For many institutions, the challenge is not whether to embrace AI, but how to do it responsibly. We invited some of CNI’s customers to reflect via survey on the big picture: the role of AI, student engagement, infrastructure evolution, and how they’re preparing for what comes next.

Building the Foundation for Intelligent Innovation

At the University of Pennsylvania, the Information Systems and Computing (ISC) team has taken a proactive approach to shaping the university’s AI strategy. According to Mike Reagan, Senior IT Manager, and Dan Prante, Network Architect, Penn’s focus is on purposeful, sustainable innovation. “We see the tremendous potential AI brings to enhance both our academic and administrative operations,” they shared. “Our department has outlined both short- and long-term goals and regularly collaborates with internal stakeholders and external vendors to ensure our AI strategy aligns with Penn’s broader mission.”

Their tactics reflect a growing trend across higher education: adopting a measured, data-driven roadmap rather than running after the latest technology wave. For Penn, that means prioritizing high-impact, scalable projects that deliver clear value – supported by a hybrid infrastructure model that balances flexibility, performance, and cost-efficiency. “Ultimately, our approach to AI is not about chasing trends,” Reagan and Prante added. “It’s about building a stable, secure, and forward-looking foundation that enables Penn to remain at the forefront of innovation in higher education.”

Evolving the Network for a New Era of Learning

AI and analytics depend on one thing above all else: reliable, high-performing networks. As more devices connect to campus environments – from research sensors and lab equipment to mobile learning tools,  the demands continue to grow.

For many IT teams, upgrading wireless and wired environments is no longer just a performance initiative; it’s a strategic enabler for the next phase of digital transformation.

Penn’s IT priorities over the next few years reflect that reality. “We’re focused on scaling our wireless infrastructure, strengthening security, and improving visibility and performance across the board,” Reagan and Prante said. “Security continues to be a major focus as more devices come onto the network and hybrid learning continues to evolve.”

The focus on visibility, automation, and security echoes across many higher education institutions as they prepare for the next generation of digital experiences.

A Partnership Built on Trust

At Haverford College, Courtenay Williams, Senior Network Engineer, sees infrastructure modernization as a critical step in improving user experience and supporting new technologies. “Our top priorities are enhancing wireless coverage, improving monitoring and troubleshooting, and gaining a clearer understanding of how to better support our users,” Williams explained.

Behind those technical goals is a story of collaboration and trust. Williams credits CNI for being more than just a vendor – a partner who understands higher education’s unique challenges. “CNI has the right model of expertise, professionalism, and, most importantly, they care,” Williams said. “When a vendor cares, you develop trust and a friendship. As a customer, developing and maintaining that trust goes a long way.”

For CNI, that trust is earned through deep technical knowledge, responsive support, and a commitment to helping customers find the best path forward – whether that means optimizing existing systems, introducing automation, or designing future-ready networks that support research and innovation.

Preparing for What’s Next

AI’s growing role in education will continue to test the agility and resilience of campus IT environments. Universities that succeed will be those that invest not only in smarter tools, but in smarter strategies that align people, processes, and infrastructure around shared goals.

The work being done at Penn and Haverford highlights a common theme: progress doesn’t come from technology alone. It comes from leadership, collaboration, and trusted partnerships that make innovation practical.

As higher education enters its next wave of digital transformation, CNI is proud to stand alongside institutions like these by helping them design, secure, and scale the infrastructure that powers the future of learning.

The post Preparing Campus Networks for the AI Transformation Ahead appeared first on CNI Sales.

In an era where digital infrastructure is critical to the public sector’s efficiency and resilience, state and local government (SLED) agencies are under growing pressure to manage data effectively. Whether it’s safeguarding public records, ensuring continuity of essential services, or complying with stringent data retention policies, these agencies face mounting challenges—especially when it comes to data storage and backup.

Traditional on-premises storage solutions have long been the default, but they are quickly showing their age. High costs, limited scalability, and burdensome maintenance are just a few of the reasons many public sector IT leaders are rethinking their approach.

