To the University Community:
UConn’s wireless technology is a critical piece of the University’s broader information technology (IT) system and, as is the case on any U.S. campus, plays a significant role in the success of its academics, research and service. Operating those IT functions is an around-the-clock endeavor, and one that UConn takes very seriously.
Over the past week, we identified problems with code that operates on the controllers for our wireless service at Storrs and other campuses. Unfortunately, those problems caused some unforeseen service outages last week that temporarily impeded users’ ability to access the wireless networks for work, studying and other purposes.
We want to assure you that we are devoting our full attention and resources to this important issue. We share your frustration, and appreciate every communication you have shared with us about the outages.
During the most recent instance last Friday, we declared what is known as a Priority One outage with our vendor, Cisco, which engaged their top resources on a national level. We worked continuously with our vendor and by that evening, the problem that caused the controller issues was identified, additional upgrades were performed, and all access points were re-enabled to restore the wireless service.
We continue to monitor the situation with Cisco, and at this point, UConn has migrated to the precise version of code that the company advocates.
In more simple terms, we have resolved every issue of which we’ve become aware, but will remain vigilant on your behalf and will act quickly if another complication arises.
The University thinks carefully about these issues and has developed a wide-ranging IT Strategic Plan, which helps us assess our current technological assets and sets a road map for the future. I encourage you to review it.
Thank you for your support of University Information Technology Services and your understanding as we, like all other campuses, continue to navigate the rapidly changing landscape of various IT systems, capabilities and services.
Sincerely,
Michael Mundrane
Vice Provost for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer
For more information, contact: Stephanie Reitz at 486-0871