Ropo, a company specializing in invoice lifecycle management and payment processing, has commissioned Enfo to deliver a comprehensive network solution based on SASE (Secure Access Service Edge) technology, implemented using Cato Networks’ technology. Enfo is responsible for delivering the service end-to-end on a turnkey basis.
A scalable, secure and cost-effective network
Ropo currently operates seven offices in Finland, Sweden and Norway, with plans to expand into Central Europe in the future. As part of the supplier transition, the data communications network at all locations will be migrated to the Cato Networks platform.
Ropo’s new network is cost-effective, secure, and scalable to meet the needs of a growing global business while supporting the requirements of hybrid work.
– In addition to these benefits, we will resolve previous network quality issues and ensure that connections always function reliably. This is essential for Ropo’s business operations, emphasizes Ropo’s CIO, Heikki Parkkonen.
The project represents a significant deepening of the partnership between Ropo and Enfo.
– Network technology is not our core expertise and our IT department is small, so we expect broad capabilities from our outsourcing partner. The collaboration has started extremely well, and Enfo’s project manager has proactively driven the project forward.
– We have confidence in Enfo in this business-critical function, as they have delivered high-quality results for us before, Parkkonen says.
A secure corporate network – always and everywhere
The new network enables Ropo employees to work securely from any location. Through the Cato Client software, employees can securely access the corporate network without separate VPN logins, whether they are working from the office, at home or abroad. The network connection is always on.
– This is especially important now that we are expanding into new countries and our headcount is growing, X emphasizes.
The solution delivered by Enfo includes LAN/WLAN/WAN infrastructure, a modern replacement for traditional VPN technology, 4G/5G backup connectivity, and strong integration with Ropo’s hybrid environments (Azure and AWS). By outsourcing the support process, Ropo’s IT department can focus on more productive tasks instead of handling network-related support tickets.
– By outsourcing the support process, we can direct future network-related issues and support requests straight to Enfo, reducing the workload of Ropo’s internal team, Parkkonen explains.
Enhanced security with a SASE solution
Through the solution, Ropo gains a network where both connectivity and security are delivered from the cloud. Cloud-based networking technology is both user-friendly and secure.
– Overall manageability improves when Enfo manages both the cloud and the network solution: there are no disconnected components and responsibilities are clear. For end users, this will be reflected in a more consistent user experience, and for the customer, in improved security, says Enfo’s Juha Kukka, EVP, Managed Services.
The SASE solution adds depth to network security. Even if a username and multi-factor authentication (MFA) credentials were compromised, the system would still require a registered and trusted device before granting access to the network.
For users, the SASE solution enhances security without requiring any additional actions. Cato Client automatically handles connection establishment and identity verification in the background, making the technology effectively “invisible” to the user and reducing the risk of human error. The user experience remains consistent regardless of where in the world employees are working.
– It is important to us that the network functions so reliably that it no longer raises questions or uncertainties about why something is not working, Parkkonen concludes.