To help address that need, CNI is excited to announce our partnership with Backblaze, the cloud storage innovator providing a modern alternative to traditional cloud storage providers. A leader in the open cloud, they are pioneers in robust, scalable, high-value cloud storage and backup services.

A Simple, Secure, and Budget-Friendly Alternative

Backblaze B2 Cloud Storage and Backblaze Computer Backup offer a modern, cloud-first approach to data protection that directly addresses the shortcomings of on-premises solutions.

Lower Total Cost of Ownership

Backblaze B2 offers storage at a fraction of the cost of traditional systems or other major cloud providers. Unlike legacy systems that demand upfront capital and ongoing maintenance, Backblaze operates on a predictable pricing model, with flexibility for pay-as-you-go pricing or contracts, depending on your business’ need. Regardless of the option you choose, there are no hidden fees for retrieval, deletion, minimum storage duration, or egress.

For example, storing 100TB of data on Backblaze B2 can cost up to 75% less than using on-premises storage when factoring in hardware, energy, and labor. (Learn more about the economic benefits of Backblaze B2 Cloud Storage in this recent ESG Report.)

Scalability Without the Headache

Backblaze B2 allows agencies to scale storage seamlessly as their data grows—without purchasing and configuring new equipment. This elasticity is particularly valuable for departments handling variable data loads, such as law enforcement or public health agencies responding to emergencies.

Streamlined Backup for Workstations and Laptops

Backblaze Computer Backup automates the backup process for end-user devices, ensuring that laptops and desktops used by public officials, clerks, or field workers are always protected. This is a simple yet powerful solution for agencies where remote workforces and hybrid work are the norm.

Robust Security and Compliance

Government data must meet high standards for privacy and security. Backblaze data centers are ISO 27001 certified, and compliant with SOC 2 Type 2, GDPR, and CCPA/CPRA. Agencies can also implement role-based access control and utilize third-party integrations for compliance with other industry regulations and policies. (Find more compliance-related information here.)

Rich Integration Ecosystem

Backblaze supports seamless data protection and storage through integrations with leading platforms such as Veeam, Commvault, Rubrik, and Cohesity — enabling efficient backup, recovery, and data management workflows. These integrations help SLED organizations enhance resilience, streamline IT operations, and meet compliance requirements with ease.

Disaster Recovery Made Easy

By storing data offsite in the cloud, agencies can implement effective disaster recovery plans without duplicating infrastructure. With Backblaze, agencies can retrieve critical data quickly in the event of an emergency, minimizing downtime and ensuring continuity of public services. (Learn more about Backblaze’s ransomware resilience and disaster recovery solutions here.)

Ready to Consider a Smarter Way Forward?

In a time when public services are more data-dependent than ever, government agencies need solutions that are not only reliable and secure but also fiscally responsible. “Backblaze’s B2 Cloud Storage and Computer Backup solutions check all the boxes. The ability to move data in and out of Backblaze for free is a key differentiator while many other cloud storage providers charge exorbitant data egress fees,” Jon Fox, CNI Systems Engineer, explains. “These are modern cloud solutions that cut costs, reduce complexity, and support long-term digital transformation goals. We’re excited to introduce them to our customer base.”

For IT leaders in the public sector, the message is clear: it’s time to retire the outdated, costly on-prem systems and embrace the future of data storage and backup. Contact the experts at CNI to set up a complimentary consultation.

The post Budget-Friendly Data Management for SLED appeared first on CNI Sales.

These workshops offer a great opportunity to gain hands-on knowledge about specific HPE Aruba solutions in a small group setting. The workshops range from “fundamental” learning for new customer teams, to “intermediary” classes that are designed to extend a deeper understanding and advanced utilization of specific products or solutions.

Why Attend a CNI Workshop?

• Strategic Value – Learn how to align Aruba technologies with your business objectives.
• Hands-On Learning – Experience guided labs in a small-group format, making it easy to engage and apply.
• Tailored Content – Choose from foundational or advanced topics on your team’s needs.
• Expert Guidance – CNI’s veteran Systems Engineers, Ryan Ruiz and Jon Fox, bring decades of field experience and deep knowledge of wired and wireless environments. Additionally, attendees benefit from access to HPE Aruba’s own solution experts, providing even deeper technical insight and product perspective.
• Flexible Format – Whether virtual or in-person, we adapt to your team’s schedule, environment, and technical goals. We’ll meet you where you are—literally and strategically.

