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How to Optimize Network Performance with Enterprise-Grade IT Hardware


How to Optimize Network Performance

Table of Contents


Introduction: Why Optimizing Network Performance Matters in SLED

Whether you're a school district in Berks County, PA or a municipal agency in the heart of Newark, NJ, reliable network performance is non-negotiable. Slow connections, downtime, and outdated equipment hinder productivity, delay services, and open security gaps. To better serve students, staff, and citizens, SLED (State, Local, and Education) organizations must invest in IT hardware that enhances speed, reliability, and security across the board.


Understanding Bottlenecks in

Public Sector Networks

Many performance issues trace back to a few key culprits:


  • Outdated switches or routers that can’t handle modern traffic loads

  • Insufficient bandwidth and limited scalability

  • Legacy cabling that introduces latency and signal loss

  • Lack of redundancy or improper network segmentation

Fixing these doesn’t always require a full overhaul—but it does require smart investments in hardware that’s purpose-built for today’s demands.


Key IT Hardware for High-Performance Networking

1. High-Speed Networking Equipment

Extreme Networks offers switches and wireless solutions that support multi-gig speeds, centralized control, and advanced security. Their fabric-based architecture simplifies traffic flow and improves response times.

2. Hyperconverged Infrastructure (HCI)

Scale Computing combines compute, storage, and virtualization in one platform. This not only reduces latency but also accelerates application delivery and minimizes points of failure.

3. Advanced Firewalls and Threat Protection

Palo Alto Networks and Fortinet deliver firewalls with built-in traffic inspection, application awareness, and policy enforcement—critical for keeping your network fast and secure.

4. Upgraded Cabling Infrastructure

Poor cable quality slows down even the best hardware. Upgrading to fiber optics and high-performance indoor/outdoor copper alternatives reduces latency and prepares your network for future expansion.

Design Considerations for Optimized SLED Environments

  • Segment Networks to separate sensitive data and manage bandwidth more efficiently

  • Use Redundant Hardware to eliminate single points of failure

  • Prioritize Cloud Access by choosing hardware that supports modern SaaS and remote environments

  • Enable Real-Time Monitoring via centralized dashboards to diagnose issues quickly

Implementation Tips for Schools and Government Agencies

  • Audit Existing Infrastructure to find where performance dips occur

  • Replace in Phases to align with budget cycles and minimize disruptions

  • Train IT Staff on new systems to reduce adoption friction

  • Partner with Experts like RD Data Products who understand SLED compliance and procurement processes

Summary Table: Performance Optimization Hardware

CATEGORY

KEY CAPABILITIES

COMMON USE CASES

Network Switches

Multi-gig speeds, PoE, fabric-based architecture

School networks, VoIP traffic, security systems

Wireless Access Points

Fast roaming, high-density coverage

Classrooms, auditoriums, public buildings

Firewalls

Real-time threat detection, access control

Perimeter defense, data segmentation

HCI Platforms

Low latency, scalability, all-in-one management

Server rooms, application hosting

Cabling Infrastructure

High bandwidth, future-proofing, low interference

Campus-wide fiber upgrades, building retrofits

Start Building a Faster, Smarter Network

SLED organizations across New Jersey are rethinking their networks with performance in mind—and RD Data Products is helping lead the charge. Whether you’re planning a wireless upgrade or laying new fiber, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.


Comments

  • How can you protect your data in the cloud?
    There are many ways to ensure your data is safe and protected in the cloud. Here are five ways to protect your data: Always implement strong access controls Encrypt data at both rest and in transit Leverage a big-name cloud security platform (we suggest Palo Alto) to monitor for suspicious activity Classify your data based on sensitivity and priority Keep security configurations up-to-date and regularly review activity
  • VoIP refers to ... ?
    VoIP refers to Voice over Internet Protocol. Through VoIP technology a municipality or campus can empower users to make and receive phone calls over the internet instead of traditional phone line. VoIP can help cut costs and improve productivity via unified communications.
  • What is a benefit of using cloud computing in networking?
    Cloud computing in networking offers more than one benefit. Benefits of cloud computing in networking include scalability, flexibility, cost-efficiency, speed, and autonomy.
  • How to design an enterprise network
    To design an enterprise network, an enterprise network solutions company like R&D Data Products will: Take time to identify the campus or company's requirements Analyze and assess an organization's current network infrastructure Determine the network topology, or the physical and logical way in which enterprise network nodes connect and data flows choose Plan IP addressing Decide on the most appropriate hardware and software for a campus or organization's needs Implement robust security measures to prevent hacks Ensure network scalability and data redundancy for future growth
  • What is an enterprise network?
    An enterprise network is an organization's IT network infrastructure. An enterprise network connects users, devices, and applications, enabling communication across both cloud and physical, local data center systems. Unlike the internet, with an enterprise network an IT team, Network Operator, or equivalent can ensure security and network reliability by controlling which users and devices have network authorization. Enterprise networks can include both physical and virtual components: LANs: Connect local devices WANs: Link LANs to the cloud Routers, switches, and servers: Facilitate data transfers Firewalls: Monitor and control traffic VPNs: Encrypt network data TLS encryption: Secures data in transit
  • What is the difference between routers and switches?
    The difference between routers and switches is that routers connect networks together, while switches are needed to connect the devices within a network.
  • What Is Zero Trust (ZTN) Cybersecurity?
    Unlike traditional security models that assume trust within a network, Zero Trust operates on the principle of “Never Trust, Always Verify.” Every access request is authenticated, authorized, and continuously monitored. Key Principles of Zero Trust are: Identity & Access Management (IAM) – Verify users before granting access. Least Privilege Access – Minimize user permissions to reduce risks. Micro-Segmentation – Isolate network segments to limit lateral movement. Continuous Monitoring & Threat Detection – Ensure real-time security enforcement.
  • How Ransomware Works
    Ransomware is malware that encrypts critical files and demands payment for decryption. Attacks often originate from: Phishing emails and malicious links Compromised user credentials Unpatched software vulnerabilities Once a system is infected, attackers demand payment, threatening to delete or leak sensitive data if the ransom isn’t paid.
  • How VoIP Reduces Communication Costs
    Switching to VoIP eliminates long-distance charges, costly hardware, and excessive maintenance fees associated with traditional phone systems. Key Cost Benefits: Lower Monthly Service Fees – Reduce telephony costs by up to 50% compared to traditional landlines. No Costly Hardware Upgrades – Use existing internet connections instead of investing in expensive PBX systems. Free Internal Calls – Staff can communicate between locations without incurring extra charges. Flexible Subscription Plans – Pay only for the features and users you need.
  • What are VoIP security best practices?
    Securing your VoIP system is more than setting up firewalls. SLED organizations should consider a layered approach: Top Security Practices: Encrypt VoIP Traffic – Protect calls with end-to-end encryption (e.g., SRTP/TLS). Secure SIP Gateways & Session Border Controllers – Prevent unauthorized access and mitigate DDoS attacks. Implement Network Segmentation – Isolate VoIP traffic from general internet traffic. Strong Authentication & Access Controls – Require strong passwords and restrict access to VoIP systems. Monitor & Audit Call Logs – Detect suspicious usage or fraud.
  • Does VoIP help with school safety and government safety?
    In critical situations like active threats, natural disasters, or medical emergencies, VoIP systems can play a key role in keeping people connected, informed, and safe. VoIP Emergency Features for SLED: E911 Location Services – Accurately transmit caller location to emergency services. Intercom & Paging Integration – Make site-wide or zone-specific announcements. Lockdown Alerts – Send automated messages through multiple channels. Voicemail-to-Email – Capture critical information even when lines are busy.

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