Enterprise Networking

Enterprise LAN infrastructure including switching, routing, wireless access, network design, and network access control.

DNS Services

Enterprise Wi-Fi

Firewalls

LAN-Route/Switch/Wi-Fi

LAN Switching

Managed firewalls

Network Access Control (NAC)

Network Design & Architecture

Next-generation firewall (NGFW) deployment

Secure Network Architecture

Switching & Access Points

Wireless Surveys

Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)

Market Leaders

Corporate IT Solutions, Inc. (CIS)

Imagit

Windstream Enterprise

TNS

ITS

HPE

Claro Enterprise Solutions

NTT

Appgate Cybersecurity

Securus Communications

Windstream Wholesale

Arista

Solarwinds

ActZero (now WatchGuard)

Corporate IT Solutions, Inc. (CIS)

Imagit

Windstream Enterprise

TNS

ITS

HPE

Claro Enterprise Solutions

NTT

Appgate Cybersecurity

Securus Communications

Windstream Wholesale

Arista

Solarwinds

ActZero (now WatchGuard)

Enterprise Networking Buying Guide

What is Enterprise Networking?

Enterprise Networking refers to the software and hardware infrastructure that connects an organization's various computing devices, such as servers, workstations, mobile devices, and IoT devices, both within a single location and across multiple sites. It encompasses the systems responsible for managing network connectivity, security, performance, and accessibility. This software category provides the backbone for all digital operations, enabling communication, data transfer, and access to applications and resources for employees, partners, and customers. It's often a complex mix of hardware-dependent and software-defined solutions designed for the scale, security, and reliability demands of large organizations.

Key Considerations When Evaluating Solutions

Scalability

How easily can the solution grow with your organization's expanding needs? Consider future growth in users, devices, locations, and data traffic. Look for flexible architectures that can scale both up and out without requiring a complete overhaul.

Security

Network security is paramount. Evaluate features like intrusion detection/prevention (IDS/IPS), firewall capabilities, VPN support, access control (NAC), zero-trust networking principles, and integration with broader security ecosystems (SIEM, EDR). Consider data encryption in transit and at rest.

Performance and Reliability

Uptime and speed are critical. Assess bandwidth management, quality of service (QoS) features, load balancing, redundancy options (e.g., high availability clustering), and failover mechanisms to ensure consistent and high-performance network operation.

Management and Monitoring

Ease of management is crucial for complex networks. Look for centralized management platforms, intuitive dashboards, real-time monitoring tools, analytics and reporting capabilities, and automation features (e.g., AIOps, orchestration). SNMP, NetFlow, and sFlow support are important for monitoring.

Integration Capabilities

How well does the solution integrate with your existing IT infrastructure, including cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP), security tools, identity management systems (Active Directory, Okta), and other enterprise applications? APIs for custom integrations are a plus.

Cost of Ownership

Beyond initial licensing or hardware costs, consider ongoing expenses like maintenance, support contracts, software updates, training for IT staff, and potential future upgrades. Evaluate both capital expenditure (CapEx) and operational expenditure (OpEx) models.

Vendor Reputation and Support

Research the vendor's track record, customer reviews, and the quality of their technical support. Availability of documentation, community forums, and professional services can also impact long-term satisfaction.

Future-Proofing (SDN, SASE, Wi-Fi 6E/7)

Consider solutions that embrace modern networking paradigms like Software-Defined Networking (SDN), Secure Access Service Edge (SASE), network virtualization, and support for the latest wireless standards (Wi-Fi 6E, Wi-Fi 7) to avoid rapid obsolescence.

Common Use Cases

Connecting Distributed Offices and Remote Workers: Establishing secure and efficient connections between headquarters, branch offices, data centers, and remote employee homes using VPNs, SD-WAN, and cloud-based networking solutions.
Enabling Cloud Adoption: Providing the network connectivity and security necessary for accessing cloud applications (SaaS) and hosting infrastructure (IaaS, PaaS) while ensuring performance and compliance.
Securing Corporate Data and Assets: Implementing firewalls, intrusion prevention systems, network access control (NAC), and zero-trust policies to protect against unauthorized access, malware, and cyber threats.
Supporting High-Performance Applications: Ensuring adequate bandwidth and low latency for critical business applications such as video conferencing, ERP systems, CRM, and real-time data analytics.
Managing IoT and BYOD Devices: Providing secure onboarding, segmentation, and policy enforcement for a growing number of diverse devices connecting to the enterprise network.
Improving Network Visibility and Troubleshooting: Using monitoring and analytics tools to gain insights into network traffic, identify performance bottlenecks, and quickly resolve connectivity issues.
Streamlining Network Operations: Automating routine tasks like configuration management, policy enforcement, and provisioning to reduce manual effort and human error.

