Modernisation of the data centre infrastructure for greater scalability, efficiency and automation

One of our key customers in the telecoms space manages several data centres across various sites. They had long relied on a classic architecture, featuring redundant Layer 2 access networks connected to dual Layer 3 aggregation routers. While this tried-and-tested setup had served them well for years, it was beginning to struggle with the demands of modern scalability, efficiency, and automation.

It was clear that to keep pace with growth and meet these increasing requirements, their core data centre infrastructure required a significant modernisation effort.

Before commencing the project, Xantaro partnered with the customer, providing crucial support through a comprehensive technical audit and a detailed inventory.

Project goals and requirements

The aim of the project was to replace the existing architecture with a future-orientated, highly scalable and fail-safe solution that would enable a high degree of automation across all locations.

Important requirements were:

• Standardisation of the network topology
• Simplification of operation, configuration and error analysis
• Reduction of manual intervention through automation
• High performance and energy efficiency

From planning to implementation

A geo-redundant 3-stage CLOS (spine-leaf) fabric was set up based on EVPN-VxLAN as the overlay technology. Juniper Apstra is used for the fully automated operation of the infrastructure, which centrally controls commissioning, configuration, troubleshooting and software updates.

Successes achieved and added value

The Juniper QFX5120-32C and QFX5120-48Y data centre switches form the backbone of the new architecture and offer an optimum balance of performance, energy efficiency and port density.
Juniper Apstra handles the end-to-end lifecycle management of the entire fabric - from the automated commissioning of new components to configuration changes, troubleshooting and software upgrades.

A key advantage of the chosen strategy was that the Apstra solution can be used across all manufacturers, which guarantees long-term flexibility and protects the customer's investment. Xantaro then supplied the necessary hardware and provided full technical consulting and implementation support to bring the new vision to life.

Case Study: Achieving Next-Generation Scalability in Data Centre Infrastructure – Download the Full Story!

Get the full story