Immediately following the spring semester of 2022, the Information Technology (IT) staff at Union University switched the on-campus WiFi for the first time in over a decade from UU_Wireless to the UU_Secure and UU_Resnet networks.
The change was primarily due to students expressing their wants and needs about the matter, as well as security issues with UU_Wireless. In recent years, UU_Wireless has performed slowly because it was the only on-campus network available. Older routing equipment did not help either.
Now, there are two separate WiFi networks to help with internet speed and security. UU_Secure can be used throughout the campus but only by students and faculty at Union, while UU_Resnet is meant to be used in residential areas to connect leisure devices such as entertainment and gaming systems.
“Having two new Wi-Fi signals really helps prevent everyone using the same signal, therefore weakening the connection,” junior commercial music major Josh Phillips said. “Now, I can game and watch TV on a signal that isn’t being overused on other things such as academics or guests connecting to the Wi-Fi.”
When IT staff first introduced the switch, they tried to make a smooth transition by putting up signage, sending emails and even sitting with the students and faculty to show them the ropes.
Students have come to the IT department with trouble pairing new devices to the new Wi-Fi; however, the solution to most problems directly correlates with the device itself not being fully updated or being generally old. Regardless, students and faculty are already seeing positive changes.
“From the students we’ve talked to that have been here the semester before, it’s a dramatic difference,” Senior Director of Technology Operations Don Dean said.
IT staff have recorded a substantial increase in speed and performance. Both WiFi networks are now more secure since they do not allow for random personnel to hop on, consequently, boosting overall internet speed.
The IT staff hopes to continue to make this a positive and easy transition for all who make their way onto Union’s campus.
“Whenever we plan a solution in IT, we don’t plan for today, we plan for tomorrow,” Assistant System Administrator of IT Shane Maddox said.