Solution
To provide a fast, scalable network for the new 6th form block, allowing for up to 400 simultaneous users and building management systems, the Simpli-Fi team carried out a predictive RF design, which would later be followed by a post-installation validation RF survey. We proposed a Ruckus wired and wireless network for the 6th form block, which would provide high-density coverage both internally and externally.
WiFi 6E coverage, along with Ruckus ICX multi-gig switches, will support the WiFi, wired, security, and access control system for the new block. High capacity external coverage was also required as part of the new 6th form communal external areas.
A new 10Gbps fibre backbone link was installed from the new 6th form building back to the core distribution comms room in the main building.
Along with the 6th form deployment, Simpli-Fi carried out an audit on the current core HP network and proposed a new Ruckus ICX stack for the core, providing 25GbE uplinks and 10GbE backbone out to the edge network.
Due to the nature of this work, having such a significant network upgrade meant we needed to plan and execute this work during the summer holidays to minimise disruption to the school, which heavily relies on the IT network.
Results
Following the installation, the staff and visitors now enjoy seamless access to WiFi, enhancing productivity and communication within the school.
Challenges
The biggest challenge was the timescale. For the school to be able to open the 6th form block on time, after the summer break, we had very little time from the point of the order being placed to the network being live. We had to deliver this work within ten working days, which included procurement, pre-staging, on-site delivery, testing and handover.
We managed to deliver this network within the timescales and keep all key stakeholders happy!
An additional challenge was interference on the wireless network. The main school site still runs a legacy Cisco Meraki wireless network, meaning we would run two simultaneous wireless networks. We, therefore, had to be very specific with the channel planning and authentication methods to make sure there were no issues with roaming between the two networks and, most importantly, not causing interference between the two.
