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Hello all, Next week on Wednesday 20th March at 2PM we're running a 'best practices/update' session with Verkada. This is aimed at schools and colleges that already have Verkada environment/vape sensors on site. This workshop and update is about bringing people together to collaborate on ideas and approaches taken. We want to open discussion with all attendees and make this interactive. From an IT perspective, we will be looking at the best practice setting and configuration, new features, and firmware roadmap. For those dealing with alerts, we will be talking about some of those next steps and some suggestions on how to approach students, parents and staff. We will be taking a look at: "Best Practice" setting and configuration Firmware update - A look at recent feature updates, how they work and what they can do A look ahead - what's coming up with new firmware releases Next steps to an alert - we will look at how schools are dealing with vape incidents Short demo of new features Open forum Q+A For anyone interested, please sign-up here: https://www.net-ctrl.com/verkada-workshop-sensors you don't need to have bought these through Net-Ctrl. We will be sending a recording out to all attendees, so if the subject matter could be of interest to you/your wider team, please sign-up and we will ensure a recording is sent out to watch back in your own time. Many thanks, Josh

Net-Ctrl and Mimecast will be running an insightful webinar on the state of email security - and what this means for education organisations, on the 19th of September @ 14:00 pm. Mimecast conducted a report whereby CISOs and IT professionals have provided insights on their current protection measures and threats faced. Mimecast has corroborated these findings and created an annual report. We will be presenting the main findings of the report, and how these might affect your security posture. This will be an excellent opportunity to compare/contrast your current security portfolio - and understand the landscape of cyber threats to education in 2023. The session will conclude with a live Q+A on the content, or if you have anything specific Mimecast-related. Webinar details: When: Sept 19, 2023, 02:00 PM London Time Webinar Topic: The State of Email Security & What it Means for Education Register for the webinar: https://pages.info.exclusive-networks.com/net-ctrl-stateofemailsecuritywebinar After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar. A recording will be sent out after the session to all those that register - so if the content is of interest but you're unable to attend the main session, please still register. By registering you will be sharing your details with Net-Ctrl, Mimecast and their distribution partner Exclusive Networks UK. We will delete your data within 30 days of the event and won't use your data for any further communications beyond this event.

Net-Ctrl is offering the Verkada SV23 with cloud licensing at exclusive and highly discounted pricing through to the 31st of July. We have heard from many clients about the challenges they encounter trying to manage and deter students from vaping across their sites. We are also acutely aware of the financial restraints in Education and with IT investment, especially towards newer challenges, such as vaping, that don’t have an allocated budget. With these factors in mind, Net-Ctrl has been working with Verkada on an Education-specific pricing structure for their SV23 vape sensor, with the option to add discounted CCTV that integrates on the same hybrid-cloud platform. The sensors will detect vaping, and the cameras will record the responsible party on the same platform – accessible anywhere. For a limited time, we can now offer a highly discounted price exclusive to Net-Ctrl available on the Verkada SV23 with 1, 3, 5 and 10-year license options available. As well as their CM42 camera This pricing will be subject to Net-Ctrl getting Deal-Registration with Verkada. With the license, you get the Verkada Command hybrid-cloud platform to manage your deployment from anywhere – 24/7 support. No NVRs/DVRs are required. Plus all units come with a 10-year warranty as standard with a 48 RMA. I have been impressed with their dedication to constantly evolving and improving their solutions – all of which comes down in FW updates on all units – most recently they have improved their vape algorithm to help with detecting vape - https://www.verkada.com/uk/blog/bringing-even-more-actionability-to-verkada-air-quality-monitoring/ For more information - we have an on-demand webinar where you can learn more about their platform and vape portfolio: https://www.net-ctrl.com/verkada-webinar-vape-detection/ To request official pricing, or if you have any questions, please email [email protected] or send me a PM.

In this webinar, learn how RUCKUS can support your school through the Connect the Classroom programme. As most of you will already be aware Connect the Classroom is an invite-only investment funding programme run by the Department for Education (Dfe). The current programme offers eligible schools an upgraded wireless networking solution to improve their IT infrastructure. This will provide infrastructure equipment and set up to help schools meet the latest Wi-Fi 6 standards. When: Thu, Apr 27, 2023 · 1:00 PM London (GMT +1:00) https://www.bigmarker.com/commscope-virtual/Dfe-Connect-The-Classroom-with-RUCKUS-Networks-Webinar

