Networking

Extreme Networks Expands Slate of E-Rate Eligible Solutions

• By Kate Lucariello
• 02/12/24

Cloud networking company Extreme Networks has announced an expansion of federal broadband E-Rate eligible solutions for K–12 schools and public libraries. Making more products affordable through the E-Rate program will help pave the way for schools' future education technology needs, the company said, such as infrastructure that can accommodate AR/VR, robotics, and other high speed uses, handle advanced administrative tasks, and make maintenance and troubleshooting easier for IT teams.

The company said its expanded list of E-rate eligible service benefits include:

• AIOps (Artificial Intelligence for IT Operations): ensures that the four key stages of data collection, model training, automation, and anomaly detection and continuous learning will be in place as schools and libraries seek to expand their capability;
• Increased bandwidth: provides for greater access to accommodate institutions' ability to handle more demanding ed tech activities;
• Lower latency: ensures use of ed tech can occur at acceptable speeds; and
• Greater network security: protects institutions' and users' sensitive data and privacy.

Extreme's key areas eligible for the E-Rate include:

• All Extreme WiFi access points and Universal switches designed for indoor and outdoor use, including its AP3000, which provides WiFi 6E performance in tight classrooms and larger spaces with high ceilings, but only draws 13.9W;
• ExtremeCloud services, such as SD-Wan, which provides secure access to all users regardless of location; IQ CoPilot, which ensures AIOps and digital twin applications to help IT professionals troubleshoot and resolve problems; and Universal ZTNA, a secure network access system; and
• Enhanced support, which assures that the E-Rate Resource Center is available anytime and includes guidelines, eBooks, webinars, and other resources to help users. In addition, all Extreme customers have 24/7 access to the Global Technical Assistance Center.

"As K-12 organizations lean into technology to augment and modernize education, it is important to consider a secure, flexible and cost-effective network that will help educators and school districts meet their goals and achieve better outcomes," said Norman Rice, Extreme Networks CCO. "E-Rate is necessary to help bridge the digital divide and increase the resources available to our customers."