What is MESA?

MESA stands for Mason Enterprise Services Architecture. It is the new computer network system designed to meet the needs of the Mason faculty and staff community, as defined by the Information Technology Unit’s Technology Council. If you’re already using Novell, MESA is the updated replacement of that network operating system. If you have not been using Novell, MESA will provide new methods for handling your files and new levels of security.

MESA is a system of services that takes advantage of the network’s components to give users resources beyond what a stand-alone computer can provide. MESA was designed specifically for George Mason University.

MESA provides file services, print services, desktop management, remote assistance, and enhanced desktop security. The services are provided for the operating systems most people use, including Windows, Macintosh, and Linux. Although all operating systems will be able to access files stored on MESA, there will be some services that will be compatible only with certain ones.

Project Description:

MESA is a project that started with the Information Technology Council (ITC). The ITC identified the need for a new Local Area Network (LAN) architecture that provided the services required to a growing University. Core to the project was the need to provide a distributed file system which would be accessible in both on-campus and off-campus environments. The MESA project team has worked to develop a scalable and flexible architecture which meets the University's needs and can adapt to new technologies as they develop.

Project goals, as developed by the Information Technology Council:

1. Ensure that the University's file storage systems are modern, and accessible from remote locations and from common University workstations/servers.

2. Minimize the amount of authentication methods required to access University systems.

3. Improve the security of the University's data systems and networks.

4. Position the University to provide electronic collaboration between University Faculty and other institutions.

5. Improve desktop workstation management.