Case Study: Transforming IT Infrastructure for Growth – A Fitted Bathrooms Business Overcomes PCI Compliance Challenges with InfraZen Ltd.

Client Overview

A North East-based fitted bathrooms business, Cascade Interiors Ltd, faced a critical moment when they failed a Barclaycard PCI security audit. With just four days to rectify the issues or risk losing the ability to process financial transactions, the business needed expert help fast. They also had an ambitious plan to launch a new sales processing system over the weekend, but their aging networking infrastructure wasn’t ready. Enter InfraZen Ltd, recommended by a mutual acquaintance of the CEO, Jeff.

Challenges

The immediate priorities included:

 

1. 1. Achieving PCI Compliance: The audit revealed serious vulnerabilities, including weak passwords, outdated routers, and encryption protocols.

1. 1. Preparing Network Infrastructure for New Systems: The business’s vision of scaling hinged on a robust, modernized IT foundation to support the new sales processing system.

1. 1. Short Timeline and Limited Resources: With only four days to address PCI compliance and a ticking clock on their system launch, time was of the essence.

Compounding the urgency, there were indications that the business’s network might already have been compromised by hackers, further emphasizing the need for immediate and strategic intervention.

Solution

InfraZen Ltd took a systematic approach to tackle the challenges:

 

1. 1. PCI Compliance Remediation:
      

       

      • • Conducted a thorough review of the network to address audit findings.
      • • Strengthened password policies and implemented secure credentials.
      • • Secured the network by configuring existing routers to the highest available encryption protocols.

1. 1. Strategic Communication:
      

       

      • • Provided Jeff with clear, honest updates, managing expectations while emphasizing achievable outcomes.
      • • Outlined a phased plan, prioritizing PCI compliance to ensure uninterrupted business operations.

1. 1. Network Infrastructure Upgrade Plan:
      

       

      • • Recommended replacing outdated routers with modern equipment to enable secure, scalable operations.
      • • Highlighted vulnerabilities that required immediate attention and laid the groundwork for future improvements.

1. 1. Delayed System Launch – A New Opportunity:
      

       

      • • Collaborated with the client to adjust timelines, ensuring the new sales processing system could launch successfully after the infrastructure was upgraded.

Results

By the end of the initial engagement, InfraZen Ltd had:

 

• • Secured the network to meet PCI compliance standards within the four-day deadline, allowing the business to continue processing payments without interruption.

• • Delivered a clear roadmap for upgrading the networking infrastructure, critical for supporting future growth.

• • Built trust with Jeff and his team through transparent communication and expert advice.

Over the following week, InfraZen Ltd turned its focus to preparing the infrastructure for the sales system launch. By replacing antiquated routers and modernizing the network, the business was able to introduce the new sales processing system successfully, creating a foundation for future scalability.

Client Impact

The business achieved:

 

• • Operational Continuity: Payment processing resumed without disruptions, safeguarding cash flow.

• • Enhanced Security: Immediate vulnerabilities were addressed, and a long-term security strategy was implemented.

• • Scalability: The new sales system went live seamlessly, enabling the business to manage increased demand and scale operations.

Testimonial

“When we failed our PCI audit, I felt like the walls were closing in. InfraZen not only helped us fix the immediate issues but also guided us through a longer-term plan to modernize our IT systems. Their expertise and calm, clear communication turned a crisis into an opportunity for growth.” – Jeff, CEO

Conclusion

This case underscores the importance of aligning IT infrastructure with business goals. InfraZen Ltd’s strategic intervention enabled the fitted bathrooms business to overcome compliance and operational challenges, paving the way for sustainable growth. Whether facing a cybersecurity crisis or planning for the future, InfraZen’s expertise ensures businesses can thrive in today’s digital landscape.