Projects
Maxtekx recently completed a comprehensive network upgrade for one of our primary school clients, implementing a robust solution featuring a Palo Alto next-generation firewall, Cisco Catalyst switches, Ubiquiti Wi-Fi systems, and installing redundant fibre optic links.
This implementation empowered the school's IT team to take full control of their network security, allowing them to make swift, efficient adjustments as needed.
Throughout the project, we closely aligned the solution with the Government's 'Meeting Digital and Technology Standards' requirements, ensuring that every aspect of the system was both secure and compliant. The final design was carefully tailored to meet the school’s unique needs—delivering a simple, scalable, and future-proof solution without unnecessary complexity.
Palo Alto - Next Gen Firewall
Dfe Guideline : The network switches should have security features to protect users and data from unauthorised access
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In order to fulfil this requirement - we actually went one step further. Installing the Palo Alto NGFW, not only ensured that users/data was secure - but provided a wealth of other benefits. These include URL filtering, Threat Prevention & VPN access for teachers via Global Protect. We integrated the Palo Alto with the schools Active Directory, allowing them to report on individual student activities & to tailor security policies to individuals & groups.
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Cisco Catalyst Switches
DfE Guideline : The Network switches should provide fast, reliable & secure connections to all users both wired & wireless
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The Cisco Catalysyt 3000 series were chosen, as they would provide the school with 1 gigabit throughput to client devices & 10 gigabit backhauls between switch stacks. As mentioned, the switches were stacked to provide redundancy throughout the deployment
Ubiquiti Wi-Fi
DfE Guideline : The Network switches should provide fast, reliable & secure connections to all users both wired & wireless
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To compliment the Cisco Catalyst deployment, Ubiquiti was chosen to provide wireless connectivity throughout the school. The ability to configure multiple SSID's, including a 'guest' network & simple to use centralised management, makes Ubiquiti a great choice.
Eaton UPS
DfE Guidline : Core network switches should be connected to at least one UPS to reduce the impact of outages
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Working with Eaton, we identified the appropriate UPS's required to provide backup power to the core devices at the school
