ASK4 has been a trusted connectivity partner for Student Roost since the brand launched in 2017, delivering fully managed Internet services to their nationwide portfolio. In 2024, ASK4 secured a further seven-year contract with Student Roost, encompassing a comprehensive service and equipment upgrade across all sites.
Project requirements
Student Roost required an upgraded connectivity solution to meet the growing demands of modern student living. Their key requirements included:
A full-service and equipment upgrade across their entire portfolio
Future-proof technology, including WiFi 6, to enhance the student experience in their buildings
Consistent and high-speed connectivity with enhanced service packages
A carefully planned rollout to minimise disruption to residents and operations
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The ASK4 solution
ASK4 designed and implemented a structured, phased upgrade plan in collaboration with Student Roost. Key elements of the solution included:
- Upgraded 16,025 bed spaces between March and July 2024
- Installed a new 774-bed site in Belfast in August 2024, fully equipped with in-room WiFi 6 technology
- Delivered enhanced service packages, including 400Mb/s speeds, 4Network with unlimited devices, and 4Backup for enhanced connectivity
- A further 5,303 beds scheduled for upgrade in 2026/2027 to ensure continued service improvements
- Multi-team, city-based planning to efficiently manage upgrades across multiple locations while minimising disruption
Overcoming challenges
Managing a large-scale nationwide upgrade within a tight timeframe presented logistical and operational challenges. ASK4 successfully addressed these by:
- Implementing a city-by-city rollout strategy to streamline the project execution
- Deploying multiple teams in parallel to accelerate installations and minimise downtime
- Maintaining regular communication and collaboration with Student Roost to ensure alignment and seamless execution. Newsletters were sent to residents to update them on the works, emphasising the positive impact of the upgrades, site-by-site.
- Delivered to a committed project delivery time, monitoring the transition and acting quickly to resolve any issues or overcome obstacles.
Results and impact
The completed upgrades and new installations have delivered significant benefits to Student Roost and their residents:
- Enhanced student experience with faster, more reliable connectivity
- Seamless network access with unlimited device connections and high-speed packages
- Future-proof infrastructure to support the growing digital needs of student residents
- Ongoing planned improvements, ensuring long-term service quality and scalability
Jonathan Bushell, Director of IT at Student Roost, said:
"Reliable, high-speed internet is no longer a luxury—it’s an expectation. Partnering with ASK4 has allowed us to deliver an outstanding digital experience for our residents, and their proactive approach to upgrading and future-proofing our infrastructure has been invaluable. The upgrade process was well-coordinated, and ASK4’s expertise has been instrumental in keeping us ahead of the curve."
Kerry Mattock, Client Relationship Director for Student Roost at ASK4, added:
"Student Roost has been a fantastic partner over the years, and we’re delighted to continue providing cutting-edge connectivity across their portfolio. We worked closely with their team to ensure a smooth upgrade process, delivering a solution that not only meets today’s demands but also prepares them for the future. Our focus remains on providing seamless, high-quality service for both residents and site teams."
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Future collaboration and next steps
ASK4 and Student Roost continue to work closely to ensure ongoing enhancements and support. The next phase of upgrades, covering 5,303 additional beds, is scheduled for 2026/2027. ASK4 remains committed to delivering best-in-class connectivity solutions and for the next seven years will continue to support Student Roost and deliver any future projects as part of an ongoing partnership agreement.
