Mid-America Christian University (MACU) recently connected to the OneOklahoma Friction Free Network (OFFN), Oklahoma’s research network, through a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant awarded to the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education and OneNet. OFFN is a 10, 100, and 400 Gbps research network that provides higher education institutions with a dedicated network route that is much faster than traditional internet highways. This alternate pathway allows researchers to bypass slower traditional networks and transmit data at higher speeds.
The connection makes advanced cyberinfrastructure and data analytics tools and services available at MACU. Faculty and students will utilize these tools for cybersecurity and network management simulations, including a cyber range, to support academic coursework in the University’s cybersecurity curriculum.
“Connecting to the OneOklahoma Friction Free Network marks a pivotal moment for MACU. This high-speed dedicated pathway provides our faculty and students with the advanced cyberinfrastructure necessary for cutting-edge research, especially within our cybersecurity curriculum and network management simulations,” said Jody Allen, MACU Chief Operating Officer and Chief Information Officer. “It truly elevates the educational opportunities available here at MACU, making Mid-America the place to be as a leader in academics and advanced technologies.”
The OFFN network is managed by OneNet, the comprehensive digital communications entity of the state system of higher education and Oklahoma’s research and education network. OneNet is currently implementing multiple projects that will connect a total of 31 campus locations to the OFFN network, enabling these institutions to expand their research and education initiatives.
“The State Regents are pleased to connect MACU to the OFFN network,” said Chancellor Sean Burrage. “This connectivity through OneNet empowers collaborative research among faculty across Oklahoma institutions and expands STEM education for students.”
At MACU, Allen will lead projects initially supported by the new connection. Brian Burkhart, OneNet Chief Technology Officer, is providing oversight for all aspects of the project implementation.
“OneNet is MACU’s partner in research and education, leveraging OFFN to advance scientific discovery, innovation and educational initiatives for our state’s higher education institutions,” said Burkhart. “Expanding access to supercomputing and cyberinfrastructure resources for MACU faculty and students creates new opportunities that weren’t possible prior to the grant award.”
The OFFN network is funded by grant support from the National Science Foundation. Administered by NSF’s Office of Advanced Cyberinfrastructure, the Campus Cyberinfrastructure grant program invests in campus-level cyberinfrastructure improvements for science applications and research projects.