Lehigh Working with IBM on Network Plan

Library and Technology Services has engaged IBM’s Global Services Division to assist in the planning and development of the next generation Lehigh University network. 

The end state, referred to as an “opportunity-ready” network, is characterized by the inclusion of technological enhancements that are just now on the horizon, and thus will be flexible enough to permit the addition of technologies that Lehigh may require in the future. 

The net result of this specification is that the infrastructure will support those network services that the campus needs today---bandwidth, access, and security----along with those projected to be required in the future as described by the over 30 faculty and staff who were interviewed during the process.

Major components of the plan will include reconstructing the network within many buildings on campus, starting with the research-intensive buildings, and building out wireless services to those areas of the campus currently underserved with wireless connectivity. 

While the plan incorporates a lot about cable, network equipment, and wireless devices, it also includes the adoption of best practices in security, network management, and access control. Finally, there will be early estimates about costs and approximate timelines for phasing in the upgraded network.

LTS will provide greater detail after the final report is released and reviewed, most likely sometime in January 2008.  

--Roy Gruver 

Article posted November 2007
 

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