Hi all, Ruckus will be running a series of presentations on their stand SD41 at BETT next week. I have included their agenda on the attachment link for those that may be interested in attending any. They will have sessions on: Network visibility with AI and ML Connect the Classroom with Ruckus Secure Onbaording with Cloudpath ESports best practice guide The Net-Ctrl stand is just a short walk away on stand SF70. Remember to bring entry slips with you for your chance to win a Steam Deck 256GB model. More info on the following thread; http://www.edugeek.net/forums/bett-2023/231969-net-ctrl-bett-2023-competition-win-steam-deck-stand-sf70.html

Hi all, I know we have run a number of sessions with Boxphish on EduGeek over the last 6 months, and off the back of these, we have run a lot of 1-on-1 demos. If you find yourself in a position where you would like to know more about cyber awareness/phishing simulation solutions, or Boxphish in particular - then please let me know and we can set up a 15-20 minute live demo/discussion. These are a great way to see the platform and ask any questions. Alternatively, if you would like some pricing beforehand we can also supply this upfront. Pricing requests have to go over to Boxphish so there is a short delay with this. Video links to previous sessions: Managing Cyber Security Risk in Education - https://www.net-ctrl.com/boxphish-webinar/ Enhancing Cyber Security Awareness - A Client's Perspective - https://www.net-ctrl.com/boxphish-webinar-a-clients-perspective/ Please let me know if you have any questions.

Hello all, Just a quick post to promote wireless survey availability in the summer. If you are planning a new wireless installation, want to check your existing or just plan for an expansion we can help. We have a team of trained Wi-Fi engineers that conduct all types of Wi-Fi surveys depending on the requirement. We use the market-leading software solution to design and report on Wi-Fi surveys. All on-site surveys are charged at a day rate of £795. Discounts are available should you purchase hardware off the back of the survey. There are various approaches to on-site surveys which we can discuss with you, some quicker than others to keep costs down should that be a requirement. We also run free-of-charge Predictive Designs, these are performed offsite using scaled plans. You are provided with a detailed report for all surveys, including Predictive Designs. Onsite work will also include a separate written report containing advisories/concerns etc from the engineer that visited. Please note for new installations/expansions these would need to be using Ruckus, for health-check/post-installation reports this can be any vendor. The reason for some being only Ruckus is to perform the survey you first need the proposed hardware, but also insights into the running of the solution. If anyone has any questions, please let me know. Thank you for taking the time to read this. I hope you enjoy your day.

Hello, Our security partner Fortinet is running a webinar looking ahead at IT trends and cybersecurity challenges for 2022. It is running on Thursday 16th December from 10.00-11.00. They will be looking at: • Ongoing work-from-anywhere models • Digital experience requirements • Increasing sophistication of cyber threats • IT/OT integration This isn't EDU specific more of a general and broader view. Net-Ctrl isn't affiliated with this is in any way - just something I thought might be of interest to some of you. In addition, registering to attend in no way ties you to Net-Ctrl. There is a sign-up form in order to register with the basic information required. They normally release a recording post-session which I assume will also be the case here so if you are interested but can't attend the session it could still be worth signing up. To register, please follow the below link: https://global.fortinet.com/emea-lp-en-2022industrytrends Thanks, Josh

Net-Ctrl has recently partnered with Boxphish, a leading provider in the Cyber Awareness market, delivering thousands of phishing simulations and cyber education journeys on a monthly basis. The Boxphish mission is simple, they want to make our clients more cyber aware. They achieve this by identifying risk areas and potential vulnerabilities within your ecosystem and providing a series of impactful training. Why consider Cyber Awareness Training • 68% increase in Phishing on Edu in last 12 months • 30% of Edu sites have been infected with Malware • 83% of all Edu have suffered an attack • Over 90% of CyberAttacks involve Staff Error The solution is designed to improve the online security knowledge of end-users and reduce their level of risk – this is achieved via email threat simulation and ongoing, diverse training on a wide range of topics. All it takes is 5 minutes of your user’s time each month. The solution then builds a profile for each user based on their assessment results and simulation interactions, altering future training material to meet the individual needs. Boxphish main differentiators from other services are their automated approach, meaning they can perform all the above with a hands-off approach, they also provide a powerful reporting tool that provides a detailed overview of user performance. This has proven useful for reporting to Heads, governors etc. Their reporting also tracks performance gains over time so you can see where improvements have been made. Pricing is based on the number of staff - you also get access to student modules that look at staying safe online, social bullying and other topics To further explain the Boxphish solution watch our 3-minute overview video. We are also running 20 minutes 1-on-1 solution demonstrations and Q+A session. If this is of interest please send me a PM with your availability and I will look to book this in for you. If you have any questions - please ask.

