Metropolitan State University of Denver’s Network Modernization Initiative, which will improve and modernize the University’s network infrastructure and users’ wireless experience, is preparing to move into Phase III, beginning with improvements to the Plaza Building, including the Health Center at Auraria.
Phase III schedule:
- Plaza Building/Health Center (Dec. 16-19)
- Administration Building (March)
- West Classroom Building (July/August)
The upgrade has been planned specifically to minimize downtime for the Health Center at Auraria, which should be closed Dec. 16-17 before resuming operations Dec. 18.
All other areas of the Plaza Building will be without network access for the duration of the installation period, resuming full operations Dec. 20.
The Health Center at Auraria’s 24/7 mental-health and victim-assistance crisis line (303-615-9911 or text TALK to 38255) will remain operational for the entire installation period.
Project benefits
The project will improve MSU Denver’s network environment by addressing issues with deferred maintenance and outdated network infrastructure. This project will replace edge/access and distribution-layer switches and wireless access points and provide redundant network paths between campus buildings. These improvements will provide a more robust and stable network environment capable of supporting the University’s evolving needs in a scalable and secure manner.
Progress made in Phases I and II
The first phase of the three-year initiative was completed in 2022, with upgrades to the Central Classroom Building last November and the Jordan Student Success Building in December. The second phase was completed this year and included the PE/Events Centerin March and the Science Building in August. The wireless experience in these buildings has measurably improved, receiving resounding praise from both students and faculty members. Information Technology Services looks forward to making similar improvements to the network experience in other buildings as the initiative progresses.
A thank-you to campus partners
While every building upgrade required ongoing communication and collaboration with various Auraria Campus tenants, the Science Building upgrade in particular required clear communication and project alignment among the various stakeholders. ITS would like to thank all collaborators across the University of Colorado Denver, Community College of Denver, the Auraria Higher Education Center and within the University for their continued cooperation.