Optimizing ICT Infrastructure at Basler Verkehrs-Betriebe

Project Overview

• Initial Situation

  The Basler Verkehrs-Betriebe (BVB) were confronted with the task of renewing and expanding their existing storage system environment, which had undergone a complete procurement process in 2015. The former setup comprised two NetApp FAS8020 nodes (active-passive) and a NetApp FAS2554 used as a backup solution.

• Objective

  In addition to the necessity of updating their technology, BVB placed particular importance on investment protection and ecological responsibility. They wanted to ensure that currently operational systems wouldn't be prematurely replaced and disposed of. Therefore, the following specific deliverables were expected in the context of the renewal:

  • Lifecycle replacement of existing components (Tech-Refresh).
  • Maintenance services covering all storage components (both existing and new) with 24/7 support.

   

  Optional:

  • Supply of additional storage components compatible with the existing system.
  • Provision of these storage components.

   

  "The choice of BNC was evident: Positive past experiences, impressive expertise, and substantial references in the realm of NetApp and Veeam convinced us, all while remaining cost-effective." - Martin Peraic, Head of IT at Basler Verkehrs-Betriebe.

   

• Solution

  BVB has optimized its storage environment with the implementation of two NetApp All-Flash-FAS A400A HA systems, distributed across two data centers in an asynchronous DR configuration. This configuration enables a rapid switchover in case of errors. In the event of a primary data center failure or other issues, BVB can seamlessly redirect the entire workload to the secondary data center, ensuring uninterrupted public transportation in and around Basel.

  To handle backups, the primary storage environment is mirrored to the hybrid storage system, FAS2720, utilizing NetApp's proprietary tools. In order to enhance protection against ransomware attacks on the backup data, the existing backup strategy, which encompassed numerous applications, was transitioned to a centralized Veeam solution. This transition was further strengthened through the incorporation of a Quantum solution, ensuring a more robust and efficient level of data protection.

• Approach

  As part of this project, the existing systems were replaced with two NetApp All-Flash-FAS A400A HA systems and a hybrid storage system, FAS2720A HA system. The project commenced with the preparation of the existing NetApp environment (2xFAS8020A, 1xFAS2554) for migration, involving the following steps:

  • A phased upgrade of the ONTAP operating system to version ONTAP 9.8 for all three systems.
  • Integration of cluster switches for migration within BVB premises.
  • Transition of the switchless cluster into a switched cluster using temporary switches provided by BNC.

   

  Subsequently, the initial setup of the new NetApp environment was performed and configured as follows:

  • Installation of the systems in racks and connection to power.
  • Connection of the systems to the existing network infrastructure.
  • Basic configuration of the systems following the installation manual.
  • Integration of the new systems into the existing switched clusters.
    
    

  Following the successful migration and dismantling of the old infrastructure, the solution was further extended with Veeam and Quantum components in a subsequent step. This served to strengthen the backup and recovery processes and significantly enhance protection against ransomware attacks.

   

  "The collaboration with BNC was exceptionally positive. Regular status meetings ensured that all parties remained well-informed about the project's current status. This facilitated agile and swift adjustments to the concept, leading to an efficient and successful partnership," said Martin Peraic, Head of IT at Basler Verkehrs-Betriebe.