Hello all, We have been asked by quite a few clients about thermal camera technology, whether it's something that we supply and whether it could be used as a warning system when students start to return to schools. If you are also being asked about this technology, we are running 1 on 1 calls/demonstrations. I have compiled some information about the technology below. If you have any questions, please let me know. Many of you will be aware we partner with a IP-CCTV manufacturer called MOBOTIX, who do have a thermal camera portfolio. A number of MOBOTIX clients, including hospitals and airports, are already using the thermal technology as a proactive warning system with the MOBOTIX M16 TR (Thermal Radiometry) solution which allows you to measure thermal radiation in the entire image area and assign a temperature value to each pixel. This, in turn, helps with identifying temperatures that fall outside the allowed range. From what we have seen MOBOTIX provides a clearer representation of body temperature than other manufactures and has the ability to be within approx. +/- 0.5 degrees of the true value, with the ability to go lower using additional black box technology. This accuracy is achieved by targeted specific locations on a person’s face – the medial canthus (corner of the eye) is our most desired target area as it shows the truest value to a person’s internal body temperature, followed by the T-shape from the nose and across the top of the eyes, followed by the forehead. As a brief overview, the MOBOTIX thermal cameras offer: • Display of temperature differences from 0.1°C • Alarm in case of exceeding or falling below defined temperature ranges • Event Triggers (alarm, network message, activation of a switching output) • Screening via special TR windows or the complete sensor image • Temperature range from -40 to +550 °C – allowing cameras to be re-purposed for perimeter security, if required. • Internal SD card for recording • No requirement for NAS • Will not affect any current CCTV system as no integration required • 10W PoE power • Secondary sensor lens for day or night image It is important to note that : • Thermal Radiometry models are not Medical Devices • Accuracy depending on environmental conditions and configuration • Further accuracy is possible with a black body radiator present It is important to explain to those that are asking you about this technology, that this is not going to solve the whole problem, but provide you with data and it's how you use this data that will define how successful it can be.

Morning all, Last week Ruckus Wireless launched a new discount model aimed at customers that are unhappy with their current wireless system, or looking to upgrade their deployment. This is available for both current Ruckus customers, and those using competitive solutions. In either scenario we can get access to additional discount which comes right to you. This promotion is valid until 30th September 2016. The promotion provides additional discounts on: R310 - Dual Band 2x2:2 802.11ac AP R500 - Dual Band 2x2:2 802.11ac AP R600 - Dual Band 3x3:3 802.11ac AP R700 - Dual Band 3x3:3 802.11ac AP R710 - Dual Band MU-MIMO 4x4:4 802.11ac IoT Ready AP T300 - Dual Band 2x2:2 802.11ac External AP T301 - Dual Band 2x2:2 802.11ac External AP as well as their SmartZone 100 Controller solution. If you're unsure on which way to upgrade, take a read of our Ruckus upgrade guide, or send me a PM. Any questions, please feel free to ask. There a few T&Cs associated to the offer. These include: That the reseller discussing must have registered the opportunity with Ruckus before discussing pricing The promotion cannot be combined with any others that Ruckus decide to run The old equipment being upgraded is decommissioned.

Net-Ctrl is an established iboss reseller and over the last few months we have been replacing a lot of competitive solutions. Our current customers have found iboss to be easier to use than the market leaders (you know who they are!) that the solution creates less false positives, and is much faster on high speed (100Mbps +) networks. If you’re currently not happy with your WebFilter we would like to you to a one-on-one webinar with an iboss specialist to get a better understanding of the solution. They will go through the iboss offering, provide a tour around the dashboard, discuss how it compares to other products on the market and answer any questions. This is a great way to understand the solution, and how it differ to others available on the market. If this is of interest, please PM me with some suitable times and dates and we will aim to accommodate your schedule. In addition, we're currently offering some great discounts into education, for some ideas on pricing please get in touch.

Ruckus has just released a new way to do WiFi in smaller sites that have limited budgets and limited IT resources. They call it Ruckus Unleashed. Ruckus Unleashed is a controller-less Ruckus solution whereby one AP acts as a Master AP that runs ZoneDirector code and manages your solution. The entire solution can be deployed in minutes and configured in just 60 seconds. This solution is capped at 25Aps and is currently only available with the R500 and R600 APs, however you can leverage your existing Unleashed investments to seamlessly upgrade to the controller-based management platform. Now you can take advantage of smart Wi-Fi, controller-less Features: Simple Deployment Deploy easily with no controller Configure a new Wi-Fi network Network investment protection Reduce your total cost of ownership Forward compatible with all future Ruckus architectures Optimal Wi-Fi user experience Deliver a reliable Wi-Fi experience to your end users Increase your network performance and capacity with Ruckus proprietary technologies such as BeamFlex+ and ChannelFly Enhance your customers’ experience Drive customer engagement by deploying a high RF performance network Leverage a wide range of guest access services such as: Captive portal, Email/SMS Guest Pass, Custom Logo, and Hotspot ZeroIT enables easy on-boarding of multiple guests simultaneously For more information on this solution, please feel free to send me a PM or ask in the thread and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

