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Project: Next Generation Network (NGN)

A Change Long Overdue

After ten years of stretching our original network equipment to the outer limits of its capacity, the UC Merced OIT Department is excited to bring the Next Generation Network (NGN) here to campus, preparing for the continuing influx of students, business, and research needs anticipated with the 2020 Project.

Outdated and aging equipment such as routers, switches, and wireless access points will be updated and replaced with more powerful current and emerging components. This exciting undertaking will substantially increase the accessibility, speed, and reliability of the campus network, improving not only the efficiency and uptime of essential data systems used for research, teaching, and learning, but also the quality of daily network based activities such as campus business and mobile device use.

More Speed and Security

  • Upgrade of the campus core network to 40Gbps, as well as augmenting the campuses external connectivity to 10Gbps.
  • Upgrade of the campus firewall and intrusion detection system to support increased network capacity.
  • Development and deployment of a “Science DMZ,” with a dedicated, high-capacity portion of the network designed specifically to meet research needs.
  • Refresh of the wired and wireless network infrastructure throughout the campus, improving connectivity in every building.
  • Upgrade of the Residence Hall network from 1Gbps to 10Gbps, with a direct connection to the campus’ Internet Service Provider.

First Steps of Many

While the initial steps of this project began in November of 2014, the scope is vast, and work will span a period of 12-18 months. Although users may not see a jump in speed immediately, the increase in service capability will be ongoing throughout the process. IT looks forward to providing updates as the implementation progresses.

Multiple WiFi Networks for Redundancy

There will be both physical and digital components to the process. New equipment must be purchased and installed, and extensive testing done before any of the current equipment can be decommissioned. During construction, systems will be in place to allow for parallel network coverage. This best ensures minimum impact to business and research as the work is done.

OIT will work with campus leaders to keep communications open on any issues, and to inform them of planned maintenance windows while testing and implementation is occurring.