ITS Making Major Improvements to the Wireless Network
ITS will begin making major improvements to the wireless network in the next few months. These improvements will provide more widespread coverage for the wireless network, allow easier access to the network, and allow visitors to the University access the wireless network. There will be a significant expansion to wireless areas; ITS hopes to double the area covered by wireless service during these improvements.
Recently the Government of Saskatchewan announced Saskatchewan! Connected, an initiative to “offer users basic Internet service in Saskatoon, Prince Albert, Regina, and Moose Jaw via a wireless Wi-Fi network.” The initiative includes wireless service at the University of Saskatchewan along with other locations. Details of the government’s initiative are available at http://www.gov.sk.ca/news?newsId=71f283b3-f8f8-44c4-b0d6-693921262e29.
The U of S (ITS), in partnership with the Information Technology Office (ITO), will be expanding and enhancing wireless services at the University in line with both the Premier's announcement and the University's own goals for Wi-Fi services. Services for visitors and members of the University community will work together and complement each other.
As a result of funding for this initiative, Wi-Fi will be available in more areas of the U of S campus for students and visitors, the public will have access to Wi-Fi at the University, and other goals identified in the Premier's announcement will be met.
While the University’s partnership with the Province will enable a significant expansion to campus coverage, coverage of the complete area identified in the Premier's announcement is unlikely since funding provided by the program is limited. Further expansion will be needed beyond this program to meet the needs of the University. This program will, however, allow the University to make excellent progress in improving Wi-Fi services for the University.