Barracks WiFi Upgraded to ResNet

MMI Cadets are basking in the successful installation of a cutting-edge residential network (ResNet)—a new system that has significantly enhanced connectivity, bolstered hybrid and blended learning, and made barracks Wi-Fi more reliable. Through a partnership with higher education’s largest managed technology services leader Apogee, more than 400 MMI students will now have an exceptional wireless experience. “With the ratio of devices per student increasing, high demand for streaming services, and new wireless standards available, it was imperative that we take action to meet our cadets’ expectations of a good wireless experience,” said AJ Crittenden, MMI IT Director. Adding to the urgency was MMI’s move to hybrid and blended learning during the pandemic. Even though the semester was already in full swing with classes and student activities, Apogee was able to install MMI’s new wireless infrastructure in the school’s five barracks in under six weeks. Cadets now have reliable, high-speed internet for online academics, and to enjoy video calls with family and friends, gaming, streaming, and their favorite apps. They also have 24/7/365 access to Apogee support via phone, chat, text, and email. When MMI upgraded its wireless network in 2014, it was the first community college in Alabama to deploy 802.11ac Wi-Fi. At that time, the upgrade drastically increased MMI’s ability to support the proliferation of BYOD and improved the overall wireless experience of the students. Seven years later, evolving needs in academic instruction, cadet quality of life, and an aging infrastructure caused Wi-Fi to be ineffective, resulting in speed and connectivity issues in the barracks. The search for a technology partner to modernize the network led MMI to Apogee, because of the company’s experience and track record delivering high-speed ResNet to many schools across Alabama. “We had a very positive perception of Apogee based on our research and what we discovered about the company from other colleges within the state,” said Crittenden. The new MMI wireless network will not only help ensure online course success but will also positively impact cadet’s residential and campus life experience, as the high-speed, high-density Wi-Fi provides each student with 100Mbps bandwidth, and the ability to connect up to seven devices. Crittenden added, “I think our technology investment shows our current and future cadets that we’re progressive and responsive to student needs. With our Apogee partnership guaranteeing reliable Wi-Fi, future-proof equipment refreshes, and technical support, we can now focus on more strategic planning and future innovations in other areas.”