Network Infrastructure Modernization

Overview

The campus network infrastructure is getting a major technology upgrade. End-of-support equipment (745 network switches and 3,400+ wireless access points) will be replaced by the Juniper Mist artificial intelligence platform, which uses self-healing technology to automatically detect and resolve WiFi issues.

With students, faculty, and staff connecting multiple devices daily, the current system is under increasing demand. Modernizing the network infrastructure is necessary to deliver fast, reliable, and secure connectivity across campus, while providing the flexibility to expand coverage for the evolving needs of a digitally connected campus.

Planned Improvements

Access

  • Robust campus-wide connectivity is necessary for inter-institutional collaboration, online course delivery, dual credit opportunities, lifelong learning, and increased remote options for rural and non-traditional students

Student success & closing achievement gap

  • Increased network uptime and enable proactive issue resolution, ensuring uninterrupted access to online classes, research tools, academic resources, and support services

Workforce

  • New system lowers the barrier for workforce preparation by simplifying network management, enabling hands-on experience in modern infrastructure, and supporting instruction in real-world settings

Research

  • Upgraded infrastructure will better support compliance requirements and improve the university’s ability to provision customized, secure environments for advanced research activities

Project Timeline*

  • Classroom buildings (wireless access point replacements) | Summer 2025
  • Classroom buildings (network switch replacements) | Fall 2025
  • Administrative areas serving students | Fall 2025
  • Other administrative areas | Fall 2025
  • Special areas requiring contractors (high ceilings, etc.) | Summer/Fall 2025
  • Outdoor wireless | Summer/Fall 2025

*Subject to change. Updates will be posted here.

What to Expect

Network outages

Two network outages are planned. One to replace the network switches and another to replace the wireless access points. These outages will occur at different times to minimize disruptions.

  • Outage 1: Wireless Access Point Replacements
    Expect a 5-minute WiFi outage in each area while wireless access points are replaced. Users may experience temporary connection drops and reconnections when moving between upgraded areas and those still on the old network.
  • Outage 2: Network Switch Replacements
    The time to replace switches will vary based on location. During that time, wired and wireless network services will be unavailable in that area.

Alternative work arrangements (if necessary)

Since some outages will happen during weekday business hours, consider working in another building, reserving a hoteling office space, or working remotely. Check with your supervisor about your work arrangement options.

Communications

We’ll send communications to building occupants impacted by the network outages in their areas. If you’d like real-time updates about these outages, check the IT Status Page during this network infrastructure modernization project.

Frequently Asked Questions

These network outages are scheduled during business hours to ensure immediate support is available. This allows our IT Help Desk and technical teams to quickly address any unexpected issues or questions that may come up during the process. It’s the best way to minimize extended downtime and maintain service reliability as upgrades are completed.

Until all buildings are upgraded to the new system, WiFi connectivity may not be optimal. We’ll let you know when the work is completed. Once all buildings are on the new system, you should have a seamless WiFi experience as you move across campus. If problems persist after the upgrade, please contact the IT Help Desk.

Please restart your devices after the switches are replaced or turn them off prior to the replacement.

Contacts

Technical Assistance

Project Lead
Matt Kole - Associate Director of Network Development & Engineering

Project Sponsor
Kivanc Oner, Vice President for Digital Transformation & Chief Information Officer