Case Study: New Zealand Red Cross achieves rapid, remotely managed disaster‑resilient communications with Fortinet

Fortinet Secures Zlt Network-In-A-Box For Self-Contained Telecommunications

New Zealand Red Cross needed a fast, reliable way to restore and maintain telecommunications across remote Pacific islands where heat, humidity, dust and limited local technical expertise repeatedly degraded equipment. Christchurch systems integrator ServerWorks teamed with the Red Cross to build the ZLT (zero local touch) network-in-a-box to address difficult deployments, harsh environmental conditions and scarce onsite support.

The self-contained ZLT bundles Fortinet security and networking (FortiGate 60E, FortiSwitch, FortiAP, FortiEMS/FortiClient and managed via FortiManager/FortiAnalyzer) and is remotely managed from Christchurch—just plug in power and internet and the unit is operational. Deployed in Tonga and slated for Samoa, the solution enabled rapid, robust “business as usual” and emergency communications, reduced onsite staffing needs, proved cost-effective versus alternatives, and prompted plans for additional units.

New Zealand Red Cross

Kraig Winters

Managing Director