Lincoln University of Missouri

http://www.lincolnu.edu

Voice Data and Wireless Network Project

In 2006, Lincoln University has taken huge steps towards improving student access and services and communications by installing a state of the art telecommunications, data and wireless network on campus. This was completed in the following phases:

Phase 1: Network Structure upgrade COMPLETE!

The entire LU network structure was overhauled with an Alcatel solution, Why?

•To ensure quality of service in preparing for Voice over IP.
•Add ability of gigabit speeds on internal network.
•Network Security layers added:
- 756 security events in first five hours of deployment of first layer… this is BEFORE students returned to campus.
- –OIT will initiate a campaign in the Fall to educate the campus, including students, about “best practices”.
- –The challenge is to find the balance between “Access and Security”

Phase 2 : Campuswide wireless deployment; 75% Complete.

Lincoln deployed the first phase of the wireless plan by installing a wireless network in Page Library, Scruggs Union and Founders Hall in Summer of 2006.

As of December of 2006, Lincoln is finishing up campuswide deployment of the wireless network. Why?

Students expect it.
This will allow experimentation of teaching and learning outside the classroom.

Some reminders...

It was smart to deploy wireless in phases because LU must ensure network security is implemented correctly.
Wireless is a shared network, the bandwidth of the wireless network is sliced and diced by the number of users on it.
For more information about the wireless network, click on the following link:

http://w3.lincolnu.edu/~securebt/wireless.htm

Phase 3: Telephone System replacement COMPLETE!

The entire telecommunications system was replaced with an Alcatel solution, –Why?

To improve services by:

Providing a robust, stable telecommunications platform.
Provide a better set of features including voicemail system, telephone directory and speaker phones.
To utilize the fast, new network by rolling out Voice Over IP phones in most administrative and faculty offices.
To better document and support the telecommunications needs of this campus.

For more information on the telecommunications system, click on the following link:

http://www.lincolnu.edu/pages/195.asp