In addition to the IP-CCTV event i'm organising with MOBOTIX, i'm also running one looking at wireless with Ruckus. Join Ruckus Wireless and Net-Ctrl at the Ruckus UK HQ (High Wycombe, HP10 0HH) as we delve into the Smart WiFi world and look at the Ruckus approach to dealing with common WiFi complaints. We will be joined by Scott Reeves, Ruckus Technical Director in EMEA and Stuart White our very own Senior Wireless Engineer who will both be taking the day's sessions and answering your questions. Join us on the 12th March from 10.00 and learn how to cause a Ruckus the right way. If you would like to attend, please send me a PM and I will reserve you a spot. Key Takeaways: Learn about the latest 802.11ac protocol Understand how Ruckus deals with common WiFi complaints Find out about other solutions that collaborate with Ruckus Take a look at the management platform behind the Ruckus system The Agenda 10:00 - 10:20 - Welcome and Registration. 10:20 - 10:40 - Net-Ctrl Introduction– A brief breakdown of Net-Ctrl and our history with Ruckus Wireless and working within education. 10:40 - 11:15 - Introduction into the wireless environment and 802.11ac protocol. 11:15 - 11:45 - The Ruckus approach to dealing with real world WiFi situations, and the benefits of their “secret sauce” – We will take a look at Ruckus' Smart WiFi technologies and special features that help make them market leaders. 11:45 - 12:10 - Ruckus RIOT partners overview - Ruckus work with industry leaders to help their customers utilise their Ruckus Smart Wi-Fi infrastructure. Find out about all their technology integrators. 12:10 - 12:30 - Net-Ctrl Cloud WLAN with Smart Access Management (SAM) integration - With the help of Net-Ctrl we can take your WLAN into the cloud. 12:30 - 12:45 - Take a look at what’s under the hood – We will be taking a tour through the Ruckus management console and showing you what happens "behind the scenes". 12:45 - 13:15 - Lunch and Networking. 13:15 - Ask the experts your wireless questions in our 'Open Floor' Q+A.

Some of you may remember that around this time last year Ruckus released a range of heavily discounted wireless bundles. Well they’re back and better than ever. Combining a controller, the recently released 7372 access points or the 7982 access points with five years support. This offer expires December 31st, 2013. To celebrate these new Ruckus bundles Net-Ctrl will be giving away one of the 6 x 7372 bundles. To enter this draw all you need to do is request an official quote from us. The deadline for entrants will be the 15th November and the winner will be announced on Monday the 18th November. All the entrants will be entered into a hat and one drawn at random. If you have already purchased your bundle we will refund the total amount of the bundle. There are a few T&Cs at the bottom of the post. On top of this all orders that come in before the end of October will be given £100 Amazon vouchers to be used for the school. New Ruckus Bundles Ruckus ZoneFlex 7372 Bundle 1 • 6 x ZoneFlex 7372 Access Points • 1 x ZoneDirector 1112 Controller – Support up to 12 Access Points. • 5 Years Partner Watchdog Support Price: £2,694.00 Ruckus ZoneFlex 7372 Bundle 2 • 25 x ZoneFlex 7372 Access Points • 1 x ZoneDirector 3050 Controller – Support up to 50 Access Points • 5 Years Partner Watchdog Support Price: £11,677.00 Ruckus ZoneFlex 7982 Bundle 1 • 6 x ZoneFlex 7982 Access Points • 1 x ZoneDirector 1112 Controller – Support up to 12 Access Points • 5 Years Partner Watchdog Support Price: £3,625.00 Ruckus ZoneFlex 7982 Bundle 2 • 25 x ZoneFlex 7982 Access Points • 1 x ZoneDirector 3050 Controller Support up to 50 Access Points • 5 Years Partner Watchdog Support Price: £15,557.00 You can also add an additional redundant unit to any of these bundles also with great savings!! T&Cs: You must be a school, academy, college or university in the United Kingdom. We ask kindly that should you win the Ruckus Wireless system for your organisation that we be given the opportunity to quote for any supporting cabling All entries must be made by the 15th November 2013 and we will announce the winner by the 18th November 2013 This offer is subject to us getting deal registration authorisation from Ruckus Wireless UK Vouchers not applicable if discount applied to bundle price.