DESIGN OF A WIRELESS NETWORK MODEL FOR MODIBBO ADAMA

UNIVERSITY, YOLA. (MAU)

BY

HAMZA, MOHAMMED

IMT/18U/2155

PROJECT PROPORSAL SUBMTTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF DEPARTMENT

OF INFORMATION MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGY, FACULTY OF SOCIAL AND

MANAGEMENT SCIENCES, IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT FOR THE AWARD OF

BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOGY DEGREE (B. TECH) (HONS) IN INFORMATION

MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGY, OF MODIBBO ADAMA UNIVERSITY YOLA

APRIL, 2023
 CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION 1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

The challenges of implementing a robust Wi-Fi network are significant. Universities must
contend with a range of factors, including limited budgets, complex physical infrastructure, and
the need to provide coverage across large and often irregularly shaped campuses. In addition, the
rapid growth of wireless devices and the emergence of new technologies like the Internet of
Things have placed additional demands on university Wi-Fi networks (Pritchard, J. B. 2019).

Given these challenges, it is essential for universities to develop comprehensive and

In recent years, universities have begun to explore new approaches to Wi-Fi networking,
such as cloud-based management systems and Software-Defined Networking (SDN)
architectures. These technologies offer new opportunities for optimizing Wi-Fi performance,
improving security, and providing more flexible and responsive network management
(Krishnamurthy, A. 2017).

Best practices for Wi-Fi deployment in higher education (Cisco Systems, Inc. 2017).

1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

Despite the clear benefits of a robust Wi-Fi network, MAU currently faces several challenges in
providing adequate wireless coverage and security to its users. These challenges include:

i. Insufficient coverage: The existing Wi-Fi network does not provide adequate coverage
across the entire campus, leading to areas where users experience poor connectivity or no
connectivity at all.

ii. Security vulnerabilities: The current Wi-Fi network is vulnerable to cyber-attacks and
data breaches, putting user information and university systems at risk.

iii. Lack of scalability: The current Wi-Fi network is not scalable enough to support the
increasing number of devices and users on campus, leading to network congestion and
performance issues.
iv. High costs: The cost of upgrading and maintaining the Wi-Fi network can be significant,
particularly for a large institution like MAU.

v. Limited resources: MAU may not have the necessary expertise, budget, or time to
implement a comprehensive Wi-Fi solution on its own.

1.3 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

AIMS

i. To design and implement a Wi-Fi network model that provides comprehensive coverage
and high-quality service to all users on campus.

ii. To enhance the security and privacy of the Wi-Fi network, protecting against potential
cyber threats and data breaches.

iii. To improve the scalability and reliability of the Wi-Fi network, allowing for easy
expansion and the accommodation of growing numbers of devices and users.

OBJECTIVES

i. To perform a comprehensive assessment of the existing Wi-Fi network at MAU,

ii. To identify and evaluate potential solutions for improving the Wi-Fi network, based on
best practices and industry standards.

iii. To design and implement a scalable, secure Wi-Fi network model for MAU, including
the selection of hardware, software, and infrastructure.

iv. To test and evaluate the performance of the new Wi-Fi network, ensuring that it meets the
needs of users and the requirements of the university.
1.4 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

i. Practical: The implementation of a new Wi-Fi network at MAU will provide a valuable
resource for students, faculty, and staff, improving their access to educational resources,
communications, and collaboration tools.

ii. Academic: The research and development of the Wi-Fi network model will contribute to
the field of network engineering and provide valuable insights for other institutions looking to
improve their Wi-Fi services.

iii. Community: The enhanced Wi-Fi network at MAU will also support the broader
community, enabling improved access to online resources, digital learning tools, and other
benefits of connectivity. By providing high-quality Wi-Fi services, MAU can help to bridge the
digital divide and support economic and social development in the surrounding region.

iv. Economic: The new Wi-Fi network will create economic benefits for MAU by improving
productivity and efficiency among faculty and staff, attracting top talent and students to the
university, and enhancing the institution's reputation as a leading center for education and
innovation.

1.5 SCOPE OF THE STUDY

i. technical scope: The study will focus on designing and implementing a new Wi-Fi
network model for MAU using the latest technologies, such as Wi-Fi 6 and cloud-based
management systems. It will include the selection, installation, and configuration of network
equipment, including access points, routers, and switches.

ii. Geographic scope: The study will cover the entire MAU campus, including all buildings,
outdoor areas, and parking lots.

iii. User scope: The study will involve collaboration with a wide range of stakeholders,
including students, faculty, staff, IT personnel, and university administrators. User input and
feedback will be incorporated into the design and implementation of the Wi-Fi network to ensure
that it meets the needs of all users.