NextiraOne builds WiFi wireless network for the Scientific Information Centre and Academic Library in Katowice, Poland

The Scientific Information Centre and Academic Library is a joint project of the University of Silesia and the University of Economics in Katowice. CINiBA is located on the campus of the University of Silesia and is the centre for scientific information, using cutting-edge technology and information tools. It also serves as an academic library, research centre, educational and cultural environment not only for the two universities – University of Silesia and University of Economics, but also for the people of the region, with the resources in CINiBA is publicly available.

The centre is equipped with 340 computers and terminals, including staff and public areas. CINiBA provides access to electronic sources of scientific information available to the university network, as well as on the open internet.

NextiraOne’s role was to provide access to the Internet for users of mobile devices, including laptops. The newly implemented wireless internet access network ensures optimal capacity for users and provides access from anywhere in the Library. This opens the Wi-Fi network, and therefore the CINiBA resources, for use by all readers, students and staff at the University of Silesia.

Technology
Built by NextiraOne experts, the Wireless local area network (WLAN) is based entirely on the equipment and technology of Alcatel-Lucent. New network access points are controlled by a RADIUS server connected to both universities’ WLAN controller. This ensures secure and authorised access to CINiBA’s resources. The two buildings are connected by wireless using Ubiquity's devices. This was the main link between the two sites until their fibre optic cable connection is installed. Innovative technologies guarantee optimum flexibility and network performance.

CINiBA employees have wireless access to the resource centre via their laptops, while other users can use either an unauthorised or authorised network. With unauthorised access, users are not able to use all databases and services subscribed to by the two universities. In order to gain access to the secure protected network of universities, users must have a permanent (including staff and students of the University of Silesia and the University of Economics) or temporary (for other readers) login and password that can be obtained from CINiBA’s information services.

Centre for Architecture Award
It is worth noting that the Scientific Information Centre and Academic Library in Katowice, is known not only for modern information technology. The building was also recognized for its innovative design and became Laureate of the Year for the Association of Polish Architects (under the patronage of the Ministry of Transport, Construction and Maritime) for the best architectural landmark built with public funds. The CINiBA building was also awarded The Building of the Year in 2012.