U Missouri To Upgrade Backbone via Co-location

• By Dian Schaffhauser
• 06/09/08

The University of Missouri will be moving a campus data center into 1102 Grand, a Kansas City co-location provider, as part of a project to build a high performance carrier-neutral network to support the university's intercampus network and replace the existing backbone.

The existing infrastructure, which supports a unit of the university called the Missouri Research and Education Network (MOREnet), operates a shared statewide network that provides Internet access and interactive video to Missouri's public sector as well as providing technical support and training services. Established in 1991 and based in Columbia, MOREnet serves 515 Missouri K-12 schools, 67 colleges and universities, 131 libraries, teaching hospitals and clinics, and 34 related affiliate organizations.

"Our member organizations' network requirements are becoming increasingly complex with an emphasis on scalability and flexibility," said Hank Niederhelm, MOREnet's director of infrastructure. "Expanding into 1102 Grand was an important decision for us because it gives us the ability to reach so many networks quickly and cost effectively. Not only can we cross-connect with the carriers we need today, but we have protected our network and data center investment by ensuring we can connect with so many additional providers in the future."