Michigan Technological University has a /16 IPv4 public address space. (141.219.0.0) We subdivide the network based on CIDR blocks into smaller networks for departmental usage. Most campus networks are either /22 or /24 in length.

Departments are assigned networks that are managed by their systems administration staff. When services are ordered, some common information is requested. This information is used to build the DNS records for the host as well as DHCP, if required. Departmental subnets consist of a layer-2 bridge identifier (802.1Q Virtual LAN number), and corresponding IP subnet. Individual host machines may be assigned any non-reserved address within their subnet.

The MTU network is running native IPv6. With a /48 network block we have ample address space for our needs. Requests for an IPv6 address should be made to your system administrator. MTU was an earlier pioneer in IPv6, we have used IPv6 addressing since 2000.

For more information on the MTU IPv6 project, see http://www.tc.mtu.edu/ipv6/

Off-campus connectivity consists of 100 Mbps connection to Merit, the regional backbone carrier of Internet and Internet 2 traffic. With equipment collocated in our main carrier-grade data center, we are assured of practically uninterrupted services. Approximately 60% of the link traffic is used for Internet 2 related communications.

To enhance and preserve bandwidth, we utilize several technologies that maximize performance. Using a web cache system enables frequently requested information to be stored locally for quicker retrieval to the end-user. Bandwidth shapers are installed to enable maximum benefit to all users. All traffic is divided among users with 1/2 reserved for administrative and academic use. Problem protocols are further restricted to a manageable level.

For more information on Internet 2 at MTU, see http://www.it.mtu.edu/main/internet2/index.html

MTU manages multiple sub domains in the MTU.EDU name space. System administrators should place requests for new domains with our office. MTU also hosts secondary name services for external institutions affiliated with MTU.

As an ongoing process to improve services on campus, most system administrators are migrating connection onto the MTUnet platform. MTUnet enables users to have immediate access to configuration and performance information for hosts under control of the system. Migration to this platform has the added benefit of providing aggregate campus-wide statistics on voluntary contributed profile information.

MTU Telecommunications Services has begun the replacement of campus networking equipment. This project will take between 36-48 months to complete.

Recent Major Milestones:
August 2002: New campus router installed
December 2003: Legacy core switch retired from service, new core installed

Foundry Networks replacement progress:
December 2003: Core replaced
April 2004: Administrative building edge switches
June 2004: Dillman aggregation switch

Upcoming:
Administrative building aggregation switch
Dillman edge switches
Dow edge and aggregation switches
Wadsworth Hall Center all switches
Library / CILIT all switches
(All other buildings on campus….)

In an effort to maximize network versatility, the new network equipment supports the industry standard 802.3af Power over Ethernet (PoE). Prior network equipment required expensive mid-span injectors, but modern equipment has switch-based insertion of power. All VoIP phones require power, as do some; WiFi radios, web-cams, card readers, pocket computers, and other appliances.