Information & Guidelines

on

Networking in Schools
Version 1.0

Issued by

National Centre for Technology in Education (NCTE)

Date: Dec 1st 2003

NCTE Guidelines for Schools Networking

1.0

Introduction
These guidelines should be read in the context of the letter of 8 th December 2003, from the Department of
Education and Science, (DES) and in association with the NCTE Advice and Planning Pack issued to
schools in 2002.
An extract from the DES letter of Dec 8 th reads as follows: There are several practical advantages to
having a school network, including shared access to files, software and other resources, centralised
administration systems and shared access to the internet, printers, scanners and other devices. Accordingly,
it is recommended that school authorities should give priority, where relevant, to achieving improved levels
of networking of computers within the school and that grants should be primarily used towards this goal.
For more information on networking, please consult with the ICT Advisor in your area or refer to the
networking section of the NCTE website at www.ncte.ie/networking

The guidelines are not meant to be a complete guide to all aspects of networking but rather
as a support to schools in planning the next stage of the local network in their school.
Other related objectives of this document are:
to assist schools in understanding the benefits of networking
to help schools place in context the current stage of the development of their local school network
to provide standard networking models and best practice to schools which will assist schools in
the next stage of planning their network.
This document includes information under the following main headings:
Networking Models Towards a networked school
Example network configurations
Costs of Networking
Cabling Guidelines and recommendations:
Basics of school Networking
Types of Networks
Advantages of Networking
Some relevant terms.
Having reviewed the document schools requiring further advice should consult with their regional ICT
Advisor whose contact details may be found on the NCTE website at:
http://www.ncte.ie/ICTTraining/AdvisorNetwork/
During 2004, and in addition to this document further information/resources relating to networking will be
added to the NCTE website at http://www.ncte.ie/networking
For latest NCTE information schools are advised to consult this section of the website when they are
undertaking an upgrade of their local school network.
Note: School Administration Network and General school network
This document focuses primarily on the general school network rather than the specific requirements of th
administration network within a school. The two areas are of course related and there are opportunities to
apply a more integrated approach such as combining internet access, setting up different workgroups, or
virtual local area networks etc. This area is not covered in the document and will be covered either as an
update or in a separate Guideline in 2004.

NCTE Guidelines for Schools Networking

1.1. Networking Models: Towards a Networked School

This model (fig 1) shows a simplified diagram of a networked school indicating the various types of networking
models used. These include computer rooms, networked classrooms, and networked specialist rooms for
specific subjects. Mobile networked solutions are shown in the Resource room, the General Purpose room and
in Building 2. Note: To improve readability, only the network points are shown here, rather than cabling itself.

Main School Building

School
Admin
Office

Technology
Room
Post
Primary

Principals
Office
Staff Room

Resource
Room

Science
Labs
Post
Primary

Standard
Classroom

Standard
Classrooms

General Purpose Room

Standard
Classroom

Standard
Classroom

Standard
Classroom
Store
Room

ICT
Server &
Equipment
Room

Standard
Classroom

Standard
Classroom

Standard
Classroom

Specialist
Room
Post
Primary

Computer room
with 15-30 computers

Standard
Classroom

Specialist
Room
Post
Primary

Wireless link to
Building 2

Building 2
Temporary Pre-Fab
- Wireless Network

Building 3

Fig 1: Representation of a Whole School Network Model

NCTE Guidelines for Schools Networking

Junior Infants
# of computers

Senior Infants
# of computers

1st Class
# of computers

2nd Class
# of computers

Principal/Office
Staffroom
# of computers

Resource room
# of computers

3rd Class
# of computers
File & Print Server
Access to:
Internet content &
learning resources,
Scoilnet etc
Email communication

4th Class
# of computers

Cache, Proxy,
Server

5th Class
# of computers

School Local Area

Network (LAN)

Modem or
Router / Firewall

6th Class
# of computers

Fig 2: Typical Network Model for a Primary or Special school.

Figure 2 shows a network model for a Primary or Special school. This includes connectivity to all
classrooms to a local area network (LAN). The network connects to a File and Print Server. Internet access
is handled via a modem or router, while Web Caching and Proxy service are all handled via a dedicated
server.

standard classroom
# of computers

computer room
# of computers

Staff room
# of computers

Principal/Office
# of computers

Library
# of computers

science lab
# of computers
File & Print Server
Access to:
Internet content &
learning resources,
Scoilnet etc
Email communication

technology lab
# of computers

Cache/Proxy,
Server

School Local Area

Network (LAN)
Modem or
Router / Firewall

resource room
# of computers

specialist room
# of computers

Fig 3: Typical Network Model for a Post Primary school.

