Telkom has installed a Novell Netware 5 server, running Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), to manage over 8 000 IP addresses at its Wits "1023" customer service centre.
The Telkom 1023 service is based on an IP address allocation system that was gradually becoming ineffective. The old system was based on manual maintenance of over 8000 IP addresses and required several DHCP servers and many personnel to operate.
Due to an increased number of services being offered by Telkom, the demand on its IT systems has grown exponentially over the past months and especially on its 1023 customer service. Telkom wanted to update the old DHCP systems in order to reduce the total cost of ownership, and to improve the response time and reliability of the 1023 service to its customers.
Novell offers DHCP services as a free bundle with the Netware 5 operating system, which Telkom qualifies for under its Master License Agreement with Novell. The integration of Netware 5 DHCP with Novell`s Directory Services enables Telkom to incorporate the administration and management of the DHCP system into the global Telkom NDS network. Finally, by applying directory-based management to the 1023 IP addresses, Telkom can utilise its manpower resources more efficiently as less staff are needed to operate the system.
Novell major accounts manager John Greeff says Telkom was one of the first organisations worldwide to implement Novell`s DHCP solution. "Telkom took a bold step to prove the value of directory integrated IT. Due to the DHCP software being so new and also to ensure that our largest client was satisfied with the DHCP solution, we flew an engineer in from our technical support centre in the UK. Once the Netware 5 DHCP service was fully operational, Telkom immediately started benefiting from its decision."
Telkom is now running the entire Wits 1023 DHCP service with more than 8 500 users on one Netware 5 server, and best of all, they no longer need a dedicated person to administer the system. With the emphasis today being placed on providing a continually improved level of service to the public, while at the same time reducing cost, this is truly an example of how technology can bring value to an organisation.
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