The Stanford University Network
General Information
The Stanford University Network (SUNet) consists of local networks within buildings and a backbone network that connects the local networks to each other and to networks off campus. The backbone is designed and operated by Networking Systems, a division of Shared Communication Services, part of Information Technology Services. Network services within individual buildings are the responsibility of the departments that occupy those buildings, unless support is purchased from IT Services.
For academic and administrative buildings, we provide and support the data communication infrastructure to the facility entrance. Through the Net2Jack and Net2switch programs, we provide data communication infrastructure within the academic and administrative buildings. For student residences, Networking Systems supports the data communication infrastructure to the service outlets in student rooms. Networking Systems maintains off-campus connectivity through multiple internet connections as well as Internet2.
For student residences, Networking supports the data communication infrastructure to the telecommunications service outlet (i.e., the wall jack) in student rooms. The residential Computing group within the Libraries' Academic Computing department supports students in their use of network services in student housing facilities. When necessary, Residential Computing consults and enlists support from Networking Systems.
There are over 50,000 computers that actively use SUNet. Networking Systems estimates that the total number of networked computers on campus will peak at about 75,000 based on the size of the campus community and the increasingly important role network-based communications plays in the University's academic and administrative affairs.
Future Backbone Evolution
During the last half of 2006 and continuing through 2007, Networking Systems will be upgrading the backbone to use 10-Gigabit per second ethernet links on campus. This will require replacing all the user network routers as well as upgrading the backbone switch/routers. It is likely that the connection to CENIC's HPR network will also be upgraded to 10-Gbps during this timeframe. User network connections will continue to be provided at 1-Gbps but backup routers will be installed to provide increased reliability.
For More Information
For more information about the Stanford University Network, submit a question to helpsu.stanford.edu.
