Enterprise-Scale Technology Upgrade for Improved Security and Consistent Customer Experience

Key Takeaways

• Firewall upgrade at scale: 1,100+ stores transitioned to Palo Alto firewalls with SCM software
• Nationwide field services delivery: Technician dispatch, equipment pickup, on-site install, and returns executed with 99% SLA compliance
• End-to-end project management: Coordinated logistics, vendors, and scheduling across multiple stakeholders, on time and on budget

Challenge: One of the nation’s most recognized convenience and fuel retailers needed to modernize its store infrastructure to meet evolving security and network demands. Replacing legacy hardware with Palo Alto firewalls was a critical part of their digital transformation. But with over 1,100 store locations and multiple vendors involved, executing this upgrade required precision, consistency, and careful coordination.

Solution: Connext stepped in to manage the full lifecycle of the firewall replacement initiative. Our team handled site visits across the country, removing legacy hardware and installing next-gen Palo Alto firewalls with SCM software. Technicians picked up pre-staged equipment from the warehouse, completed the swap, and returned the old gear for disposal.

Behind the scenes, Connext project managers kept everything on track, managing dependencies, scheduling site visits, and ensuring smooth communication across the customer, technicians, and technology providers. Throughout the project, we built strong working relationships with all stakeholders, living out our value to develop lasting relationships that drive long-term success.

Results: Connext completed installations at over 1,100 sites, achieving 99% SLA compliance.

• The project remained on schedule and on budget,
• Reduced risk within their retail stores,
• Improved network performance, and
• Maintains a consistent and secure customer experience across all locations.