Harford County Public Schools Network Infrastructure Case Study

This case study details the network and core infrastructure refresh undertaken by Harford County Public Schools (HCPS) in collaboration with Copper River IT. The document outlines the challenges faced by HCPS, including aging network switches and insufficient cabling that could not support high-density environments and increased bandwidth requirements. The solution involved a comprehensive deployment of Juniper/Mist switches and EX9200 core switches across the district, enhancing wired connectivity and ensuring compliance with E-Rate funding requirements. The implementation approach included a structured audit, design, and phased rollout to minimize disruption. Results highlighted improved performance and reliability, AI-driven proactive management through Mist Wired Assurance, and a resilient data center infrastructure. The case study emphasizes the importance of aligning infrastructure upgrades with E-Rate eligibility to maximize funding efficiency and operational effectiveness for the district's IT staff.