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What is Cisco SmartNet?

What is Cisco SmartNet?

Cisco SmartNet is a comprehensive technical support service offered by Cisco Systems, designed to help businesses maintain their network infrastructure efficiently and effectively. This service provides a range of support options that cover hardware replacement, software updates, technical assistance, and proactive diagnostics. For organizations relying on Cisco equipment for their IT infrastructure, SmartNet can be an invaluable resource, ensuring maximum uptime and optimal performance.

Key Features of Cisco SmartNet

 

    1. 24/7 Technical Support:
        • Cisco SmartNet offers round-the-clock access to Cisco’s Technical Assistance Center (TAC). This means that businesses can get expert help any time they encounter issues with their Cisco products.
    2. Hardware Replacement:
        • One of the critical components of SmartNet is its hardware replacement service. Depending on the service level agreement (SLA) chosen, Cisco can provide next-business-day replacements or even same-day replacements for faulty hardware, minimizing downtime.
    3. Software Updates and Upgrades:
        • Subscribers to SmartNet receive access to the latest software updates and upgrades. This ensures that their Cisco devices are running the most current and secure software, enhancing performance and security.
    4. Proactive Diagnostics:
        • Cisco SmartNet includes access to Cisco’s diagnostics tools, such as the Smart Call Home feature. This allows for continuous monitoring of Cisco devices, providing alerts and recommendations before problems become critical.
    5. Online Resources:
        • Customers have access to a wealth of online resources, including Cisco’s extensive knowledge base, troubleshooting tools, and forums. This self-service aspect of SmartNet can help IT staff resolve issues quickly.
    6. Advance Hardware Replacement (AHR):
        • For critical components, SmartNet offers Advance Hardware Replacement, ensuring that spare parts are readily available to replace faulty components without waiting for shipping.
    7. OS Updates:
        • Operating System (OS) updates are crucial for security and functionality. SmartNet ensures that all OS updates are available to the customer, maintaining the integrity of the network.

 

Benefits of Cisco SmartNet

    1. Minimized Downtime:
        • The combination of 24/7 technical support and rapid hardware replacement significantly reduces network downtime, ensuring business continuity.
    2. Enhanced Security:
        • Regular software updates and proactive diagnostics help in keeping the network secure from vulnerabilities and threats.
    3. Cost Savings:
        • By preventing prolonged downtime and reducing the need for in-house technical support for complex issues, SmartNet can save businesses substantial costs.
    4. Improved Network Performance:
        • Access to the latest software updates and expert troubleshooting ensures that the network runs efficiently and at peak performance.
    5. Peace of Mind:
        • Knowing that expert help is available at any time and that replacement parts can be delivered quickly gives businesses confidence in their network’s reliability.

 

Levels of Cisco SmartNet

Cisco SmartNet offers various levels of service to cater to different business needs:

    1. 8x5xNBD:
        • 8 hours a day, 5 days a week, with Next Business Day delivery for replacement parts.
    2. 8x5x4:
        • 8 hours a day, 5 days a week, with a 4-hour response time for replacement parts.
    3. 24x7x4:
        • 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with a 4-hour response time for replacement parts.
    4. 24x7x2:
        • 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with a 2-hour response time for replacement parts.
    5. Onsite Support:
        • This level includes having a Cisco technician come to your site to assist with hardware replacement and other technical issues.

 

How to Access Cisco SmartNet

To access Cisco SmartNet services, businesses need to purchase a SmartNet contract through Cisco or an authorized Cisco partner. This contract will specify the level of service, the covered devices, and the duration of the coverage. Once the contract is active, businesses can register their devices with Cisco and start utilizing the SmartNet services.

Cisco SmartNet is an essential service for businesses that rely on Cisco equipment for their network infrastructure. It offers comprehensive support that includes technical assistance, hardware replacement, software updates, and proactive diagnostics. By minimizing downtime, enhancing security, and improving network performance, SmartNet provides significant value and peace of mind to businesses. Whether you are a small enterprise or a large corporation, Cisco SmartNet can help ensure that your network operates smoothly and efficiently.

For more information or to purchase a Cisco SmartNet contract, contact your Cisco representative or us as authorized Cisco partner in Toronto Area.