Metropolitan State University of Denver has entered the second year of its three-year project to improve and modernize the University’s network infrastructure. After the successes of the first year, Information Technology Services would like to share some updates about the project’s results, as well as next steps.
Phase 1 Completion:
The Jordan Student Success Building and Central Classroom were successfully upgraded in Phase 1 last year, with around 300 new wireless access points installed in between the two buildings (and other equipment also was installed). The wireless experience in these buildings has measurably improved, eliciting resounding praise from students and faculty members. ITS will make similar improvements to the network experience in other buildings as the initiative progresses.
Phase 2
Phase 2 — PE Building:
As with Phase 1, the project team’s first take with Phase 2 was to determine which buildings would be prioritized in this round of upgrades, based on building occupancy, performance feedback, network complexity and the age and health of existing infrastructure. After review, the PE Building was selected as the first building to be upgraded in Phase 2. ITS has completed configuring the new devices to be installed in the building and will perform these installations Monday, March 20. Wired and wireless networks and phone service will be unavailable in this building during this time, so employees are encouraged to work remotely or from another building on campus. Network access is expected to be available on all floors the following day, but technicians will be in the building March 21-22 to test, tweak and correct any lingering issues related to the upgrade.
Phase 2 — Science Building:
The other building selected for upgrade in Phase 2 is the Science Building. Equipment has been received and is being configured for installation, which is scheduled for mid-May. Keeping the building’s cross-institutional use in mind, MSU Denver is collaborating with all Auraria Campus tenants to ensure clear communication and alignment throughout the upgrade process. The Science Building upgrade will require a longer implementation timeline, given its size and construction. More detailed information will be provided in a future update.
Phase 3 — Planning:
Phase 3 of the initiative is in planning stages; budget and building-selection conversations are ongoing. ITS hopes to have the necessary equipment ordered in June.
As a reminder, the Network Modernization Initiative 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 will 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.