Securing a School District’s Network

The Challenge:

Meeting the Cybersecurity Needs of a Large School District  

A large school district in the Western United States faced significant cybersecurity challenges. For a period of time, the district's lean IT department had been unable to prioritize cybersecurity, leaving the network vulnerable to potential threats. The lack of robust security measures posed a risk to the sensitive data of students and staff, making it imperative for the district to enhance its cybersecurity posture. 

As the district moved forward, it recognized the critical need to authenticate every user joining its network. Ensuring the security of students' data became a top priority. The district sought a solution that would not only secure the network but also provide a seamless experience for users. The challenge was to implement a comprehensive security solution that could effectively manage and monitor network access, while accommodating the diverse needs of a large and dynamic user base. 

The district's goal was to create a secure environment where students, staff, and administrators could access the network confidently, knowing that their data was protected.

The Solution:

Implementing Cisco ISE for Enhanced Network Security with C1  

C1 implemented the Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) to enhance the security of the school district's network. This solution allowed for the authentication of all users attempting to connect to the network, ensuring that only authorized individuals could gain access. By integrating ISE with the district's existing firewalls, ticketing system, and desktop management system, C1 created a seamless and secure network environment. This integration enabled the district to manage and monitor network access efficiently. 

Every user connecting to the network was authenticated and assigned a specific policy that dictated their access level. This policy-based access control ensured that users could only access the resources they were permitted to, thereby enhancing the overall security of the network. 

The Result:

Enhancing Network Security and User Experience with C1  

The implementation of the Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) by C1 has yielded significant results for the school district. With approximately 80,000 daily users and devices authenticating onto the network, the district has achieved a high level of network security and user management. This robust authentication process ensures that only authorized users can access the network, thereby protecting sensitive data and maintaining the integrity of the district's digital assets. 

Moreover, the school district now has the capability to understand who is on its network, for how long, and what devices users are connecting with. This visibility into network usage provides valuable insights that help the district manage and optimize its network resources effectively. By monitoring user activity and device connections, the district can identify potential security threats and take proactive measures to mitigate them. This comprehensive approach to network security not only enhances the safety of the district's digital environment but also improves the overall user experience for students, staff, and administrators. 

The successful implementation of ISE has transformed the district's network security, providing a reliable and secure platform for its large and dynamic user base.