementing it.