Here is a list of workshops currently available:

Aruba ESP (Central & AOS10) Fundamentals Workshop
Level: Fundamental/Class Size: 10/ Length: 5 hours

Attendees will learn the fundamentals of ESP and how to configure fundamental elements of AOS10. Hands-on labs also include AOS-CX template-based configurations. Each lab is detailed with a linear and logical workflow so that AOS10 is quickly configured and easy to understand. Finally, the workshop is completed through various authentication tests including wired dynamic segmentation.

AOS-CX Secure Edge Networking: Dynamic Segmentation
Level: Intermediate/Class Size: 10/ Length: 5 hours

Attendees will learn to implement dynamic segmentation using Aruba AOS-CX, ClearPass Policy Manager, and AOS Gateways. Each lab is detailed with a linear and logical workflow so that this solution is quickly configured and easy to understand. Finally, device profiling and segmentation are put to the test with real physical endpoints and live network connections.

ClearPass Fundamentals
Level: Fundamental/Class Size: 10/ Length: 5 hours

The goal of this workshop is to provide an overview of the Aruba ClearPass interface while demonstrating the ease of use when it comes to managing roles and downloadable user roles (DUR) in conjunction with enforcement policies/profiles. ClearPass can work hand-in-hand with an AOS8 Mobility Controller environment to streamline and provide secure user management without VLAN sprawl and more traditional segmentation practices.

AOS-CX Collapsed Core Fundamentals (VSF/VSX/VRF)
Level: Intermediate/Class Size: 10/ Length: 5 hours

At the end of this workshop, you will be able to implement and troubleshoot the fundamental technologies of a campus switching infrastructure based on Aruba CX switches, including VSF and VSX. This includes setting up a CX 6300 VSF stack, configuring some fundamental access port features, and implementing a VSX high availability aggregation node composed of a pair of CX 8325 switches.

EdgeConnect Peak Performance Workshop
Level: Intermediate/Advanced/Class Size: 20/ Length: up to 5 hours

The Aruba EdgeConnect SD-WAN platform improves enterprise application performance while dramatically reducing the cost and complexity of WAN networks by leveraging basic broadband to connect users to applications. Aruba EdgeConnect SD-WAN conforms to SASE frameworks by enforcing Zero Trust and least privilege access with fine-grained user segmentation and identity-based access control.

This workshop is a combination of brief technical presentations and hands-on labs. Attendees will learn fundamental concepts of working with Aruba EdgeConnect SD-WAN and EdgeConnect SSE (Axis Security).

SSE Peak Performance Workshop
Level: Fundamental/Class Size: 20/ Length: 4 hours

HPE Aruba Networking SSE is the most advanced offering in the industry. It uses identity, policy, and context to broker secure, one-to-one, connections to private applications. This hands-on lab will allow you to learn how to configure the solution, fully replace VPN’s, secure your web access, and avoid the need for network access or exposure.

CloudAuth
Level: Fundamental/Class Size: 10/ Length: 2 hours

As the demand for seamless and secure network access continues to grow, integrating cloud-based authentication methods with HPE’s cloud-centric platform referred to as HPE Aruba Networking Central (aka “Central”) has become a popular deployment option. In this comprehensive workshop, we will explore the essential topics to help you successfully implement Cloud Authentication (CloudAuth) in your organization as an alternative to more traditional on-prem zero-trust solutions including HPE Aruba Networking’s own ClearPass which, while powerful, may not always be feasible to deploy for some organizations.

________________________________

All workshops are subject to availability and scheduling. Those interested can contact us at communication@cnisalesinc.com. Be sure to take advantage of this great opportunity to transform technical potential into real-world performance from the networking pros from CNI.

The post Workshops That Work for You: Tailored HPE Aruba Networking Training from CNI appeared first on CNI Sales.

