Significant enhancements to IT Security at McGill are currently underway. These changes will further protect McGill’s computers, networks, and data against unauthorized access and attacks.
What is the Information Security Upgrade?
The initiative affects IT Security across the entire University and will continue over the next few years. Leveraging the upgraded infrastructure, enhanced security features will be integrated, including new next generation firewalls and other security processes, policies and technologies.
Why does McGill need an IT Security Upgrade?
As an institute of higher learning, McGill University’s research data and large user population make the University an attractive target for cyber criminals.
McGill’s Information Security team recognizes these risks and has undertaken a plan to increase the University’s IT security, while supporting the University’s mission to provide user access and enable collaboration.
Our Organization is in need of ..
The project will replace the current firewalls that are end of support August 2025. The project will also look at improved VPN solutions. At the same time, we will take advantage of newer technology built into new solutions to create new security rules based on the user’s device and identity. This will give users better and more secure access to applications and systems and also simplify management of the firewall rules.
The overall estimated project budget is currently estimated at $3.92M which consisting of the following:
- Hardware (firewall appliances)
- Professional Services
- Training
- Computer Software (Subscription Licenses & Maintenance)
- Contingency and Level of Precision
Service Outline:
| Type | Professional Services |
| Status | Ongoing |
| Projected Start Date | 2024 - 2026 |
| Category | Information Technology (IT) |
| Description | The project will replace the current firewalls that are end of support August 2025. The project will also look at improved VPN solutions. At the same time, we will take advantage of newer technology built into new solutions to create new security rules based on the user’s device and identity. |
| Unit / Faculty | IT Services |
| Contact | map.procurement [at] mcgill.ca |
Please read the following information carefully :
Sustainable Procurement
The businesses with which the University will contract with in the course of this project will have respect the McGill Supplier Code of Conduct.
Other requirements may apply, such as (for example): the quantification and limiting of GHG emissions over the contract or asset lifecycle, sustainable construction/product certifications, involvement of indigenous businesses or of social economy businesses, design for circularity, and so on.
Notice :Information in this document is not to be interpreted as a commitment to conduct any solicitation in any particular market (or to fulfill any particular need) within any timeframe. This document is based on preliminary assessments which may be modified and needs may consequently be increased, partially fulfilled or cancelled. The needs of the client units may fluctuate according to their capabilities and priorities. Moreover, this acquisition plan is subject to various risk factors that have an influence on the operations of McGill University, such as available revenue, inflation, changes in: provincial and federal policies, technologies, human resources, social movements and trends, demographic aspects of the student population and the academic personnel. |