South West London & St George’s NHS Trust Achieves Critical Network Recovery with NetSpert’s Expert Troubleshooting

NetSpert resolves critical wireless network issues through advanced troubleshooting and firmware upgrades, restoring connectivity and laying foundation for future improvements.

Challenges

  • Widespread AP compatibility issues affecting network performance
  • APs unable to join new WLC 9800 controller
  • Lack of existing documentation for wireless system infrastructure
  • Need for remote troubleshooting and resolution

Results

  • Successfully restored 50% of AP functionality through firmware upgrade
  • Identified and resolved critical bug in WLC 9800 controller
  • Created comprehensive documentation of wireless infrastructure
  • Established foundation for future wireless LAN controller upgrades
  • Improved overall wireless network performance

Client Snapshot

South West London & St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust

  • Industry: Healthcare
  • Location: London, UK
Dave Dowsett

Associate Director for Digital Services

We were thrilled with the results. The thorough analysis and actionable plan identified key areas for improvement. This allows us to devise and implement changes that will greatly benefit our users. We are now eager to work on the next phase of the project.

Addressing Critical Network Infrastructure Challenges

South West London & St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust faced significant challenges with their wireless network infrastructure, particularly concerning access point compatibility and controller integration. The trust needed expert intervention to diagnose and resolve these issues while maintaining essential healthcare services.

Innovative Troubleshooting Approach

NetSpert’s team of expert engineers developed a comprehensive troubleshooting strategy leveraging multiple diagnostic tools:

  • System Mapping and Documentation: Utilizing Solar Winds, wireless LAN controller access, and direct AP connectivity to create detailed infrastructure documentation
  • Advanced Bug Detection: Identification of critical firmware issues affecting AP compatibility
  • Remote Resolution: Implementation of solutions through sophisticated remote access techniques

“The thorough documentation and systematic approach to problem-solving were crucial to our success,” noted Ross Shehov, Lead Engineer at NetSpert. “Our remote capabilities allowed us to deliver rapid results without disrupting hospital operations.”

Overcoming Technical Hurdles

The project presented several technical challenges that required innovative solutions. The absence of existing documentation necessitated a ground-up approach to understanding the network infrastructure. NetSpert’s team worked methodically to:

  • Map existing infrastructure using multiple diagnostic tools
  • Identify the root cause of AP compatibility issues
  • Develop and implement a firmware upgrade solution

Transformative Results for Healthcare Operations

The implementation has delivered significant improvements to the Trust’s network infrastructure:

  • Enhanced Network Performance: Restored functionality to 50% of previously failing access points
  • Improved Documentation: Created comprehensive system documentation for future maintenance
  • Future-Ready Infrastructure: Established foundation for upcoming wireless LAN controller upgrades
  • Operational Continuity: Achieved all objectives through remote implementation, minimizing disruption to healthcare services

A Foundation for Future Success

The project’s success has opened opportunities for continued improvements to the Trust’s network infrastructure. Plans are already in motion for the next phase, which includes configuring and upgrading the wireless LAN controller to further enhance network capabilities.

“This initial success has given us confidence in pursuing further network improvements,” commented Dave Dowsett. “The groundwork laid by NetSpert provides a solid foundation for our ongoing digital transformation.”

Products and Solutions

  • Infrastructure Documentation Tools
  • Advanced Network Diagnostic Tools
  • WLC 9800 Controller Firmware Upgrade
  • Remote Access and Management Systems