IT has worked diligently this summer to update network infrastructure across campus. With these updates, IT hopes for a more efficient digital experience for all Cardinals. These modern solutions and updates will ensure a more efficient experience for years to come.  

Core/Wired Network Infrastructure 

  • IT has worked to replace six inefficient routers handling core infrastructure connections for campus buildings on campus. These devices have been replaced with routers that are much faster, supporting connections up to 400Gbps (gigabits per second) and can be used for the next 8–10 years. 
  • Likewise, four firewalls that protect Ball State from Internet and internal client threats have been replaced. These firewalls have triple the capacity of outgoing firewalls and support up to 25Gbps links. These can be used for the next 7-10 years. 
  • All core infrastructure links will be upgraded from 10Gbps to 25Gbps.  
  • As needed in the future, most major buildings on campus will be upgraded to dual 25Gbps links as well. 
  • Routers in 11 major academic and administrative buildings have been upgraded for faster connectivity. 
  • All buildings on campus are now using 802.1X security on wired switch ports. This helps prevent attackers from inside the network, or with physical access to Ball State infrastructure from being able to compromise the system. 

 

Wireless Updates 

  • Across campus, 100+ access points, or APs, have been added. This expands network abilities and creates a better connection experience for faculty, staff, and students. Specific locations are as followed:  
  • In the Arts and Journalism (AJ) building, 40 Wi-Fi APs have been added to locations including The Atrium, studios, classrooms, and labs. 
  • In Music Instruction (MI), 28 APs have been added throughout the building for increased coverage and capacity, including in Sursa Hall. 
  • In West Quad (WQ), 23 APs have been added for improved coverage in classrooms and offices. 
  • In the Football Training facility (FT), 12 APs have been added to dramatically improve coverage. 
  • In Burris (BU), 8 APs have been added to improve coverage and capacity in classrooms.  
  • In the Police Station, 4 APs have been added to improve coverage.  
  • In the lower level of the Schueman Stadium (ST), 4 APs have been added to improve coverage. 
  • Not only have 3 APs been added for additional capacity in the seating areas, but all the APs in North Dining (ND) have been upgraded to our latest Wi-Fi 6E models. 
  • Other coverage enhancements are in the works for areas of BB, BL, PH, RB, SC, and TC.  

In addition to the dramatic changes in network infrastructure, IT has integrated 95% of fax lines into the Imagicle eFax Solution software.  

And finally, as Jabber usage for phone calls continues to decrease in usage, IT is planning to completely phase out the program this fall semester, replacing it with WebEx entirely.  

The updates IT has pushed out this summer have developed and dramatically improved the digital experience here at Ball State. With more technological advancements, more updates are to come!