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Sep 19, 2024
Success Story – Proven Collaboration for 6 Years How a German Bank with 30 Offices uses Network-as-a-Service (NaaS).
Initial Situation
The German Bank "Sparkasse Zwickau" faced the challenge of further expanding its digital service strategy to meet the growing needs of its customers. The aim was to enable modern customer service that functions seamlessly both on-site in branches and through digital channels. At the same time, it was necessary to make internal processes more efficient and to support employees in advising customers.
Two central factors played a role in this:
Customer Expectations: Customers want digital services that are easily accessible, secure, and intuitively usable – even during on-site consultations.
Internal Requirements: The solution had to meet the highest security standards, run stably and reliably, and be easy to implement.
Assignment
To achieve these goals, Sparkasse Zwickau needed a WiFi solution that:
Project Start: 2018, long-time AirZen customer since then
Is Secure to protect sensitive customer data.
Functions Stably to ensure uninterrupted consultations and presentations of digital services.
Is User-Friendly so that customers and advisors can use it without technical hurdles.
Remains Cost-Efficient, especially when implemented at more than 30 locations.
Is Design Compatible so that the devices visually fit harmoniously into the Sparkasse branch concept.
Interview Partners of the German Bank "Sparkasse Zwickau"
Dirk Ebersbach (Department Head)
Andre Polrolniczak (Sales Management)
Customer Interview
What is the strategy of Sparkasse in the digital area?
Dirk Ebersbach (Department Head):
“Sparkasse Zwickau is positioning itself digitally for the future and is oriented towards customer needs. This means we provide customers with various contact channels. The customer selects the channel that suits them best. This offering is continuously being expanded.”
What role does WiFi play for customers in this?
Dirk Ebersbach:
“The WiFi integrates into this strategy. It ensures that the many online services of Sparkasse Zwickau can be explained to the customer during an on-site consultation without them needing to use their own data consumption.”
How does Sparkasse use WiFi for customers and employees?
Andre Polrolniczak (Sales Management):
“The WiFi offers the perfect complement in branch business. If a customer is interested in online services, the advisor can directly, with the customer, for example, install and set up the popular Sparkasse app on their smartphone.”
What is the significance of online marketing for Sparkasse?
Andre Polrolniczak:
"Online marketing is becoming increasingly important for the Sparkasse Zwickau and is being increasingly promoted. As such, the Sparkasse, like the entire banking sector, is currently developing very rapidly in this area. We are constantly observing new trends and developing our portfolio in order to be able to offer our customers current offers."
What does the ideal WiFi solution look like for you?
Dirk Ebersbach:
“The ideal WiFi solution for Sparkasse Zwickau must above all be secure. The security of data, especially customer data, is our highest priority. Furthermore, the solution must be reliable and easy to use.”
What expectations and decision criteria exist for the WiFi network?
Dirk Ebersbach:
“The WiFi network must run particularly stably. A missing signal during a consultation where online banking is being explained appears unprofessional. Therefore, it is important that the devices meet high-quality standards.”
What topics are most important to you regarding the Sparkasse's WiFi?
Andre Polrolniczak:
“By using the wireless network, added value is created for customers. The priority is that our customers feel safe and are safe when using it. Since our WiFi application is not an open network, we can provide this security to our customers.”
What factors were decisive in choosing a WiFi system for more than 30 locations?
Dirk Ebersbach:
“The individual WiFi routers need to blend into the Sparkasse design of the branches, and of course, the price is also a factor that needs to be considered at more than 30 locations.”
Why did you choose AirZen?
Dirk Ebersbach:
“The offer from AirZen was precisely tailored to our requirements, especially in terms of security and simplicity. Thus, it was a logical consequence for us to choose this provider.”
How does the installation of the AirZen system work in the branches?
Andre Polrolniczak:
“The installation was incredibly simple, which made us very satisfied. After setting up the DSL connection, the access point only needed to be connected to the DSL router and powered. The configuration was remotely uploaded according to our specifications.”
What differences are there in installation and ongoing operations compared to WiFi solutions from other providers?
Dirk Ebersbach:
“Technically, several providers could offer us a solution, but AirZen was very specific to our needs and was thus able to implement everything according to our wishes.”
Why did you choose AirZen?
Dirk Ebersbach:
“The offer from AirZen was precisely tailored to our requirements, especially in terms of security and simplicity. Thus, it was a logical consequence for us to choose this provider.”
