AF&W’s transformation with Virtual IT Group
Virtual IT Group helped Australian Fibre and Wireless (AF&W) fast-track compliance and secure top telecommunications contracts through a complete cybersecurity uplift. From CyberGRX certification to Microsoft 365 migration and 24/7 managed security, AF&W now operates with enterprise-grade protection and confidence.
Outcomes Snapshot
| What | Scope | When | Where | Result |
| CyberGRX certification | Full setup, management, and recertification | Completed | National | Compliance achieved ahead of deadline |
| Microsoft 365 migration | Migration from Google Workspace to Microsoft 365 | Completed | All offices | Secure collaboration and onshore data storage |
| Managed Security | Continuous monitoring, testing, and reporting | Ongoing | Remote and onsite | Rapid response and reduced downtime |
| Device management | BYOD security across field teams | Ongoing | Regional sites | Safe mobile access for 30+ staff |
| 24/7 IT support | Help desk and escalation coverage | Ongoing | National | Issues resolved in hours, not days |
Understanding AF&W’s challenge
AF&W plays a key role in Australia’s telecommunications infrastructure sector, constructing and managing projects for major organisations including Telstra, Optus, Vodafone, and TPG.
To retain their high-value contracts, AF&W needed to meet strict security obligations under CyberGRX, ensuring their systems and processes matched enterprise-level cybersecurity benchmarks.
AF&W’s Operations Manager Darren Snell explains:
“We were about six to eight months into the engagement with another provider, and nothing seemed to be happening. Once it was built, we’d still have to manage it ourselves.”
Partnering for proactive cybersecurity
After evaluating multiple providers, AF&W partnered with Virtual IT Group to fast-track CyberGRX implementation and manage their IT environment end-to-end.
“Very quickly we got the sense that the Virtual IT Group team knows what they’re doing. They weren’t just quoting prices — they were finding out what we needed,” says Darren.
AF&W selected Virtual IT Group for their depth of expertise, proactive service model, and ability to manage everything ongoingly.
Integrated cybersecurity and IT modernisation
CyberGRX implementation
Virtual IT Group configured and now manages AF&W’s CyberGRX certification, including annual reviews, reporting, and process improvements to maintain compliance and readiness for audits.
Microsoft 365 migration
AF&W transitioned from Google Workspace to Microsoft 365 for better security, compliance, and alignment with client data-handling policies. Virtual IT Group oversaw the migration, ensuring a seamless and disruption-free changeover.
Managed security and device management
Virtual IT Group’s managed security services cover all endpoints and personal devices used by field teams, ensuring visibility and control without restricting productivity.
24/7 monitoring and support
AF&W now receives continuous monitoring, threat mitigation, and access to Virtual IT Group’s 24/7 service desk.
“If something goes wrong, we just ring or email them and it’s handled within hours,” says Darren.
Results and business impact
- Contract readiness: AF&W now meets all telco cybersecurity requirements and is positioned to win more contracts.
- Increased uptime: Fast issue resolution and minimal disruption across distributed teams.
- Improved security posture: Endpoint and BYOD risk reduced through proactive device management.
- Operational efficiency: Less admin burden on management, freeing time for project delivery.
- Trusted partnership: AF&W now recommends Virtual IT Group to their clients and competitors.
“Virtual IT Group go above and beyond. They’re collaborative and everything just gels. I’ve even recommended them to Telstra.”
– Darren Snell, Operations Manager, AF&W
Frequently asked questions
What is CyberGRX and why is it important?
It’s a third-party risk assessment framework that helps suppliers demonstrate cybersecurity compliance to enterprise clients.
How long does certification take?
Depending on complexity, implementation and certification can take between 4–8 weeks.
Why migrate from Google Workspace to Microsoft 365?
Microsoft 365 offers stronger data governance, local hosting, and deeper security integration for managed IT services.
Can BYOD devices be secured without limiting staff access?
Yes. Endpoint management tools allow full visibility while maintaining usability.
How do managed security services reduce risk?
They provide continuous monitoring, threat detection, and immediate remediation to prevent downtime.
What ongoing support does Virtual IT Group provide?
24/7 service desk access, incident management, and annual recertification to maintain compliance.
Get in touch today to learn how Virtual IT Group can help your business.
