Our current wireless network provider is unable to support the demands and high density wireless requirements of our customers. As a result, Core Infrastructure has been engaging with world-class wireless vendors to find a solution.
After numerous discussions and a careful review of costs, quality, reliability and service, the team made the decision to switch from our current supplier, Fortinet/Meru, over to Aruba. Aruba is a wireless company, recently acquired by Hewlett Packard (HP), that has introduced a number of innovative wireless solutions to the market. It has a proven track record in high density wireless provision, both in the private sector (Levis 49ers Stadium, USA) and the public sector (Cambridge, York and Manchester universities).
The new University wireless system will be in place by 2019, and will provide our customers with a world-class, high quality wireless network service allowing us to compete with all universities on the international stage. This is a large project, supported by the University Executive Board (UEB) and sponsored by Professor Kathy Armour, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Education.
Below is a brief overview of what our team has achieved to date – and the next steps, mapped out in three phases:
The switch to Aruba
The switch from Fortinet/Meru to Aruba is already in progress. The back-end core network has been upgraded, wireless network switches have been replaced and the wireless authentication system has been moved over. These changes have improved both the new and current systems – increasing the speed and stability of connection.
During this period of transition, our team will continue to work closely with Fortinet/Meru to ensure there is no disruption.
Phase One: Proving the technology
Phase one involves testing the wireless technology in the Learning Centre and upgrading the service in a number of buildings on campus, as detailed below:
- Learning Centre: This vendor-led ‘proof of concept’ is now complete.
- Computer Science: The upgrade is now complete and signed off. The team is now waiting for more in-depth feedback.
- Collaborative Teaching Laboratory (CTL): Work has already begun in the Collaborative Teaching Laboratory.
- Library: Work is on track and will be complete before the start of term.
Phase Two: Building on the technology and lessons learned
Phase two builds on the technology and lessons learned from phase one, and will help our team to prioritise and upgrade the next ten most important buildings on campus – based on seat count and responses from the student survey. This is a large and labour intensive phase, but is currently on track for completion by Christmas 2017!
Phase Three: Transfer of all wireless access
During this final phase, the team will be working to transfer all University wireless access points onto the new system by 2019. Continued investment will be required in order to keep the service relevant and ahead of the curve.
Questions?
For further information about the Wireless Network Service, please contact Nick Foley – Head of Core Infrastructure.