The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has awarded AT&T four task orders valued at $306 million over a span of 12 years. This will pave the way in modernizing and transforming the telecom infrastructure of the public-security-focused division.
The task orders were made under the General Services Administration’s Enterprise Infrastructure Solutions (EIS) contract to access a full spectrum of flexible products and services. These include data networking, voice collaboration, equipment, security, and labor. This will particularly benefit the department’s Headquarters, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, and Science and Technology Directorate.
Stacy Schwartz, Vice President, FirstNet and Public Safety, AT&T, said, ”We’re honored DHS selected us to modernize its communications capabilities with IP-based infrastructure. We expect the networking transformation to power the many missions of DHS agencies into the future.”
With DHS’ extraordinary mission of keeping America safe, it needs a technologically advanced communications platform that offers fast connectivity and data transport in a highly secure manner. In fact, DHS already leverages the unique capabilities of mobile computing and promotes innovation while maintaining enhanced security. Thus, it can benefit more from the innovative and advanced communications capabilities AT&T can bring.
Following this, DHS can now have the option to access FirstNet to deliver reliable, always-on priority communications to its first responders and public safety personnel. Via FirstNet’s mobility integration, DHS can connect beyond wires with wireless edge solutions.
In terms of network modernization, AT&T will help DHS virtualize its networking capabilities by delivering advanced technologies such as IP software-based networking capabilities, SD-WAN, and cybersecurity protections. As a result, the current and future connectivity demands in line with DHS’ services will be met.