Major Network Infrastructure Modernization Completed at SELW
Technology Solutions has successfully completed a major network modernization project at the Science and Engineering Laboratories West (SELW) building. This initiative enhances connectivity and updates the building’s IT infrastructure to meet modern demands. It aims to improve network performance, increase capacity, and provide a more stable and efficient connection for students, faculty, and researchers.
The upgrades involved replacing outdated hardware, improving network speed, and expanding wireless coverage throughout the building.
Project Highlights
Over the past year, Technology Solutions has worked diligently to upgrade SELW’s network infrastructure, investing nearly 2,200 hours in technician time. Key improvements include:
- New Cabling Infrastructure: More than 1,000 feet of cable tray was installed, enhancing network infrastructure support while ensuring scalability for future building upgrades and modifications.
- Expanded Wireless Coverage: A total of 101 wireless access points were installed or upgraded, delivering the latest Wi-Fi technology with 2.5 gigabit speeds, up from 1 gigabit.
- Enhanced Network Connectivity: 16 new switches and 2 chassis were deployed, ensuring seamless connectivity for both wired and wireless networks. This upgrade has resulted in a 100x speed increase for some users.
- Data Connection Improvements: 70 new data locations were established, each with multiple data jacks. This upgrade replaced outdated wiring and eliminated the reliance on mini-switches in user labs, improving network reliability and performance.
- Increased Bandwidth: Upgraded network closet connections between floors now support 10 gigabit traffic, a tenfold increase in bandwidth for floor-to-floor connectivity.
- Improved Power Supply: Electrical capacity was expanded to accommodate the new network hardware, ensuring seamless and uninterrupted service.
Impact on the UIC Community
The network upgrades at SELW bring the building to the forefront of connectivity on campus. These improvements mean:
- Faster and More Reliable Internet: With expanded wireless coverage and upgraded network infrastructure, students and faculty can experience significantly improved connectivity across the building.
- Better Support for Research and Learning: High-speed, stable internet access supports data-intensive research.
- Future-Ready Infrastructure: The new installations match the network standards of newly constructed buildings like CDRLC, ensuring that SELW remains technologically advanced despite its 60-year-old structure.
A Collaborative Effort
This project was made possible through the dedication of multiple teams within Technology Solutions. Special thanks to:
- Network and Wireless Teams: Engineers and technicians who programmed, installed, and optimized the new network hardware.
- Infrastructure and Project Management Teams: Professionals who secured IT spaces, facilitated power upgrades, and coordinated with contractors.
- UIC Facilities and Stakeholders: Partners who provided critical access and ensured smooth execution throughout the project.
Looking Ahead
With the successful completion of this network modernization, SELW is now equipped with state-of-the-art technology, supporting the university’s commitment to digital innovation. These upgrades ensure that UIC students, faculty, and researchers can work, learn, and collaborate with ease.