4 Pillars of Campus Networking

Evaluating campus networking OEMs

At WWT, we regularly engage with customers looking across the fence and asking, "Is the grass greener over there?" as they consider OEM options for their next network refresh.  As well, there are a number of new technologies available to improve user experience, security and operational efficiency of our networks. Capabilities such as Segmentation, Wi-Fi 7, AI/ML troubleshooting, Cloud Management, SD-WAN and Cloud-based Security are common features discussed as customers plan to innovate their campus and branch networks. With all these new capabilities being promoted, we are often asked, "How should I measure the OEM options for my campus and branch network refresh?". We advise our customers to consider the 4 Pillars of Branch Networking. 

The 4 Pillars of Branch Networking are key focus areas that most impact the functioning of a business's campus and branch networks. These pillars are as follows:

1. Visibility

The ability to monitor and understand the performance, health, and usage of the network, systems and endpoints. Key capabilities include:

• Real-time insights into network traffic, device activity, and user behavior.
• Monitoring tools for proactive issue detection and troubleshooting.
• Centralized dashboards for comprehensive operational oversight.

Examples of this in Campus/Branch Operations:

• Use of network analytics to identify performance bottlenecks and challenges, or security threats before they escalate.

2. Management / Control

Ensuring that the organization has the tools and policies in place to manage resources, enforce compliance, and adapt to change. Key capabilities include: 

• Policy enforcement across users, devices, and locations.
• Access management configuration capabilities (e.g., role-based access control, zero trust).
• Configuration management to maintain operational standards and identify "snowflake" configurations.
• Role-based access to visibility, configuration and troubleshooting tools.

Example in Campus/Branch Operations:

• Deployment of common configuration templates for baseline network functions like DHCP, DNS, management interfaces, certificates, etc.
• Implementation of secure access policies to allow only authorized devices and users on the network.
• Grant access to the help desk for read-only troubleshooting of users, applications, endpoints and network devices.

3. Automation

Supports leveraging technology to streamline repetitive or complex tasks, improving efficiency and reducing human error. Key capabilities include:

• Automating network provisioning, updates, and security protocols through the use of API's and scriptable interfaces.
• Engagement with AI/ML tools for predictive maintenance and anomaly detection.
• Workflow automation for operational processes.

Examples in Campus/Branch Operations:

• Automating the onboarding of new devices and users to ensure a seamless experience without manual intervention.

4. Security

Protecting the organization's data, infrastructure, and operations against internal and external threats. Key capabilities include: 

• End-to-end encryption, mac-sec, VPNs, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems.
• Segmentation and identity-based access
• Continuous vulnerability assessments and threat mitigation.
• Ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

Example in Campus/Branch Operations:

• Deploying a zero-trust architecture to ensure secure communication between devices and users.

Why these pillars matter

Together, these pillars ensure that campus and branch operations are not only efficient but also secure, resilient, and adaptable to future challenges. They align technology management with business goals, such as improving user experiences, minimizing downtime, and supporting digital transformation.

Need help evaluating OEMs?

WWT offers comprehensive assessment workshops to objectively evaluate Wi-Fi, Switching, SD-WAN, and SSE/SASE OEM solutions. Our independent analysis cuts through marketing noise, providing a clear comparison of features and capabilities. With purpose-built tools, we identify your business-critical needs and highlight the solutions that best align with your goals.