The Bielefeld University IT Service Center (BITS) aspires to have its IT network infrastructure recognized as one of the most modern data centers in Germany. A key factor to achieving this goal will be measured by their ability to maintain uninterrupted user access to the systems, applications, and information on the network.
Like other corporations and education institutions with distributed IT environments, the University has equipment dispersed in multiple ‘Tech Rooms’ throughout the campus. This means that on-site management of the network is complicated and time-consuming if IT staff must physically be in front of the server, switch, or application that requires attention.
To solve this problem, BITS Network Engineers implemented an Out-of-Band Management (OOBM) Network. A Perle IOLAN Console Server installed at the top of each rack now provides network administrators an alternate path to remotely access Cisco and HP switches, WLAN controllers, and VPN servers, as if they are locally connected through a direct serial console port connection, even if the network is down. Disruption and downtime have been minimized due to better visibility of the physical environment and status of equipment.
“Above all, we are impressed by the stability of the IOLAN Console Servers during operation. As far as I can remember, the IOLANs have been running without a reboot ever being necessary. We are very satisfied,” said a member of the BITS Network Team.
About BITS – Bielefeld IT Service Center (BITS)
The Bielefeld IT Service Center (BITS) is one of the most modern data centers in the German university landscape and is the university-wide, central service provider for services in the field of information and communication technology. With its IT services, BITS supports around 30,000 users in the areas of research, teaching, studies, and administration.
About Perle Systems: www.perle.com
Founded in 1976, Perle Systems designs and manufactures highly reliable device networking, media conversion, and Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity hardware. With an extensive range of solutions, Perle products are ideal for organizations that need to establish network connectivity across multiple locations, securely transmit critical and sensitive information, or remotely monitor and control networked devices and appliances. Perle has offices in 9 countries and sells its products through a globally established distributor, system integrator, and reseller channel.
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