UC DTS delivers on Wi-Fi expansion — more developments to come
In the past 10 years, wireless connectivity at the University of Cincinnati has become a critical utility rather than a convenience.
Today, campus Wi-Fi supports teaching, learning and daily work across thousands of devices, making reliable coverage essential to the university experience. In the spring of 2023, UC’s Digital Technology Solutions began a multiyear project with goals of enhancing wireless connectivity across campus. The improvements focus on ensuring robust and reliable wireless service in key student areas.
DTS worked with Planning + Design + Construction to bring Wi-Fi to The Hangout located between the Campus Recreation Center and Lindner. Photo/UC Campus Services Marketing
Buildings with the highest traffic, such as residence halls and academic buildings, received upgrades first; students who reside mainly in residence halls and call campus home deserve reliability and consistency in terms of connectivity. The goal remains to ensure comprehensive wireless coverage in all university spaces and maintain network adaptability, to meet evolving university needs.
On average, over 41,000 devices — including laptops, smartphones, printers and wearables —connect daily to the university’s wireless network across all campuses. For comparison, the wired network carries 20,000 clients. This number has increased exponentially in the past 10 years and will likely continue to increase. As a department, DTS is committed to continuously improving UC’s Wi-Fi strength.
DTS has completed wireless upgrades in many student-centered locations including residence halls, classrooms, and lecture halls such as Zimmer Auditorium, pictured above. Photo/Digital Technology Services
To determine which spaces needed expansion and remediation, DTS used measured wireless signals on each floor of every building across the university. After evaluating the results based upon the priority building list from the Office of the Provost, DTS worked to give the most pressing areas cabling upgrades, and new wireless access points were installed. Out of 145 buildings determined for remediation, 93 have been completed, with 7 remaining for 2026, and the remaining 45 expansions planned.
Although the efforts to improve Wi-Fi at UC are not yet complete, a massive effort is taking place to correct and enhance Wi-Fi connectivity at UC. As new technology emerges, DTS will keep up efforts to improve and enhance our connectivity. Budget planning for the remaining 45 expansions is underway. We will keep working towards our goals, to give you the best possible connectivity experience.
If you experience problems with UC_Secure or other wireless networks, contact the IT Service Desk. Your feedback helps prioritize future improvements.
Tip: Provide your location, device type, and MAC address to help technicians troubleshoot effectively.
Or, call the IT Service Desk.
From a personal phone, dial 513-556-HELP (4357); press 2.
From a university phone on campus, dial 6-HELP (4357); press 2.
Featured image at top: UC's mascot poses with the Bearcat statue and a binturong or bearcat from the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. Photo/Lisa Ventre/UC
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