SURF and Nomios collaboration for a more flexible and innovative network

For the renewal of network equipment, SURF has awarded the tender to network supplier Nomios. Through Nomios, we can purchase network equipment from different suppliers, which strengthens the innovative power of our networks. This allows us to respond more flexibly and efficiently to the network needs of educational and research institutions in the Netherlands.

With Nomios as the intermediary, we do not replace the SURF network all at once, as we did with previous generations, but gradually renew the network where the need is most urgent. This approach gives us the flexibility to choose the most appropriate network equipment and supplier per domain or network layer. This allows us to optimally match the needs and requirements of educational and research institutions. By partnering with Nomios, we are moving towards the next generation of the network, SURFnet∞ (SURFnet Infinity), which will eventually replace the current SURFnet8.

Increased bandwidth and network solutions

The new contract with Nomios applies to both the SURF fibre-optic network and the SURF data centre networks. On SURF's national network, member institutions require more bandwidth every year. Also at the SURF data centre networks, which for instance support the national supercomputer Snellius, the demand for bandwidth is increasing. In addition, the SURF network and data centre networks are used for large international research projects, such as the Large Hadron Collider, Square Kilometer Array and the Einstein Telescope, which not only demand a lot of bandwidth but also place specific demands on the network.

Benefits of flexible development

The flexible development of our network offers tangible benefits to all member institutions:

Optimal use of existing resources: by replacing equipment in phases, we extend the lifespan of our current infrastructure.
Better adaptation to change: we can respond faster to unexpected challenges and technological developments from suppliers.
Direct access to innovation: we can acquire new and innovative technologies quicker and apply them to the SURF networks.
User-friendly optimisation: with the diversity of network equipment available, we can optimise the network based on the broad requirements of education and research institutions.

Think about SURFnet Infinity

In the coming months we will work with our partners and members to further develop SURFnet∞ (SURFnet Infinity), the new generation of the SURF network. During the knowledge session Procurement, architecture and design SURFnet Infinity on the 21st of November, we will present the first draft version of the network. We invite all stakeholders to think along and participate.

About Nomios

Nomios is a leading European provider of cybersecurity and secure networking solutions with broad experience in various sectors, including education and science. Nomios offers a wide range of services, including professional and managed services, support and SOC teams, making it a strong partner for SURF and its members.