Why converge
Running every IP system over separate switches and cabling multiplies comms room space, power and maintenance. A converged backbone shares the core, distribution and cabling while keeping systems logically separate.
Segment everything
Each system gets its own virtual network and security policy. Cameras should not be able to reach the guest network, and the guest network should reach nothing but the internet. Firewall rules between segments are designed, documented and tested.
Plan PoE and power
Cameras, access points, intercoms and some locks gateways are powered from the switch. Calculate the PoE budget per switch with margin, and put critical switches on UPS.
Design for failure
Security and life-safety traffic needs redundant uplinks and a resilient core. Decide which systems must keep working when a switch or link fails, and design around them.
Agree who owns it
A converged network needs one owner for configuration, changes and monitoring. Agree this before handover, along with the maintenance contract and the documentation the owner will receive.