Our Technology with Service
AirZen Network Technology
Which hardware and software are used in the project? An all-in-one package as Network-as-a-Service (NaaS):
Managed Services
Service 1: Guest WiFi with portal for customers
Service 2: TeamWiFi for internal use
Service 3: Network operator & provider for guest WiFi
Service 4: Permanent network monitoring & support
Service 5: Security & software updates of all components
Hardware & Software
86x WiFi Routers (Access Point & Routing in one device)
1x Central Firewall
1x Cloud WiFi Controller
Several VPN endpoints
Server locations of cloud components: Germany
AirZen Technology: German Engineering made in Europe.
Benefits of NaaS for Sparkasse Zwickau
The Sparkasse Zwickau benefits from the Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) model by AirZen TeamWiFi in several ways:
Complete Solution from a Single Source:
All components such as hardware, software, licenses, and service are included in a package.
No additional investments or separate purchases necessary.
Current Technology and Security:
Automated updates and security patches keep the network always up to date.
The Zero Trust security concept ensures maximum protection of customer data.
Efficient Management and Maintenance:
A central platform enables easy management and monitoring of all 30 locations.
Proactive network monitoring minimizes downtime due to quick problem resolution.
Cost Transparency:
Monthly or yearly billing without large initial investments.
Clear and calculable cost structure for Sparkasse.
Reliability and Comfort:
Sparkasse does not have to worry about maintenance or security updates – AirZen takes care of that.
The solution is scalable and adapts to requirements.
Thanks to NaaS from AirZen TeamWiFi, Sparkasse Zwickau has a secure, easy-to-manage, and future-proof network, optimally supporting digital transformation.
What is NaaS (Network-as-a-Service)?
Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) means that a company rents the entire network infrastructure like WiFi, routers, and security as a service, instead of purchasing and managing it themselves.
👉 The Highlight: Everything needed for a functioning network – hardware, software, maintenance, and security – is provided by one provider.
How does it work?
The provider (e.g., AirZen) supplies the devices and software.
They take care of updates, repairs, and management.
Companies use the network without worrying about technical details.
Benefits of NaaS:
No Large Acquisition Costs: Payment is monthly or yearly instead of a large upfront cost.
Always Up-to-Date: The network is automatically supplied with the latest security updates.
Security: The provider ensures everything is protected – like a security guard for the network.
Convenient Management: Everything is centrally monitored, and problems are quickly resolved.
With NaaS, companies have a secure, modern, and easy-to-manage network without having to worry about technology.
What is a Managed Service?
A Managed Service means a company outsources certain IT services to an external provider. The provider takes care of management, maintenance, and monitoring, while the company uses the services without having to worry about technical details.
Examples of Managed Services:
IT Security: Protection against viruses and cyberattacks.
Cloud Services: Storage and management of data in the cloud.
Networks: Setup, monitoring, and maintenance of WiFi and network infrastructure.
How does it work?
The provider provides the necessary resources (e.g., software, hardware).
They continuously monitor systems and proactively address issues.
The services are usually offered for a monthly fee.
Benefits of Managed Services:
Time Savings: The company does not have to worry about IT – specialists take care of that.
Cost Efficiency: No high investment costs, but predictable, regular fees.
Security: Providers ensure up-to-date updates and protective measures.
Flexibility: Services can be adapted to the company's needs.
With Managed Services, companies can use their IT efficiently while focusing on their core business.
Combination of NaaS and Managed Service
The combination of Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) and Managed Service offers companies a complete network solution that is not only provided but also fully managed.
How does it work?
NaaS: Provides the infrastructure (e.g., WiFi, routers, switches) as a rental solution. Everything needed for operation – hardware, software, licenses – is included in a service package.
Managed Service: Takes over ongoing management, maintenance, monitoring, and security of the infrastructure.
Conclusion
The Sparkasse Zwickau impressively demonstrates how modern network solutions can drive digitalization and improve customer service. With the implementation of AirZen TeamWiFi and the usage of Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) combined with Managed Services, the 30 locations benefit from a secure, stable, and easily manageable WiFi infrastructure.
Thanks to the tailored solution, the Sparkasse could:
Optimize on-site consultation through seamless integration of digital offerings.
Ensure customer security with a closed and modern security concept.
Minimize administrative effort and operating costs through automated updates and centrally controlled networks.
After six years of successful collaboration, Sparkasse Zwickau remains a satisfied AirZen customer, trusting a solution that meets both current and future requirements. This project highlights how technology can be effectively used to not only increase efficiency but also enhance value for both customers and employees alike.
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