Network Connectivity - University of Houston
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University Information Technology

Strategic Priorities

Network Connectivity

OVERVIEW

Ubiquitous connectivity is paramount for today’s universities. Network services are critical in enabling the delivery of course content, allowing researchers to collaborate locally and worldwide, and enabling other core services such as mobile technologies and unified communications. The University of Houston is a leader in initiatives to achieve it. UH was recently recognized at the 2024 nationwide HPE conference for its exemplary accomplishments in using the latest technology to address today’s needs and to be positioned to meet those of the future.

We have moved toward a homogeneous networking environment that allows better management and provides more capacity to support emerging needs. Wi-Fi infrastructure now covers more spaces and has greater redundancy to maintain 99.9% availability. We upgraded Wi-Fi in all classrooms to support post-pandemic needs such as hybrid classrooms and multimodal teaching that generate more network traffic.

Equally important was the need to continue improving network security. To protect critical network infrastructure from the risks that come from connecting thousands of outside laptops, tablets and phones, we put in place network policies and implemented an access management tool. We also standardized the way we design IT facilities and control access to them throughout the UH System.

network connectivity
  • 90,000+ unique devices connected to the Wi-Fi network daily (peak days)
  • 47,000+ simultaneous users during peak times
  • 2,000+ access switches
  • 110+ building routers
  • 10 core routers
  • 78 Wi-Fi testing Cape Sensors in 60+ buildings

 

network connectivity team

CURRENT STATE

  • Completed the NextGen Wi-Fi initiative, more than doubling the number of controllers to increase redundancy.
  • We continue increasing Wi-Fi coverage across campus and remote locations. We installed over 1,500 WAPs during the last five years. As of today, we have 6,600 access points in our Wi-Fi network.
  • Upgraded the legacy core network infrastructure to 100Gb HPE (Hewlett Packard Enterprise) routers and replaced 60% of the legacy access switches for wired connectivity to Gigabit switches.
  • During the last three years, we continued supporting the UH campus expansion by implementing network services in new buildings and renovations including the Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine, UH Law Center, ACES, Hilton expansion, and the Retail Auxiliary and Dining (RAD) Center.

PATH TO SUCCESS

  • During the next five years, replace the remaining 40% of aging access network switches that support security cameras and wired connectivity.
  • Upgrade remote locations to the cloud Aruba Central environment to take advantage of AI-powered tools that will provide advanced network analytics.
  • Engineer our Wi-Fi network to continue supporting network growth brought by expansion and capital projects and implement emerging technologies such as Wi-Fi 7 in high-density buildings.

FY2025 INITIATIVES

  • Implement cloud Wi-Fi management tools for UH Sugar Land and UH Katy locations.
  • Continue upgrading the inter- and intra-building fiber connectivity to improve performance reliability in support of critical university services.
  • Continue implementing the 5-year Wi-Fi roadmap. Upgrade the Wi-Fi network in MDA Library, Cougar Village, Melcher Hall, Classroom and Business Building, and Science and Engineering Classroom building.