The Challenge
Pre-COVID IT Landscape
Prior to the pandemic, Warrigal’s WiFi infrastructure had evolved organically. Each site had a dedicated, distinct wireless solution, resulting in:
- Isolated Networks: No central management or visibility across sites.
- Inconsistent User Experience: Coverage gaps and fluctuating performance.
- Legacy Hardware: Mixed generations of access points and firmware.
- Limited Resident Access: WiFi primarily served staff, with ad-hoc extensions for residents and contractors.
COVID-19 Accelerates Digital Demands
With the advent of COVID-19 and ensuing lockdowns, digital connectivity became a lifeline for residents and staff:
- Telehealth, Video Calls, and Online Activities: Essential for resident wellbeing and engagement.
- Remote Work and Digital Records: Required for staff continuity and compliance.
- Contractor Access: Needed for essential services and maintenance.
However, the existing patchwork of WiFi solutions could not meet these demands, leading to:
- Increased support tickets and IT overhead.
- Frustration among residents, staff, and contractors.
- Security vulnerabilities due to inconsistent policy enforcement.
The Solution
Microsolve's Approach
Leveraging over 30 years of IT support for aged care and SME clients in Australia, Microsolve was engaged to deliver a future-proof solution. As a trusted Cisco, Microsoft, and AWS partner, Microsolve combined technical expertise with deep industry knowledge to deliver a tailored outcome.
Starting with a simple question: where does WiFi actually need to work for residents and staff? How can we ensure that coverage extends to all areas required for medication carts and rounds, residents streaming services, phone calls and all other kinds of WiFi-dependent necessities? To answer these questions, Microsolve needed to walk the halls and talk to staff and residents to map out high traffic areas and all kinds of nooks and crannies that staff and residents used. These kinds of insights allow for real-world designs to be created for real people and their needs, rather than simply taking building plans and making decisions from that alone.
Technical Component → Implementation Process → Tangible Benefit
- Cisco 9800 Cloud Controller (AWS-hosted)
- Implementation: Designed and deployed within Warrigal’s (Microsolve managed) AWS environment, enabling centralised management of all wireless networks.
- Benefit: Single-pane-of-glass visibility, streamlined policy enforcement, and rapid troubleshooting across all sites.
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Cisco 9115AX WiFi 6 Access Points (800+ units)
- Implementation: Standardised deployment methodology across 12 sites, with reuse of recently upgraded hardware where possible.
- Benefit: Consistent, high-speed coverage for residents, staff, and contractors; future-ready for IoT and telehealth applications.
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FLEX Mode Configuration
- Implementation: APs set to FLEX mode, allowing local operation if controller connectivity is lost.
- Benefit: Resilient wireless access, ensuring uninterrupted service during network or cloud outages.
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SD-WAN and Firewall Integration
- Implementation: Outbound traffic routed through existing secure SD-WAN and firewall infrastructure.
- Benefit: Enhanced security, compliance, and bandwidth management.
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Switch Infrastructure Upgrades (Site-Dependent)
- Implementation: Additional Cisco Catalyst switches installed where required to support new APs.
- Benefit: Scalable, reliable backbone for high-density wireless environments.
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Legacy Device Integration and Remediation
- Implementation: Addressed firmware and compatibility issues; planned follow-up projects for legacy remediation.
- Benefit: Maximised asset reuse, minimised disruption, and ensured a smooth transition.
Overcoming COVID-Era Deployment Challenges
- Site Lockdowns: Microsolve adapted by coordinating with site managers, scheduling after-hours installations, and leveraging remote configuration tools.
- As-Built Site Surveys: Conducted under strict safety protocols, ensuring optimal AP placement and coverage validation.
- Legacy Integration: Developed custom migration plans for sites with unique hardware or firmware constraints.
The Results
The new solution enabled Warrigal to enforce consistent security policies and monitor wireless activity across all locations. By leveraging Cisco’s enterprise-grade security features and integrating with existing SD-WAN and firewall solutions, Warrigal achieved:
- Reduced Risk of Breaches: Unified authentication and access controls.
- Simplified Compliance: Automated reporting for regulatory requirements.
- Proactive Threat Detection: Real-time alerts and analytics.
