Virtual Server Infrastructure Refresh for Municipal IT Modernization

Virtual Server Stack Refresh and VMware Infrastructure Upgrade

Data Networks Awarded as Primary Contractor

In response to the City of Bowie’s Virtual Server Stack Refresh RFP, Data Networks was selected to design, deploy, and migrate the City’s next-generation virtualization platform. The awarded solution replaced legacy infrastructure with a modern VMware-based architecture that delivers enhanced performance, resiliency, scalability, and long-term operational value for municipal services.

As part of this strategic modernization initiative, Data Networks replaced the City’s aging virtual server environment with a high-performance, scalable platform designed to support critical municipal operations for years to come. The project focused on refreshing the City’s core compute, storage, and networking infrastructure while preserving existing disaster recovery and backup investments. The result was a modern virtual server infrastructure capable of supporting future growth, improving operational efficiency, and strengthening overall resiliency.

Replacing Legacy Infrastructure to Support Future Growth

The City’s existing virtual environment had reliably supported municipal services for years but was approaching the limits of its long-term scalability. The organization required a new on-premises virtual server infrastructure capable of supporting current workloads while accommodating projected growth over the next five years.

In addition, the City needed a solution that would integrate seamlessly with its existing VMware environment, preserve established disaster recovery processes utilizing Zerto, maintain Veeam backup operations, and minimize disruption to critical services throughout the migration process.

The project also required a comprehensive migration strategy, detailed documentation, administrative knowledge transfer, and long-term support services to ensure City IT personnel could confidently manage the upgraded environment after deployment.

Deploying a Modern Virtual Server Infrastructure

Data Networks designed and implemented a complete virtual server infrastructure built around three Dell PowerEdge R660 servers, a Dell PowerVault ME5024 iSCSI SAN, VMware vSphere 8, and Cisco Catalyst 9500 networking. The solution was engineered to deliver increased performance, enhanced storage capabilities, and improved operational flexibility while maintaining compatibility with existing applications and workflows.

The deployment included network planning, IP addressing and VLAN design, switch staging and installation, storage deployment, VMware cluster configuration, and full integration with the City’s existing backup and disaster recovery ecosystem. By leveraging VMware vSphere 8, the new platform delivers advanced virtualization capabilities, including high availability, workload mobility, and optimized resource utilization. The architecture was also carefully designed to align with VMware’s licensing model, allowing the City to maximize existing investments while avoiding unnecessary licensing costs.

A critical component of the engagement involved migrating 55 virtual machines to the new environment. Data Networks performed extensive validation activities throughout the migration process, including application testing, network connectivity verification, data integrity checks, backup and disaster recovery validation, security reviews, compliance verification, and performance optimization. This methodical approach ensured a smooth transition with minimal disruption to municipal operations.

Delivering Long-Term Value Through Resiliency and Knowledge Transfer

Beyond deploying new technology, Data Networks focused on ensuring the City’s IT team could effectively manage and maintain the new virtual server infrastructure. The project included comprehensive documentation, as-built diagrams, formal knowledge transfer sessions, and Dell training resources designed to accelerate adoption and reduce administrative complexity.

To support ongoing reliability, the solution includes five years of mission-critical support coverage for servers, storage, and networking components, providing rapid response and expert assistance when needed. The upgraded infrastructure also preserves the City’s existing Zerto replication and Veeam backup workflows, allowing disaster recovery and data protection processes to continue without costly redesigns or operational changes.

Today, the City benefits from a highly available, scalable virtual server infrastructure that delivers improved performance, simplified management, and enhanced resiliency. By combining enterprise-class compute, storage, networking, and virtualization technologies, Data Networks helped establish a future-ready platform that supports municipal operations today while providing the flexibility to accommodate tomorrow’s requirements.

Tags: SLG, local government, datacenter