Extreme Expands E-Rate Eligible Solutions to Include Extreme Platform ONE, Empowering K-12 to Uplevel Digital Learning and Scale IT Operations

Rhea-AI Summary

Extreme Networks (Nasdaq: EXTR) has announced new E-Rate eligible solutions for K-12 schools and public libraries in the U.S., including Extreme Platform ONE. This platform integrates networking, security, and AI solutions to reduce complexity for customers.

The E-Rate program provides funding for public K-12 schools and libraries to deploy networking solutions. Key offerings include: ExtremeCloud IQ for network problem identification, ExtremeCloud SD-WAN for optimized application performance, and ExtremeCloud Universal ZTNA for identity-based network access security.

The solution suite also features Wi-Fi 7 capabilities through the AP5020 access point, 4000 Series cloud-managed switches, and Extreme Fabric for unified network management. Extreme provides support through its E-Rate Resource Center, offering eligibility guidelines and tools to assist schools in the application process.

Positive

• Introduction of comprehensive E-Rate eligible solutions for educational institutions
• Integration of AI, networking, and security in a single platform reduces operational complexity
• Wi-Fi 7 capability supports high-bandwidth applications and IoT devices
• Cloud-managed switches offer faster setup time by eliminating manual configurations

Negative

• None.

Insights

Education Technology Analyst

The expansion of Extreme Networks' E-Rate eligible solutions portfolio, particularly the inclusion of Platform ONE, represents a calculated strategic move that could significantly strengthen the company's position in the $4.1 billion annual E-Rate program market. This development is particularly noteworthy for several reasons:

The integration of Platform ONE into the E-Rate program creates a compelling competitive advantage. While most vendors offer basic networking solutions, Extreme's comprehensive platform combining networking, security, and AI capabilities addresses the evolving needs of modern educational institutions. This integrated approach could potentially increase the average contract value per institution while reducing the total cost of ownership for schools.

The timing of this announcement is strategically significant as schools prepare for the upcoming E-Rate funding cycle. Educational institutions typically plan their technology investments around the E-Rate calendar, and Extreme's expanded portfolio positions them to capture a larger share of these decisions. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 7 capabilities and advanced security features like Universal ZTNA demonstrates forward-thinking product development that aligns with schools' long-term digital transformation needs.

From a business perspective, this expansion could create multiple revenue streams:

• Initial hardware sales through E-Rate funding
• Recurring revenue from ExtremeCloud IQ subscriptions
• Professional services for implementation and support
• Future upgrades and expansions as schools scale their digital initiatives

The market impact extends beyond immediate sales opportunities. By establishing a presence in K-12 institutions through E-Rate programs, Extreme Networks can build long-term relationships that could lead to additional non-E-Rate eligible purchases and create reference customers in the education sector. The comprehensive nature of Platform ONE could also reduce customer churn by increasing switching costs once institutions are invested in the ecosystem.

However, it's important to note that success in the E-Rate market requires efficient sales cycles and strong channel partnerships, as the program involves complex procurement processes and compliance requirements. Extreme's E-Rate Resource Center and eligibility lookup tool demonstrate their commitment to simplifying this process, which could accelerate adoption rates.

E-Rate eligible solutions from Extreme create foundation for digital and collaborative learning, help lower costs for K-12 customers

MORRISVILLE, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Extreme Networks, Inc. (Nasdaq: EXTR), a leader in AI-powered automation for networking, today announced new E-Rate eligible solutions for K-12 schools and public libraries in the U.S, including the company's Extreme Platform ONE™, a groundbreaking technology platform that reduces complexity for customers by seamlessly integrating networking, security and AI solutions. The E-Rate program gives public K-12 schools and libraries in the U.S. funding to deploy networking solutions that help improve operations and deliver better experiences for students and faculty.

As technology becomes more integral to classrooms and educational settings, small IT teams in public schools and libraries need an efficient way to provide reliable, secure network access without compromising performance. E-Rate eligible solutions from Extreme empower educators to provide a modern learning experience while seamlessly planning for future upgrades—without the need for additional staff.

