Overview:
The Technology Refresh Program (Tech Refresh)/Prevention of Information Technology (IT) Obsolescence Program is a consolidated FBI effort to select, acquire, and install IT enterprise hardware and software on a scheduled basis to prevent obsolescence and increase data processing, storage, and transmission capacity.
The events of September 11, 2001, highlighted the FBI’s need for an IT infrastructure that could integrate and manage its information across several computer systems to support its mission. At that time, FBI personnel were using computer systems based on 1980s technology, including antiquated desktop systems. These systems could not run basic web-based software packages. Inter-office communication at some resident agencies was hampered by slow dial-up connections using only 56K modems. Many of the FBI’s databases and computer systems were operated through stand-alone terminals and did not integrate with other systems in other FBI divisions.
The FBI Information and Technology Branch (ITB) is committed to providing the entire FBI with the latest IT solutions. By 2003, an estimated 30,000 new desktop computers, 3,689 printers, 1,600 scanners, 465 servers, and approximately 1,382 routers were deployed across the FBI. Additionally an estimated 7,500 desktop computers were upgraded. The old local and wide area networks were replaced with a state-of-the-art secure high-speed communications system that now links desktop and databases throughout the FBI. Additionally, employees who need access to a TOP SECRET/Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCION) network now have the ability to communicate with the FBI’s partners in the Intelligence Community.
Status of Project:
The Tech Refresh effort applies to all of the FBI’s networks: the FBI’s secure network (FBINet), the unclassified network, and the SCION infrastructure enclaves that are used to manage and maintain the primary records of the FBI.
The ITB is committed to refreshing 20 percent of the oldest IT hardware each year, as funding permits, to minimize obsolescence. During Fiscal Year 2008, the ITB refreshed 15,022 FBINet desktop machines and repurposed the older hardware to expand the unclassified network by installing 14,236 terminals. Another 5,916 desktop computers have been ordered and are now staged for installation by the end of the calendar year.
