The Data Communications and Network Engineering unit is one of three budget accounts within the Communications unit within the Enterprise Information Technology Services Division. This unit is responsible for all tasks related to developing, operating, and maintaining statewide data; voice over internet protocol; and video-communications infrastructure. Most of this effort is focused on the Wide Area Network (WAN), termed SilverNet, and maintaining connectivity such as internet access for the state and dedicated purpose circuits including federal program connections. Staff tasks include installing and troubleshooting data circuits; installing, operating and maintaining routers, firewalls, event logging, and data switches that tie the circuits together; and engineering, analyzing, and troubleshooting the complex WAN itself. Staff supports over 8,500 network connections representing servers and network devices (routers, firewalls and switches) in more than 150 locations throughout the state. Customers include all Executive Branch Agencies, Constitutional Offices, the Judicial Branch, and to a limited extent, the Legislative Branch. Statutory Authority: NRS 242.