Introduction: This case study highlights the successful implementation of a single technology solution by August eTech to connect multiple locations of a large-sized organization. The client required seamless connectivity between four geographically dispersed locations, enabling shared resources such as printers, servers, files, database applications, email, and internal software. August eTech devised a strategy that involved setting up an open VPN network, deploying VPN firewalls with enhanced security, and leveraging existing servers as exchange points. This approach eliminated the need for complex server removal procedures and significantly reduced the costs associated with establishing a Wide Area Network (WAN). The client’s employees can now access and utilize each server as if they were physically present in the office, improving productivity and collaboration.
Client’s Needs: The client, a large-sized organization with multiple locations spread across different states, sought a solution to connect their dispersed sites using a single technology. The primary objectives were to facilitate seamless sharing of resources and applications across all locations, including printers, servers, files, database applications, email, and internal software.
August eTech’s Solution: August eTech devised a comprehensive strategy to meet the client’s requirements:a. VPN Network Setup: August eTech implemented an open VPN (Virtual Private Network) network, utilizing the existing Internet bandwidth at each site. This allowed secure communication and data transfer between the locations over the public Internet.b. VPN Firewall Deployment: To ensure robust security, VPN firewalls with advanced security features were installed at each site. These firewalls provided encryption, authentication, and secure access controls to protect the network from unauthorized access.
Leveraging Existing Servers: August eTech utilized the client’s current servers to act as the exchange points for the entire network. Each server was configured to serve as the central hub for specific functions such as email, database applications, print services, and file sharing. This eliminated the need for removing and relocating servers at multiple locations, simplifying the implementation process.
Comprehensive Server Access and Resource Sharing: With the implemented solution, the organization’s employees gained comprehensive access to each server and shared resources as if they were physically present at any location. The key benefits include:
a. Seamless Resource Sharing: Employees across all locations can share printers, servers, files, database applications, and internal software seamlessly. This enhances collaboration, productivity, and efficiency within the organization.
b. Improved User Experience: The VPN tunnel access enables employees to access resources and applications securely from any location, providing a consistent user experience regardless of their physical presence. This promotes flexibility and remote work capabilities.
c. Cost Reduction: By leveraging existing servers and utilizing the open VPN network, the client significantly reduced the costs associated with setting up a dedicated Wide Area Network (WAN) infrastructure. This cost-effective solution delivered the desired connectivity and resource sharing capabilities.
Transition to SD-WAN Environment: As an update, August eTech has successfully migrated the client to an SD-WAN (Software-Defined Wide Area Network) environment. SD-WAN offers enhanced flexibility, scalability, and centralized management of the network infrastructure. This transition further optimizes the client’s connectivity, performance, and network control.
Conclusion: August eTech’s successful implementation of a VPN tunnel access solution for a large-sized organization enabled seamless connectivity and resource sharing across multiple locations. By leveraging existing servers and deploying VPN firewalls, August eTech ensured secure communication and efficient access to shared resources. The cost-effective approach significantly reduced the expenses typically associated with establishing a WAN network. The client’s employees now benefit from comprehensive server access, improved collaboration, and increased productivity. Furthermore, the transition to an SD-WAN environment further enhances the client’s network capabilities. This case study exemplifies August eTech’s expertise in designing and implementing innovative solutions to address complex connectivity challenges for large organizations.