Revolutionizing Network Efficiency: TKTEI's Success with NETGEAR

SUMMARY

Tatya Sheshrao Kore Technical Education Institute (TKTEI) in Warnanagar, Maharashtra, faced high costs and inefficiencies with their Cisco network infrastructure. TKTEI simplified network operations, reduced downtime, and improved efficiency by adopting NETGEAR solutions. The institute deployed NETGEAR core switches, distribution switches, and access points, benefiting from easy management and cost-effective solutions. The NETGEAR NMS300 and Insight software provided real-time monitoring, ensuring consistent network performance.

BACKGROUND

Tatya Sheshrao Kore Technical Education Institute, located in Warnanagar, Maharashtra, is a renowned educational institution offering specialized technical programs. It strives to impart quality education and foster student skill development, preparing them for successful careers in engineering, technology and applied sciences through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical training.

CHALLENGE

Before adopting NETGEAR solutions, TKTEI faced significant challenges with their Cisco network infrastructure. The high costs of support and warranty, along with the lengthy 15-day waiting period for replacing defective core switches, were causing operational inefficiencies. Maintaining a reliable and cost-effective network was critical as an educational institute, and the existing solution was not meeting these needs.

SOLUTION

NETGEAR’s solutions have resolved these issues by simplifying network operations. The institute now benefits from an easy-to-manage network with a clear, one-screen overview of the entire infrastructure. This has streamlined network management, reduced downtime, and provided peace of mind for the IT team.

NETGEAR IS THE RIGHT CHOISE

TKTEI’s initial experience with its current brand influenced its decision to choose NETGEAR. After understanding the complexities of their current brand’s software and realizing that NETGEAR offered similar features at a more affordable cost, TKTEI decided to proceed with a Proof of Concept (POC). The results of this POC, combined with a thorough network survey, led to the institute’s adoption of NETGEAR solutions. The simplicity and efficiency of NETGEAR products were key drivers in their decision.

NETGEAR Products Used

The following NETGEAR products were deployed:

• Core Switches: XSM4396K0
• Distribution Switches: XSM4324FS (6 units)
• Access Points: WAC540, WAX610Y, WAX610 (75 units)
• Switches: GS724T, GS724TP (for distribution)

NEW NETWORK SETUP

The introduction of NETGEAR solutions has significantly enhanced the network setup and workflow at TKTEI, an educational institute in Warnanagar, Maharashtra. Previously, the institute relied on Cisco switches, but the high costs of support and warranties posed challenges. Additionally, Cisco’s long response time (15 days) for defective core switches caused disruptions in operations. NETGEAR’s products, such as the XSM4396K0 core switches, APM408C & APM408F modules, and XSM4324FS distribution switches, have proven to be a more cost-effective and efficient solution.

NETGEAR’s GS724T and GS724TP switches were used in the distribution network, while the institute deployed 75 WAC540, WAX610Y, and WAX610 wireless access points across the campus. The ease of use and prompt support from NETGEAR have made it possible to maintain a seamless network environment without the frustration of extended downtimes or hidden charges.

BENEFITS

Key benefits of NETGEAR’s solution are the NETGEAR NMS300 and NETGEAR Insight software, which dramatically simplify network management. These tools allow the team to monitor the entire network in real time and provide alerts in case of failures. This proactive monitoring has been critical in ensuring consistent network uptime and performance, which is especially important for an educational institution relying heavily on internet connectivity.

EXPERIENCE

The overall experience with both the products and services is entirely satisfactory. The ease of network setup and seamless integration of NETGEAR’s products have been game-changers for the institution. As the network has expanded, NETGEAR remains the go-to solution. The institute has also benefited from NETGEAR’s Heatmap and Network Diagram services, which aided in planning and optimizing the network infrastructure.

RECOMMENDATION

TKTEI highly recommends NETGEAR products to other educational institutions, especially engineering institutes. The combination of cost-effective solutions, ease of use, and excellent customer support has made NETGEAR the preferred choice. The customer has already referred NETGEAR products to several peers in the industry, showcasing their confidence in the brand.