N4L partners with Palo Alto & 2degrees for school network

The Network for Learning (N4L) has announced new long-term partnerships with Palo Alto Networks and 2degrees to enhance its Managed Network service for schools and kura across New Zealand.

These partnerships are aimed at meeting the increasing digital demands of educational institutions across the country.

Palo Alto Networks will be responsible for delivering the latest on-premise firewalls, along with advanced cybersecurity and web filtering services. Meanwhile, 2degrees will provide internet services, enabling N4L to function as a virtual Internet Service Provider (vISP). This strategic move allows N4L to directly manage internet service delivery while utilising 2degrees' infrastructure.

The contract awards follow a competitive procurement process that began in September 2023, which involved an independent probity auditor and a procurement panel with representation from the Ministry of Education. The updated Managed Network is expected to deliver enhanced internet speed, security, and flexibility for schools, thereby future-proofing their digital resources.

N4L will assume full responsibility for managing the network, promising cost efficiency and improved service delivery. "We are excited to commence our collaboration with our new partners, Palo Alto and 2degrees, on the next iteration of the Managed Network," said Larrie Moore, CEO of N4L. He noted that these partnerships are based on a shared commitment to providing leading-edge technology infrastructure to schools.

The transition to N4L's new service will begin in March 2025 and is set to be completed by May 2026. During this period, companies from N4L's ICT Panel will deliver onsite support to minimise disruption. The Ministry of Education has confirmed it will fully fund the transition for state and state-integrated schools.

Misti Landtroop, Managing Director New Zealand, Palo Alto Networks, expressed pride in partnering with N4L and 2degrees. "Together, we are setting a new standard for educational technology services, where security and performance go hand-in-hand to empower the next generation," she said.

Mark Callander, CEO of 2degrees, commented on the importance of connectivity in education. "Connectivity is essential in a modern world and a core element in education, enabling both educators and students to access amazing tools and services that help them every day," he stated, looking forward to working with N4L and Palo Alto Networks on this project.

Stuart Wakefield, Chief Digital Officer at the Ministry of Education, expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the procurement process. "We look forward to working with N4L and its new partners in delivering next generation cyber security, safety and associated network services to all schools and kura over the coming years," he said.