Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to appoint a qualified service provider to maintain and support the SABC's network infrastructure over a three-year period. This includes hardware support, software support, licensing, and ensuring business continuity by maintaining the stability and functionality of critical network components such as switches, routers, firewalls, and licensing portals.

Scope

The scope of work encompasses:

• Provision of maintenance and support for Cisco network hardware, including switches, routers, firewalls, and related equipment.
• Updating and reflecting licenses on the Cisco licensing portal.
• Assistance with hardware replacement and support to ensure network stability.
• Support for network components based on a hierarchical three-layer Cisco model.
• Support and maintenance of specific devices listed in the technical specifications, including Cisco Catalyst switches, ASR routers, Firepower appliances, and security servers.

Items not in scope include procurement of hardware, licensing, or services outside the specified devices and components listed in the technical specifications.

Technical Requirements

The technical requirements include:

• Support and maintenance for specified Cisco devices, including:
• Cisco Catalyst 9300 series switches (24 and 48 ports)
• Cisco ASR1001-X routers
• Cisco Firepower NGFW appliances and management centers
• Cisco Catalyst Center Appliance
• Secure Network Servers for ISE applications
• Threat Defense appliances
• Support levels must include 8x5 next business day response, with on-site support for critical devices as specified.
• Support and licensing must be valid for a three-year period, with options for hardware replacement if Cisco cannot support end-of-life equipment.
• All technical specifications listed in the bid documentation must be met; deviations should be clearly indicated.
• Support should include license updates, reflection on Cisco licensing portal, and hardware replacement support.

Skills and Skills Requirements

The successful bidder must demonstrate:

• Proven experience in Cisco network infrastructure support and maintenance, specifically with the devices listed in the technical specifications.
• Capability to provide 8x5 next business day support and on-site support for critical network devices.
• Ability to update and manage Cisco licenses through the Cisco licensing portal.
• Experience in hardware replacement and support for enterprise network equipment, including Cisco Catalyst switches, routers, firewalls, and security appliances.
• Knowledge of network security, firewall management, and VPN support.
• Ability to provide comprehensive helpdesk support, including 24/7 support for urgent issues.
• Compliance with all technical specifications and support levels as outlined in the bid documentation.
• Demonstrated understanding of the support and maintenance requirements for a hierarchical Cisco network infrastructure.

In summary, the bidder should possess technical expertise in Cisco network hardware, support services, license management, and hardware replacement, along with proven experience in enterprise-level network support to meet the SABC’s operational needs.