MLL Networks has secured a significant contract with TransPennine Express, a major rail operator in the North of England and Scotland. The contract, expected to be implemented by 2025, was awarded following a tender where key factors included advanced network security, resilience, and bandwidth provision.
MLL’s deployment of a managed Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN) will enhance connectivity for TransPennine Express. The network design features dual circuits instead of a single circuit setup, providing increased network reliability. Additionally, the Fortinet firewalls add a layer of enhanced security to the system, crucial for maintaining robust operations. MLL’s Network Operations Centre (NOC) will monitor and support the network round-the-clock, ensuring high-performance standards and reliability.
According to Ross Billington, MLL’s Strategic Client Services Director, the partnership is a milestone for MLL as it enters the transport sector. “MLL are very excited to bring our engineering expertise in providing SD-WAN and critical networking infrastructure to a new sector,” he stated, highlighting the significance of the deal.
Mark Morgans, Head of IT at TransPennine Express, emphasized the importance of technology in their customer-centric approach. By integrating SD-WAN into their infrastructure, TransPennine aims to bolster the security and stamina of their operational platforms. Morgans remarked that these advancements will ultimately improve the passenger experience.
As the project prepares for completion in 2025, it’s clear that this initiative represents a forward-thinking leap in railway network technology. By optimizing network performance, TransPennine Express intends to sustain a seamless travel experience, further solidifying its foothold in the rail transport industry.
