10/24/2019
Jason Mignanelli | staff writer
Once a subject of frustration and discontent, sure to get a snarl or snide remark from students and staff, campus Wi-Fi is actually better now than it has ever been.
Many students and staff complained of internet connections dropping in the middle of streaming movies or presentations quite frequently. The connection was spotty at best in many locations on campus.
“A couple of years ago it was pretty bad, but it has definitely gotten better,” said Mike Dillon, a media professor on campus.
The truth is, campus Wi-Fi has gotten much better over the years.
“The University invested $2.7 million dollars in budget years 2016 and fiscal year 2017 to implement additional, significant improvements to campus Wi-Fi, particularly in the Living Learning Centers,” said Chuck Bartel, chief information officer in Computing and Technology Services.
Survey results from 2018 show great satisfaction with the campus Wi-Fi, with the exception of parking garages and outdoor spaces. However, CTS is looking into possibly spending another $1 million dollars in fiscal year 2021 as a way to stay ahead of the curve and stay current with Wi-Fi technology.
In fact, Duquesne currently operates with some of the fastest internet possible. “Duquesne is a member of the Three Rivers Optical Exchange (3ROX), KINBER (the Keystone Initiative for Network Based Education and Research) and Internet2, which enable CTS to provide the campus with some of the fastest network connections,” said Bartel.
Duquesne has many older buildings and because older buildings were typically built with denser materials and no concern for internet connection at that time, it may slightly affect connection in those areas. Even so, CTS appears to be finding ways to overcome this obstacle as well.
“The recent upgrades did address this issue in the LLC’s by placing a wireless access point in each resident hall room,” said Bartel.
From 2015 to 2018, first-year student satisfaction has continually increased based on survey results provided by CTS.
In response to the issues concerning Wi-Fi connection in the parking garages and outdoor areas, Bartel said, “Based on Pittsburgh’s climate which can include cold weather for 4 to 6 months of the year and current academic and recreational use of the parking areas, CTS has prioritized Wi-Fi investments in robust network coverage for campus areas that support campus living, academics and research year-round.”
Students needing help with Wi-Fi connection or any other related issues are urged to contact the CTS Help Desk at 412-396-4357 or help@duq.edu or simply stop in at the help desk in room 206 of the Union.