Softcat Helps Anglia Ruskin University Achieve Smarter Email Security
Project at a Glance
Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), one of the UK’s largest universities, needed to strengthen its email security across multiple campuses. Softcat acted as a strategic advisor, guiding ARU through the selection and deployment of Check Point Harmony Email & Collaboration (HEC). The seamless integration with Microsoft 365 and hands-on support from Softcat enabled ARU to enhance security, automate processes, and improve user experience without disruption.
Weeks extended proof of concept for rigorous testing
Challenge
ARU’s existing email security platform struggled to meet evolving threats like phishing and impersonation. The system lacked flexibility and was difficult to configure, making it hard to balance security with usability. As risks grew, ARU recognised the need to protect all users, including students - and sought a solution that integrated with Microsoft 365 while reducing IT workload.
Critical Success Factors:
1
Microsoft 365 Integration
Seamless integration with Microsoft 365 and support for ARU’s existing infrastructure.
2
Anti‑Phishing Protection
Advanced threat protection against phishing, spoofing and impersonation.
3
Automated IT Self‑Service
Automation and user self-service to reduce IT workload.
Solution
Softcat helped ARU explore the market, narrowing down options and introducing Check Point HEC: a cloud-integrated, AI-powered platform. Softcat coordinated technical support, extended the proof of concept, and negotiated commercial terms to fit ARU’s budget. The deployment was smooth, with no downtime, and the solution provided advanced threat detection, automation, and a unified self-service portal for users.
- AI-powered threat detection and behavioral analysis
- Unified self-service portal and daily digest for end users
- Automated email triage and restore requests to reduce IT workload
Results
Since implementing Check Point HEC, ARU has seen a marked improvement in email security. Support tickets have dropped, users experience less spam, and the platform is easier to manage. Self-service features empower users to release quarantined emails, reducing friction and boosting productivity. Automation has lowered the service desk workload by 10–15%, aligning with ARU’s broader strategy for digital trust and reliability.
- 10-15 percent reduction in IT support tickets related to email
- Improved user experience and reduced spam across the organization
- Enhanced security posture with fewer threats reaching end users
Softcat helped us narrow down the right vendors and gave us confidence in our decision-making. They took away time consuming work and let us focus on what mattered.
Kyle Strudwick
Head of User Infrastructure, - Anglia Ruskin University.