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Hello all, The BETT show is now only a few weeks away! Net-Ctrl will be exhibiting at the show for our eighth consecutive year and we have secured the same stand location as BETT 2016, C63. Just look for the big Net-Ctrl balloon. Each year we bring some of our key partners with us to showcase their solutions and discuss with visitors what to expect to see from them in the not-so-distant future and answer any questions. We will be running a competition again that is exclusively for our customers and Edugeek members only and could see you win one of the Ruckus Wireless dogs, plus our pretty awesome Star Wars Lego bundle. Details will be announced later this week. Joining us at BETT 2017 will be: Aperio – Wireless Lock Technology from ASSA ABLOY CEM – Access Control and Fully Integrated Security Management Systems MOBOTIX – High-Resolution IP-CCTV Camera and Video Door Entry Systems iboss – Innovative APT Defence, Web Security and Mobile Secure Solutions Ruckus Wireless – Smart WiFi with Controller and Controller-less Solutions The ARC Secure Response Services – 24 hours, 365 days a year Alarm Receiving Centre Switch Portfolio including Allied Telesis, Brocade and Juniper Networks Providing Scalable and Versatile Switching Solutions from Edge to Core We all look forward to seeing some of you at the show

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.

Palo Alto Networks will be running their first Cybersecurity Summit in London on the 21st March. It is free to attend. I wanted to let you all know, especially for those around London as this should be a great day. This day is for end-users only and provides a great opportunity to network with others and hear from some great speakers. Below is the outline of the session. To register and to find out more information, including the full agenda, you can visit their landing page: Palo Alto Networks Cybersecurity Summit This year's theme, "Disrupting the Cybersecurity Status Quo", acknowledges the rapid pace of change in cybersecurity in recent years and the readiness and need for market disruption. In a digital world where adversaries take advantage of increasingly affordable technologies and leverage automation, we’ve seen, in response, an explosion of cybersecurity product innovation to counteract attacks. A big challenge for enterprises constrained with a lack of skills, resources and budgets is that accelerating innovation in cybersecurity creates a paradox that makes the consumption and usability of that innovation more difficult. You will discover how Palo Alto Networks is leading the way in that disruption, and how your organisation will benefit. Speakers include: Nir Zuk, founder and chief technology officer, Palo Alto Networks Greg Day, CSO EMEA, Palo Alto Networks Attend to find out how Palo Alto Networks is disrupting the cybersecurity market to help customers consume and use innovation faster. Learn how Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Security Platform, powered by automation and artificial intelligence, helps prevent successful cyberattacks. Get up to speed with the latest network, cloud and endpoint security innovations and leave with new ideas to better protect your business.

Hello all, Our partner, Palo Alto Networks are running a webinar on the 24th May at 15.30 looking at 'Solving the challenges of SLL decryption in Education'. This should be a really engaging session with two good presenters. Register here. Webinar content is below: Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) (and its successor Transport Layer Security (TLS)) is an encryption protocol that is designed to protect the privacy and security of sensitive communications across a network, such as the Internet. The use of SSL encryption is rapidly increasing. In 2017, approximately 50% of web traffic was secured by the protocol and this is expected to rise to 80% by 2019 according to Gartner. Currently, most major websites including Google, Facebook and Wikipedia, enforce encryption and are using SSL across their sites (HTTPS sites). Join Jamie Jennrich, Regional Manager for Education and Jon Wood, Systems Engineer at Palo Alto Networks for an exclusive Cybersecurity Webinar ‘Solving the challenges of SSL decryption in Education’ on May 24th at 3.30 p.m. (BST) During this event they will discuss the difficult tension in education today between allowing students and staff easy and open access to information while ensuring their working environment is secure and safe, protected from growing cyber threats. Attend this webinar to understand: - SSL, its benefits and growth - Challenges of encryption in Education - How Palo Alto Networks can provide visibility and control across encrypted SSL channels Register here.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

There is a new Ruckus Wireless 11ac access point promotion running until 30th June 2015. This new offer will allow you to add 11ac to your Ruckus network for a greatly reduced price. Ruckus 11ac access points have more efficient silicon, more reliable connectivity and higher capacity performance, you really will see more from your network. Net-Ctrl is currently offering the entire range of Ruckus Wireless indoor 11ac access points at signification reductions. This is a great opportunity to upgrade your Ruckus network to the latest wireless technology available. Download the datasheet for more product information: ZoneFlex R500 -2x2:2, 2.4&5Ghz ZoneFlex R600 -3x3:3, 2.4&5Ghz ZoneFlex R700 -3x3:3, 2.4&5Ghz The difference between the R600 and R700 is that the R700 has a different antenna design, and is better suited for higher density deployments. Please be aware T&Cs do apply to this offer. Looking to upgrade your ZoneDirector? We're currently running a special price reduction on the 1100 and 3000 series units. Feel free to send me a PM for more information, or email [email protected]