We use Array AG Series to let students and staff in India connect to our university resources and labs securely from anywhere. Whether it is Array or other solutions like Pulse Secure or Check Point, the main idea is to access our internal network over the internet, making it easy for everyone to connect remotely and use our resources effectively.
Exceptionally stable, cost-effective, and offers a user-friendly interface
What is our primary use case?
What is most valuable?
What I appreciate most about Array AG Series, and what our clients value as well, is its exceptional stability. The user interface is another standout feature – it is very user-friendly. Whether you're connecting through clients or using it directly, it is a hassle-free experience. Within seconds, you can establish a connection from anywhere to anything.
What needs improvement?
The main area for improvement with Array AG Series is its support services. Compared to products like Cisco and Zscaler, the support response time is slower, often taking three to four hours. The follow-up process through email and phone calls adds to the hassle. A more efficient and responsive support system would make a big difference in the overall user experience and satisfaction with the product.
For how long have I used the solution?
I have been working with Array AG Series for almost five years.
What do I think about the stability of the solution?
It is exceptionally stable.
What do I think about the scalability of the solution?
The scalability of Array AG Series is good, but it comes with a cost. If a user goes from 500 to ten 10,000 overnight, they would need to upgrade the box or device. In SSM VPN or IP, specific things like channels and the number of connections need to be specified, and adjustments come at a price. While scalability is possible, it is essential to be mindful of the associated costs depending on the changing requirements.
How are customer service and support?
I would rate the support as a six out of ten.
How would you rate customer service and support?
Neutral
Which solution did I use previously and why did I switch?
When comparing Array AG Series to Prisma by Check Point, Check Point stands out as the more stable option. Both are good, but Check Point, in terms of performance and stability, seems to have an edge. However, Check Point's policy management can be a bit more challenging compared to Array. So, while Array is somewhat easier in that aspect, overall, for stability and performance, I would lean towards Check Point.
How was the initial setup?
Deploying Array AG Series isn't exactly simple as it requires expertise in handling SaaS solutions and involves a thorough study of the customer's network and requirements. Skill set and support assistance are crucial during installation. For a single-box, basic configuration, you might pull it off in about five hours, a day at most. However, achieving stability takes longer, as VPN products need time to settle in an organization. Depending on user complaints and day-to-day issues, it could take a while to get everything running smoothly. In our deployment experience with Array AG Series, five engineers, including myself, were involved in executing over twenty VPN projects across India in the last four to five years. These were substantial projects, taking about a week to stabilize the solution. As for maintenance, it is neither simple nor overly complicated. It requires careful attention because any issues can have a global impact on users over the internet. Maintenance for a single site typically requires the attention of one or two individuals.
What's my experience with pricing, setup cost, and licensing?
In terms of pricing, Array AG Series is relatively competitive. It is priced below some of the higher-end options like GlobalProtect from Palo Alto and Check Point. While it isn't significantly cheaper, the pricing is reasonable and competitive in the market. It is a cost-effective solution, especially when compared to certain alternatives. The pricing for Array AG Series is on a yearly basis. The license typically includes all the essential components, but support may involve additional costs.
What other advice do I have?
My advice to anyone who is considering Array is to stick to Array hardware for optimal performance, as the RA operating system is tailored for it. When planning for a solution, opt for advanced support from the outset to gain a comprehensive understanding of the configuration. Purchase through a reputable channel, ideally a gold or silver partner, to ensure proper support. I have seen cases where customers faced issues because they bought from partners that didn't offer adequate support. In the world of IT, downtime is a critical concern, whether for enterprise or smaller setups, so prioritize high uptime levels, aiming for 99.99%. Overall, I would rate Array AG Series as an eight out of ten.
Which deployment model are you using for this solution?
On-premises
