Jisc announces a cost-effective new way to extend connectivity and improve digital equity for UK education and research. Extending eduroam provides safe, authenticated access to digital learning by making seamless wifi connectivity available in off-campus locations such as public libraries, student accommodation or public transport.
Working with world-class technology partners Cradlepoint (part of Ericsson) and Sky Business, Jisc has extended its trusted eduroam service through 4G and 5G cellular technology. Extending eduroam now delivers connectivity beyond the existing fibre infrastructure, allowing users to access learning resources at home, in sports facilities or hospitals, and even on buses.
Jisc CEO Heidi Fraser-Krauss says:
“Extending eduroam will transform the learning experience in locations where internet connections are unavailable, unreliable or unauthenticated. For those students who struggle with expensive data roaming charges, it delivers free access to educational resources, bringing digital equity a step closer.”
The extending eduroam range includes easy-to-install devices that can handle anything up to 100 users at a time. One model, which is small enough to fit into a rucksack, provides cellular connectivity for up to five users in student accommodation, small study spaces or remote locations such as on a field trip. Another version specifically for in-vehicle use could extend access to eduroam for commuter students.
