Transforming Security and Scalability: How MGM Transformer Partnered with MicroAge for a Seamless IT Upgrade

The Challenge

MGM Transformer Company, the largest independent transformer manufacturer west of the Mississippi, faced significant technology challenges as it continued to grow. With over 300 employees and customers in more than 50 countries, they operated manufacturing locations in California, Mexico, and India, as well as 15 inventory warehouses.

MGM Transformer initially approached MicroAge with the need to upgrade their endpoint protection program to ensure security across the various devices its company and employees utilized. In addition, the company’s growth necessitated technology that would enable them to scale, but they struggled with their current overseas support. They needed a longer-term partner to help manage their Microsoft environment and recommend improvements to their organization to help them grow, train, and conduct knowledge to enable their employees.

Technical Environment

At the outset, MGM Transformer’s technology infrastructure was primarily on-premises. Their setup included:

• Microsoft suite of products
• 3 Dell servers
• 20 virtual machines (VMs)
• 3 firewalls
• 12 Cisco enterprise switches

The Solution

MGM Transformer initially approached MicroAge for Webroot Endpoint Protection, having been referred by Webroot. They ordered 130 seats for their desktop and endpoint users, replacing an existing antivirus program. This enabled MGM Transformer to more effectively manage their security risks by providing continuous monitoring and protection, even when devices are disconnected from the enterprise network, ensuring robust security at all times.

This initial engagement expanded into a broader partnership as MicroAge conducted proof of concepts (POCs) and demos to enhance their technical environment and security posture. MicroAge introduced MGM Transformer to its Microsoft Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) program, addressing the company’s need for a local partner to manage its Microsoft licensing and services. By leveraging Optimization, Automation, and Consolidation (OAC), MicroAge helped MGM Transformer understand what they have, optimize it, consolidate it, and automate it to make things smoother and more efficient. This extended to the deployment of Microsoft Cloud, Azure, SharePoint, and the integration of OneDrive Cloud storage with Teams.

MicroAge also provided recommendations and updates to MGM Transformer’s data center, including firewalls and switches, to help consolidate their security solutions, provide greater visibility, and ensure orchestration across all devices. During this process, MicroAge installed Veeam Backup and Replication for 24 VMs, which helped MGM Transformer generate image-level backups for virtual, physical, and cloud-based workloads, ensuring all data is captured in a consistent state for rapid recovery. MicroAge’s engineers orchestrated the integration of these solutions, ensuring seamless functionality and productivity improvements.

The Benefits

The implementation of these solutions yielded significant benefits for MGM Transformer:

• Enhanced Security: By shutting down an open VPN and implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA), they addressed a major vulnerability and prevented unauthorized access from other countries.
• Improved Oversight: The new system provided real-time alerts, reducing downtime and enhancing detection capabilities.
• Scalability: The solutions were designed to scale with MGM’s growth, optimizing their environment for efficiency.
• Resource Optimization: MicroAge provided additional resources and staff support when needed, ensuring smooth operations.
• Standardization: The disparate technology solutions across various locations were standardized, particularly with firewalls and the Microsoft Cloud, leading to a more cohesive and efficient network.

Let’s talk

With MicroAge, you can innovate faster with one end-to-end technology service and solution partner. Contact us today at (800) 544-8877.