Figure 3 shows a model for a Post Primary school. This includes connectivity to all classrooms back to a
central network. The network connects to a File and Print Server. Internet access is handled via a modem or
router, while Web Caching and Proxy service are all handled via a dedicated server.

NCTE Guidelines for Schools Networking

File & Print Server

Printer

Multimedia or
CD Server

Scanner

Access to:
Internet content &
learning resources,
Scoilnet etc
Email communication
Cache/Proxy,
Server

Main Servers &

Internet Access

Modem
or Router/Firewall

To Network

Fig 4: Server Functionality Model

Server Functionality (Fig 4)
The network connects to a file and print server. The file server stores common files, while the print server
manages the different requests for printing. A multimedia or CD server is used to store and distribute
Multimedia - sound, video, text learning applications. Internet access is handled via a modem or router, while
while Web Caching and Proxy service are all handled via a dedicated server.

Example network configurations:

Models for Networking
First lets review some simple models where no networking exits and where computers are used in
standalone or ad-hoc mode. The following represent some simple models representing classrooms.
Model 1a: One computer in a classroom with its own private printer. It is recommended that schools with
computers in this situation would network the classrooms in question as shown. Networking will more
effectively make use of commonly shared resources such as file servers and school printers, internet, email
etc. When a mobile PC or PC with projector is require in a room the network points are already present.
In this scenario, there could be a single LAN-connected point for the teacher and an additional LAN
connection to allow for a portable switch.
Model 1a

Fig 5a: From single PC to networked LAN Points

NCTE Guidelines for Schools Networking

Model 1b: This scenario is similar to Model 1a, but where other equipment such as printers, scanners are
used in ad-hoc and inefficient configuration. It is recommended that schools with computers in this
situation would network the relevant classrooms. Networking will more effectively make use of commonly
shared resources such as scanners, printers, internet, email etc. In this scenario there may be a single LANconnected point for the teacher and some LAN connection points in the room to allow students access to
the school LAN. The connection points may be situated as required around the room depending on the
specific purpose that the room is used for.
Model 1b:

Fig 5b: Networking other commonly used equipment

Networked Computer Room
Model 1c: A non networked computer room or resource area with an ad-hoc and inefficient use of printers,
scanners etc. A networked computer room is essential so that all PCs can access common resources such as
file servers, printers, the internet, email etc. This scenario represents a school computer room which can be
timetabled for classes, and with each computer networked to the LAN. There may be a single LANconnected presentation point for the teacher and LAN-connected computers throughout the classroom for
pupils. Traditionally, ICT in Irish secondary schools has been concentrated in dedicated computer rooms,
which is attractive as an entire class can receive hands-on computer use. Primary schools usually have more
varied deployment.
Model 1c:

Fig 5c: Networked computer lab.

NCTE Guidelines for Schools Networking

Media Bays (Ref Fig 6a)

Mobile Media bays, or data suites are clusters of about four desktop computers, and often including a
scanner and printer which can be moved (usually on a trolley) to particular areas or classroom in the school
as required. Though self-sufficient in terms of peripherals, once they are moved to a networked classroom
they can be plugged in to the local school network and thus avail of the use of common resources such as
file servers, internet access etc. They can be used by teachers or pupils either individually or in small
groups and could accommodate both task-oriented activities and self-directed learning.
On of the advantages of Media Bays is the flexibility they facilitate, allowing resources to be moved
quickly to classrooms or other school areas as required.
If the Media bay includes a small hub or switch connected as shown, it requires only one network
connection to connect all elements to the network.

Fig 6a: Movable or mobile Media Bays with one network connection

Laptop and Data Projector (Ref Fig 6b)

A combination of laptop and data-projector is a highly effective teaching solution model where a teacher
wants to provide the whole class with visual or multimedia content. It can be used in conjunction with an
existing LAN point in the room for best effect. By connecting to the network the whole class can access
content from the internet etc.

