Buying & procurement
Replacing old network kit
When switches, access points, routers and firewalls reach the end of their support, here is what the DfE switching standard says about lifespan, where you can buy replacements, and how to deal with the old equipment.
On this page
At a glance
- The DfE switching standard asks for warranty and support, including firmware updates, for at least 5 years.
- It says to replace equipment that no longer gets firmware and security updates.
- Jisc’s network solutions framework covers network equipment, cabling, installation and managed services.
- Plan what happens to the old equipment — our sister site Green ITAD lists secure IT recycling companies.
When to replace
The DfE network switching core standard (guidance for schools and colleges in England) asks for warranty and support covering at least 5 years, including firmware updates, and says to replace equipment that no longer gets firmware and security updates. The standard also sets the specification to aim for when you do replace — see campus networks: Wi-Fi and switching.
The DfE leadership and governance standard asks for an asset register — a natural place to record when each item’s support ends.
Buying the replacements
Jisc’s network solutions framework covers wired and Wi-Fi equipment and services, from firewalls and access points to cabling, installation and managed services. It is included in FE and HE membership. Other routes are in buying through frameworks.
The old equipment
Decide early how old switches, routers, firewalls, access points and servers will be wiped and recycled, and who will provide evidence that it was done. Our sister site Green ITAD lists secure IT recycling and data-wiping companies.
Sources
Checked 25 October 2026. We wrote this guide from these sources, in our own words:
- DfE: Network switching core standard (gov.uk)
- DfE: Wireless network core standard (gov.uk)
- Jisc: Network solutions framework (jisc.ac.uk)
- DfE: Digital leadership and governance core standard (gov.uk)
Broadband for Education is an independent guide. It is not a broker or a supplier, and it is not owned by, or connected to, Jisc, any network provider, framework or government body. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.