Technical Requirements

Infrastructure Compatibility

Determine compatibility with your existing network hardware (switches, routers, access points), operating systems (Windows Server, Linux), and virtualization platforms (VMware, Hyper-V).

Protocol Support

Ensure support for essential networking protocols such as TCP/IP, Ethernet, VLANs, OSPF, BGP, MPLS, DNS, DHCP, IPv6, and various security protocols (IPsec, TLS/SSL).

API for Automation and Orchestration

Robust APIs are critical for integrating with existing IT automation tools (e.g., Ansible, Puppet), DevOps pipelines, and creating custom workflows. RESTful APIs are generally preferred.

Cloud Integration

If using cloud services, consider direct integration capabilities with major cloud providers (AWS Direct Connect, Azure ExpressRoute, GCP Cloud Interconnect) and cloud-native networking features.

Hardware Requirements (for on-prem solutions)

Evaluate the server, storage, and networking hardware specifications required to run the software, including CPU, RAM, disk space, and network interface card (NIC) requirements. This is less relevant for "software-defined" solutions but still applies to controllers or management nodes.

Data Standards and Formats

Consider support for industry standards for logging and monitoring (Syslog, NetFlow, IPFIX, sFlow) to ensure compatibility with SIEM and network performance monitoring (NPM) tools.

Implementation Considerations

Phased Rollout Strategy

For large-scale deployments, plan for a phased approach, perhaps starting with a pilot program or a non-critical segment of the network to test functionality and address issues before a full rollout.

Staff Training and Expertise

Assess the learning curve for IT staff and the need for specialized training. Consider the availability of certified professionals or vendor training programs.

Data Migration and Configuration Transfer

Plan for how existing network configurations, policies, and data will be migrated to the new system. Automation tools can significantly reduce this effort.

Downtime Planning

For critical infrastructure changes, schedule maintenance windows and prepare for potential service disruptions. Redundant configurations and rollback plans are essential.

Performance Testing

Conduct thorough performance and stress testing under realistic load conditions before going live to ensure the solution meets your performance requirements.

Interoperability Testing

Verify that the new solution interoperates seamlessly with your existing applications, security tools, and other network devices.

Change Management

Establish clear communication plans and change management processes to inform users and stakeholders of impending network changes and their potential impact.

Questions to Ask Vendors

How does your solution address our specific scalability needs as we project X% growth in users/devices/locations over the next 3-5 years?
What are your core security capabilities (e.g., firewall, IDS/IPS, NAC, Zero Trust) and how do they integrate with our existing security stack?
Can you provide detailed examples of your management and monitoring dashboards, and what level of granularity do they offer for network insights?
What APIs are available for integration, and can you demonstrate how we would automate a specific task (e.g., provisioning a new VLAN, blocking an IP)?
What is the total cost of ownership (TCO) over a five-year period, including licensing, support, and potential hardware upgrades?
How do you ensure high availability and disaster recovery for your solution, and what RTO/RPO can we expect?
What kind of professional services do you offer for implementation, and what ongoing support levels are available?
Can you share case studies or customer references from organizations similar in size and industry to ours?
How does your roadmap align with emerging networking trends like SD-WAN, SASE, and next-gen Wi-Fi standards?
What are the typical deployment timelines and resource requirements (staff, hardware) for a network of our size and complexity?

Market Leaders

View All Vendors

IMS Solutions Group

IMS Solutions Group provides managed IT services and cybersecurity for mid-market businesses, delivering proactive support and strategic technology roadmaps.

CBTS

CBTS is a leading provider of communications, cloud, and infrastructure solutions that help businesses navigate the complexities of the digital age.

Fortinet

Fortinet provides cybersecurity solutions for enterprises, service providers, and government agencies, focusing on integrated security architecture.

Akamai

Akamai’s industry-leading edge platform powers fast, secure online experiences, protecting businesses with advanced security solutions.

Cloudflare

Cloudflare provides a unified platform for web security, performance, and reliability, protecting websites, applications, and APIs from cyber threats.

