The ADTRAN 3430 is a great all-around router for business needs. With its combination of high speeds, smart packet routing, and the ability to integrate your voice and data communications into a single hub, the 3430 is perfect for businesses looking to leverage the power of modern unified communications systems. However, you can't get the most from it unless you get it from the right place.
So, where should you buy the 3430? It's not as simple as it might seem.
One of the most important things to know about buying ADTRAN equipment is that they do not sell directly to the public. There's no wholesale unless you're already a distributor. Instead, you have to go through one of their “partner channels” to find a provider who fits your needs.
Luckily, if you live in the United States, ADTRAN has simplified this process somewhat by having a lookup page on their website that can direct you to dealers in your area. (Outside of the US, you have to contact them directly to ask.) This will get you started towards buying your new 3430.
However, there's still a lot more to it than that. For one thing, while there are certain advantages to going with a shop that's near to you, it's really not the necessity it once was. Providers with 24 hour tech support and remote-access capabilities can generally do nearly as good a job providing you support as someone who's local. Possibly even better, depending on their hours.
Price, of course, is another factor. Prices on the Netvanta 3430 can vary significantly from one vendor to the other, especially depending on which features come pre-installed. It's rare for a company to sell them at the MSRP. You'll want to do some comparison shopping and see whether you can get a better deal from a local firm, or from online networking specialists.
Otherwise, it mostly comes down to features. You want a networking provider who can:
Provide you quick service, whenever you need it.
Offer a wide selection of units, hopefully both new and refurbished, to best meet your budget.
Back up their products with a long-term warranty, ideally at least ten years so that you don't have to worry about equipment failing at just the wrong time.
Repair your networking equipment, if necessary, from a large stock of parts that can be sent to you ASAP.
Give advice on the best networking equipment for your unified telecommunications needs.
Be a partner in helping you build the best possible network, making yourself future-ready for the next generation in business communications.
Whoever you decide to use, definitely do some research beforehand. Since the ADTRAN 3430 isn't sold direct, that means you have to pick a vendor along with the equipment, and that adds a new layer of complexity to the choice.
If you take a little time to research and find the right partner, you'll be able to save time and money on every subsequent aspect of your new networking solutions.
UPDATE 2016: Adtran now offers this router in a few different versions, including SBC software. For more info, check out the specs here.