Fig 6b: Movable or mobile Laptop PC with Digital Projector

Wireless LAN (Ref Fig 6c)

A Wireless LAN solution has the capability to connect multiple computers to the school LAN without
providing direct LAN connections between the computers and the network. No LAN cabling is required
for the classroom; instead all computers are radio linked to the LAN. Wireless LAN technology is
relatively new and generally more expensive and more limited than standard cabled LANs. Wireless LAN
data rates are typically slower than CAT5e LAN cabling. There is the potential, however, to save on cabling
a particular school area by using the wireless option.
Wireless connections allow a region to be connected to a network by radiowaves, which link a wireless
card in the computer to a wireless access point. One should remember that the access point itself must be
connected by cable to the local school network for the solution to work.

NCTE Guidelines for Schools Networking

Advantages
Flexibility of setting up networks - a network could be quickly set up, this may be especially
appropriate in a situation where the network needs may change in the future, and where the
cabling investment might be lost if further building changes were required.
Wireless networking means that large common areas such as school canteens or libraries can be
easily connected to the network.
Disadvantages
Wireless networking may prove more expensive if wiring large numbers of computers which are
close together, as is the case in a computer room. Generally in this case it is best to cable the
computer room rather that use a wireless network.
Wireless access point data rates of 11Mbps are considerably less at present than their cabled
equivalent and thus is unsuitable for high data volumes such as multimedia access by large
numbers of machines, however newer 54Mb/sec data rates are available which can better support
multimedia.
Manufacturers stated ranges of 100 - 300 metres do not work satisfactorily in practice expecially
where walls exist between the points in question. Ranges of less than 18 metres are not
uncommon. Data rates drop off as distance increases. Concrete or block walls will also affect
whether wireless will operate effectively in a particular school environment. Where older thicker
walls are in place, this makes it more difficult if not impossible to deploy wireless networking.
There are security implications of using a wireless network, such that it may be possible for a
external party to access the school network using certain equipment. If the nature of the data is
sensitive and not to be viewed by external parties then the school should seek advice from in terms
of the solution to be deployed, especially if the data if either sensitive or important.
While it is unlikely that wireless will replace data cables in the near future they do provide a flexibility
that can be harnessed creatively.

Fig 6c: Wireless LAN (WLAN)

NCTE Guidelines for Schools Networking

1.2.

Costs of Networking:
The costs of networking a school or a section of a school can be better understood by reviewing the items that
contribute to the costs. Indicitive prices are outlined in Tables 2 -6 as a guideline, though these will vary.
Professionally installed structured cabling to CAT5e standard is assumed, as anything of a lesser standard will
generally cause problems, or have to be upgraded as schools needs change. Every school building is different
with some local or particular requirements, so the table gives approximate costs for a single building
situation. The outlined costs do not include the costs of PCs, Servers, Software etc. VAT applies at 21% for
equipment and at 13.5% for services. Installation is a service and as such should have the appropriate VAT
rate included.
Price
(ExVAT)

Networking Component

Comment

Cabling (to Min CAT5e standard)

Cabling per network point

100-160

Wall Cabinet

200

Includes CAT5e cable, Installation, Patch leads,

Device leads, trunking, Patch panels, Testing and
Certification (includes cable and service)
15U (ie 18 inches high) Wall Cabinet is used to
house/protect cables/patch panels

Standard Networking (ie Wired networks)

Standard Network card

20-50

Wireless Networking (11 or 54Mb/sec)

Wireless PC Card

50-100

Wireless Access Point (or Basestation) or

Wireless Router
Switches/Hubs
Switch (24 port)
Hub (8 port)

350-600

250-500
40

Installed in each PC to allow connection to the

network
NCTE recommend using the newer 54Mb/sec version
Installed in each PC to allow connection to a Wireless
network
A Wireless Access Point communicates with Wireless
PCs
Switches rather than Hubs are recommended for
connecting PCs
Hubs are older technology which are not generally
recommended in the main local area network

Table 1: Network Components typical pricing for a school single building

Example 1: Large Post Primary School with 800 pupils want to add a new computer room
with 30 networked computers, ie 30 networked points.
Networking a computer room with 30
points
Cabling per network point
Wall Cabinet
Standard Network card (one per PC)
Switch (24 port)
Totals

Qty

Unit
Cost

30
1
30
2

150
240
35
400

Totals
(ex
VAT)
4,500
240
1,050
800
6,590

Table 2: Networking a new computer room with 30 networked computers

NCTE Guidelines for Schools Networking

Model Pricing to network one classroom/office with 2 network points.