To combat these modern threats, enterprise defenders need AI-powered network visibility that can quickly detect and help mitigate cyberattacks before they can create havoc and do irreparable harm.

Keysight AI-Powered turns NPBs into Insight Brokers

We are excited to partner with Keysight Technologies and incorporate their AI-powered network visibility tools into our cybersecurity solution offerings. Keysight’s innovative Vision Insight Broker (TM) is a memory- and storage-enhanced network packet broker (NPB) that processes data at the network edge: sorting, filtering, and delivering the right network traffic to the right tools. This helps enterprise IT and security operations (SecOps) teams maintain a powerful speed and agility advantage — one that works to reduce risk, cost, and time to act — at scale.

Flexible Integration Models Streamline Deployment

This new class of network packet broker features two flexible options for leveraging AI as part of your cybersecurity defense strategy:

• Keysight’s AI Stack software provides anomaly detection, dynamic application signature identification, and predictive analytics. AI Stack allows more processing to happen at the edge of the network and helps optimize cloud utilization.
• AppFusion third-party integrations speed deployment of multi-vendor visibility and monitoring infrastructures. Organizations can integrate AI-led monitoring from Keysight alliance partners like Forescout and ExtraHop to reduce hardware requirements and operational costs.

Industry Analysts Confirm the Advantages of AI-powered Cybersecurity

Research conducted by the Ponemon Institute for the IBM Cost of a Data Breach 2024 report illustrates how AI helps enterprises to prevent, investigate, and shut down cyber threats faster. Organizations that use AI and automation extensively for security were able to identify and contain breaches nearly 100 days faster than other companies. Extensive use of AI also shortened the average time taken to identify and contain threats by 33% and 43% respectively.

Jon Fox, CNI Systems Engineer, sees great promise in this solution as cybercrime continues to become more prevalent and sophisticated. “This is such a great application for AI – ingesting massive amounts of network data and quickly adding the context needed to make decisions. AI models are well-suited for complex tasks like anomaly detection, and the savings in threat detection and response times will be worth the investment.”

For more information on Keysight’s AI-powered Vision Insight Brokers, contact your CNI representative today.

The post How to Build Network Visibility in the Age of AI appeared first on CNI Sales.

With this program, you can trade in your legacy HPE Aruba Networking AP hardware and receive up to $110 in credit towards each eligible AP-6xx or AP-7xx series products you purchase. In addition to saving money and ensuring optimal network performance, you are also contributing to the circular economy by supporting HPE’s sustainable business practices to recycle and repurpose retired IT assets. (HPE has processed more than 193 million pounds of IT equipment in its technology renewal centers since 2018.)

Why Upgrade? The Reasons are Plenty

Having the latest and the greatest is not always the right move. But when it comes to your network equipment, there are some compelling reasons you should consider stepping up.

• Greater speed, wider channels: Wi-Fi 6 increases throughput by up to 3x. Wi-Fi 6E is even faster with up to 1200 MHz of additional capacity and more 80/160 MHz channels for video, imaging, and other high bandwidth apps. Wi-Fi 7 adds even wider 320MHz channels, improved reliability, and even higher performance.
• Ultimate efficiency: New APs allow OFDMA to subdivide channels and support a higher number of simultaneous client connections for high-density deployments. Meanwhile, the Target Wake Time feature of 802.11ax helps orchestrate client sleep/wake cycles to save energy, conserve battery life of mobile devices, and reduce wireless congestion.
• IoT and location ready: These latest models provide support for Zigbee, Bluetooth 5 or 6, and third-party USB devices to simplify the deployment and management of IoT services and provide location-aware visualization in HPE Aruba Networking Central.
• Simple and secure access: Many of the older AP models have reached or will soon reach End of Support and will no longer receive security updates and patches. New APs will be supported for years to come, while also supporting stronger encryption like WPA3.
• Reduced channel interference: Ultra tri-band filtering in select Wi-Fi 6E and 7 APs eliminates channel interference between the 5 GHz and 6 GHz bands to maximize available spectrum. The additional channels in the 6GHz spectrum also allow for less channel reuse and overall lower interference than legacy bands.

