What Are the Pitfalls of Buying Used Network Equipment?

When it comes to buying used network equipment certainly the top reason for purchasing used equipment is the significant cost savings available. Yet there are other important considerations besides the cost, performance and reliability of the gear. Purchasing used network equipment can raise several concerns:

1. Uncertain History: When buying used equipment, you might not have a clear understanding of its history. It could have been subjected to heavy use, improper handling, or even damage that is not immediately apparent. Equipment that has been running in high temperature and humidity environments can have a shortened lifespan and reliability issues:
2. Compatibility Issues: Older equipment may not be compatible with newer technology or software, which could limit your network’s capabilities or require additional investments to make it work seamlessly. This is especially true when it comes to the firmware that is on the equipment. Some may be EOL with no further support or security updates available.
3. Security Concerns: Used equipment might not have the latest security features or patches, making it more vulnerable to security threats. Ensure you can update and secure the equipment properly.
4. Limited Scalability: If your network needs grow, it might be challenging to find additional used equipment of the same type and model, potentially leading to compatibility issues or the need to switch to newer equipment.
5. Support Challenges: While companies may offer some support for discontinued products, the level of support may be limited, and replacement parts may become scarce. Are there VARs or third party vendors that will support the product long after the OEM stops?
6. Lack of Future Updates: As equipment ages, manufacturers like Cisco may stop releasing software updates or patches for them, potentially leaving your network vulnerable to emerging threats.

What Brands Will Keep These Issues to a Minimum?

The choice of brand when buying used network equipment should depend on your specific needs and budget. So here is no particular order and the companies that will give you the best chance of having a network that will meet you and your company’s expectations:

• Cisco: Established in 1984, They are the big dog in the market employing  over 50,000 people worldwide and has a 41% market share dominating all of its competitors. Beyond networking equipment. Cisco is a well-known and reputable brand in the networking industry. Their equipment is widely used and has good compatibility with various network configurations. Consider Cisco if you need reliable and widely supported equipment but you are not on a tight budget. Cisco support and service is top notch but it comes at a price even for used equipment.
  • Scalability Support: Cisco caters to organizations of all sizes, including small enterprises, mid-sized corporations, and customer-facing Communication Service Providers (CSPs).
  • Cutting-Edge Technological Progress: Cisco has achieved notable breakthroughs in AI and ML, enhancing network performance and monitoring capabilities.
  • Robust Customer Assistance: Cisco is renowned for its strong customer support services, including the establishment of Cisco Networking Academy.
  • Extensive Partnership Ecosystem: Cisco collaborates with a wide array of prominent technology and networking hardware companies. Notable partners encompass industry giants like AT&T, Accenture, and IBM.

   

• Juniper: Founded in 1996, Juniper Networks employs over 9,600 employes with a 3.5% marketshare. The company has an impressive software offerings portfolio with unique client-to-cloud architecture.

• • Scalability Preparedness: Juniper is equipped to facilitate enterprise expansion by leveraging software-defined solutions and a distinctive client-to-cloud architecture.
  • Cutting-Edge Advancements: The company has pioneered various groundbreaking products, including intent-based networking, secure access service edge (SASE), IoT solutions, and automation.
  • Enhanced Customer Assistance: Juniper offers a user-friendly download hub, a comprehensive documentation portal, and a self-service toolkit, alongside live support and training options.
  • Collaborative Partner Ecosystem: Juniper has established strategic, technology-focused partnerships with industry leaders such as StackPath, Carbon Black, and IBM.

• Arista Networks:  Founded in 2004,the company provides a wide range of networking hardware solutions, from network switches to appliances for software-defined networking.
  • Scalability Capabilities: Arista delivers scalable solutions designed to meet the needs of mid-sized enterprises, extensive deployments, and Communication Service Providers (CSPs) via an open architecture.
  • Cutting-Edge Technological Advancements: Arista’s solutions are constructed based on cloud networking principles, enabling users to harness telemetry, analytics, and automation for enhanced performance.
  • Tailored Customer Support: Arista provides region-specific services and premium support options through the A-Care plan to ensure customer satisfaction.
  • Collaborative Technology Alliances: Arista forms partnerships with a diverse range of technology leaders, including Microsoft, Splunk, and VMware, to enhance its product offerings and services.
• HPE Aruba: Founded in 2015, HPE continues the rich legacy and technological innovation of the original HP which was founded back in 1939. HPE offers networking solutions for wired, wireless, and data center environments.
  • Scalability Enablement: It facilitates business growth by leveraging cutting-edge infrastructure and offering solutions in edge, cloud, and AiOps for efficient network management.
  • Cutting-Edge Advancements: Engineered to empower seamless connectivity from edge to cloud, with robust backing for IoT, AI, containerization, hyper-converged infrastructure, and hybrid work environments.
  • Client Assistance Resources: Customers have access to support via HPE’s online support platform and training hub, including services for product returns and recycling.
  • Collaborative Partnering: The company fosters integration partnerships through the Ezmeral Marketplace, in addition to a global network of partners.
• Nokia Networks: A networking, telecommunication, and data center hardware company established in 2009 that employs over 150,000 people worldwide. It results from a joint venture between Nokia’s network business and Siemens, carrying forward the two companies’ rich legacy. They continue their legacy of technology innovation with the acquisition of Alcatel Lucent in 2016.
  • Scalability Preparedness: Nokia is equipped to handle large-scale deployments, thanks to offerings like the Nokia AirScale, a 5G radio and baseband solution.
  • Cutting-Edge Technological Advancements: Nokia Networks leads the industry in innovation, boasting exclusive solutions for cloud-native network management, optical networks, advanced analytics, and mobile transport.
  • Comprehensive Customer Support: The company provides a rich repository of developer resources and APIs, alongside a robust business support portal.
  • Collaborative Partner Ecosystem: Nokia’s network of partners encompasses prominent names such as Accenture, EY, IBM, Salesforce, and others.

When choosing a brand, consider factors such as your network’s requirements, budget constraints, and the availability of support and spare parts. Additionally, it’s crucial to buy from reputable sources or VARs to ensure the quality and reliability of used equipment. Companies like TeleTraders can help you through the maze of buying used network equipment to serve your needs at a favorable price point.