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