Wired access networks rely on strategically deployed switches to ensure high performance, scalability, and secure connectivity across enterprise environments.

Case Study Overview

A co-working enterprise deployed a high-performance wired and wireless network across a 70,000-square-meter office campus to support over 5,000 employees and 15,000 terminals. The network included more than 70 enterprise switches for core, aggregation, and access layers, with 48-port PoE switches providing power to APs and security cameras. The deployment ensured high-bandwidth, low-latency connections for cloud computing, AI, and big data applications, while addressing peak traffic congestion and ISO 27001 compliance for secure access .

Key Deployment Strategies

• Centralized Management and AI Automation: AI-driven centralized switching simplified configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting, reducing operational delays and human errors. Centralized analytics enabled proactive issue resolution and optimized network performance .
• Cloud-Managed Switches: Platforms like Extreme Networks' Universal Wired portfolio offered edge-to-core cloud management, automated policy enforcement, and optional MACsec encryption. This approach eliminated the need for extra controllers, reduced operational complexity, and allowed flexible redeployment as network needs evolved .
• Scalability and Future-Proofing: Switches were selected with sufficient ports and SFP uplinks to accommodate current and future growth. For example, adding 20–30% extra ports ensured the network could handle additional devices without bottlenecks .
• Security and Access Control: Certificate-based authentication using Cisco ISE allowed devices without proper certificates to be restricted to a default VLAN, while authorized devices gained full network access. This approach enforced 802.1X authentication and VLAN segmentation for secure wired access .
• Integration with Wireless Networks: Wired switches supported PoE for Wi-Fi 6 APs, enabling seamless wired and wireless integration. This unified approach simplified management and ensured consistent policy enforcement across the campus .

Benefits Achieved

• Enhanced Network Reliability: Redundant switch architecture and AI-driven monitoring minimized downtime and improved business continuity .
• Operational Efficiency: Centralized management and automated orchestration reduced manual configuration, troubleshooting time, and operational costs .
• High Performance: The network supported resource-intensive applications with low latency and high throughput, even during peak usage hours .
• Security Compliance: Certificate-based access control and optional MACsec encryption ensured secure data transmission and compliance with industry standards .

Conclusion

This case study demonstrates that strategically deployed wired switches, combined with AI-driven management, cloud orchestration, and integrated security, can deliver a scalable, high-performance, and secure network. Enterprises benefit from simplified operations, future-ready infrastructure, and seamless integration with wireless networks, ensuring reliable connectivity for thousands of users and devices.