Unified networking:
simplifying IT

By Chris Thomas | 29 August 2024

Taking control with a single vendor approach.

The modern network is the foundation on which most businesses function. However, with rapidly evolving working practices and technologies, networks can easily become fragmented and difficult to manage — hampering user experience, productivity, and profitability. This can leave already overstretched IT teams to firefight and troubleshoot networks that are no longer fit for purpose, rather than drive innovation.

Addressing this can be tricky. Traditionally, IT teams have been synonymous with server management, adept at navigating Windows environments, on-premise infrastructure, and Active Directory systems. Yet these days, IT departments are required to have an ever-expanding spectrum of skills to bolster the more traditional: expertise in cyber security, cloud management, telephony systems, and the intricate world of modern networking.

Further, as organisations increasingly turn to new technologies to solve business challenges and improve competitive edge, they often find themselves exacerbating the issue… adding new levels of intricacy to an already complex IT infrastructure.

It doesn’t have to be this way.

Complexity is the enemy of IT

According to a global study commissioned by Cisco[1], which surveyed 18,400 CIOs, IT decision-makers, and developers, the way ahead is clear: simplify. In fact, a huge 85% of respondents highlighted simplicity as a key value in technology management.

Contrary to the popular belief that networking is inherently complicated, modern network vendors now offer solutions that strip the complexities away. With intuitive, web-based interfaces, these platforms are designed to empower IT teams, enabling them to oversee their entire network infrastructure with ease. This proactive approach to management allows for the early identification of potential issues, ensuring they can be addressed before they become a problem.

Visibility is power

Embracing a unified networking strategy includes consolidating all network devices — firewalls, switches, access points — into a single vendor platform. This joined-up approach provides businesses with a comprehensive view of their network ecosystem, informing decision making and offering a platform of clarity, visibility, and insight.

A single vendor experience gives everything the same familiar look and feel — terminologies, APIs, and workflows — bringing greater consistency and ease of use. In addition, it can streamline and scale complex processes, while increasing operational visibility, efficiency, and reliability, giving organisations even greater power and flexibility — all while drastically reducing IT management time.

A unified networking approach means IT teams can intuitively monitor and manage compliance across the entire network ecosystem, automatically patching and updating without additional overhead. This means that the network is always up-to-date with the latest security protocols, reducing the risk of vulnerabilities and data breaches. With a consolidated overview of all devices through a single vendor platform, ensuring that the organisation meets regulatory requirements and industry standards is quicker and easier than ever.

The art of smart

Modern networking solutions offer visibility over more than just traditional networking devices, with products such as CCTV, sensors, lighting, and heating all managed in the same place as your switches. With granular insights into energy usage, environmental wellness, building controls, air quality, and lighting you can understand your requirements and adjust accordingly.

For example, centrally managed sensors can detect when a room is unoccupied, automatically dimming the lighting and lowering the temperature (and bringing them back up when occupied!), as well as providing you with occupancy stats. This level of automation not only improves the user experience but also helps to reduce energy consumption and costs — creating a workplace that’s safe, smart and seamless.

Foundations for the future

In our changing world, it’s clear that traditional networks are no longer fit for purpose. The future demands radical simplification.

Through a modern networking approach, IT teams gain a comprehensive view of their network ecosystem, empowering rapid troubleshooting and data-driven decision making. And removing the layers of complexity provides businesses with a firm foundation for a more productive, collaborative, and innovative working environment — moving beyond technology silos and towards the next generation of work, business models, and smart, measurable outcomes.

At Bistech, we tailor networking solutions to your business requirements, delivering consistent, reliable and secure access to your business-critical applications. To discuss your unified networking needs, call our expert team today on 01202 33 22 00.

[1] Cisco, The State of Global Innovation, 2023

Chris Thomas, Principal Consultant

Chris Thomas brings over 20 years of technical leadership at Bistech, shaping the Networking, Unified Communications and Contact Centre elements of our portfolio. A specialist in modern voice and network architecture, he focuses on simplifying complex environments and removing technical debt. By applying automation and AI with purpose, Chris helps IT teams move beyond day-to-day maintenance and focus on strategic priorities.