LAN modernization in branches of a global medtech company

LAN modernization in branches of a global medtech company

At two locations of a global medtech company, the LAN network operated continuously for years, but over time, it became an invisible problem. Switches were nearing the end of their manufacturer’s support, racks were full of cables that no one was connecting anymore, and new business needs required a faster, more predictable infrastructure.

Our client, operating in over 100 countries, needed assistance with network infrastructure planning at two locations in the UK: Sheffield (24/7 production and office) and London (office only).

The result: 22% fewer switches, increased efficiency, and a cleaner IT infrastructure.

Initial situation and technical problem

The main challenge was the outdated network infrastructure:

• Cisco EoL 4500X switches with End of Support (EoS) due in October 2025,
• EoL C3850x access switches with End of Support (EoS) due in October 2025,
• Outdated Cisco Aironet Access Points and controllers,
• Large and chaotic racks, overflowing with inactive devices,
• The growing need to implement standards and segment the network in line with security policies.

An additional complication was the fact that network traffic from Sheffield was routed through London, where the firewall was located, necessitating coordination between both locations.

The solution used

The company decided to standardize its LAN infrastructure according to global Cisco guidelines and centrally manage it through the Catalyst Center.

Main implementation elements:

• Replacing core switches from the 4500X to the Catalyst 9500-24Y-4C,
• Replacing C3850X series access switches to the Catalyst 9200-48P, maintaining stack model compatibility,
• Replacing Aironet access points to the Cisco Catalyst 9164,
• Removing obsolete devices (decommissioning) and organizing racks,
• Configuring VLANs in line with the future network segmentation project,
• Implementing/updating management mechanisms (including VLAN management and integration with Cisco ISE),
• Optimizing the number of switches using a proprietary port utilization analysis tool.

Every switch, every VLAN ID, every port was analyzed. Instead of “migrating the configuration 1:1,” the Grandmetric team re-mapped it, following current standards. Old VLANs were removed. Inactive ports were cleared. Cables were color-coded according to traffic type.

Design process – step by step

1. Analysis of the current network state

• Identification of current and future infrastructure requirements. We are planning the new network for 5-10 years, and during this time, port and throughput demand may increase significantly. We typically design with a 15-20% port reserve.
• Infrastructure inventory to determine whether, after the planned replacement, the remaining network devices will allow for the creation of a secure and high-performance infrastructure (e.g., with redundant links or key switches).
• Identification of unused ports. We used our proprietary software to analyze port utilization on switches to optimize purchases.

2. Selecting the appropriate equipment

• Considering the number of ports, uplink types, PoE power supply, and mGig support.
• Considering the use of 9200 switches from other customer locations and their stacking capabilities within individual models in the product line.

3. Developing the HLD (High-Level Design)

• Summary of the current network status.
• Layout of equipment and devices in racks.
• Selection of locations for new APs.

4. Developing the LLD (Low-Level Design)

• Documentation of VLANs, ports, and configurations.
• Standardization and configuration cleanup.

5. Configuration Preparation

• Configuring 80% of settings before deployment – ​​remotely (AnyDesk) or locally,
• Testing in the lab or on-site,
• Adding devices to the NAC before physical deployment.

6. Installation

• Hardware replacement according to established maintenance windows.
• Special logistics in Sheffield (24/7 production).
• Cable management – ​​color-coded according to traffic type. The challenge was to use an existing rack with decommissioned equipment.

7. Hypercare and Documentation

• Post-implementation support and optimizations.
• Full post-implementation documentation.

Effects for the client

Cost savings. Reduced the number of switches from 27 to 21 (22%) at each location. Reclaimed unused ports and eliminated unnecessary VLANs.

Supported and manageable infrastructure. All devices are supported by the manufacturer and centrally managed by the Cisco Catalyst Center. Modern access points with Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E.

Securing devices and access to the guest network through integration with Cisco ISE.

Making the work of network engineers easier. Organized racks, logical structure, and color-coding (which may seem like a small thing, but it significantly simplifies working with hardware). Readiness for future network segmentation.

Precision and planning were key in this project. Every network port, every VLAN, and every cable had its proper place. Thanks to testing and configuration prior to installation, we significantly reduced downtime. The client gained a modern, stable, and manageable network, while also maintaining order in the racks and achieving significant savings in hardware and energy.

— Sylwia Szczygieł, Consulting Engineer, Grandmetric 

📎 Project Specifications

• Core Switches: Cisco Catalyst 9500-24Y-4C
• Access Switches: Cisco Catalyst 9200
• AP: Cisco Catalyst 9164
• Management: Cisco Catalyst Center
• Security / NAC: Cisco ISE
• Routing Protocol: BGP
• Location: Sheffield and London (UK)

What did the client gain from replacing the switches?

Replacing switches and APs in two locations not only streamlined the LAN infrastructure and reduced the number of devices, but also prepared the network for future segmentation and improved its security. The client gained order, Cisco standard compliance, and savings in hardware, energy, and management.

Do you also have switches or APs in your network that will soon lose support?

Act today. A similar project will take 3 to 6 months.

Talk to our expert

 

*I consent to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of being contacted by Grandmetric Sp. z o.o. (data controller). I declare that I have read and accept the Privacy Policy. Privacy Policy

Sylwia Szczygieł

Consulting Engineer, Grandmetric