Charles Sturt deploys $2m wireless network

Charles Sturt University is rolling out a $2 million wireless network across its nine campuses in regional NSW.

It is funded in equal $1 million contributions by the university and the Federal Government's Better University Renewal Fund.

The university's director of operations in the IT division, Phillip Roy, told iTnews the network would replace about 120 wireless hotspots scattered across the campuses.

"We had some Cisco access points that were a typical extension of the LAN," Roy said.

"We've completely replaced that technology and changed our approach to wireless networking [with this new network].

"We're [now] putting in over 1200 access points."

The new network will use Motorola technology implemented by systems integrator, Cirrus Communications.

It is supported by an existing fibre network connecting the sites owned by the university and the Australian Academic and Research Network.

The wireless network will support 11,000 students and staff and a variety of devices.

It would help the university "take full advantage of next generation mobile digital learning applications that form the foundation of learning resources", Charles Sturt University.

"This new network will give us blanket wireless coverage, not only across all the campuses, but both indoors and outdoors, and extend to adjoining student residences as well," Roy said.