Vector Tech Group (Holland, MI), an IT services provider and Fortinet, a global specialist integrated and automated cybersecurity platforms, announced that Michigan's Kent Intermediate School District (KISD) is using the Fortinet Security Fabric to protect its network. The project included the complete overhaul of next-generation firewalls.
As Kent ISD was deploying a new fiber backbone in many of its school districts to accommodate the increased traffic associated with its expanding online programs, its IT team was looking for a high-performance firewall to ensure advanced security of its distributed network. Vector recommended Fortinet’s high performing FortiGate next-generation firewalls (NGFWs), powered by the company's purpose-built Security Processing Units (SPUs) to converge and accelerate networking and security functions.
The project included the complete overhaul of next-generation firewalls. Vector swapped an existing vendor’s firewalls out for the FortiGate 3400 and Forti Analyzer systems and gave KISD "a high-performing, next-generation firewall that protects the attack surface while reducing costs and preserving their budget," according to the contractor.
FortiGate serves as the core of Kent ISD’s security architecture as the primary security device Kent ISD has deployed for the edge of their network. The Grand Rapids based KISD is a local education service agency that services over 280 schools and 106,000 students. Part of its services include information technology, and so the new firewall implementation will help keep operations running without disruptions and their entire student base safe and secure whether they are learning in person or remotely.
“We have a pretty complex environment and there were some bumps when implementing, however Vector helped us work through them,” commented Chris Lillis from KISD. Lillis and the Vector team are planning on continuing to integrate Fortinet solutions into all of their school districts over the course of the next couple of years.
“For over two decades I have been working with clients from all industries and Fortinet is by far and away the best option for providing network security to any size customer,” said Vector's Chief Visionary Officer, Jon Novakowski. “The support we have received from the Fortinet team throughout the KISD process has been priceless. Fortinet is protecting the agency’s network as well as those of the districts, and a lot of students are benefiting from it.”
For nearly 30 years Vector Tech Group has been providing school districts across Michigan with the tools and expertise to create productive and secure learning environments. Although the K-12 education sphere is a key member of VTG’s client base, the firm services an array of industries including distribution, manufacturing, non-profits, healthcare, and government facilities.
With three locations in Holland, Flint, and Freeland MI, Vector offers a variety of services including, but not limited to, managed services, network infrastructure, cabling, custom development, and cloud solutions.
Check out Fortinet's Kent ISD case study here: https://www.fortinet.com/customers/kent-isd.
For more information on Vector Tech Group, visit www.vectortechgroup.com.