Three connectivity challenges solved with SD-WAN and ZTNA
Claranet helped three organisations address complex connectivity challenges without unnecessary disruption. Using SD-WAN, ZTNA, EoFTTP, and Meraki, we accelerated an acquisition, secured third-party access, and improved store performance ahead of peak trading
Connectivity projects do not always need new circuits or large-scale network changes. These three recent examples show how a pragmatic approach delivered faster results, reduced risk, and created a clear path for future change.
Connecting acquisitions in the housing sector
A housing association needed to integrate two newly acquired organisations. Both operated separate networks and used different connectivity providers.
Replacing the existing services would have meant long lead times, contractual changes, and additional cost.
Claranet enabled software-defined wide area network (SD-WAN) functionality on the customer’s existing datacentre breakout firewalls, turning them into SD-WAN hubs. We then installed SD-WAN edge devices at the acquired sites and connected them securely to the wider network through their existing circuits.
The sites joined the main network within days rather than months. The customer gained central visibility, security, and control without waiting for new connectivity. The appliances can also be redeployed at future acquisition sites while incumbent contracts are phased out.
Securing consultant access in manufacturing
A medical device manufacturer needed to retain a compliance specialist after she became an independent consultant. She still required access to sensitive data and business-critical applications, but her device was outside the organisation’s direct control.
Claranet implemented zero trust network access (ZTNA). The service restricted the consultant to the applications required for her role, rather than providing wider network access.
Continuous device posture checks assessed controls such as patching status and antivirus health. Access remained available only while the device met the required security standards.
The manufacturer retained important compliance expertise without weakening governance. It also established a safer model for contractors and other third parties.
Improving store connectivity before peak trading
A specialist retailer needed to improve the performance of its in-store technology. Limited bandwidth affected point-of-sale platforms, CCTV, footfall analytics, inventory devices, digital media, and concession partner services.
The work also had to avoid disruption during Black Friday and Christmas trading.
Claranet replaced the single order ADSL (SoADSL) estate with Ethernet over fibre to the premises (EoFTTP), delivering a significant increase in bandwidth and reliability. We also deployed Meraki devices at every location, creating the foundation for a future SD-WAN rollout without introducing the risk of a wider transformation during peak trading.
Store systems became faster and more stable. IT support tickets fell, and the retailer gained a lower-risk route to SD-WAN when the timing is right.
A pragmatic approach to connectivity
Each customer faced a different problem, but the approach was consistent: use existing connectivity where it remains fit-for-purpose, apply SD-WAN where rapid integration and central control matter, use ZTNA for application-level third-party access, and separate urgent performance improvements from longer-term transformation.