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6.1.H. - Page 2 <br /> ANALYSIS <br /> The recommendation is to replace the two outdated switches with the current version of <br /> Cisco's enterprise class switches, known for their reliability, modularity, redundancy, <br /> and expandability. The switches staff recommends be replaced have been operational <br /> for over 15 years. They have been extremely reliable. Staff has been able to add <br /> functionality and components when needed to support the ever-increasing demands <br /> placed upon them. As technology use in the City has expanded, these same switches <br /> were able to meet those demands. By purchasing switches that could be expanded and <br /> upgraded without having to replace the entire switch itself, staff has been able to <br /> prolong the life of the current switches beyond their expected useful life of five to ten <br /> years. <br /> The expected useful life is based on the data needs of the organization, the modularity, <br /> redundancy, expandability, and brand of switch. The modularity refers to the ability to <br /> replace individual failed parts as needed without having to replace the entire switch. The <br /> redundancy refers to the switch having multiple "same" parts in the event one fails. The <br /> expandability allows components to be added after purchase so that additional <br /> equipment can connect to it as well as to increase its functionality to support new <br /> technologies as developed. The brand is important because it refers not only to the <br /> manufacturer's reputation for quality and reliability, but also the ability to find third party <br /> vendors and IT Analysts capable of supporting the switch. Most manufacturers do not <br /> directly support their switches and rely on third party vendors to work directly with their <br /> consumers. The IT Analysts in Redwood City have been supporting Cisco switches their <br /> entire tenure in the City. <br /> Three different vendors supplied quotes for the switches, each including three years of <br /> support: <br /> • CDW-G for $230,707.38. <br /> • InterVision for $251,823.75. <br /> • Nexus for $291,194.86. <br /> Staff recommends purchasing the switches form the lowest quoted supplier, DCW-G for <br /> $230,707.38. <br /> ALTERNATIVES <br /> Council could direct IT staff to replace the failed supervisory engine and continue using <br /> the existing switches or to do nothing and continue using the existing switches as they <br /> are. <br />