UIS’s Network Infrastructure team was approached to carry out the work having recently successfully completed several large-scale projects around the University.

Initially they conducted a review of the buildings at Old Schools and concluded that the best way to proceed was to replace all the legacy networking rather than just a few of its older elements. This approach would then give the staff at Old Schools a fast and reliable network for the first time, with the latest technology, including Wi-Fi, throughout. 

The project would, however, be no small undertaking due to the nature and historical importance of the buildings. They are Grade 1 listed which brings with it many constraints. Floor tracks would need to be dug, radiators changed and holes core-drilled in order to open cabling routes through the building. All of the work would therefore need to be carried out in a very discreet and aesthetically sensitive manner.   

Work started in October 2020 and is due for completion in January 2021. A very aggressive timescale for such a large and difficult project involving both internal and external parties. It is hoped when complete the staff at Old Schools will not notice the team have been there.  

Project Lead Gary Arber commented: “So far the work has gone according to plan, but with a long way to go yet. What really helps, and not just in this case, is working with a great team. It’s been a pleasure to be a small part of that team, which includes the excellent site staff at the Old Schools, led by Joanne Black and Andre Farrington-Bone.” 

If you have any queries contact : networks@uis.cam.ac.uk