To seek agreement to draw down the funds identified in the 2022/23 capital budget to replace on a like for like basis the Data Storage Area Network equipment within its Data centre.

a)    Agreement to draw down the funds identified in the 2022/23 capital budget to replace on a like for like basis the Data Storage Area Network equipment within its Data centre; and

b)    Authority be delegated to the IT Client Manager to make all operational decision to implement the above recommendation, which includes :-

                        I.         Commissioning Hoople Limited to complete this work on behalf of the council as the IT support provider to the council

                       II.         Award of contract for the replacement hardware and ongoing support and maintenance following a compliant procurement process

The council could decide not to agree the replacement of the Data Storage Area Network. This option is not recommended as the security and hardware failure risks will increase over time. At some future point hardware parts and components will not be available to source.  Risk of security compromise will increase over time as cyber security threats and vulnerabilities for the aging technologies emerge.  Operational and support costs will increase as compatibility with other equipment and replacement component part availability reduces overtime (i.e. obsolescence).  The council will no longer be able to maintain the security posture and compliance certifications expected of a local authority.  Data may become at risk should component parts fail and not be able to be replaced due to the system obsolescence