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Texas A&M University Ramps Up Cybersecurity, Wireless Access

Also on the university’s to-do list is facilitating projects like an Apple device management unification and implementing a centralized technology procurement program.

A large outdoor sign that says “Texas A&M University.”
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Texas A&M University is currently working on several IT projects to improve wireless access and device accessibility across campus.

For example, first on the university’s to-do list is implementing Jamf Pro, a tool that automates mobile device management, to facilitate a centralized Apple device management platform.

The university’s strategic plan states that it will use this tool to “unify 17 existing Jamf instances, representing 5,200 managed devices, across Texas A&M University and approximately 2,500 existing unmanaged Apple devices across campus.”

Second is doubling the number of wireless access points across campus. To achieve this, Texas A&M Technology Services will design and implement its Next Generation Aggie Network.

In addition to increasing wireless access points, the new network would also allow for the replacement of network switches and updating fiber inside all buildings on campus to improve connectivity for students and staff.

Third is increasing cybersecurity through updates to the campus’ cybersecurity system. Similar to the second project listed above, this process will also coincide with the university’s new network. However, in this case, the university will update the campus’ network core and add robust cybersecurity segmentation features during the network design process.

Lastly, the university looks to implement a centralized technology procurement program.

According to the university’s strategic plan, this will involve creating a new program called TechHub to reduce the cost of device life cycle management and improve the user experience through centralized purchasing, device standardization and supply chain management.

The program will also provide university faculty, staff and departments with a new way to procure high-quality, fully tested and vetted technology that can be configured and secured to university standards.

For more information about these projects, visit https://it.tamu.edu/leadership/strategic-initiatives/index.php.
Katya Maruri is an Orlando-based e.Republic staff writer. She has a bachelor’s degree in journalism and a master’s degree in global strategic communications from Florida International University.