Data Centers Move to New Network

Users may notice brief interruptions in some IT services on June 10 and 11 as Duke's data centers are moved to a new, faster core network.

During the move, brief disruptions lasting 10 to 15 seconds are likely to impact some services, including email, SISS, SAP and most web applications hosted at Duke. A more extensive interruption is possible, given the scope of the changes. Staff from the Office of Information Technology (OIT) will be on stand-by to address any issues that arise.

The move is a significant milestone in the transition to Duke's new core network, which provides improved reliability, faster data transfer speeds and increased security.

The upgrade provides a platform that can scale up to 200 gigabits per second, more than 10 times faster than Duke's current core network, said Bob Johnson, OIT's senior director of communications infrastructure and global strategies.

"Our network was designed in 2007 and has done a remarkable job of keeping up with demand, but this upgrade gives us the ability to grow to meet the ever-increasing bandwidth needs and security concerns in support of Duke’s research and educational mission," said Charley Kneifel, OIT's senior technical director.

OIT has already moved several of the university's main sub-networks to the new core, including Duke's wireless network and the associated 3,400 access points. Most of those access points were updated to 1 gigabit-per-second network connections in the last year.

After this move, about 75 to 80 percent of campus traffic will be on the new network. The remaining buildings are expected to be transitioned in the next six months.

If you notice any prolonged service issues between 5 p.m. June 10 and overnight into June 11 or afterward, please contact the OIT Service Desk.