The HPE Aruba Networking portfolio of indoor, outdoor, ruggedized, and remote Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 6E, and Wi-Fi 7 access points cover all sorts of enterprise use cases and price points and are Wi-Fi CERTIFIED and backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

How to Trade Up & Save

Here are the HPE Aruba Networking APs currently eligible for the trade-up rebate:

• AP-1xx series
• AP-2xx series
• AP-3xx series
• Select Cisco/Meraki Access Points are also eligible (check with us for details)

If you currently use any of the above APs in your network, you’re eligible for a trade-up credit when you purchase select new HPE Aruba Networking AP-6xx or AP-7xx series Wi-Fi 6E hardware.

Depending on the specific AP model you purchase, you could receive a trade-up credit between $70 and $110 per AP. Campus Packs (5 or 10 Aps per Pack) are eligible for $450 – $700 trade-up credits.

Ready to Go?

We’re standing by to help you take advantage of this great promotion. Just contact our team at CNI Sales and we’ll get the process started for you.

Once your new APs are delivered, your approved application will then be automatically converted to a claim to request collection of your trade-in products and payment of the rebate amount.

Contact us today to get started!

The post 1-2-3… New APs! HPE Aruba Networking’s Trade-Up & Save Promo is Back appeared first on CNI Sales.

“We originally wanted to call the company “Enterprise Communications” since we were focused on the enterprise segment of the market and liked the association with Star Trek’s Starship Enterprise with Captain Kirk at the helm,” recalls Tom Kirk, CNI’s now President and Co-Owner. “When we discovered that name was already taken, we settled on Corporate Networking, Inc., which eventually evolved into CNI Sales, Inc.”

The Team at CNI Sales.

As the company continued to grow and expand over the years, the strong core of the original team members who joined Roger soon afterwards – Tom Kirk (Roger’s brother), Maryanne Kirk (Roger’s wife), Tim Slattery, Steve Lewis, Dave Long, and Beth Monteith – became the foundation for the small but ambitious organization in an industry which was on the precipice of explosive growth. “The industry was brand new (when we started). There were so many competing technologies, and very few standards existed. The internet was in its infancy and data communications and voice communications operated completely separate from one another, necessitating different equipment and manpower to support each,” explained Tom Kirk. “It also became apparent that the internet was a very powerful technology that opened up the entire world. The need for companies to be “connected” was transformative for our industry and for CNI.”

Evolving technologies and a growing client list fueled the growth of the business, and the team slowly expanded, adding technical talent as well as additional support and administrative staff.  “We work in an industry of constant change and new technologies,” said Account Manager Steve Lewis.  “Our vision for success is to be able to adapt to these changes and add new members to the CNI family with the same willingness to always put our customers’ needs first.” Maryanne Kirk, CNI’s Secretary/Treasurer and Co-Owner, adds, “Roger’s original business plan stated that being a small company gave us the ability to be flexible in meeting the specific needs of our customers. Although we have grown significantly over the past 30 years, we remain committed to prioritizing that future growth never takes precedence over satisfying the needs of our customers.”

The knowledge and experience of the seasoned team members, combined with the objectivity and fresh perspective of each newcomer make for a strong and healthy work environment. “When we get together as a group like this, you can see the wheels turning for all the employees, especially for the new year ahead,” said Diana Kirk, daughter of Roger and Maryanne and the company’s Marketing Manager/Sales Support. “One of our newer account managers told me how excited he was to go into the new year after talking to one of our seasoned account managers for over an hour about best practices. And it doesn’t go just one way here at CNI – both parties in that exchange learned something that they could take to their customers, both utilizing one another’s perspective on the industry.”

