Upgrade Plan

Project Overview

OIT is currently in the process of replacing all existing diverse and aging wireless hardware on the University Twin Cities campus with state of the art technology to create a new, centrally managed network. The upgrade began in the summer of 2008 and is scheduled to be completed by July 2010.  The Twin Cities on and off campus buildings are complete, as are the Rochester Campus and Extension Services remote sites. Private networks are next on the schedule to be converted beginning Fall 2009.

Upgrade Objectives

The primary objective of the wireless upgrade project is to provide seamless, fast, flexible, and secure wireless access everywhere on campus. In addition, the service would be manageable, expandable, and scalable to accommodate campus wide coverage in the future.

In Scope

• Replace all existing Access Points
• Add control and monitoring hardware and software to network core locations and data centers
• Install infrastructure necessary to accommodate greater AP density and WLAN control switches for future expansion
• Addition of conduit or power when necessary, however most modern APs can be Powered over Ethernet (PoE)
• Include Private wireless networks to provide a centrally managed "University Wireless System"

Out of Scope

• Cell Phone Signal Propagation
• Frequency Ranges outside of 2.4 and 5 gigahertz
• Fire alarms, thermostats, cordless phones, paging system, etc.
• Building Automation
• Life Safety Systems
• Coordinate Campuses
• Outdoor locations
• Development of partnerships with Minneapolis and St. Paul city wireless initiatives