Microsoft

Microsoft is a global technology leader, providing cloud, AI, and business solutions like Microsoft Azure, Microsoft 365, and Dynamics 365 to support businesses worldwide.

Starken Technologies

Starken Technologies provides comprehensive managed IT services and advanced networking solutions for mid-market enterprises seeking secure, scalable infrastructure.

Telstra

Telstra provides global telecommunications and technology services to enterprises and governments, leveraging Australia's largest mobile network and subsea cables.

ThincForward

ThincForward delivers strategic managed IT, cloud migration, and cybersecurity services designed to optimize infrastructure and fuel mid-market business growth.

Corporate IT Solutions, Inc. (CIS)

Corporate IT Solutions provides single-source enterprise IT network services, field dispatch, and managed infrastructure to empower internal IT teams.

Imagit

Imagit provides global white-label IT professional services and engineering talent for MSPs and VARs, specializing in high-stakes infrastructure deployments.

Windstream Enterprise

Windstream Enterprise provides cloud-optimized network and security solutions, including SD-WAN and UCaaS, powered by a proprietary digital management portal.

TitanNGN

TitanNGN provides high-performance SASE and SD-WAN solutions for enterprises, delivering secure, low-latency connectivity through a converged cloud-native platform.

VocalIP

VocalIP provides managed communication and network solutions, including UCaaS and SD-WAN, for mid-market and enterprise firms seeking high-touch service.

ngenious

ngenious delivers Intelligent Edge solutions uniting SASE connectivity, edge AI, and IoT sensors to power real-time, autonomous enterprise decision-making.

Red River

Red River provides integrated technology solutions and managed services for government and enterprise clients, specializing in digital transformation and security.

TouchTone

TouchTone Communications provides enterprise-grade managed voice, data, and SD-WAN solutions, delivering high-touch, engineered connectivity for mid-market firms.

Verve

Verve provides integrated cloud communications and managed IT solutions for mid-market enterprises, combining carrier-grade voice with white-glove support.

TNS

TNS provides global mission-critical connectivity and interoperability solutions for the payments, financial, and communications markets via a secure private cloud.

Stellar Technologies

Stellar Technologies provides sovereign cloud, managed IT, and cybersecurity solutions for Australian mid-market firms seeking high-touch, secure infrastructure.

Unisys

Unisys provides high-performance computing, cybersecurity, and digital workplace solutions to help global enterprises and governments modernize complex operations.

DHD LP

DHD LP supplies enterprise and data center IT hardware, helping organizations optimize infrastructure lifecycles through reliable, cost-effective equipment sourcing.

Synoptek

Synoptek is a global systems integrator and managed service provider offering end-to-end technology transformation and IT management for mid-market enterprises.

Aruba Networks

Aruba Networks provides secure network access solutions for enterprises, focusing on wireless LAN and IoT connectivity.

BlueAlly

BlueAlly provides comprehensive IT solutions and managed services for mid-market and enterprise organizations, specializing in security, cloud, and infrastructure.

ITS

ITS provides managed IT services, cybersecurity, and cloud solutions for mid-market businesses, delivering high-touch strategic partnership and 24/7 support.

Nexon

Nexon is a leading Australian managed service provider delivering integrated cloud, network, and security solutions to mid-market and enterprise organizations.

OmniNet

OmniNet provides an AI-driven unified networking platform for global enterprises, simplifying hybrid-cloud connectivity through automated, secure infrastructure.

Open Systems

Open Systems provides Managed SASE and SD-WAN solutions for global enterprises, combining Swiss-engineered security with 24/7 expert-led SOC operations.

Versa

Versa Networks provides a unified SASE platform that integrates comprehensive networking and security services to help global enterprises simplify and secure their digital infrastructure.

Cato Networks

Cato Networks delivers a fully integrated SASE platform that combines SD-WAN and cloud-native security, enabling enterprises to optimize and secure application access for all users and locations.

HPE

HPE provides edge-to-cloud solutions and hybrid IT infrastructure, enabling enterprises to modernize apps and data with a consistent cloud experience everywhere.

Mereo Fiber

Mereo Fiber provides high-speed bulk internet and managed Wi-Fi solutions for MDU and commercial properties, enhancing asset value through superior connectivity.

Claro Enterprise Solutions

Claro Enterprise Solutions provides global managed ICT services, specializing in cybersecurity, cloud, and connectivity for multinationals across the Americas.