This table gives an indication as to what it would cost to network just one classroom. The model is provided
so that schools can use it as a base
Network 2 Classrooms (with 2
network points per classroom)
Cabling per network point
Wall Cabinet
Standard Network card (one per PC)
Switch (24 port)
Totals

Qty

Unit
Cost

4
1
2
1

160
240
25
400

Totals
(ex
VAT)
640
240
50
400
1,330

Table 3: Networking one room with 2 network points

Example 2: Large Primary School with 350 pupils want to network an additional 12
classrooms with 2 networking points per classroom.
Network 12 Classrooms (with 2 points
network points per classroom)
Cabling per network point
Wall Cabinet
Standard Network card (one per PC)
Switch (24 port)
Totals

Qty

Unit
Cost

24
1
24
1

160
240
25
400

Totals
(ex
VAT)
3,840
240
600
400
5,080

Table 4: Networking 12 rooms with 2 network points each

Example 3: Large Post Primary School with 800 pupils want to add a wireless network of 24
PCs to the science lab.
Add a Wireless Network of 24 PCs to
the Science Lab

Qty

Unit
Cost

Totals
(ex
VAT)

Cabling per network point (for Wireless

Access Points)
Wall Cabinet
Wireless PC Card

150

450

1
24

240
75

240
1,800

Wireless Access Point

500

1,500

Switch (24 port)

Totals

400

400
4,390

Table 5: Networking a Lab with 24 wireless accessible points

3 wireless Access points are used in this example to increase the bandwidth per access point, however 2 or
even 1 wireless access point could be used but with the limitation of reduced bandwidth of 11Mbps for the
whole lab.

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10

Cabling Guidelines and recommendations:

Cabling Recommendations:
Structured cabling to be used throughout.
All network points to be terminated on patch panels
A minimum of CAT5e to be used, Cabling to CAT6 to be used for all new installations
All cabling to be fully tested and a formal certification signoff to be obtained from the supplier.
Cabling to be carried out only by qualified personnel.
Number of Networking Points required: (ref DES Building Unit Guidelines)
This section details the approved provision of points for the various rooms and areas in a school and the
approved density.
All teaching and habitable rooms should be networked. Each of these rooms should have two networked
points at appropriate areas. In specialist rooms other I.T. points are to be provided as indicated and these
shall be networked through a local switch or to the MDF or IDF which ever is the most economical.
Table 2 below gives recommended number of network points to be included for various room/spaces. These
recommendations may change so please do consult the NCTE website to check the number of recommended
network before finalising your network, or expansion.
Local Area Network (LAN) Points.
TPNP = Teacher Position Network Point.
SPNP = Student Position Network Point.
NP = Network point in non-teaching Spaces.
Type of Room/Space.
General Classroom
Computer Room
Science Laboratory Preparation Area
Learning Support Room
Language Room
Multimedia Learning Laboratory
Physics Laboratory Preparation Area
Art/Craft Room & Store
Home Economics
Word Processing/
Keyboarding Skills Room
Business Studies/Commerce
Technical Graphics /Cad
Construction Studies/
Wood Technology Room
Technology Room.
Wood/Technology Machining & Prep area
Engineering/Metal Technology Room
Library & Ancillary Stores 100 m2
Library & Ancillary Stores 136 m2
Principals Office.
Deputy Principals Office.
General Office. 30 m2
General Office. 20 m2
Staff Room
Meeting Room
P.E.Hall / PE Balcony

Network Points.
1 TPNP + 4 SPNP (distributed around room)
1 TPNP + 30 SPNP
2 student printer NP
1 TPNP + 6 SPNP Lab.
1 NP Prep. Area.
1 TPNP + 6 SPNP
1 TPNP + 4 SPNP
1 TPNP + 30 SPNP +
2 student printer NP.
1 TPNP + 6 SPNP Lab.
1 NP Prep. Area.
1 TPNP + 6 SPNP
1 TPNP + 4 SPNP
1 TPNP + 30 SPNP +
2 printer NP
1 TPNP + 4 SPNP
1 TPNP + 6 SPNP
1 TPNP + 6 SPNP
1 TPNP + 6 SPNP
1 NP
1 TPNP + 6 SPNP
1 TPNP + 8 SPNP
1 TPNP + 11 SPNP
2 NP
2 NP
3 NP + 1 printer NP.
2 NP + 1 printer NP
2 NP 200 499 Pupils
4 NP 500 + Pupils
2 NP
1 NP in each

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Music/Drama Area
Guidance Suite:
(1 classroom +1 office)
Social Studies Room
Home School Community Liaison. (Classroom +
office)

1 TPNP + 4 SPNP
1 TPNP + 4 SPNP
1 NP office
1 TPNP + 4 SPNP
1 TPNP + 4 SPNP
1 NP office

Religion Room, Meditation Area

Chaplains Office

1 TPNP
1 NP office

Table 6: Local Area Network (LAN) Points

1.3.

