OPSU Launches Comprehensive Network Infrastructure Upgrade

Oklahoma Panhandle State University is undertaking a comprehensive network infrastructure upgrade, a multi-phase project designed to bring the university’s technology into the 21st century. This ambitious initiative is overseen by Vice President Liz McMurphy’s office in collaboration with IT Director Jerome Ortiz and is fully funded through the Deferred Maintenance budget. This investment underscores OPSU’s commitment to modernizing essential infrastructure and enhancing digital experiences for students, faculty, and staff.

The project’s first phase focuses on a critical overhaul of OPSU’s core infrastructure by replacing the existing multimode fiber optic cables with high-performance single-mode fiber optic cables. This foundational upgrade will significantly increase bandwidth capacity, improve signal quality over longer distances, and provide the flexibility needed for future network expansion. “Upgrading to single-mode fiber optics is essential for supporting the data-intensive demands of today’s digital world,” said OPSU’s IT Director Jerome Ortiz. “This change isn’t just about faster internet speeds; it’s about building a network that can grow with the university’s needs and support future innovations.” OPSU has contracted TELCO Supply Company to implement this phase, ensuring a robust and future-proof network foundation.

Building on the upgraded fiber infrastructure, the second phase involves replacing outdated network switches and access points exceeding a decade of service. OPSU will deploy state-of-the-art Meraki cloud-based network equipment, dramatically improving Wi-Fi coverage and performance across campus. This upgrade will enable students to connect seamlessly from anywhere on campus and lay the groundwork for smart campus initiatives powered by IoT, including potential applications like smart lighting, environmental monitoring, and building management. “This investment in cloud-based network equipment will provide a more reliable and faster internet experience for our students,” said Ortiz. “We’re creating an environment where connectivity is seamless, which is essential for modern learning and campus life.”

The final phase focuses on replacing OPSU’s aging phone system with a modern Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) solution. This transition will enhance communication quality and flexibility, streamline operations, and reduce maintenance costs. The new VOIP system is expected to provide more reliable tools for staff and faculty while aligning with contemporary communication standards. “By moving to a VOIP system, we’re not only upgrading our technology but also enhancing the way our campus communicates,” Ortiz explained. “This will allow for more efficient operations and ensure that our communication tools are as advanced as the rest of our network.”

Vice President Liz McMurphy emphasized the upgrade’s strategic importance, stating, “This project represents a significant investment in the future of OPSU. Modernizing our technological infrastructure ensures that our students and faculty have the tools to succeed. It’s about creating a digital environment that supports innovation and growth.”

This comprehensive network infrastructure upgrade is a strategic investment in OPSU’s future. By modernizing its technology, OPSU empowers its students, faculty, and staff with a more connected and efficient learning environment. The initiative prepares the university for future innovations, establishing a solid foundation for integrating IT technologies. By enhancing campus operations and facilitating data-driven insights, OPSU is taking proactive steps to position itself at the forefront of technological advancement in higher education. This project addresses current needs and ensures the university is ready to meet the demands of an increasingly digital world.