Implementation of the HARNET-Internet2 Connection
In the second-half of 2001, we had been working closely with JUCC (Joint Univeristies Computer Centre) and a few prospective sponsors in implementing the project, and it was our plan that the HARNET-Internet2 connection could be put into operation by the end of 2001.
Unfortunately, JUCC was informed by the expected international network bandwidth sponsor in December 2001 that its sponsorship might not be materialized due to an acquisition of their company's network asset by another party. As a result of this acquisition, the JUCC could not get the originally anticipated sponsorship of the international network bandwidth and hence decided to proceed with the implementation of the Internet2 connection project without this sponsorship.
We are pleased to inform you that the good progess has been made recently in implementing the HARNET-Internet2 connection. A DS3 (45Mbps) IPLC (International Private Leased Circuit) link between HARNET and STARTAP of Internet2 in Chicago is now being installed. It is our estimation that the HARNET-Internet2 connection would be ready for service by August this year. In this connection, HARNET has also got the approval from STARTAP that we can establish connections to all the peering network sites of STARTAP and those of Abilene (backbone network of Internet2 in U.S.). Details of the STARTAP and Abilene networks listing their international partners are available at http://www.startap.net/NETWORKS/ and http://www.abilene.iu.edu/images/logical.pdf.
Usage and Application
At HKU, our initial plan is to enable all systems on the HKU Campus Network to have access to Internet2 so as to minimize the set up complexity and shorten the time needed to bring up the service. The network routers of the Campus Network would be configured to differentiate the traffic between HKU and Internet2 members from the commodity Internet traffic. The network traffic between HKU and Internet2 sites will then be directed to go through the new Internet2 link automatically.
A website: http://www.itservices.hku.hk/home/networks/internet2/overview.htm which provides the relevant information about the HARNET-Internet2 connection has been set up for reference of our users. We would keep on updating this website to provide the latest information and progress about the project.
The application procedures and user acceptable policy for using the Internet2 connection would soon be announced to all departments. For more technical information and questions about the Internet2 connection, please send the questions by emails to Inet2@cc.hku.hk or contact the undersigned.
Ronald Leung