Campus Data Network

In 1995, the project that would form the core of the campus data network was begun. Since the completion of this project, which brought 2,400 computers in 30 buildings on line, the network has grown in size, redundancy, and complexity.

The original backbone design focused on a switched network interconnected by an FDDI ring. The second-generation design incorporated three routers interconnected via 100 Mb fiber Ethernet links, and all new building networks were connected to these routers. Existing networks were also migrated to these routers, moving away from a Layer 2 switched topology to a Layer 3 (routed) one. In 2001, the backbone between the routers was upgraded to Gigabit Ethernet. The core equipment was replaced completely in 2004. Evaluations of next generation core equipment began in 2006, and core router replacement began in 2007.

Originally computers were attached to the campus backbone via 10 Mb Ethernet hubs; this meant that one user had to share 10 Mb of bandwidth with many other users. Today, the campus standard is 100 Mb switched Ethernet to the desktop, providing a full 100 Mb dedicated connection to the campus data network. In certain areas where traffic demands are greater, 1000 Mbps (Gigabit) connections are installed. MTSU has over 11,000 activated data ports, including over 3,500 in the residence halls and Greek Row.

MTSU has an extensive wireless network that covers most lounges, eateries, and classroom buildings. This network is constantly being upgraded and expanded. Most transmitters from the original network have been replaced to handle the 802.11g higher speed technology while making installation and management of the wireless network easier through new technology that allows for the access points to be centrally managed by specialized devices.  Since they operate as a collective instead of independently, advanced performance tuning and rogue detection is possible. As of the summer of 2008, this network included nearly 400 wireless transmitters.

The network extends beyond the campus boundaries to serve satellite sites with access comparable to being on the campus itself. This allows offices and organizations to remain virtually connected even when the physical location is miles away from the main campus.