Juniper Networks

Juniper Networks provides AI-driven networking solutions and secure cloud services for enterprises and service providers, prioritizing experience over connectivity.

NTT

NTT DATA's Cloud Communications Division delivers cloud-based communication and collaboration solutions that help businesses connect with their customers and employees. Their services include: <ul><li>Unified communications as a service (UCaaS)</li><li>Contact center as a service (CCaaS)</li><li>Cloud voice</li><li>Managed services</li></ul>

NTT Communications

NTT Communications provides global integrated ICT solutions, including cloud, network, and security services, helping enterprises accelerate digital transformation.

Palo Alto Networks

Palo Alto Networks provides cybersecurity solutions for enterprises, focusing on advanced threat prevention and cloud security.

zScaler

Zscaler provides a cloud-native Zero Trust Exchange platform that secures digital transformation for global enterprises by connecting users to apps without a VPN.

AT&T Security

AT&T Security provides integrated managed security services and network-embedded protection for global enterprises, leveraging massive global threat intelligence.

Appgate Cybersecurity

Appgate Cybersecurity provides secure access solutions for enterprises, emphasizing Zero Trust principles to enhance data protection.

CyberReef Solutions

CyberReef provides patented mobile data security and management solutions for businesses and government, offering carrier-grade private networking and filtering.

Graphene Networks

Graphene Networks provides cloud-native SASE and SD-WAN solutions for global enterprises, integrating high-performance networking with zero-trust security.

Keysys

Keysys provides high-end custom software development and strategic technology consulting for mid-market enterprises looking to modernize legacy systems.

Kinetic Business

Kinetic Business provides high-speed fiber internet, SD-WAN, and unified communications to SMBs and enterprises, bridging the digital divide with local support.

Mosaic

Mosaic Networx provides global SD-WAN, SASE, and cybersecurity solutions for mid-market and enterprise firms through a simplified, carrier-agnostic platform.

Securus Communications

Securus Communications provides managed network, security, and cloud solutions for UK enterprises, specializing in SD-WAN and SASE with a high-touch service model.

Windstream Wholesale

Windstream Wholesale provides high-capacity network solutions for carriers and hyperscalers, offering unique fiber routes and industry-leading 400G connectivity.

Arista

Arista Networks delivers cloud networking solutions for large data centers and high-frequency trading environments, emphasizing scalability and automation.

Solarwinds

SolarWinds provides comprehensive IT management and observability software for hybrid environments, enabling IT pros to optimize performance across complex stacks.

ActZero (now WatchGuard)

ActZero (now WatchGuard) provides AI-driven Managed Detection and Response (MDR) services to help mid-market organizations neutralize threats with 24/7 precision.

Alkira

Alkira delivers a cloud networking platform for enterprises, enabling seamless connectivity and security across multi-cloud infrastructure.

Barracuda

Barracuda provides security and data protection solutions for businesses of all sizes, focusing on email security and network protection.

Halo Global

Halo Global provides managed SD-WAN and SASE solutions for global enterprises, specializing in carrier-agnostic network design and co-managed services.

Ionstream

Ionstream provides high-performance, secure networking solutions for enterprise edge and cloud environments, delivering ultra-low latency and robust encryption.

Masergy

Masergy provides managed SD-WAN, cloud communications, and managed security services for global enterprises, featuring a software-defined network and AIOps.

Sirius

Sirius is a leading national integrator of technology-based business solutions that span the data center and lines of business for large-scale enterprises.

WiredIQ

WiredIQ provides a unified managed services platform combining SD-WAN, UCaaS, and security into a single appliance for mid-market and enterprise businesses.

Comcast Business

Comcast Business provides scalable high-speed internet, networking, and cybersecurity solutions for organizations of all sizes via its expansive fiber-rich network.

Sophos

Sophos provides synchronized, AI-powered cybersecurity solutions for mid-market enterprises, integrating endpoint, network, and cloud security into a unified MDR-led ecosystem.

Cisco

Cisco enables secure, intelligent networks that connect people, data, and things. We empower businesses globally with solutions for networking, security, and collaboration.

Verizon

Verizon provides comprehensive security, networking, and communications solutions to enterprises, leveraging one of the world’s largest IP networks.

Windstream

Windstream Enterprise is a managed network communications provider offering solutions for multi-location businesses across various industries.

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