wireless network developments for cics user group june 2010
DESCRIPTION
Mark Franklin presentationTRANSCRIPT
Wireless Network Developments
Mark FranklinVoice & Data Support Manager - CiCS
Wireless – Our Position 2010
• Over 300 Access Points• Quite a lot but fewer than many universities– Some Russell Group have 1,000+
• No expansion strategy or central funding– Projects paid for them– Depts paid for them
• Core wireless network restricting development
Wireless – Our Position 2010
• Three services – eduroam, Unishef, guest• Only supported 802.11 b/g• Encountering problems with high density of
users – esp IC, St George’s Library• Management and usage info quite poor• ‘Thick’ rather than ‘Thin’ access points
Wireless – Moving Forward
• Core upgrade and accelerated roll-out 2009-11• Better, faster, more capable access points– ‘Thin’ rather than ‘Thick”
• Aiming for extra 200 (in addition to projects)– In consultation with Faculties etc
• Upgrade existing access points for new system– Protecting investment
• Improved installs/manageability• Better local signing
Wireless – Moving Forward
• Unishef will disappear– Support provided for those affected
• Possibility that wireless password will be LDAP and not RATS
• 802.11n available in some areas
• Wireless still remains a complimentary layer over wired network – for now!
Wireless – Longer Term Benefits
• Potential power savings– Fewer outlets, less network kit
• Portable devices come to the fore– More flexible use of services and space
• More info: www.shef.ac.uk/cics/wireless