Empowering Connectivity: CU Denver Wireless Up Project Success Story
May 2, 2024
In today's digital age, connectivity is the lifeblood of academic institutions, enabling seamless collaboration, research, and learning experiences. Recognizing the escalating demand for robust wireless infrastructure, the University of Colorado Denver embarked on a transformative journey with the CU Denver Wireless Up project. Led by project manager Desiree Shroyer and senior network wireless engineer Clark Moore, this initiative aimed to fortify the Auraria campus's wireless network to accommodate the burgeoning influx of devices and pave the way for future technological advancements.
The project was driven by a clear imperative: to enhance internet bandwidth and access for faculty, students, and staff amidst the proliferation of wireless devices on campus. The adoption of the latest wireless access point standard, IEEE 802.11ax, promised faster speeds, improved coverage, enhanced security, and increased capacity, fostering a superior web experience for all users.
Initially slated for installation in 7 CU Denver buildings during the summer semester of 2023, the project encountered unforeseen setbacks that necessitated agile adaptation. Undeterred by challenges, the project team demonstrated remarkable flexibility and resourcefulness, pivoting to a revised implementation strategy. Leveraging their expertise, they recalibrated the project plan to focus on building-by-building upgrades while awaiting funding for essential cable and electrical work.
Despite the adjustments, the team's collaborative efforts remained unwavering. Close collaboration with project vendors, including Lumen Technologies, NNSI, and AHEC, ensured seamless coordination and timely execution. Over an 11-month period, the project team successfully completed upgrades in 11 CU Denver buildings, surpassing the initial scope and delivering tangible benefits to the campus community.
The project's resilience and adaptability proved pivotal in overcoming obstacles and achieving its objectives. Despite setbacks, the CU Denver Wireless Up project yielded significant dividends, enabling the upgrade of five additional buildings beyond the original plan. The result? A vastly improved wireless network that empowers students, staff, and faculty with enhanced connectivity, paving the way for collaborative research, innovative learning experiences, and future technological advancements.
As CU Denver continues its mission of academic excellence and technological innovation, the success of the Wireless Up project serves as a testament to the university's commitment to providing cutting-edge infrastructure and fostering a conducive environment for learning and discovery.
