Created distinct modular blocks: Core, DCs, Regional Centers, WAN, and Branch Networks.
Vendor & Infrastructure Diversity Reduces Risk and Improves Security
Financial firm reduces operational risk by diversifying its vendor and data center infrastructure.
Client context
The work begins with the operating reality.
Client
Financial firm reduces operational risk by diversifying its vendor and data center infrastructure.
EngagementFinancial firm reduces operational risk by diversifying its vendor and data center infrastructure.
IndustryFinancial Services
SolutionsData Center
The challenge
What had to change
Over a decade ago, a financial firm sought our expertise to enhance application and network availability, addressing widespread failures causing operational disruptions and reputational damage. The issues came from several network outages, ranging from regional to enterprise-wide disruptions. This contrasted with a business requirement for continuous operations.
They asked us for a network design for 100% availability.
The BlueAlly solution
How the work came together
Since 100% is impossible, we focused on a design preventing regional and systemic outages. We ultimately employed infrastructure modularity, vendor, and telecommunications diversityas key risk mitigation strategies, whichcontinue to provide functionality after over a decade.
The results
What changed
Over the years, conduits, fibers, links, and network devices have failed, but there have been no systemic outages since the original network’s implementation over 10 years ago. The network has survived floods, tornados, and even the loss of a major site during a hurricane. Meanwhile, the financial firm’s network evolved through regional expansions and technological upgrades.
Outcome highlights
What the client gained.
Introduced Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) to connect modules, ensuring scalability and preventing cascading events.
Modeled a solution for each module, including two separate core networks and duplicated DC structures.
Resulted in separate parallel networks, requiring vendors to collaborate for distinct infrastructures.
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