Implementation of an IP based backbone for MichNet

该合同支持为MICHNET升级设备和数据通信线路，MICHNET是一个在密歇根州高等教育机构之间运行的全州网络。MICHNET系统自1973年以来一直使用X.25网络协议运行。但是，目前的通信量已经超过了硬件和软件的能力，正在安装支持TCP/IP的现代数据通信设备。此外，组成全州主干网的线路正在从目前的每秒56,000比特的速度升级到每秒150万比特，以适应更大的流量。该网络的主要目标是促进合作项目和机构之间的资源共享，包括那些州外的机构。MICHNET将提供运营管理和信息服务，并将为参与的大学提供连接到NSFNET（一个高速（每秒150 - 4500万比特）的国家骨干网）。该项目还将支持中心站点冗余和设备的升级。大学需要更强大的功能和网络速度，以便能够访问超级计算机、图书馆、进行文件传输以及能够实现更可靠的邮件系统。学生和教师的研究将受益于这种联系。这也是学校探索创新教育资源的独特机会。

This award supports upgrading equipment and data communications lines for MICHNET, a statewide network operating among higher education institutions in the state of Michigan. The MICHNET system has been operating since 1973 utilizing X.25 network protocols. Current traffic volume, however, has exceeded the capacity of the hardware and software and modern data communications equipment supporting TCP/IP is being installed. Also, the lines comprising the statewide backbone are being upgraded to 1.5 million bits per second from the current speed of 56,000 bits per second to accommodate the larger volume of traffic. A primary goal of the network is to facilitate collaborative projects and sharing of resources between institutions, including those outside the state. MICHNET will provide operations management and information services and it will give the participating universities a connection to the NSFNET, a high speed (1.5 - 45 million bits per second) National Backbone network. The project will also support an upgrade of central site redundant and equipment. The universities need greater functionality and network speed to be able to access supercomputers, libraries, and make file transfers along with being able to implement a more reliable mail system. Students and faculty research will benefit from the link. This is also a unique opportunity for the schools to explore innovative educational resources.