Network infrastructure meets production workflows: NETGEAR adds NDI support
The AV-over-IP market is seeing a shift toward integrated support models as hardware manufacturers move beyond basic connectivity. NETGEAR has announced the expansion of its Professional Services program to include specialized workflow design, starting with NDI as its initial ecosystem partner. This move aims to bridge the gap between network layer stability and the specific requirements of video production environments.
New project-based services for NDI environments
According to netgear.com, the company is now offering design and optimization services specifically for AV-over-IP environments. These offerings are structured as project-based Professional Services, functioning independently from existing NETGEAR Premium Support tiers. The agreement enables the company to scope and sell these specialized services through its established two-tier channel.
Technical integration features for this program include:
- NDI-certified hardware across the NETGEAR switch lineup.
- Pre-configured software profiles specifically tuned for NDI traffic.
- Access to NDI training modules for integrators through the NETGEAR Academy.
- Direct technical influence via NETGEAR’s seat on the NDI Technical Advisory Board.
What this means for your deployment
For system integrators, this expansion solves the common problem of fragmented support. Previously, troubleshooting a video-over-IP issue often required coordinating between network hardware vendors and software protocol experts. By bringing NDI workflow expertise in-house, the manufacturer allows you to source infrastructure and production-layer optimization from a single point of contact. While NDI is the first partner, the program is designed to remain protocol neutral and will likely add more ecosystem partners in the future.
"For our customers, the scope now covers the NDI workflow as well, so the expertise for the network and the expertise for the production layer come from the same place."
— netgear.com
Buy now or wait?
If you are currently planning a large-scale NDI deployment, these services provide a safety net for complex configurations. However, smaller setups using pre-configured profiles may not require the additional cost of project-based consulting. You should consider these services if your project involves high-density traffic where network optimization is critical to preventing frame loss. Dante or SDVoE will be the next metric for the program's success.