Projects & Programs
As defined in CEN’s mission and vision, CEN utilizes its technical and human networks to expand and accelerate outcomes related to Connecticut’s digital learning, research, and economic development goals and initiatives. Operationally, the CEN team coordinates with our member organizations and advisory councils to continually identify and execute projects with significant impact. Projects outlined here represent the current priorities. Click on any project to learn more
Active Projects
Everybody Learns WiFi Initiative: Program End
CEN is helping Governor Lamont bridge the digital divide by bringing free outdoor public Wi-Fi to eligible towns and locations across the state as part of the $43.5 Million ‘Everybody Learns’ Initiative.
Fiber to the Library | Internal Connections (FTTL-IC)
The CT State Library is partnering with CEN and Novus Insight to improve internal network connections for Connecticut’s Primary Libraries supporting digital access and inclusion.
DNS Firewall
DNS Firewall is a network security solution that prevents network users and systems from connecting to known malicious Internet locations.
Hub Site Upgrades
Replace and update the distribution layer devices on the network. More dense hub sites will receive new devices capable of 100/400 Gig. Less dense sites will receive new devices capable of Nx100 Gig.
ARPA-Broadband Infrastructure Program
The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) resulted in a planned investment of more than 6 billion dollars in Connecticut over the next three years. Governor Lamont’s Plan defines five key areas of investment with a focus on equity. These areas of investment include state wide infrastructure, access to high speed internet, education and health care programs, and economic development. CEN will play a significant role in meeting the Governor’s objectives by executing five programs totaling over 70 million dollars.
Charter School Fiber Connectivity Program
Or Premium Internet and subsidized fiber builds for CT Charter Schools not already directly connected to CEN
Municipality Fiber Internet Connectivity Program
Sign up for Premium Internet and subsidized fiber builds for CT municipalities and COGS not already directly connected to CEN
Community Wi-Fi Grant Program
Apply for grant funds to expand community WiFi throughout CT Communities
Library Fiber Internet Connectivity Program
Sign up for Premium Internet and subsidized fiber builds for CT Libraries not already directly connected to CEN
CEN Next Gen Infrastructure
The comprehensive upgrade of the CEN network bringing unparalleled capacity, speed, security, and resilience.
Completed Projects
DDoS Fast-Flood Enhancement
Fast–Flood detection reduces the time for Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) detection and mitigation. The service also provides alerts when attacks start and a summary report when the attack is over.
Everybody Learns WiFi Initiative
CEN is helping Governor Lamont bridge the digital divide by bringing free outdoor public Wi-Fi to eligible towns and locations across the state as part of the $43.5 Million ‘Everybody Learns’ Initiative.