Energy upgrades Argonne network

The Energy Department has completed the installation of a new converged IP network for the Argonne National Laboratory near Chicago. Verizon Business was in charge of the upgrade through its subsidiary, Federal Network Systems (FNS).

The new network is designed to carry heavy loads of voice, video and data, eliminating the laboratory's need for multiple voice and data networks.

Verizon FNS will continue to operate and maintain the new network as the laboratory continues to extend its capabilities, according to a Verizon announcement.

"IP networking provides Argonne with more flexibility to move traffic more efficiently over one network while controlling operating costs," said Wesley Jordan, vice president of Verizon FNS, in a written statement.

Chartered in 1946, Argonne descended from the University of Chicago's Metallurgical Laboratory. Argonne officials began exploring options for replacing the old telecommunications system in 2003.