RocNet Supply scales from Macedon hub to global markets

RocNet Supply, a provider of network equipment and services, continues to expand its footprint in the telecommunications and network infrastructure space through organic growth and strategic partnerships. 

Founded in 2014 by Mike Baker and Peter Wells, RocNet launched from a dining room table with a mission to help small broadband operators build cost-effective networks.  

The founders identified a gap in the market for affordable, high-quality networking equipment—particularly used and certified pre-owned solutions—and moved quickly to fill it. 

“We saw a need in the marketplace and acted,” said Baker, whose background in sales complements Wells’ experience in business operations. 

In its first year, the company supported more than 30 independent multiple system operators in upgrading their networks using used and certified pre-owned equipment. 

Today, RocNet supplies new, used and certified pre-owned networking equipment to broadband, fiber and network infrastructure organizations, helping customers save 80–90% off manufacturer list prices, reduce maintenance costs and avoid long lead times from original equipment manufacturers.  

Beyond equipment sales, the company offers consulting, engineering, asset recovery and customized asset management services. 

The 35-person business has grown organically to serve a broad range of industries, including telecommunications, data centers, manufacturing, higher education, municipalities, health care and financial institutions.  

A pivotal shift came in 2021 when RocNet transitioned from a traditional equipment reseller into the open networking space—a move that broadened its value proposition as carriers and data center operators increasingly adopt disaggregated systems to reduce total cost of ownership and increase flexibility. 

Two years later, the company partnered with IP Infusion, a provider of disaggregated networking software for carriers and service providers. The relationship expanded RocNet’s reach into software-defined networking and strengthened its ability to deliver fully integrated open networking solutions. 

Last year, RocNet announced a strategic partnership with Celestica, a global provider of design, manufacturing and supply chain solutions.  

Under the agreement, RocNet serves as an authorized channel partner for Celestica’s advanced network hardware products, expanding access to high-performance networking solutions for broadband providers across North America and internationally. 

Together, the companies aim to support the industry’s shift toward open networking and software-defined architectures designed to reduce total cost of ownership while improving performance. 

“RocNet’s deep expertise in network infrastructure and strong customer relationships make them a valuable addition to our partner ecosystem,” said Devann Garner, sales leader for portfolio solutions at Celestica. “Their commitment to delivering high-quality solutions aligns with our goal of bringing scalable, innovative networking and storage technologies to market.” 

RocNet operates from a 42,000-square-foot headquarters in Macedon, where it has been based since 2018, and a 56,000-square-foot facility in Reno, Nevada, opened in 2021.  

Both locations include test labs that allow customers to evaluate equipment performance, interoperability and capacity limits before deployment. While most employees are based in New York, sales and engineering staff are distributed across the U.S., Canada and Argentina. 

Looking ahead, Baker said the company is navigating industry headwinds that include tariff uncertainty and a global RAM shortage fueled by surging demand for AI data center infrastructure.

Despite pricing pressures across consumer electronics and server markets, RocNet expects continued growth through new customer acquisition and deeper engagement with existing clients. 

Opportunities remain strong in data center expansion tied to artificial intelligence, as well as rural broadband deployment supported by federal funding and private investment. 

Even as it scales nationally and internationally, RocNet remains active in the community.

The business supports several local organizations, including David’s Refuge, a nonprofit that provides respite, resources and support to caregivers of children with special needs or life-threatening medical conditions. RocNet was the title sponsor for a recent event supporting the nonprofit. 

While the majority of RocNet customers are located outside of the region, Baker is committed to supporting the local economy and causes.  

“It’s important for us to be engaged with the local community,” he said.  

[email protected] / (585) 653-4021