Reference architecture: hybrid network with FortiGate and Dell switches
The network around the cluster: a FortiGate edge, a redundant Dell PowerSwitch pair, segmented VLANs, tunnels to Azure and a separate out-of-band network.
Design decisions
- FortiGate at the edge with redundant tunnels to Azure and dynamic routing
- A VLT switch pair so any single switch can fail
- Separate VLANs for management, workloads, storage and out-of-band access
- Data center bridging on storage ports where storage is switched
- Firewall policy scoped to the documented platform endpoints
- The architecture adapted to your site
- Switch and firewall configurations
- A failover test record
Billed at $150.00 per hour. Ask Keith for an estimate.
The layers, top to bottom.
What we check first.
Out-of-band is separate
The management controllers must stay reachable when the production network is down.
Every link redundant
Each machine connects to both switches, and each switch has its own uplink.
Document every port
The port map is what the next engineer needs at two in the morning.
Four steps, written down.
A call with Keith
You describe the goal, the estate and the deadline. Keith turns it into a written scope with an hour estimate at the hourly rate.
A written design by Gus
Gus reviews the environment and gives you a written design with each decision and its reason.
Hands-on implementation
Gus implements in your tenant and your racks, remotely or on site, with every change logged as it is made.
Documents and a named contact
You receive the as-built record and the runbooks. Keith stays on as your account and project manager.
Asked before every engagement.
Does this require Dell and Fortinet?
No. The pattern applies to other vendors. These are the ones we configure hands-on.
Where does SD-WAN fit?
At sites with more than one link, SD-WAN replaces the single edge path. See the SD-WAN page.
What does the consulting cost?
Consulting is billed at $150.00 per hour. Keith sends a written hour estimate after the scoping call, and work starts when you approve it.
Often scoped together.
One rate. Two people.
Consulting is billed at $150.00 per hour. Keith runs sales, project management and your account. Gus does the architecture, the design and the implementation.
per consulting hour, for every consulting service