Network Solutions Framework
Framework Description
Jisc's Network Solutions Framework (Find a Tender notice 032554-2025) covers the supply and support of wired and Wi-Fi network equipment, including firewall-capable devices, for education and research. Lots are organised by vendor, including Cisco, Extreme, HPE Aruba, Juniper, Palo Alto, Fortinet and Nokia, among others. The framework ends on 19 November 2028 and can be extended lot by lot for up to two further 12-month periods. This framework is used by Jisc, SUPC, NWUPC and APUC.
Context & Use Case
Universities, colleges and research bodies use it to refresh campus networks, extend Wi-Fi and replace firewalls without running their own tenders. Because lots follow vendor lines, an institution standardised on one manufacturer can go straight to the resellers for that brand and compare them. Call-offs shorten the time between identifying a need and fulfilling it.
Scope of Services
Vendor lots: Cisco, Extreme, HPE Aruba and Juniper Vendor lots: Palo Alto, Fortinet, Nokia and others Wired and Wi-Fi network equipment Firewall and security devices Installation, configuration and ongoing support
Lots
Multiple lots covering Cisco, Extreme, HPE Aruba, Juniper, Palo Alto, Fortinet, Nokia and other vendor categories
Who Can Apply
Network equipment resellers and integrators accredited for one or more of the vendors. The framework is live and applications are closed, so new suppliers cannot join until Jisc re-tenders, which could fall anywhere from late 2028 to late 2030 depending on lot extensions. Appointed suppliers win work through institution call-offs.
Buyer Benefits
Institutions can buy the brand their network is built on through a tendered route with agreed pricing and support, and still compare resellers within that lot. Lot-by-lot extensions let Jisc keep strong vendor lots running while refreshing others, which keeps supply steady for multi-year network projects.
Next Steps
If you're appointed, keep vendor accreditations current and prepare for institution-level competitions where installation, lead times and support terms are scored. If you're not, plan for the re-tender: check jisc.ac.uk/network-solutions-framework for extension decisions, and build education case studies for your chosen vendor lots in the meantime.
How Athena Can Help
On a vendor-lotted framework the same products are on offer from several resellers, so call-offs are won on service, lead times and price. Athena's support for mini-competition bids helps appointed suppliers build win themes and test pricing against competitors.
For firms outside the framework, we prepare the re-tender response early. Our framework planning service and public sector bid strategy help you decide which vendor lots to target and which other network frameworks to pursue meanwhile.