E-Rate Eligible Solutions from Extreme and Key Benefits include:

• Extreme Platform ONE combines networking, AI and security and unifies workflows, services and data across domains, delivering customizable real-time information by persona for every team. Extreme Platform ONE offers conversational, interactive and autonomous AI agents to deliver efficiency in learning, planning, delivery, management, analysis and governance, allowing customers to flexibly adopt AI at their own pace.
• ExtremeCloud™ IQ enables IT teams to identify and resolve network problems before they impact student learning. ExtremeCloud IQ also works with third-party devices, so schools can easily modernize infrastructure without a full rip and replace.
• ExtremeCloud SD-WAN optimizes application performance and secure user access, no matter where users are located.
• ExtremeCloud Universal ZTNA is the industry's simplest and most complete identity-based network access solution. It is the first network security offering to integrate network, application and device access security within a single solution. Universal ZTNA is eligible through the Cybersecurity Pilot Program.
• Wi-Fi 7, Switching and Fabric: Eligible solutions include:
  • The AP5020, a Wi-Fi 7 Access Point designed to support high-bandwidth, latency-sensitive applications and IoT devices.
  • 4000 Series cloud-managed switches, which offer faster setup time by eliminating nearly all manual configurations, reducing the risk of manual error and dramatically reducing the time it takes to deploy and manage new switches.
  • Extreme Fabric, which unifies networks across multiple sites while increasing network security through micro-segmentation, enabling customers to separate network traffic and reduce the risk of a lateral attack.

Extreme offers expert support for all schools and libraries navigating the E-Rate application process through its E-Rate Resource Center, which includes eligibility guidelines, webinars, eBooks and other valuable resources. Extreme also offers an E-Rate eligibility lookup tool to help determine if a product is eligible by simply looking up the part number.

Executive Perspectives:

Christopher Escarsega, Network Administrator, Tornillo Independent School District
"Teachers want the students to have their devices all the time, and it puts a strain on the Wi-Fi. And it's not just student devices, but teacher devices, smart displays and TVs and applications, all hitting the network... Once we installed the [Extreme] APs... I did a speed test, and I was doubling or tripling what we were getting before. And that's going to make a difference; students will have better connectivity throughout the school."

Norman Rice, Chief Commercial Officer, Extreme Networks
"A robust, reliable network is transformative to both education and K-12 operations. By driving the convergence of AI, networking and security within a single application, Extreme Platform ONE will help schools maximize productivity and IT budgets while providing a solid foundation for next-generation digital learning. Extreme Platform ONE's rich automation will help teams scale with ease and accommodate the influx of new demands on the network and IT teams in a simple and more flexible way – cutting tasks from hours to minutes. Extreme also helps our customers navigate the E-Rate process by helping them identify the best solutions for their environment and guiding them through the process of eligibility, budget constraints and compliance."

Additional Resources

• Extreme Networks K-12 Solutions
• K-12 Customer Case Study: Tornillo Independent School District
• E-Rate Customer Webinar: Santa Maria Joint Union High School District

About Extreme Networks

Extreme Networks, Inc. (EXTR) is a leader in AI-driven cloud networking, focused on delivering simple and secure solutions that help businesses address challenges and enable connections among devices, applications, and users. We push the boundaries of technology, leveraging the powers of artificial intelligence, analytics, and automation. Tens of thousands of customers globally trust our AI-driven cloud networking solutions and industry-leading support to enable businesses to drive value, foster innovation, and overcome extreme challenges. For more information, visit Extreme's website at www.extremenetworks.com or follow us on LinkedIn, YouTube, X, Facebook or Instagram.

Extreme Networks, ExtremeCloud, Extreme Platform ONE, and the Extreme Networks logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Extreme Networks, Inc. in the United States and other countries. Other trademarks shown herein are the property of their respective owners.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250212118583/en/

Media Contact (US)

Blair Donald

(603) 952-5662

PR@extremenetworks.com

Source: Extreme Networks, Inc.

FAQ

What new E-Rate eligible solutions has Extreme Networks (EXTR) announced for K-12 schools?

Extreme Networks has announced Extreme Platform ONE, ExtremeCloud IQ, ExtremeCloud SD-WAN, Universal ZTNA, Wi-Fi 7 AP5020 access points, 4000 Series switches, and Extreme Fabric as E-Rate eligible solutions for K-12 schools and libraries.

How does Extreme Platform ONE benefit K-12 IT operations?

Extreme Platform ONE combines networking, AI, and security into a single platform, unifying workflows and data across domains while offering AI agents for efficient learning, planning, delivery, management, and governance.

What security features does EXTR's Universal ZTNA offer for schools?

Universal ZTNA is the first network security solution to integrate network, application, and device access security in a single solution, eligible through the Cybersecurity Pilot Program.

What support does Extreme Networks provide for E-Rate application process?

Extreme provides support through its E-Rate Resource Center, which includes eligibility guidelines, webinars, eBooks, and an E-Rate eligibility lookup tool for product verification.