Wireless Access Point Installation for Mission Center Network Modernization

Cloud-Managed Wi-Fi and Network Infrastructure Upgrade for Reliable Connectivity

Improving Connectivity with Modern Wireless Networking

This Maryland-based parish sought to improve connectivity and modernize the network infrastructure supporting its Mission Center. While the existing wireless environment adequately supported daily operations, aging network equipment and an unreliable wireless bridge connection created challenges that could impact future growth and user experience.

To address these concerns, the parish partnered with Data Networks to perform a comprehensive network refresh centered on a wireless access point installation initiative. The project included new Juniper Mist wireless access points, upgraded switching and firewall infrastructure, and integration with a new dedicated internet connection designed to improve reliability and support modern Wi-Fi standards.

The resulting solution provides enhanced wireless coverage, improved network visibility, and a scalable foundation for ministry operations, staff productivity, and guest connectivity.

Addressing Reliability Challenges and Future Wi-Fi Requirements

The Mission Center relied on an existing wireless bridge connection that delivered internet access from a nearby residence. While functional, the connection had become increasingly unreliable and created an unnecessary dependency that affected overall network stability.

At the same time, the facility’s wireless infrastructure was approaching the limits of its capabilities. As more devices connected to the network and newer Wi-Fi technologies became standard, leadership recognized the need to upgrade the wireless environment to ensure reliable connectivity and long-term supportability.

The parish wanted to modernize its network while minimizing disruption to daily operations, leveraging cloud-based management tools and maintaining centralized visibility into network performance and health.

A key goal of the project was to deploy enterprise-grade wireless networking that could support both current and future requirements while simplifying ongoing administration through managed services.

Deploying New Wireless Access Points and Network Infrastructure

Data Networks designed and implemented a complete network modernization solution focused on wireless performance, security, and reliability.

The project included:

• Wireless access point installation of four (4) Juniper Mist access points
• Deployment of two (2) Juniper Mist AP45 high-capacity wireless access points
• Deployment of two (2) Juniper Mist AP24 wireless access points
• Installation of a Juniper Networks SRX300 Series firewall
• Installation of a Juniper Networks EX4100 24-port Ethernet switch
• Juniper Mist cloud provisioning and configuration
• Wireless network optimization and validation
• Firewall configuration and security setup
• Removal of the legacy wireless bridge infrastructure
• Integration into the organization’s existing Managed IT Services program

Data Networks first reviewed the existing network environment and developed a firewall configuration aligned with the Mission Center’s requirements. The engineering team then provisioned the new firewall, switch, and wireless access points through the Juniper Mist cloud platform, applying standardized configurations and management policies.

The new wireless access points were installed in the same locations as the existing devices, providing a seamless transition while improving wireless performance and coverage. Once installed, Data Networks verified connectivity, cloud management integration, and network functionality to ensure the environment was fully operational.

Establishing a Scalable Foundation for Future Connectivity

Upon completion, the Mission Center gained a modern, cloud-managed wireless network capable of supporting current operations and future technology initiatives. The new dedicated internet connection and removal of the legacy wireless bridge significantly improved overall reliability, while the Juniper Mist platform provided centralized visibility, monitoring, and management.

The wireless access point installation created stronger wireless coverage, enhanced performance, and greater scalability to support future growth. Combined with ongoing monitoring and support through Data Networks’ Managed IT Services program, the organization now benefits from a secure, reliable, and easily managed network environment.

By modernizing its wireless infrastructure, firewall, and switching platform, the Mission Center established a technology foundation that improves user experience, simplifies management, and supports long-term operational needs.

Tags: religious, nonprofit, non-profit, networking