Cracking the code: overcoming campus Wi-Fi and connectivity challenges in UK universities

Once again, Softcat were very pleased to attend the recent Jisc Networkshop hosted in the fantastic surroundings of Nottingham Trent University’s Business School. The conversation was focused on one of the base layers to all things digital… Network and connectivity!

The backbone of higher education

While Data, Automation and AI seem to command every breath of conversation these days across Higher Education, it might feel like the merits of solid networks and connectivity are consigned to the basement of discussions.

But, in an era where digital learning is no longer a luxury but a necessity, reliable campus Wi-Fi and network connectivity have become the backbone of Higher Education. Despite this, across many UK Universities, students and staff still face frustrating connectivity issues that hinder productivity, collaboration, and access to essential resources. From halls of residence to the central campus functions such as libraries, the demand for seamless, high-speed internet is growing exponentially, but so are the challenges…

The connectivity conundrum: common challenges

• High user density

There is no question that university campuses are high-density environments. Thousands of students, faculty, and devices connect simultaneously, especially during peak hours. Lecture theatres, libraries, and student unions often become digital bottlenecks, where bandwidth is stretched thin and performance drops significantly.

• Legacy infrastructure

Many UK universities are still operating on outdated network infrastructure that wasn’t designed to handle today’s data-heavy applications like video conferencing, cloud-based collaboration tools, and real-time simulations. While upgrading this infrastructure is costly and logistically complex, especially in historic buildings with architectural constraints, it’s an absolutely critical step to resolve in the quest for improved student experience.

• Coverage gaps

Despite widespread Wi-Fi deployment coverage gaps persist, particularly in older buildings, basements, and outdoor areas. Thick walls, metal structures, foil-backed plaster board used to retain heat and lower cost, and interference from other electronic devices can degrade signal strength and reliability considerably.

• Security and privacy concerns

With the rise in cyber threats, universities must balance open access with robust security. Ensuring secure authentication, protecting sensitive research data, and complying with GDPR regulations add layers of complexity to network management.

• BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) culture

Students and staff bring a multitude of personal devices including laptops, smartphones, tablets, and lately more smartwatches into the university environment, each requiring connectivity. This surge in device diversity and volume strains network capacity, and complicates device management and troubleshooting.

The solutions

These challenges are considerable, so turning to some innovative solutions and strategies is necessary to overcome them.

• Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E deployment

The adoption of Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and newer standards are game-changers. These technologies offer higher data rates, increased capacity, improved performance in dense environments, and lower latency. Institutions like the University of Glasgow and University College London are already piloting Wi-Fi 6 to support high-density usage in lecture halls and student accommodations.

• Smart network management with AI and Automation

AI-driven network management tools are helping IT teams monitor, diagnose, and resolve issues in real-time. These systems can predict congestion points, automatically reroute traffic, identify rogue devices or security threats, and optimise bandwidth allocation. This proactive approach reduces downtime and enhances user experience, without requiring constant manual intervention.

•  Mesh networking and small cell deployment

To eliminate coverage gaps, universities are deploying mesh networks and small cells. These technologies extend Wi-Fi coverage by creating a web of interconnected nodes that relay signals efficiently, even in hard-to-reach areas. Outdoor mesh networks are particularly useful for sprawling campuses like the University of Exeter or the University of Nottingham.

• Cloud-based network infrastructure

Cloud-managed networks offer scalability, flexibility, and centralised control. Universities can manage multiple campuses or buildings from a single dashboard, push updates remotely, and scale resources based on demand. This model also supports hybrid learning environments, ensuring consistent access whether students are on campus or attending remotely.

• Private 5G networks

Some forward-thinking institutions are exploring private 5G networks to complement Wi-Fi. Private 5G offers ultra-low latency, high reliability, and enhanced security—ideal for research labs, IoT applications, and smart campus initiatives. For example, the University of Surrey continues to test private networks to support autonomous vehicles and remote surgeries.

•  User-centric design and feedback loops

Understanding user behavior is key to improving connectivity. Universities are increasingly using analytics and feedback tools to track usage patterns, identify high-traffic zones, and gather student feedback on connectivity issues. This data-driven approach ensures that network upgrades are aligned with actual user needs and pain points.

Looking ahead - the future of campus connectivity

As digital transformation accelerates, the expectations for campus connectivity will only grow. Future innovations may include edge computing to reduce latency, IoT integration for smart classrooms, augmented and virtual reality for immersive learning, and blockchain-based identity management for secure access control.

Finally, Campus Wi-Fi and network connectivity are no longer just IT concerns, they’re strategic priorities that impact learning, research, and student satisfaction. Whilst the challenges are significant, so too are the opportunities for innovation.

By embracing next-gen technologies like Wi-Fi 6, AI-driven management, and private 5G, UK universities can build smarter, more connected campuses that empower the next generation of learners and leaders.

If you’d like to find out more about how Softcat can support universities and other educational institutions, please visit our dedicated Education Hub.