Networking

Enabling Training in Remote Locations

Iron Bow implemented a plug-and-play operations environment to allow network communications for training in remote locations. The Iron Bow team configured IP address information, VBrick’s Enterprise Media System for video streaming and remote management to the network equipment all within a Hardigg Case. Iron Bow verified successful power-up, network connectivity, functional web access to server management interface, connectivity to end-points as well as applied the latest vendor supplied patches and updates. Additionally, the Iron Bow team provided on-site training of VMware vSphere, VMware View and AX4 to personnel. Now the client can provide on-the-go training including streaming media wherever the Hardigg cases are deployed.

Deploying Self-Healing Technology

Iron Bow and the CENTECH Group were contracted by the client to design a complete, turnkey solution for the OC Upgrade and Point of Presence (POP) Relocation requirements. The work included upgrading the Synchronous Optical Network (SONET) transport network from two existing OC-3 and OC-12 SONET rings to one consolidated OC-48 SONET ring. One of SONET’s most interesting characteristics is its support for a ring topology. Normally, one piece of fiber – the working ring – handles all data traffic, but a second piece of fiber – the protection ring – remains on standby. Should the working ring fail, SONET includes the capability to automatically detect the failure and transfer control to the protection ring in a very short period of time, often in a fraction of a second. For this reason, SONET can be described as a self-healing network technology.

The Iron Bow team performed the necessary system cutovers, making all efforts to ensure minimal disruption to existing base services. The team took full responsibility for implementing a successful integration of the SONET into the existing infrastructure. According the client satisfaction survey, the client was impressed by how seamless the project went.  All hardware was delivered prior to start date and the software was immediately available for use once all the equipment was installed and operational. Iron Bow’s project managers and service delivery team were all in constant communication with the client throughout the entire project that it was completed two days ahead of schedule.

Resolving Audit-Impacting Issues

A University Applied Physics Laboratory contracted with Iron Bow to resolve network issues. With an affiliation to the Department of Defense, the University was required to maintain a Secret Internet Protocol Router Network (SIPRNet) circuit. The University’s SIPR network had been having issues with two applications not working. Facing an audit of the SIPR network, the University partnered with Iron Bow to take corrective action rather than face a SIPR connection shut down that would cause significant issues for the research department.

Iron Bow worked to ensure CAT 1 and 2 STIG and ACAC findings were addressed and the network stabilized and prepared for the upcoming audit. The team also reviewed configuration of Checkpoint firewalls, Cisco routers and switches specifically looking for configurations that were blocking the client application from connecting back to the servers. Finally, Iron Bow provided a list of recommended changes for best practice. After work was completed the University passed the DISA CCRI audit with an “excellent” score.

Improving Guest Wireless

An armed forces recreation center required an update to their wireless network to better meet the demands of its guests. In partnership with CenturyLink, Iron Bow conducted a wireless assessment of the resort and based on the findings developed a wireless solution that substantially upgraded the existing system. The new system was installed in 45 days without disrupting the operation of the resort or impacting guests. Following this engagement Iron Bow was selected to conduct similar surveys at other resort hotel locations in Germany, Hawaii and Korea.

Enabling Trusted and Untrusted Access

In partnership with Century Link, Iron Bow was contracted to design, implement and test a Cisco Unified 802.11n capable wireless network across four buildings. This network provided wireless Internet access for internal (trusted) and external (untrusted) users.

The implementation of the wireless solution enabled the client to monitor and track web usage, as well as provide web filtering, and enforce a content management policy. The deployed solution also enabled wireless LAN utilization planning, configuration and management to include Radio Frequency prediction, policy provisioning, network optimization, troubleshooting, reporting, asset tracking, location-based services, security monitoring and overall wireless LAN systems management.