SMART’s IT services were centralised on a cost effective, multi-server environment. Each school’s requirements differed significantly, demanding a complex mix of bandwidths, protocols and management policies. Bespoke connectivity was not feasible financially and operationally.
Instead, Optinet deployed an MPLS core network from which each school could access its own services affordably, with simple control over bandwidth, traffic prioritisation and service deployment. Firewalls were located at Optinet’s highly secure data centre, giving the schools a single point of access and direct control of content filtering.
The twelve-month project was planned to minimise disruption and to avoid penalties for cancellation of legacy network contracts. By negotiating key-worker status, Optinet also ensured continuation of work and provision of network access for remote working during lock-down.
