MIT Network Connectivity

Service Descriptions

• Desktop Service
• Backbone Service
• 10Mbs Backbone Service
• 100Mbs Backbone Service

MITnet Desktop Service is an end-to-end service provides the highest level of support of all the options. Services include:

• End-to-end service: The connection is maintained through to the end computer system.
• Renewal: Equipment serving MITnet drops are replaced on a 4 year schedule. The schedule is usually determined on a per-need basis - high traffic areas are handled first and often more frequently. (See the network construction page for a list of upgrade projects in progress)
• IP Multicasting: IP multicast traffic is supported throughout the network to enable video and audio conferencing applications.
• Dynamic Addressing: DHCP is available on all MITnet drops.
• Time synchronization: Network Time Protocol (NTP) is broadcasted to all MITnet drops.
• Repair and maintenance: Help desk support and drop repair problems on a 5x8 basis. Severe network problems are handled on a 7x24 basis.
• Security Response: Computers with known security break-ins need to be disconnected from the network. Connection to an MITnet drop enables isolation to a particular drop to avoid unnecessary outages to a wide area.
• Facilities and construction: A team of facility analysts provide assistance in construction and renovation projects and work with architects and project managers in the construction of the network.

The charges for an MITnet connection are currently:

• $185 per UTP jack (serves up to 2 connections. In bulk, the contractor bid cost is used)
• $270 per network installation on a UTP jack (25% discount for 10 or more. 50% discount on 25 or more).
• $5 per month per network drop
• $20 per month per computer (with bulk billing arrangements over 50)

In FY2000, the charges will be changed as follows:

• $185 per UTP jack (serves up to 2 connections. In bulk, the contractor bid cost is used)
• $105 per network installation on a UTP jack
• $16 per month per computer

The technology and components installed are reviewed and changed up to twice per year. The current components include:

• 10/100baseT (ethernet) switches
• category 5e unshielded twisted pair local wiring

The topology for these networks is illustrated below.

Backbone Service

Backbone Service provides a single connection to a locally maintained (private) network. Only basic IP routing functions are provided and all other services provided under the Desktop Service must be provided locally. The backbone is maintained on a 7x24 basis and security incidents will result in a shutdown of the backbone interface and a notification to the contact of record.

It is the intent of the Backbone Service options to be used in the following circumstances:

• connection of a small high traffic server farm
• connection to specialized devices where Desktop Service is not appropriate

All backbone connections are served via a category 5 (or better) UTP jack. The topology of these connections is illustrated below.

A backbone connection at 10Mbs. Charges for FY99 are:

• $185 installation of UTP jack
• $1,000 per month for the connection
• $20 per month per computer (bulk arrangements exist for more than 50)

In FY2000, these will be updated to:

• $185 installation of UTP jack

• $6,000 per month

A backbone connection at 100Mbs. Charges for FY99 are:

• $185 installation of UTP jack

• $4,000 per month for the connection

In FY2000, these will be updated to:

• $185 installation of UTP jack

• $12,000 per month for the connection