Learn how CST helped to implement a complete new network upgrade with zero downtime.
The Motor Sports Association (MSA) is recognised as the sole motor sport governing body for the UK by the world governing body, the FIA. As the governing body, the MSA is responsible for the governance and administration of all major forms of motor sports in the UK. The International Motor Sports (IMS) is a wholly owned subsidiary of the MSA and is charged with the co-ordination and management of Britain’s flagship motor sport events including the Formula 1 British Grand Prix and Wales Rally GB to name but a few.
The MSA recognised that their technical infrastructure needed a total overhaul. This was driven by ageing equipment and software, and the need to retain efficient work practices by taking advantage of the latest technologies. As motor sports UK governing body it was vital that the MSA and IMS retained their ability to work unimpeded throughout the project.
Applications –
Microsoft Office 365 (hosted emails), Microsoft Hyper-V (virtualisation software), Microsoft Windows Server 2008 R2, SonicWALL firewalls, StorageCraft ShadowProtect (remote backup and replication software)
The solution –
A Hyper-V failover cluster was created and a number of new virtual servers were built. The required applications and services were migrated to these virtual servers. Full back up and replication were configured to take hourly snapshots of the entire system which was then sent to an offsite disaster recovery location. A BT dedicated fibre leased line was also installed and a pair of firewalls were configured as a failover to add resilience to the internet lines. Additionally Microsoft Office 365 was put in place for all email mailboxes providing a resilient ‘email anywhere’ solution.
The result –
The upgrades that CST have put in place have given the MSA and IMS a more stable and resilient I.T. infrastructure by using some of the latest server and network innovations. This has provided them with a secure and lasting platform from which to run their businesses backed by full, hourly replication to an offsite disaster recovery centre. Our client can be safe in the knowledge that should the worst happen their systems and data are fully protected.
