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City of London corporation Pioneers UK-First Secure Network Transformation with Roc Technologies
The City of London, the UK’s premier financial district, is embarking on a groundbreaking digital transformation, partnering with Roc Technologies to deliver a next-generation network infrastructure. This ambitious project will deploy a UK-first enterprise Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solution for public services, alongside AI-driven wireless capabilities and high-availability internet access, fundamentally enhancing connectivity for the millions who work, live, and visit the Square Mile daily.
Addressing the Demands of a Modern, Dynamic City
The City of London Corporation, responsible for governing the historic financial center, recognizes the critical need for robust and reliable connectivity. Beyond its core municipal functions – public services, policing oversight, and open space management - the Corporation is committed to fostering innovation and maintaining its position as a global leader in financial and professional services. This requires a network capable of supporting a diverse range of users across over 200 locations,from Guildhall headquarters to iconic landmarks like Epping Forest and Hampstead Heath.
“The City of London sees footfall of millions of people a day, so it’s vital that a consistent network experience is delivered across all locations and to all users, including visitors, residents and businesses irrespective of the services they need to access,” explains Chelsea Chamberlin, Chief Technology Officer at Roc Technologies. “We’re delighted to be the sole primary supplier for this exciting project, drawing on a range of solutions from our expert partners to deliver a truly future-proof network architecture in the heart of the capital.”
A Secure, AI-Powered Network for the Future
This isn’t simply an upgrade; it’s a essential shift in how the City of London approaches network security and performance. The partnership with Roc Technologies leverages a best-of-breed technology stack, integrating:
* HPE AI-Ops: Providing smart automation and proactive network management.
* Juniper Mist: Delivering AI-driven wireless capabilities for superior user experience and simplified operations.
* Palo Alto Networks Prisma SASE: Implementing a complete SASE architecture, converging network and security functions into a single, cloud-delivered service. This represents the first full enterprise deployment of SASE within the UK public sector.
* Vorboss Business Connectivity: Utilizing a dedicated, fully owned and managed central London fibre network for unparalleled reliability and performance.
Enhanced Security & Critical Public Safety Applications
The new network isn’t just about speed and reliability; it’s about bolstering security and enabling critical public safety initiatives. A key driver for the project was the need to support the increasing use of 4K body-worn police cameras, ensuring officers are protected and communities are served, even in areas with limited connectivity.
Roc Technologies’ solution addresses these needs through:
* Cloud-Based Management: Centralized control and visibility across the entire network.
* Zero Trust Networking Access: Ensuring only authorized users and devices can access sensitive resources.
* Data Loss Prevention (DLP): Protecting sensitive data from unauthorized access or exfiltration.
* Secure Operations Centre (SOC): 24/7 monitoring and threat detection.
* UK Data Residency: All suppliers and partners maintain resilient data centres within the UK, guaranteeing sensitive data remains within national borders and compliant with UK policing standards.
Why This Matters: A New Standard for Public Sector Connectivity
This project sets a new benchmark for public sector network infrastructure. By embracing SASE, AI-driven automation, and a commitment to data security, the City of London Corporation is demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to digital transformation. The benefits are far-reaching:
* Improved Productivity: Reliable, high-speed access empowers staff to work securely and efficiently from any location.
* Enhanced Security Posture: Proactive threat detection and robust security controls protect against evolving cyber threats.
* Cost Savings: Cloud-based management and automation reduce operational overhead.
* Future-Proof Architecture: The scalable and flexible network is designed to adapt to future demands and emerging technologies.
* Strengthened Reputation: Demonstrates a commitment to innovation and security, reinforcing the City of London’s position as a global financial hub.
Roc Technologies: A Trusted Partner for Digital Transformation
Roc Technologies’ selection as the sole primary supplier underscores their expertise in delivering complex network transformations. Their proven track record, combined with a strategic partnership ecosystem, positions them as a leader in the UK’s digital landscape.This project is a testament to their ability to understand the unique challenges faced by public sector organizations and deliver innovative solutions that drive
