Comprehensive guide for planning a successful network switch upgrade

Modern technology requirements now make a network infrastructure that functions as the foundation of an organization's IT operations necessary.

Switches can connect and manage data flow between computers, servers, and other equipment across the network. As technology evolves and business demands increase, however, the need to upgrade your network switches is important.

Many enterprises now recognize this shift and plan to upgrade their infrastructure within the next 12-18 months, demonstrating the need to keep network equipment up-to-date.

Upgrading your network switches can lead to improved performance and security, offering better support for emerging technologies, like IoT and cloud services, across operations.

The key steps to planning a network switch upgrade and partnering with a provider can help support your organization through the process.

6 steps for a successful switches upgrade

1. Assess and evaluate current network

Any upgrade project should include a thorough assessment of your existing network infrastructure:

• Inventory of current switches: Document make, model, and age of all switches in your network.
• Performance analysis: Identify bottlenecks, congestion points, and high-latency areas.
• Capacity utilization: Measure current bandwidth usage and project future needs.
• Error rates and downtime: Analyze logs to identify recurring issues or failures.

Network monitoring software tools can provide valuable insights during this phase. Some network assistant tools, for instance, could offer a comprehensive view of network topology and performance metrics.

2. Desired features and capabilities

Based on your assessment, you can outline features and capabilities that you need in your new switches, including:

• Bandwidth and port density: Determine the required throughput, bandwidth, and number of ports needed.
• Power over Ethernet (PoE): If you have IP phones, wireless access points, or IoT devices, PoE switches could significantly simplify deployment and reduce cabling costs.
• Management features: Find switches with robust management interfaces, including CLI, GUI, and API support.
• Software-defined networking (SDN) compatibility: If planning to implement SDN in the future, ensure your switches work across important protocols.

3. Compatibility and security

Compatibility with your existing network components is important. Consider the following:

• Protocol support: Ensure new switches support necessary protocols, like VLAN, STP, and LLDP.
• Smooth integration with network management systems (NMS): Verify compatibility with your current NMS.
• Security features: Find switches with advanced security capabilities, such as Access Control Lists, IEEE 802.1X authentication, filtering of MAC addresses, and storm control.

4. Network structure and cabling

Upgrading switches may necessitate changes to your network structure and cabling. Consider the following before choosing a network switch upgrade:

• Assess current cabling infrastructure: Determine whether existing cables can support higher bandwidths. Moving toward newer cabling systems could potentially facilitate faster future upgrades.
• Plan for potential downtime: Develop a strategy to minimize disruption during the upgrade process.

5. Warranty and support options

When selecting new switches, review warranty and support offerings. Consider the following:

• Length of hardware warranty
• Availability of software updates and bug fixes
• Technical support options (phone, email, on-site)
• Mean time between failure (MTBF) ratings

Extended warranties and support contracts with technology and refurbished hardware providers can potentially provide a lower total cost of ownership (TCO) over time.

6. Budget

Developing a comprehensive budget for your switch upgrade project is essential.

• Hardware costs: Switches, transceivers, and any necessary cabling or rack equipment.
• Software licensing fees: Some advanced features may require additional licenses.
• Installation and configuration costs: Figure in labor costs for deployment and setup.
• Ongoing maintenance and support costs: Regular maintenance and support costs could be a crucial aspect of your upgrade process.

Partnering with CXtec: A reliable hardware provider for a smooth hardware transition

A well-executed switch upgrade isn't only about new hardware — it's an investment in your organization's productivity, security, and growth. Partnering with a reliable provider can help offset any additional costs and ensure BAU as you make the transition.

At CXtec, we understand the importance of understanding your needs and offering support as you navigate your IT infrastructure requirements. With more than four decades of proven, demonstrated assistance, we've helped organizations move to more efficient operations with reliable refurbished hardware that functions optimally at reduced costs.

With equal2new®, we offer refurbished network switches that scale with your IT needs and offer the bandwidth and reliability at a fraction of the cost of a new switch.

• Proven expertise and support: Our team of certified network engineers can help assess your current infrastructure and recommend optimal solutions customized to your needs and budget. With our ongoing technical support, we ensure a smooth transition and optimal performance of your new network switches.
• Lifetime warranty and aAdvanced replacement: With a lifetime warranty and advanced replacement on equal2new switches, your equipment will operate at peak performance throughout the year.
• Range of brands: We offer a wide selection of switches from well-known manufacturers, like Cisco, HPE, and Juniper, offering pre-owned equipment for a perfect balance between performance and cost.
• Tests and quality checks: Our refurbished equipment undergoes rigorous testing and quality checks to ensure unmatched reliability and performance.

Ready to get started? Contact us.