Solved: Network refresh

Bob Greer · ‎07-06-2017

Hi there,

Thanks for reading!

Not sure I'm posting in right area; apologies if not!

I'm wondering about access layer switch refresh. I want to ensure that branches (some are large) don't end up needing to buy a large number of switches all at once. They're ALL stingy about budget so even if absolutely necessary, branches might not buy in.

I'm thinking to request branches buy one current model switch for every 5 in prod. That way they can continue to use legacy equipment but in the event of a sudden (and unlikely) mandate to replace an entire line, they would have had a head start.

What's your algorithm for replacing access layer switches?

Thanks!

Bob

Leo Laohoo · ‎07-06-2017

What's your algorithm for replacing access layer switches?

I look at the date of announcement of the appliance. (This is even more true at business unit who have budget issues.)

For example, I would not be buying a model which has been on the market since 2014. Why? Because expect Cisco to make an EoS announcement. This announcement isn't just issue with the hardware but software support as well.

If I want to protect my hard-earned network investment, I want to make sure the model I've chosen will last me for a long, long time.

There is no "algorithm" involved, in my book. It all falls down to common sense. I've seen it before. More than once. Business unit makes the ultimate decision based on the dollar figure, EoS announced within one year and the business winds up paying MORE due to maintenance contract premium.

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Leo Laohoo · ‎07-06-2017

What's your algorithm for replacing access layer switches?

I look at the date of announcement of the appliance. (This is even more true at business unit who have budget issues.)

For example, I would not be buying a model which has been on the market since 2014. Why? Because expect Cisco to make an EoS announcement. This announcement isn't just issue with the hardware but software support as well.

If I want to protect my hard-earned network investment, I want to make sure the model I've chosen will last me for a long, long time.

There is no "algorithm" involved, in my book. It all falls down to common sense. I've seen it before. More than once. Business unit makes the ultimate decision based on the dollar figure, EoS announced within one year and the business winds up paying MORE due to maintenance contract premium.