Cloud Public Key Infrastructure and Network Security RFP

Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD) is seeking proposals for a cloud-based Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) and comprehensive network security enhancements to bolster their enterprise security framework. The project aims to replace their previous on-premises PKI setup, which was disrupted during the transition to cloud-managed devices during the pandemic. The desired solution must integrate seamlessly with existing Mobile Device Management (MDM) platforms to facilitate certificate deployment on end-user devices, supporting advanced authentication methods such as 802.1x, Certificate-Based Authentication Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), Dynamic VLAN segmentation, and EAP-TLS. Additionally, the solution should include a web-based management portal, a cloud-based RADIUS server, and support for portals that enable non-managed devices—such as staff Bring Your Own Device (BYOD), guests, and vendors—to securely register and connect to the network. The system must also accommodate non-managed IoT devices through the management portal, ensuring secure network access for a variety of device types. The primary objective of implementing this PKI service is to enhance enterprise-level security across CMSD’s network infrastructure, providing robust authentication and access controls that improve overall security posture and feature availability for users. The contract, posted as RFP-21427 on August 8, 2025, with a response deadline of September 5, 2025, is managed by the Ohio Division of Information Technology. The project budget ranges from $500,000 to $2,000,000, and interested vendors can find additional details and submit proposals through the designated procurement portal. The initiative underscores CMSD’s commitment to modernizing its network security architecture to support a secure, flexible, and scalable digital environment.