Overview
The Nevada Research Network (NRN) is a 2-3 year project to provide a network (separate from the existing SCS NevadaNet infrastructure) for high-bandwidth research needs within Nevada. Specifically, the resulting network will provide OC3 (155 Mbps) ATM service to UNR, UNLV, and DRI facilities. Additionally, plans include connecting this high-speed Nevada network to the national research grid via a vBNS connection.
Currently the planning team includes one representative each from UNR, UNLV, DRI, System Computing Services (SCS), EPSCoR, and UCCSN. A number of other people at SCS and on the three campuses are assisting in the planning and proposal activities as well.
Note that a distinction is made between existing networking services and the NRN. The existing network (NevadaNet) consists of T1 lines connecting SCS offices at UNR and UNLV campuses, with a redundant link through Elko. The individual campuses are connected to SCS at T1 or 10BaseT speeds, although upgrades are planned for summer, 1998, to upgrade UNR to 100BaseFX and DRI in Reno to multiplexed T1 lines. Connections to the Internet are via 2 multiplexed T1 links from both SCS offices to California via Sprint. This network may be referred to as the "commodity" network, which handles normal Internet functions such as e-mail and Web browsing. NRN is intended as a high-speed data link between in-state campuses and to other research groups and universities outside Nevada. The vBNS network (and related Internet2 network) is completely separate from the existing Internet. Its use is restricted to research activities only.
Planning for the NRN is intended to complement long-term SCS plans for normal Internet connectivity and services within the state.