A pivotal enhancement to U-M’s network infrastructure has been successfully completed. Information and Technology Services (ITS) sponsored the project to replace the Border Interconnect Network (BIN), which serves the Ann Arbor campus, including Michigan Medicine.
Supported by a dedicated ITS project team, the initiative included collaboration with representatives from Merit Network, Health Information Technology and Services, and UM-Dearborn Information Technology Services.
The BIN Replacement project involved the successful replacement of two critical border routers. A major aim of this undertaking was to boost the institution’s internet and Internet2 connection speeds. With the new routers operational, the university—particularly faculty and researchers—has been experiencing improved response times for data.
The upgrade effort began in early 2024 with the installation of new hardware and equipment and continued smoothly without affecting the university community’s day-to-day operations. Financially, there was no additional cost to schools, colleges, or units beyond the standard internet fees already contributed.
This investment in the university’s network is designed to meet institutional needs for the next eight years. However, ITS remains agile and open to accelerating the timeline for future upgrades should networking standards or university requirements necessitate it.
Project information is available on the BIN Replacement website.
