Partnering with Hytec for N3 connectivity
We helped Stalis to deliver its services to NHS organisations by putting in place a secure connection to N3 to ensure its compliance with Connecting for Health (CfH).
The requirement
Stalis aims to provide solutions and services that support healthcare organisations in managing patient care effectively and efficiently. To deliver these services, Stalis had to use N3, the NHS network connecting all NHS locations and 1.3 million employees across England.
The CfH information governance and security teams strictly control connections to N3. As a small company, Stalis realised the substantial costs of N3 connection and its complex compliance regime.
Christine Whitehouse, Managing Director of Stalis, explained: “We understand that the N3 connection is classed as an untrusted network, therefore it was paramount that we had controls in place to protect our own network from potential threats. Inexperienced in the technical knowledge to complete the accreditation process and management of the N3 network, we needed to partner with a team that could host, manage and advise us through the rigorous and ever-changing requirements of N3.”
The solution
Through recommendation from BT, Stalis approached us to manage its N3 journey. Aware of the meticulous requirements of the accreditation process, Stalis required a team of expert advisors within a company that had the capabilities to host the connection through a secure demilitarised zone, or DMZ (sometimes referred to as a 'perimeter network').
We provided a range of services to Stalis, including:
- N3 consultancy
- gap analysis to assess its readiness for N3
- network design
- a hosted N3 connection
- remote management
- ongoing compliance audits
Benefits
Since engaging with us, Stalis has been pleased with the results, as Christine reveals: “Hytec’s initial service was to explain the complicated nature of gaining N3 accreditation. Advancing on our own, we could have come across a number of obstacles; we understand the assessment process to be a lengthy process of numerous forms and procedures. Having a wealth of experience, Hytec was able to advise us of correct procedures to ensure a smooth and efficient process. Hytec was proud to tell us that the application process can be reduced from months to weeks when its expertise is utilised.”
Our Remote Management Centre (RMC) allows Stalis' users to securely access the network at the click of a button using two-factor authentication as the DMZ adds an additional layer of security to the local area network (LAN).
Speaking about how the N3 network has helped the business, Christine said: “N3 provides us with fast, broadband network services to the NHS, offering reliability and value for money. The high-speed network makes it possible for us to deliver the reforms and new services needed to improve patient care. Not only that, but a more comprehensive support service that can be provided from any location. This gives us great flexibility, for instance, in adverse weather conditions, service continues even when people are working from home.”
With us monitoring and maintaining its compliance with N3 regulations, Stalis can focus on its true business objectives with minimal overheads.
Furthermore, if it ever chose to relocate its offices, it can still access the static N3 connection securely through the internet.
Looking forward
Acquiring the network connection is only a small fraction of the entire commitment to N3; companies must continue to comply with the ever-changing demands of N3 and ensure they maintain the connection securely.
For this reason, Stalis’ relationship with us comprises of continual advice and collaboration. Christine concluded: “Regular compliance audits are performed by Hytec to ensure ongoing conformity. In addition, we are required to submit an annual Information Governance (IG) Toolkit. This contains a list of questions tailored to different types of organisations, and where necessary, improvement action plans; Hytec takes full responsibility for this submission allowing us to complete our daily business objectives. Our partnership is highly productive and one that is based on trust.”