Basics of Networking
A computer network consists of a collection of computers, printers and other equipment that is connected
together so that they can communicate with each other (see Advice Sheet 17 on the ICT Planning for
schools pack). Fig 1 gives an example of a network in a school comprising of a local area network or LAN
connecting computers with each other, the internet, and various servers.

File and Print Server

CD or Multimedia
Servers
Printers , Scanners etc

Access to:
Internet content &
learning resources,
Scoilnet etc
Email communication

Users
computers

Cache, Proxy,
Filtering, Firewall
Server

School Local Area

Network (LAN)
Modem or Router

Other users,
computers

Fig 7: Representation of Network in a school.

Broadly speaking, there are two types of network configuration, peer-to-peer networks and client/server
networks.
Peer-to-peer networks are more commonly implemented where less then ten computers are involved and
where strict security is not necessary. All computers have the same status, hence the term 'peer', and they
communicate with each other on an equal footing. Files, such as word processing or spreadsheet
documents, can be shared across the network and all the computers on the network can share devices, such
as printers or scanners, which are connected to any one computer.

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12

Peer to Peer
Network

Fig 8: Peer to Peer Networking

Client/server networks are more suitable for larger networks. A central computer, or 'server', acts as the
storage location for files and applications shared on the network. Usually the server is a higher than average
performance computer. The server also controls the network access of the other computers which are
referred to as the 'client' computers. Typically, teachers and students in a school will use the client
computers for their work and only the network administrator (usually a designated staff member) will have
access rights to the server.

File Server

Other
equipment

Fig 9: Client - Server Networking

NCTE Guidelines for Schools Networking

13

Table 7 provides a summary comparison between Peer-to-Peer and Client/Server Networks.

Peer-to-Peer Networks vs Client/Server Networks

Peer-to-Peer Networks
Easy to set up
Less expensive to install
Can be implemented on a wide range of
operating systems

Client/Server Networks
More difficult to set up
More expensive to install
A variety of operating systems can be supported on
the client computers, but the server needs to run an
operating system that supports networking

More time consuming to maintain the

software being used (as computers must be
managed individually)

Less time consuming to maintain the software being

used (as most of the maintenance is managed from
the server)

Very low levels of security supported or none

at all. These can be very cumbersome to set up,
depending on the operating system being used

High levels of security are supported, all of which

are controlled from the server. Such measures prevent
the deletion of essential system files or the changing
of settings

Ideal for networks with less than 10

computers

No limit to the number of computers that can be

supported by the network

Does not require a server

Requires a server running a server operating system

Demands a moderate level of skill to

administer the network

Demands that the network administrator has a high

level of IT skills with a good working knowledge of a
server operating system

Table 7: Peer-to-Peer Networks vs Client/Server Networks

Components of a Network
A computer network comprises the following components:
A minimum of at least 2 computers
Cables that connect the computers to each other, although wireless communication is becoming
more common (see Advice Sheet 20 for more information)
A network interface device on each computer (this is called a network interface card or NIC)
A Switch used to switch the data from one point to another. Hubs are outdated and are little used
for new installations.
Network operating system software
Structured Cabling
The two most popular types of structured network cabling are twisted-pair (also known as 10BaseT) and
thin coax (also known as 10Base2). 10BaseT cabling looks like ordinary telephone wire, except that it has
8 wires inside instead of 4. Thin coax looks like the copper coaxial cabling that's often used to connect a
Video Recorder to a TV.
10BaseT Cabling
When 10BaseT cabling is used, a strand of cabling is inserted between each computer and a hub. If you
have 5 computers, you'll need 5 cables. Each cable cannot exceed 325 feet in length. Because the cables
from all of the PCs converge at a common point, a 10BaseT network forms a star configuration.
Fig 10a shows a Cat5e cable, with a standard connector, known as an RJ-45 connector.
Fig 10b shows a standard Cat5e Wall Outlet socket which the cables are connected to.
Fig 10c shows a standard Cat5e Patch Panel Wall Outlet socket which is used to terminate the cables from
various points in the school bank to a central point.
Fig 10d shows a wall mounted cabinet used to house and protect patch panel cables and connectors.

