Washington University in St. Louis is making strides toward a smarter, more connected future through the Network Modernization Project, launched in November 2024. This WashU IT initiative is replacing outdated network equipment with state-of-the-art systems designed to meet the demands of today’s academic and research environment.
Aligned with WashU’s Here & Next strategic vision, the project delivers a tenfold increase in bandwidth, supporting cloud-based services, high-speed research applications, and the growing number of connected devices used by students, faculty, and staff.
2025 Highlights:
- Spring 2025: By March, more than 40 buildings across the Danforth and Medical campuses were upgraded, improving speed, reliability, and coverage.
- Summer 2025: The team completed upgrades in 35 additional buildings, including residence halls and McKelvey School of Engineering facilities—strategically scheduled while students were away to minimize disruption.
- Fall 2025: Modernization efforts shifted to WashU Medicine, upgrading clinical environments at Barnard Hospital, Renard Hospital, Wohl Hospital, and the Wohl Clinic.
To date, 132 WashU buildings have been modernized, and work continues on the remaining 95 WashU buildings, which are slated for completion in 2026.
Beyond performance, the new network introduces advanced security features, such as segmentation, to protect sensitive data and reduce cyber risks. Centralized management and automation tools ensure the network remains agile and ready for future needs.
This transformation is about more than technology—it’s about empowering the WashU community. From enabling cutting-edge research to supporting hybrid learning and everyday connectivity, the Network Modernization Project is laying the foundation for a secure, high-performance digital experience.
Stay informed: For updates and building-specific schedules, visit the Network Modernization Project website.