IFS Network

The Institute of Fluid Science (IFS) Network is operated as a lower network of StarTAINS which is the campus network provided by the Cyber Science Center, Tohoku University. The Institute of Fluid Science was among the first to build a GbE-capable network to connect to StarTAINs, Tohoku University’s high-speed GbE (GigabitEthernet) backbone network that began operations in 2009.

The IFS Network deploys a core multi-layer switch and star topology network, with distributed buildings connected via a 1-10 Gbps backbone network, and each room is provided with 1000 Base-T networks, so users can access the supercomputer system at high speeds.

Supercomputer Access Network

To facilitate high-speed access to the supercomputer network, the Institute’s Building No.1 and Building No. 2 are connected to the supercomputer center via a 40Gbps network. This network is a lower network of the IFS Network. The research labs are also wired to enable high-speed 10Gbps connections to the supercomputer system from each lab, separate from the IFS Network, for labs that desire such access.

Dedicated Network for Measurement-integrated Research

Some of the experimental facilities in the Institute of Fluid Science are connected via a 40Gbps dedicated line to the supercomputer system to promote measurement-integrated research unifying experimental measurements and numerical simulation.

Remote Access VPN

The Institute of Fluid Science Remote Access VPN allows users to connect to the IFS network from locations outside of IFS, using personal computers or other devices connected to the internet via LAN or ISP, and has been in operation since April 2003. Using the Remote Access VPN, a remote PC can be recognized as being connected to the IFS internal LAN, enabling communications as a machine with an IFS private address, providing access to mail servers and Windows file-sharing in the same manner as if the user were physically inside the Institute, resulting in great convenience.

Wireless LAN

The IFS wireless LAN is a wireless network provided in almost all interior spaces of the Institute. The wireless LAN distributes accounts per user and connects to the subnet where the user is assigned. Since connections don’t drop even when switching between access points, the wireless LAN enables seamless use even if moving between rooms for research or meetings.