Stagecoach, the UK’s biggest bus and coach operator, has announced it is replacing its legacy WAN infrastructure with a new software-defined network (SD-WAN) based architecture provided by Node4, the cloud, data centre and communications solutions provider. This upgraded connectivity will enable Stagecoach to support both business growth and its increased adoption of cloud-based technologies.
Stagecoach required a connectivity solution that could be easily deployed to existing and new sites. Having an SD-WAN solution will help Stagecoach progress with its cloud-first strategy – a combination of SaaS adoption and preparing core systems for the cloud; both of which require application routing control and extensive access to bandwidth.
Node4 was carefully selected based on bespoke design, extensive networking experience and being an early MSSP adopter of SD-WAN technology. Stagecoach will be able to replace its current legacy copper network infrastructure and move to a high capacity fibre network, reducing the overall cost of bandwidth and gaining more control and capabilities. SD-WAN allows deployment across both MPLS and internet-facing access circuits, whilst optimising secure access.
“In this day and age, cloud-first is the way all businesses should be heading, and Stagecoach is no exception. We needed a solution that could be tailored to our specific needs and can support our cloud-first strategy, and are pleased to be working with Node 4 to take this forward.” commented Graham Moore, Group Chief Information Officer at Stagecoach. “With Node4’s SD-WAN solution, we will have more control and flexibility over our network and are able to focus on the next stage of our cloud-first strategy.”
Because of its flexibility and extensive experience in the connectivity space, Node4 is able to offer a personalised solution to meet Stagecoach’s needs from both a technical and commercial standpoint. It is now in the process of rolling out a standardised ‘Stagecoach in a Box’ solution for connectivity across all 230 existing sites, as well as any future sites.
“Stagecoach is an excellent example of a market-leading service provider leveraging the cloud-first approach in the transport industry,” commented Simon Djadali, Business Development Manager at Node4. “It’s an exciting time for the sector and we are thrilled to be on-board with Stagecoach, helping another transport organisation achieve further transformational goals and leverage a next generation network to underpin future digital adoption initiatives.”
