Technimove’s Digital Transformation and Network Overhaul of the UK’s leading manufacturing and forge master.
Background
Our client, a prominent manufacturer comprising multiple buildings serving diverse functions – such as health and safety offices, administrative areas, warehousing, quality control – faced significant challenges with their IT infrastructure.
Despite their longstanding partnership with Technimove, their growing security concerns and operational inefficiencies required urgent attention. The initial project focused on revamping their Wi-Fi, but a comprehensive audit revealed broader issues with their network infrastructure and security protocols.
Why Technimove Was Chosen
Technimove has a trusted relationship with the client spanning over 15 years, consistently delivering high-quality IT solutions. The client turned to Technimove again, confident in their expertise and ability to provide tailored, cutting-edge solutions.
This confidence was reinforced by Technimove’s proven track record of handling complex industrial IT challenges.
Challenges
The project began with a Wi-Fi site survey, which uncovered several pressing issues:
Security Vulnerabilities: Frequent firewall intrusion attempts every four to six seconds were detected, yet the existing firewalls were inadequate to counteract them.
Outdated Infrastructure: The site used archaic structured cabling, degraded internal wiring, and non-functional fibre connections between buildings, forcing reliance on suboptimal CAT5 cabling.
Wi-Fi Design Flaws: Wi-Fi access points were poorly positioned, neglecting the unique requirements of a manufacturing environment with thick metal walls, cranes, and CNC machines.
Network Segregation Gaps: The entire site operated on a single undivided network, leading to security and operational inefficiencies.
Unreliable Equipment: The existing SMB-level switches lacked management capabilities, prioritisation of traffic, or security features like geolocation blocking.
How Technimove solved the problem
Technimove approached the challenges in a methodical and staged manner:
Comprehensive Site Audit: A 10-day full security and network audit identified vulnerabilities in firewalls, switches, and cabling.
Re-architecting the Network: A complete overhaul of wired and wireless networks was performed, including:
Upgrading Cabling: Installing structured cabling from cabinets to switches to access points. This required innovative solutions to navigate the physical challenges of the manufacturing site.
Redesigning Wi-Fi Placement: Access points were strategically positioned to ensure optimal coverage and performance, overcoming interference from the industrial environment.
Implementing Segregated Networks: Separate business and guest networks were established, enhancing security and operational efficiency.
Deployed Advanced Security Measures
- Installation of robust firewalls with geolocation blocking to thwart attacks from high-risk regions.
- Integration of a full-radius network for heightened security.
- Deployment of high-availability configurations to eliminate single points of failure.
Switch and Traffic Management: Replacing basic switches with advanced, manageable switches capable of prioritising critical traffic and monitoring network performance.
Enabling Monitoring and Remote Access: Platforms for network traffic analysis and remote access were introduced to provide real-time insights and streamlined management.
Outcomes
The transformation resulted in several tangible benefits for the client:
Enhanced Security: Dramatic reduction in intrusion attempts and enhanced ability to prevent attacks.
Operational Efficiency: Improved network performance and reliability due to the restructured cabling and upgraded switches.
Tailored Wi-Fi Solutions: Optimised wireless coverage that accommodated the unique industrial environment.
Improved User Experience: Segregated networks provided a seamless and secure experience for business operations and guests.
Future-Proof Infrastructure: A scalable, high-performance network designed to support future growth and technological advancements.
Conclusion
What began as a Wi-Fi issue evolved into a transformative overhaul of the client’s entire IT infrastructure. Technimove not only addressed the immediate concerns but also future-proofed the site’s network through a comprehensive approach to security, cabling, and network architecture.
This project underscores the client’s ability to deliver tailored, robust solutions that meet the unique demands of industrial environments. The client now operates with confidence, supported by a secure, efficient, and resilient IT backbone.