A True Family Business

The Kirks of CNI Sales. (from left) Alex Kirk, Account Manager; Tom Kirk, President; Maryanne Kirk, Secretary/Treasurer; Diana Kirk, Marketing Manager/Sales Support; Tim Kirk, Account Manager

Although there are five employees with the last name of Kirk (including account managers Tim and Alex), the concept of “family” extends far beyond that. “I was CNI’s first hire outside of family,” explained CNI Account Manager Tim Slattery. Having worked for Roger in a prior position, Tim was drawn to the new fledgling company because of the admirable traits he saw in his colleague. “I always loved the professionalism, mentoring, and leadership that Roger provided me and others,” Tim commented. “He was successful, respected by our customers and partners, and had an open-door policy to assist me or anyone to be successful in any way he could.” When Roger passed away in 2015 from ALS and Tom Kirk stepped into the leadership role alongside Maryanne, Roger’s legacy not only endured but was amplified by a shared commitment to honor a great man by upholding his steadfast principles.

“CNI does a great job of making everyone feel like they are part of the family at the heart of the family business,” said Account Manager Oliver Cross. “A lot of people like me, who have left a military career behind, search endlessly for the sense of purpose and team camaraderie; not me. I’ve been fortunate to land in a role where a lot of those same things I valued in the Marine Corps are present, just in a different context.”

 A Top-Down Commitment to “Doing Good”

Consistent throughout all the employee comments we gathered was the recognition that great leadership creates great companies. Starting with Roger, Tom, and Maryanne, and continuing with today’s management and leadership, the team at CNI have a shared work ethic and philosophy that not only serve our customers, but also our many technology partners and each individual employee.

“CNI abides by a ‘doing well by doing good’ ethos,” explained Joe Mulroy, Systems Engineer. “No ask is ever too large for us.  We will always find a way to get a project across the finish line.  This is almost always a team effort.  No one at CNI is ever afraid to get their hands dirty and chip in.  No job is beneath anyone in the organization.  I have never worked for a company where everyone is so humble, welcoming, and willing to share their learned experience with others.  This culture is created at the top and allows us all to thrive and learn together.”

Looking Back and Moving Forward

With a seasoned, dedicated team and a 30-year history as our bedrock, the future looks bright.  CNI remains steadfast in our commitment to treat everyone with respect, do the right thing, and go above and beyond when it comes to servicing our clients’ needs.

“I’m confident that we will continue to grow and adapt into new and emerging technologies,” said Jon Fox, Systems Engineer. “We’re on the cusp of some earthshattering changes to the way we live and work: between advancements in AI and cloud networking, major companies working towards quantum computing breakthroughs, and ever-changing threat landscapes putting businesses at risk. It’s an exciting time to be in the industry.”

Here’s to the next 30 years of growth, innovation, and unwavering commitment to our customers, partners, and the values that define us!

The post 30 Years In… And Going Strong! appeared first on CNI Sales.

Extreme Networks’ Universal Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) is a great example of that winning combination.  It unifies cloud Network Access Control and ZTNA in a single, easy-to-use SaaS offering, with one zero trust policy engine for both networks and applications to ensure consistent security, unified observability, and a seamless experience whether remote or on-site.

Experience Seamless and Secure Network Management Like Never Before

The concept of “platformization” — the use of a single software platform to orchestrate and manage a series of applications – is becoming increasingly popular, says Nabil Bukhar, Chief Product and Technology Officer and GM of Subscription Business for Extreme Networks. “Imagine a unified security policy engine, automated security configuration for Network Access Control, Wireless Access Points, and Switches—all in the cloud. ExtremeCloud Universal ZTNA offers the simplest and most complete network access solution for users everywhere.”

In addition to meeting complex security challenges head-on, Universal ZTNA provides these advantages and features:

• Automating Network Workflows: AI-native solutions automate deployment, management, and evolution of networks, reducing the need for manual intervention and enhancing efficiency.
• Improving User Experience: AI anomaly detection proactively identifies and resolves network issues before they impact users, ensuring a smooth and reliable network experience.
• Clearing Implementation Hurdles: Expert advice and strategic recommendations facilitate the seamless transition from traditional NAC to advanced solutions like Universal ZTNA, overcoming common implementation challenges.

Universal ZTNA is also integrated with ExtremeCloud IQ (learn more in this overview video), which uses innovative machine learning (ML) technologies to analyze and interpret millions of network and user data points, from the edge to the data center, to power actionable business and IT insights. This innovative platform streamlines operations by delivering new levels of network automation and intelligence.

