JISC

JISC today announced that the contract to supply the next-generation computer network linking all UK education and research has been awarded to MCI. The contract, representing an investment of some £29m, will see an increase in network capacity from 10Gbit/s, eventually rising to 40Gbit/s.

With network traffic on JANET – the UK’s education and research network, operated and developed by UKERNA – rapidly increasing, a new fibre network with nationwide coverage is needed to ensure that UK education and research can continue to reap the benefits of Information and Communications Technology (ICT).

The new fibre backbone will ensure that the supply of network capacity continues to remain well ahead of increases in demand for the foreseeable future.

For over twenty years, JANET has provided the foundation upon which, firstly, higher education and research, and latterly, further education and the schools sector, have engaged with ICT. This engagement has seen a far-reaching transformation in learning, teaching and research in these sectors, built upon one of the fastest, most secure and most resilient education and research networks in the world.

After a rigorous tender process managed by UKERNA, the network supplier MCI emerged as the preferred bidder. MCI will provide a state-of-the-art fibre optic network linking 19 regional networks across England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales that will support a potential user base of up to 18 million users.

Professor Sir Ron Cooke, Chair of JISC, welcomed the award of the contract, saying:

“SuperJANET5 sets a benchmark for network technology, positioning the UK as a leader with a world-class network for research and education . JISC is delighted that UK education and research will continue to benefit from a network that is second to none.”

Chief Executive of UKERNA (United Kingdom Education and Research Network Association), Tim Marshall, said:

 “This upgrade is not just about connectivity, it is also about providing the infrastructure to help the UK stay at the forefront of global research and development. UKERNA decided to work with MCI on this critical project because we were greatly impressed by  MCI’s technology and its ability to meet the diverse needs of our user base.”

To find out more about the network please go to: UKERNA

For further information , please contact: Philip Pothen (JISC)