Enterprise Technology Spotlight: Public sector, higher education, SDN, security

This week we focus on enterprise IT trends and developments within the US federal government and colleges and universities. Specifically, we examine the embrace of software defined networking (SDN) by government organizations, the challenges universities face in maintaining both security and openness, and how ongoing complexity in government IT is driving collaboration among vendors.

Here’s our spotlight coverage…

Software-defined infrastructure key to meeting expanding network demands

US federal IT executives are increasingly embracing SDN as they look for more flexible infrastructure to meet demands of new data and the Internet of Things (IoT). Case in point, the U.S. Postal Service expands its network edge weekly – currently supporting 1.5 million objects – as it adds barcoding and mobile scanning of packages. SDN helps with both security and managed services, according to Verizon. (FedScoop)

Verizon officials dig into cybersecurity challenges facing colleges

Universities are known for openness – free ideas, free expression, free thought, etc. This presents a challenge for information and physical security at a time when both are increasingly important for institutions of higher learning. Verizon is helping universities thread this needle with security services designed specifically for the education sector. (EdScoop)

Top 100: Verizon offers olive branch as it builds partnering network

Government agencies ever more complex IT needs pose a challenge for the vendors serving them. Few can be all things to all customers. More and more, IT service providers need to develop partnerships (or at least cordial working relationships) to fulfil contract requirements. Verizon is embracing and leading the market in this approach – adding several partners (both larger and small) to federal IT contracts – with an eye toward best serving agency customers. (Washington Technology)