Recommended Network Replacement Installers

[gwendes]

We'll be replacing our ageing (2007) network at some point when the stars align and it's a mighty job!

 

Completely removing and installing around 90 managed switches and six core fibre switches.

 

How do you find the companies you ask to tender for a job like this? I know I've asked about suppliers before and it created a really useful thread, what about the big jobs like changing all the wifi/cameras/projectors.

 

Who do you recommend working with?

[Oaktech]

https://www.ensign-net.co.uk/about/contact-ensign/ for network install & wifi

 

https://www.cpsgroup.co.uk/contact/ for AV install.

[psydii]

SwitchShop

XMA

https://www.itecgroup.co.uk/

[Steve21]

How do you find the companies you ask to tender for a job like this?

 

SwitchShop is my go-to for anything networking wise

 

But it's always useful to look at the framework for company ideas, as you can see the suppliers who are in the framework even without going through it (unless you want to)

 

Steve

[gwendes]

SwitchShop is my go-to for anything networking wise

 

But it's always useful to look at the framework for company ideas, as you can see the suppliers who are in the framework even without going through it (unless you want to)

 

Steve

 

What do you mean by 'the framework'?

[Steve21]

Frameworks are a bunch of companies that the Gov already approved for large projects, and you basically subject a job and the companies all tender/quote for it to give you best value

 

There's lots of different ones, but for example CPC (https://www.thecpc.ac.uk/) have their ICT Networking and Storage Solutions group (https://www.thecpc.ac.uk/suppliers/categories/framework.php?categoryID=5&frameworkID=263#LotsSuppliers)

 

But there are loads to give you ideas, https://www.everythingict.org/, CCS https://www.crowncommercial.gov.uk/suppliers/search/1?search=true&framework=RM1050&limit=20 etc

 

Steve

[HarryMonkey]

https://www.lynxnetworks.co.uk/

 

Can't fault them after a couple of decades of working with them. Speak to Richard Devereaux

[JackCPickup]

Hi,

 

I won't advertise my company name here, but this is something we do and I'm happy to discuss in PM if you would like.

 

Thanks,

 

Jack

[msi_school]

We did the core switching two years ago with Net-Ctrl who I would recommend, the plan was for them to also do the edge switches, wireless and fiber back bone but because we had to delay the project due to Covid we had to get new quotes and we chose to go with X Tech who are in the process of doing these upgrades and I would also recommend. Both companies have been very helpful, on budget, on time and provided a high quality of work.

 

We originally planned to do these upgrades over three years but after Covid caused the core switch install to be difficult and the ongoing supply issues we had to postpone the switches and fiber last year and are now doing everything this year. If I could do this again I would try to do it all in one go, we had split it for financial reasons but I am finding the logistics easier with a one year process.

[Net-Ctrl]

Thank you for the mention @msi_school - @gwendes - please send me a PM if you would like us to be involved and I can pass on contact details. We work with Ruckus, Aruba and Allied Telesis on networking projects.

[Wave9_Lee]

We'll be replacing our ageing (2007) network at some point when the stars align and it's a mighty job!

 

Completely removing and installing around 90 managed switches and six core fibre switches.

 

How do you find the companies you ask to tender for a job like this? I know I've asked about suppliers before and it created a really useful thread, what about the big jobs like changing all the wifi/cameras/projectors.

 

Who do you recommend working with?

 

We'd be happy to provide some info/quotes/references as needed. We work mostly with Cisco Meraki for networking (although also Sophos increasingly). we can provide a design, install, support package as needed, offer optional cabling services and can spread your costs across a contract term if needed. Cisco Meraki offer a 10 year support as standard in education. Drop me a PM or contact me using the details below any time.

 

cheers

[ITGURU]

We just buy the hardware and configure/install in-house. cost effective and great support from the vendor.

[TD87]

It maybe too large for them but Andy & Tom at Burconix are really good to deal with.