Zuyd University builds a secure, scalable network to power future-ready education

Business need 

Improve network security and future-proof infrastructure

At Zuyd University of Applied Sciences, education is about more than knowledge — it’s about applying that knowledge in practice. With nine campuses across the Netherlands and over 13,000 students, the university needed a network that could securely connect students and lecturers on and off campus, while remaining flexible enough to handle growing demands and new technologies.

The shift to hybrid and remote working in 2020 accelerated the use of personal devices to access university resources remotely. This increased the number of connected devices and introduced new security risks. For example, staff could access all Zuyd resources as if they were on campus, meaning that unsecured devices could become entry points for malicious actors.

Zuyd required a network that would remain relevant for at least eight years. They needed a partner who could collaborate closely with their network engineers to design a custom solution with features such as network failovers and centralized traffic management. The network also had to support a mix of old and new security systems and prepare for a transition to a zero-trust model, where no device or user is automatically trusted.

Solution

Collaborative network design and implementation across campuses

Zuyd’s network engineers had a clear vision of the network they wanted to design and had entered into a Cisco Enterprise Agreement. They needed a partner with deep technical knowledge to support them with collaborative design input and hands-on implementation.

That’s where NTT DATA came in. We worked closely with the university’s engineers to design and implement a secure network that could accommodate growth.

The solution included:

• Advanced security integration with F5 and FortiGate for application control
• Centralized firewall model to route all traffic through a single secure point
• Standardized templates and configurations for easy rollout to new locations
• Renewed Cisco Enterprise Agreement to streamline licensing and scalability

The network was designed to be adaptable, enabling Zuyd to add new devices or roll out the network in new locations. We resolved complex problems with our technology partners and continue to support the university’s engineers.

Outcomes

A stable, scalable network

Zuyd now operates a secure, reliable network connecting campuses, faculty, students and professional education programs.

Future-proof cybersecurity

With Cisco, FortiGate and F5 technologies, Zuyd strengthened its security posture. The network now has segmentation to manage the growing number of connected devices while reducing the risk of cyber threats and unauthorized access.

Built to grow

As Zuyd continues to grow and adopt new technologies, the network can grow and adapt to meet changing needs. With the Cisco Enterprise Agreement, the university can easily accommodate new devices and expand the network infrastructure.

A true partnership

Collaboration between Zuyd and NTT DATA solved complex challenges, streamlined operations and delivered a network environment ready for the future.