HEAnet Celebrates Completion of Core Aggregation and Technological University Router Replacement (CATUR) Project

HEAnet is delighted to announce the successful completion of the Core Aggregation and Technological University Router Replacement (CATUR) Project – one of the largest upgrades to the HEAnet network since 2018.

CATUR is one of seven network projects as part of the HEAnet’s 2023 Network Upgrade Programme. Over the past 12 months, the project team replaced 28 aggregation routers at HEAnet core sites and 40 distribution routers across Technological Universities, Institutes of Technology, and other major client sites.

The project was delivered on time, under budget, and with minimal disruption to clients, a testament to the professionalism and hard work of all involved. While every HEAnet team contributed, special recognition goes to Rónán ÓhÓbáin, HEAnet’s Networks Team Manager, and the entire Networks Team, whose support and dedication were central to the project’s success.

CATUR follows on from the earlier Core Hardware Upgrade (CHU) project, replacing core network aggregation and distribution equipment in response to end-of-life announcements by Juniper Networks. The project was sponsored by Eoin Kenny, HEAnet’s Innovation, R&D Manager, managed by the HEAnet PMO, and funded through capital funding from the Department of Education and Youth, with a budget of over one million euros.

To mark the occasion, the HEAnet team celebrated this achievement in true HEAnet style – with cake at our Dublin office.

Network is one of the key areas of focus for HEAnet as we continue our commitment to delivering world-class network connectivity for Ireland’s education and research sector. The HEAnet national network is a cornerstone of Ireland’s education and research infrastructure, connecting institutions and enabling cutting-edge innovation and collaboration.

Learn more about our future network development plans in our HEAnet Strategy 2025-2030: https://www.heanet.ie/heanet-strategy.