The History of CEN

Connecting CT Communities Since 2000

CEN was established in 2000 with an important mission: ensure that students across the state have access to great technology and content on a network that will grow with them. Over the last 25 years, CEN has delivered on that promise. Through the use of federal broadband investments, state general funds, and customer payments, CEN has saved the state’s schools and libraries more than $50 million, when compared with the cost of procuring broadband access through commercial providers.

In addition, CEN has supported economic development by expanding the reach of broadband across the state. As we built the education network, fiber providers installed additional strands of fiber to all corners of the state. This investment has lowered the cost to bring access to all our citizens and is used extensively to serve wireless cell towers in the state.

CEN serves as the cornerstone of high-speed network connectivity for the state’s educational community, providing exclusive access to state-of-the-art research networks, tailored technology solutions, and personalized support. By leveraging shared infrastructure and partnerships, CEN enables its members to achieve challenging goals, foster innovative thinking, and connect with similarly situated institutions across the state.

Meet the Team

MISSION

Mission Driven,
Member Focused

Empower our member institutions to execute their missions through technology, collaboration, and digital transformation with secure, reliable, and value-added advanced network and Internet solutions.

VISION

Future Forward

CEN serves as the trusted partner through which Connecticut’s digital and human networks connect, collaborate, and share resources to realize the full potential of digital learning, research, and citizenry.