Project overview / FAQ

I-Net (Institutional Network) is a fiber optic network which connects approximately 300 public facilities in King County. The network is used for data, voice, and video communications. It has been made possible as part of Comcast's rebuild of its cable system in the Puget Sound region.

Eligible subscribers to the I-Net include schools in unincorporated King County; King County libraries (external link); King County government agencies; and other public agencies in King County, including public safety agencies, courts, public health facilities and other public service agencies.

In addition to the monthly fees paid by customers, cable TV subscribers in unincorporated King County pay $1.00 per month to support I-Net equipment purchases and upgrades.

I-Net is a general-purpose communications network that provides high-speed transmission of data, video and voice. Services include:

1. I-Net service packages
• Basic service
• transparent LAN Service (TLS) connection
• two T-1 circuits capable of interconnecting two PBX’s, two routers and/or video conferencing equipment
• 16 IP addresses
• connection to the Internet Network Access Point (INAP)
• connectivity to the Internet. 
• Limited Basic service
• 1.5 Mbps connection served from an Ethernet port
• eight IP addresses
• Bandwidth-only services
• Transparent LAN Service (TLS), or Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) technology
• Video conferencing service
2. Enhanced services
• Additional Internet bandwidth
• Additional IP addresses

I-Net meets the following business needs of public institutions in King County:

• Cost containment for telecommunications expenses
• New instructional tool for educators (two-way interactive video)
• Improved ability to share information and resources between public and educational institutions
• Enhanced participation in public and business meetings
• Expandable and upgradable communications network to support future requirements

The I-Net is designed to compliment and to extend the K-20 offerings for participating schools. It is not intended to replace K-20 in King County.

• K-20's emphasis is to provide services state-wide among higher education and school districts.
• I-Net's emphasis is to provide circuits to districts and schools in King County and connecting schools to libraries and other public resources. I-Net provides connections between participating schools and the K-20 services. I-Net enables schools to access library and government resources.
• I-Net also provides high speed, high capacity circuits.

 

More information on the details of each level of service, and the costs, are available from Darryl Hunt.