DeVry University Upgrades Network with Bluesocket Products to Increase Mobility and Security for Students and Faculty

Business Wire, June 16, 2009

Bluesocket Brings High-Performance Secure 802.11n Wireless Solution to DeVry University’s Expansive North American Network, Improving Access for Students, Faculty and Visitors.

BURLINGTON, Mass. -- Bluesocket, Inc., (www.bluesocket.com), the leader in trusted wireless access and enterprise mobility, today announced that DeVry University, one of the largest degree-granting higher education systems in North America with more than 90 locations, has expanded its network with Bluesocket’s high-performance BlueSecureTM Controllers and 802.11n 1800 series Access Points.

The BlueSecureTM Controller Family offers a range of platforms to accommodate demands across large and small campuses. This, coupled with Bluesocket’s award-winning 802.11n access points and BlueProtectTM Client Scanning solution, creates the secure, high performing architecture required by DeVry to provide network access to students, faculty and site visitors with improved service and operating efficiency.

Bluesocket’s WLAN product portfolio outperformed key competitors during a thorough evaluation making it the clear choice for DeVry’s IT team.

“We tested hardware and evaluated software and service from three industry leaders. Bluesocket had the most complete solution– both technically and architecturally. They have a flexible architecture with multiple options to set up our network,” said Jim Vignali, central group IT director at DeVry University. “We expect Bluesocket to be a great solution for our network users as we leverage laptops inside the classroom and in team projects outside the classroom.”

At DeVry, supporting students and faculty in their adoption of mobile computing while maintaining a secure and high-performing infrastructure is a high priority. Students arrive on the campuses with personal laptops running on a variety of operating systems, and Internet-ready cell phones. They need fast, reliable access to the university’s network. At the same time, the faculty relies on the wireless infrastructure to update and disseminate curricula and upload multiple file types to DeVry’s online course environment.

The Bluesocket solution interfaces directly with DeVry’s Active Directory environment. For Vignali, this streamlined network integration saves administrative time. Looking ahead, the cost savings of wireless and easy implementation across the network positions DeVry to stay ahead of capacity demands and introduce new services quickly and cost effectively.

“We’re pleased to be able to standardize the product throughout our network. Bluesocket is an excellent product, service and support solution. They have proven to be more than just a supplier; they are a true partner, fully integrated into the university’s infrastructure,” says Eric Dirst, chief information officer at DeVry Inc. “Our relationship came full circle when we discovered the senior Bluesocket engineer leading our implementation is a DeVry graduate. We look forward to continuing to grow the partnership.”

Bluesocket’s BlueViewTM Management System gives DeVry a simplified WLAN management with centralized configuration and maintenance, policy-management, and monitoring capabilities for the BlueSecureTM Controllers and Access Points located across multiple locations. As part of the total solution, the DeVry implementation includes a range of BlueSecureTM products including 75 BlueSecureTM Controllers with 900 Access Points. For an additional layer of network security, DeVry added BlueProtectTM Client Scanning licenses for each Controller to monitor peer-to-peer applications and appropriate security software. This robust NAC solution is integrated into all BlueSecureTM Controllers and can be activated using a cost-effective license.

“The Bluesocket solution from a technical perspective was a great match for DeVry and supported their need for low total operating costs and ease of use. At the same time, I think the strong relationship that we established in the sales process reflects our mutual commitment to form a lasting partnership. Understanding early on in the process that this was an important consideration in selecting their wireless networking provider helped us win their trust and business. They have recently decided to migrate to 802.11n and are also leveraging our BlueProtect NAC solution to provide an enhanced level of end point security against malware and viruses,” says Mads Lillelund, chief executive officer at Bluesocket.

About DeVry University

As one of the largest degree-granting higher education systems in North America, DeVry University provides high-quality, career-oriented associate, bachelor's and master's degree programs in technology, science, business and the arts. Nearly 70,000 students are enrolled at its 93 locations in 26 states and Canada, as well as through DeVry University's online delivery. DeVry University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association, www.ncahlc.org. DeVry University, a division of DeVry Inc. (NYSE: DV), is based in Oakbrook Terrace, Ill. For more information about DeVry University, visit www.devry.edu.