Higher Ed Use Case: A Simplified yet Powerful Network for a Neurodiverse Student Body

Founded in 1989, Beacon College is a private college in Leesburg, Florida offering a curriculum and support services to serve students with dyslexia, ADHD, or other specific learning disabilities. A user-friendly and reliable network is essential to delivering high quality services to students, staff, and faculty. “As a small college with a very neurodiverse student population, we work to make technology simple and accessible. It can’t be cumbersome or confusing, but still needs to protect our campus population and resources,” explains Brad Hough, Chief Information Officer, Beacon College. “Universal ZTNA reduces the complexity of managing our network, while simplifying our hybrid/remote worker experience and increasing the safety and security around their work.”

Harnessing AI, Security, and Advanced Networking in a Single, Simplified Solution

The combination of Universal ZTNA and Extreme Cloud IQ provides an unprecedented opportunity to harness AI, security, and advanced networking to deliver significant value to the rest of their organization.

Jon Fox, CNI Systems Engineer, looks forward to integrating this newly enhanced solution for customers who are ready to take their network to the next level. “From a technical standpoint, it’s difficult to manage zero trust policies between network infrastructure, cloud and on-prem applications, etc., especially with today’s hybrid work environments. Universal ZTNA is designed to greatly reduce that burden and offer consistent policy enforcement across the vast array of control points in an enterprise.”

To learn more about Extreme Networks’ Universal ZTNA, set up a complimentary consultation with a CNI networking expert today.

The post Extreme Networks’ Universal ZTNA: Simplified, Unified, and Powerful appeared first on CNI Sales.

Lacework FortiCNAPP (Cloud Native Application Protection Platform) is an indispensable solution for securing multi-cloud and hybrid cloud infrastructures. With the increasing complexity and scale of cloud environments, CNAPP solutions have become essential to guard against misconfigurations, vulnerabilities, and emerging threats. Traditional security tools often fall short in the highly dynamic environments of today’s cloud platforms, especially in multi-cloud or containerized contexts, where attacks on public cloud providers like AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure are increasing. Securing these environments effectively and efficiently is now an absolute requirement, and Lacework FortiCNAPP is here to help.

This recent acquisition combines Lacework’s leading cloud-native application protection platform with the Fortinet Security Fabric to deliver unmatched visibility and protection across multi-cloud environments.

Frederick Howard, Senior Director at Fortinet, summarizes the benefits of Lacework FortiCNAPP. “This solution unifies fragmented and siloed tools into a single platform to simplify and strengthen cloud security. It empowers customer teams to maximize their impact on security with minimal time and effort by automatically connecting risk insights with runtime threat data, ensuring they prioritize and address the most critical security risks and active threats.”

With Lacework FortiCNAPP, users can automatically discover, monitor, and inventory all assets across your multi-cloud environments. This all-in-one platform simplifies complex tasks like tracking configuration changes, identifying vulnerabilities, and detecting threats. It also provides a consolidated view to all team members who might not otherwise have access to consoles from your cloud providers.

Industries subject to strict regulations will especially benefit from Lacework FortiCNAPP’s continuous compliance monitoring, which helps maintain adherence to standards like SOC2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, HITRUST, and PCI. Daily scans identify any concerning changes, helping teams stay on top of regulatory requirements in real-time.

Adding Lacework FortiCNAPP to the CNI Sales Line Card strengthens our ability to deliver top-tier cloud security solutions tailored to our customers’ needs. Contact us today to learn more or to set up a complimentary consultation.

The post Fortinet Acquires Lacework – Joins CNI’s Line Card of CNAPP Vendors appeared first on CNI Sales.

With this program, you can trade in your legacy HPE Aruba Networking AP hardware and receive up to $125 in credit for each eligible AP-6xx series Wi-Fi 6E you purchase.

The HPE Aruba Networking 6xx series offers the fastest, most resilient, most secure Wi-Fi 6E available from HPE. Quality networking hardware is essential to keep your business connected, secure, and running smoothly day-in and day-out.

Here’s everything you need to know to take advantage of this program.

