The University's research productivity depends on these computers, and considerable effort and expense is involved in their purchase and operation. The campus network, and connections to outside networks, are crucial elements of the physical infrastructure for computing. Princeton's campus network is generally perceived as well-run, although the subcommittee did hear of some recent interruptions in network access which severely affected some researchers. While we offer no specific recommendations regarding network operations, we stress that a reliable high-bandwidth network is vital for both education and research at Princeton.
Computers require support, and providing highly skilled software support is costly.
Our subcommittee focussed on issues related to computer software where we believe that steps can be taken which can both save money and enhance the effectiveness of research computing.