Dive Brief:

• Colleges and universities are improving their campus networks with devices that provide access to a new wireless spectrum.
• Devices that adhere to the new 802.11ac standard provide access on the 5-GHz band, which is less crowded than the heavily used 2.4 GHz spectrum, Campus Technology reports.
• The new standard also offers technology that makes more transmissions at the same time through smartphones and tablets.

Dive Insight:

Many campuses still have their original wireless networks, which were built before IT chiefs had any idea that the number of wireless devices and the growth of their use would explode. In addition to adding new wireless access points, campuses are adding hardware with new technology to accommodate the heavy use of wireless devices. Illinois State University is making its residence halls, library, and student union top priorities with its expansion to the new wireless technology. Cedarville University in Ohio has also added hardware with the new technology, as well as additional access points, for its cafeteria and campus chapel, which seats more than 3,000. Among others named by Campus Technology: Fresno City College and the University of North Georgia.