Communications networks are core infrastructure for higher education, providing an essential foundation for all electronic teaching, research, library, and administrative services. How can a school create, manage, and maintain these networks? With continuous advances in technology, how can a school prepare for an unknown future? This article shares some good news: by following some basic guidelines, a campus can ensure a course of network growth and renewal, providing continuous network upgrades and maintaining a position of flexibility to meet expected and unexpected future needs.