CUSTOMER SUCCESS STORY
VLCM Champions Network Transformation at Major International Airport
In the bustling landscape of a major international airport, every minute counts. A delayed flight, a glitch in ticketing systems, or even a lull in the Wi-Fi connection could disrupt operations, resulting in thousands of frustrated passengers and a cascade of logistical complications. Network infrastructure becomes the invisible yet vital backbone, maintaining seamless operations in such high-stakes environments.
As a major international airport embarked on a bold growth initiative eight years ago, the need for an efficient and resilient network infrastructure was critical. The expansion would bring an influx of passengers, increased flight schedules, and a surge in data traffic. Ensuring seamless operational efficiency amidst rising demand was essential. Kurtis Pickett, Networking Engineer at VLCM, states, “An expansion project is more than just construction; it's about reducing network complexity. Everything from flight schedules to security systems, ticketing, and customer services, relies on the network. Any disruption could have serious consequences, impacting thousands of passengers and overall airport operations.” Recognizing the importance of network stability during these changes, the airport turned to a partner they could trust: VLCM.
Before the expansion project, the airport was operating on several, disconnected networks managed by multiple vendors. This fragmented setup led to inefficiencies, complexities in data flow, and wasn’t scalable. Recognizing the need to streamline and increase efficiency, the airport planned to consolidate these networks and reduce the number of networking vendors. They initially selected one of their previous network providers that, unfortunately, faced financial difficulties and filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. This unforeseen complication caused a shift in the network strategy, calling for a more dependable networking vendor.
"When our {original networking hardware provider} went out of business, it certainly introduced an unexpected complication. However, challenges often present opportunities, and in this case, it was an opportunity to transition to a solution that was even more capable and future-ready," says Chad Sirrine, Account Manager at VLCM.
"Our client needed a robust, reliable, and secure solution that could not only replace {former networking hardware} but could seamlessly integrate with the existing technologies and scale with the growing airport," he explains. "That's where Aruba came into the picture."
HPE Aruba Networking, a leading provider of next-generation network access solutions, offers an array of advanced features perfectly suited to high-demand environments like an international airport. Among its many strengths, Aruba stands out for its pioneering capabilities in Wi-Fi 6, AI-powered automation, and robust security features.
The environment required a network capable of handling a diverse array of devices and systems, including security cameras, access control systems, point-of-sale terminals, digital signage, customer-facing kiosks, baggage handling systems, and more. Additionally, the network had to accommodate the connectivity needs of airport staff, airlines, travelers, and retail tenants.
"Aruba's ability to integrate with various devices, systems, and vendors played a significant role in our decision to switch," Sirrine says. "It allowed us to not only maintain but improve the seamless internal communication and connectivity the airport relies on."
The implementation of Aruba’s AirWave network management solution was another critical step in enhancing the airport's network infrastructure. AirWave provided the airport's IT team with a powerful tool to predict and manage potential network issues before they escalated, reinforcing the system's overall resilience and reliability. The network visibility offered by AirWave was instrumental in maintaining network health and ensuring optimum performance at all times.
These examples only scratch the surface of the transformation that Aruba's networking solutions made possible. It wasn't just about replacing the previous network hardware—it was about taking the airport's entire network infrastructure to the next level. Aruba enabled a more reliable, efficient, and secure network that can scale to meet the airport's needs for years to come.
Throughout this project, VLCM demonstrated its expertise in building an Aruba network while taking into account the client's distinct requirements. VLCM understood the pivotal role of the airport's communication with the city, which predominantly operated on Cisco technology. To ensure uninterrupted communication, VLCM ensured that specific sections of the airport's network remained Cisco-centric. VLCM was also able to tie in HPE Intelligent Management Center (IMC) for comprehensive management across campus core and data center networks and Pelco video security cameras. This is a testament to Aruba’s ability to effectively integrate with other vendor solutions and VLCM’s deep commitment to delivering tailored, effective networking solutions that meet each client's specific needs.
"Projects of this scale can often encounter unexpected hurdles, and ours was no exception," admits Sirrine. "One of the biggest challenges we faced was from supply chain delays and issues, but our experience, foresight, and our Platinum Partnership with Aruba helped us navigate through them." Chad and the Aruba team ordered equipment well in advance, anticipating potential delays and keeping to the project timeline to the best of their ability.
VLCM's strong partnership with Aruba was truly the linchpin in ensuring the project's success despite the odds. Aruba's commitment to supporting its partners extended beyond providing superior networking solutions – they worked closely with VLCM to manage logistical hurdles and expedite deliveries whenever possible.
"With Aruba, we didn't just have a vendor but a partner who was just as invested in the project's success as we were," says Sirrine. “Their support was instrumental in keeping our project on track."
"The airport project really allowed us to showcase our engineering capabilities and the strength of our partnership with Aruba,” says Pickett, “we're proud to have played a key role in creating a robust, future-ready network that will serve the airport and its users for years to come."
As VLCM prepares for the final phases of this project, they continue to shine as industry leaders in planning and deploying large-scale networking solutions. Since the start of the project, VLCM has secured HPE Aruba Networking’s West Region Partner of the Year twice - in 2020 and again in 2023.
When your organization requires advanced, reliable, and scalable networking solutions, VLCM is your trusted partner to help you Get IT Right. With our deep Aruba expertise and a customer-first approach, you can be confident that your network infrastructure will be handled with the utmost care and professionalism. Don't let network challenges slow you down—partner with VLCM to experience seamless, efficient, and secure networking solutions tailored to your unique needs. Contact us now to begin your journey toward a robust and future-ready network infrastructure.
Our client is an international airport. Out of respect for our client's privacy, we have chosen to keep their name confidential.
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HPE Aruba Networking
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