Austrade Prepared to Revamp Essential Network Infrastructure at Data Centre
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Quick Overview
- Austrade intends to replace its Cisco-centric core network infrastructure at two data centres starting late 2026.
- Nexus 7000-series switches and Cisco ASA 5525 firewalls will be exchanged for Fortinet’s FortiGate firewalls.
- The initiative involves upgrading Smartoptics DWDM passive multiplexers and utilizing ICON dark fibre.
- Austrade plans to acquire new equipment by March 2026 and implement it in the latter part of the year.
Austrade’s Strategy for Network Infrastructure Revamp
Austrade, Australia’s leading trade and investment development agency, is set to launch a substantial upgrade of its network infrastructure. This project, scheduled for late 2026, will involve the replacement of the current Cisco-based systems in two physical data centres.
Existing Infrastructure and the Need for Transformation
The present configuration features Nexus 7000-series switches and Cisco ASA 5525 firewalls within the internal data centre. These will be replaced with FortiGate firewalls from Fortinet. This upgrade is part of Austrade’s plan to boost connectivity and security, capitalizing on FortiGate’s advanced functionalities.
Integration with Current Systems
Austrade currently utilizes FortiGate firewalls within its software-defined wide area network (SD-WAN) to ensure stable connections to Azure environments and branch locations. This experience with Fortinet products is anticipated to facilitate a smoother transition.
Enhancing DWDM Systems
Besides the firewall replacements, Austrade is assessing potential enhancements to its Smartoptics Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM) systems. These multiplexers, together with dark fibre from the Intra-government Communications Network (ICON), are vital for site-to-site connectivity.
Project Schedule and Vendor Selection
The project is in its initial phases, concentrating on evaluating available infrastructure solutions for informed resource planning. At this stage, no vendor has been chosen for the core network switches, but Austrade intends to obtain equipment by March 2026, with implementation aimed for the second half of the year.
Conclusion
Austrade is initiating a thorough revamp of its network infrastructure, replacing long-standing Cisco components with Fortinet solutions and upgrading connectivity systems. This transition is designed to improve efficiency and security in alignment with Austrade’s strategic goals.