Page 11 - FCW, August 2017

manageability, reduces operating and maintenance costs, and simplifies operations.
The Social Security Administration and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs recently deployed a converged IP network solution. By pooling their advanced communications traffic for voice, e-mail, instant messages, video conferencing, and online collaboration into a single network, they can now deliver services more efficiently.
CYBERSECURITY
Government agencies, financial institutions, and healthcare organizations perpetually rank among
the top targets for cybercriminals. Our daily life, economic vitality, and national security depend on a stable, safe, and resilient cyber environment. That starts with a secure network. Cyberspace and its underlying infrastructure are vulnerable to a range
“Cloud solutions are only as good as the network supporting them, so [agencies] require a network that can adapt to ... unique requirements.”
of threats; from sophisticated cybercriminals and nation-states looking to steal information and money. These cyber attacks are increasing in their ability to disrupt, destroy, or threaten the delivery of essential government services.
Strengthening the security and resilience of cyberspace has become a primary Department of Homeland Security (DHS) mission. DHS works with industry and civilian agencies to respond to ever- changing cyberthreats. CenturyLink is approved by DHS to provide Einstein 3 Accelerated (E3A) services to federal civilian agencies. When paired with other managed security services and Managed Trusted Internet Protocol Services (MTIPS), E3A provides layers of protection to federal agencies.
COMMUNICATION AND COLLABORATION
A secure and converged network provides
the foundation for better communication and collaboration among agencies and across the federal government. As the U.S. Senate transitions to VoIP, for example, it will be better able to coordinate within the institution. Individual senate offices will streamline collaboration between capitol offices and local offices in all 50 states.
Integrating voice and data into a common network allows for better integration, such VoIP deployments that help tightly integrate advanced digital calling services with online services like e-mail. An integrated voice and data network can also save taxpayers money and reduce maintenance costs.
CLOUD APPLICATIONS AND SERVICES
The future of digital services delivered from the
cloud is rapidly growing. Cloud solutions are only
as good as the network supporting them, so federal
IT executives require a network that can adapt to
the unique requirements of an organization and
its application needs. The push for a more reliable, secure, predictable, and controllable cloud-networking solution means agencies should consider established network service providers that cater to government needs. This will ensure the highest possible performance of their mission-critical applications and services, whether they reside in public, private, or hybrid clouds.
SHAPING THE FUTURE OF GOVERNMENT
Ultimately, government agencies’ ability to make smart technology decisions will determine their success and the future of government. Agencies should look for a technology partner with a record of innovation, one who understands agency missions, and shares their vision of the future. Modernization is a journey, not a destination. And it all starts with a solid foundation of network and fundamental IT services.
For more information, visit centurylink.com/federal
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