About the Trade-Up Program

This limited offer gives you the chance to refresh and recycle your aging AP hardware with a Trade-Up rebate on the purchase of new APs.

Here are the HPE Aruba Networking APs currently eligible for the trade-up rebate:

• AP-1xx series
• AP-2xx series
• AP-3xx series

If you currently use any of the above APs in your network, you’re eligible for a trade-up credit when you purchase select new HPE Aruba Networking AP-6xx series Wi-Fi 6E hardware.

Depending on the specific AP model you purchase, you could receive a trade-up credit of up to $125 per AP.

Why Upgrade Now?

If up to $125 in trade in credits per AP isn’t enough to convince you the time is right for an upgrade, here are some other factors to consider when it comes to modernizing your AP hardware.

Improved Performance

The latest AP-6xx series models are designed to handle more devices with faster speeds than ever. Take advantage of the 6 GHz Wi-Fi band for dramatically faster speeds, wider channels for multi-gigabit traffic, and protection from outside interference.

That means your network will be equipped to support the most high-density environments, with dependable access points that can manage a growing number of connected devices.

Advanced Security

Cybersecurity threats are constantly evolving. Your APs should evolve with them. Aruba 6xx series devices offer Wi-Fi 6E standard security measures, including WPA3, Enhanced Open and WPA2-MPSK. Stronger encryption and authentication mean greater security for your entire network.

Future-Proof Your Network

The latest HPE Aruba Networking devices offer advanced features like role-based access, dynamic client steering, orthogonal frequency-division multiple access, and Multi-User MIMO. Take advantage of this trade-up offer and you’ll ensure your network is cutting-edge and equipped for the future.

How to Trade-Up

Ready to go? The process is simple! Just contact our team at CNI Sales and we’ll get the process started for you.

Once your new APs are delivered, your approved application will then be automatically converted to a claim to request collection of your trade-in products and payment of the rebate amount.

Contact us today to get started!

The post Level Up with HPE Aruba Networking: Upgrade Your Network Access Points NOW appeared first on CNI Sales.

What is the AWS Marketplace?

AWS Marketplace is a digital catalog with thousands of software listings from independent software vendors that make it easy to find, test, buy, and deploy software that runs on Amazon Web Services. By offering a vast range of solutions from data analytics to security tools, AWS Marketplace serves as a one-stop-shop where businesses can access the tools they need to innovate faster and respond to changing market conditions.

Benefits for Our Customers

The primary benefit for our customers is the streamlined procurement process. With CNI Sales available on AWS Marketplace, our customers can now access our offerings directly through their AWS account. This integration simplifies the billing and subscription management process, as all charges appear on one AWS bill, eliminating the hassle of managing multiple vendor relationships and contracts.

Alex Kirk, Account Manager at CNI Sales, highlights the impact of this integration: “With CNI being able to transact on AWS Marketplace, it has allowed us to market and sell software to customers in the cloud seamlessly. Our main goal is to ease the pain of our customers and with AWS, we can have them up and running in days while simplifying the procurement process.”

How CNI Being on AWS Marketplace is Useful to Our Customers

Being on AWS Marketplace allows CNI Sales to be more than just a vendor; we are now a partner in innovation. Our presence on the Marketplace makes it easier for you to leverage the powerful AWS infrastructure, with seamless deployment of our solutions that enhance your operations without the need for extensive configuration or hardware investments. This means faster implementation times and quicker realization of benefits from our products.

Additionally, our customers benefit from the assurance of security and compliance standards maintained by AWS Marketplace. AWS ensures that all solutions listed are optimized for efficient performance on the AWS platform and comply with the latest security standards, giving you peace of mind when integrating new solutions into your systems.

Conclusion

Our inclusion in the AWS Marketplace is a testament to our commitment to providing high-quality, accessible, and easy-to-use solutions that support your business’ growth and efficiency goals. We are excited about the new possibilities this brings to our customers and look forward to helping you explore these opportunities. Explore our products on AWS Marketplace today and see how CNI Sales can help transform your business operations for the better.

For more information on how our presence on AWS Marketplace can benefit your organization, or to start using our solutions today, please visit our AWS Marketplace seller page.

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