Network Conversion to CSSD Support

September 09, 2009

We are in the midst of converting the building from a network that predates much of the University networking infrastructure and was locally installed and managed to meet our specific needs to one that is fully supported by CSSD and conformant with current University standards.

Mark Steggert, in collaboration with CSSD technical staff, has pursued an incremental, methodical approach to the conversion, isolating a target network segment (typically a room or lab), and migrating the machines in that area over to the CSSD network. His goal has been to effect a smooth transition with minimum impact (e.g., downtime) for the faculty members and students involved. Once the machines are operational in the new network environment, that portion of the older SIS network that supported them is decommissioned. As with any system & service transition, there have been many related issues to address, not the least of which is coordinating with each faculty member or graduate student to move their services to the new network and verify that they return to full functionality.

Progress has been slower than either I or CSSD would have preferred, but we do seem to be avoiding major disruptions of service throughout the building. As of this time, all machines on the 2nd and 4th floors are on the CSSD network. Martin Weiss is monitoring the project and coordinating it with CSSD management.

The way CSSD has structured the project, the installation of wireless service in the building will follow completion of work on the wired network. This means that it is unlikely that wireless service will be available in the building before the start of the spring term.