NCTE Guidelines for Schools Networking

14

Fig 10a: Cat5e Cable and a close up of RJ-45 connector

Fig 10b: Cat5e Wall Outlets

Fig 10c: Cat5e Patch Panel

Fig 10d: Wall Mounted Cabinet

10BaseT cabling is available in different grades or categories. Some grades, or "cats", are required for Fast
Ethernet networks, while others are perfectly acceptable for standard 10Mbps networks--and less
expensive, too. All new networks use a minimum of standard unshielded twisted-pair (UTP) Category 5e
10BaseT cabling because it offers a performance advantage over lower grades.
Network Interface Card (NIC)
A NIC (pronounced 'nick') is also known as a network card. It connects the computer to the cabling, which
in turn links all of the computers on the network together. Each computer on a network must have a
network card. Most modern network cards are 10/100 NICs and can operate at either 10Mbps or 100Mbps.
Only NICs supporting a minimum of 100Mbps should be used in new installations schools.
Computers with a wireless connection to a network also use a network card (see Advice Sheet 20 for more
information on wireless networking).

NCTE Guidelines for Schools Networking

15

Fig 11: Network Interface Cards (NICs)

Hub and Switch
A hub is a device used to connect a PC to the network. The function of a hub is to direct information around
the network, facilitating communication between all connected devices. However in new installations
switches should be used instead of hubs as they are more effective and provide better performance. A
switch, which is often termed a 'smart hub'.
Switches and hubs are technologies or boxes to which computers, printers, and other networking devices
are connected. Switches are the more recent technology and the accepted way of building today's networks.
With switching, each connection gets "dedicated bandwidth" and can operate at full speed. In contrast, a
hub shares bandwidth across multiple connections such that activity from one PC or server can slow down
the effective speed of other connections on the hub.
Now more affordable than ever, Dual-speed 10/100 autosensing switches are recommended for all school
networks. Schools may want to consider upgrading any hub based networks with switches to improve
network performance ie speed of data on the network.

Fig 12a: An 8 port Hub

Fig 12b: 2 Examples of 24 port Switches

Wireless Networks
The term 'wireless network' refers to two or more computers communicating using standard network rules
or protocols, but without the use of cabling to connect the computers together. Instead, the computers use
wireless radio signals to send information from one to the other. A wireless local area network (WLAN)
consists of two key components: an access point (also called a base station) and a wireless card.
Information can be transmitted between these two components as long as they are fairly close together (up
to 100 metres indoors or 350 metres outdoors).

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16

Fig 13a: Wireless Access point or Wireless Basestation

Suppliers would need to visit the schools and conduct a site survey. This will determine the number of base
stations you need and the best place(s) to locate them. A site survey will also enable each supplier to
provide you with a detailed quote. It is important to contact a number of different suppliers as prices,
equipment and opinions may vary. When the term 'wireless network' is used today, it usually refers to a
wireless local area network or WLAN. A WLAN can be installed as the sole network in a school or
building. However, it can also be used to extend an existing wired network to areas where wiring would be
too difficult or too expensive to implement, or to areas located away from the main network or main
building. Wireless networks can be configured to provide the same network functionality as wired
networks, ranging from simple peer-to-peer configurations to large-scale networks accommodating
hundreds of users.

Fig 13b: Desktop PC Wireless LAN card

Fig 13c: Laptop PC Wireless LAN card

What are the advantages and disadvantages of a Wireless LAN?

Wireless LANs have advantages and disadvantages when compared with wired LANs. A wireless LAN will
make it simple to add or move workstations, and to install access points to provide connectivity in areas
where it is difficult to lay cable. Temporary or semi-permanent buildings that are in range of an access point
can be wirelessly connected to a LAN to give these buildings connectivity. Where computer labs are used
in schools, the computers (laptops) could be put on a mobile cart and wheeled from classroom to
classroom, providing they are in range of access points. Wired network points would be needed for each of
the access points.
A WLAN has some specific advantages:
It is easier to add or move workstations
It is easier to provide connectivity in areas where it is difficult to lay cable
Installation can be fast and easy and can eliminate the need to pull cable through walls and
ceilings
Access to the network can be from anywhere in the school within range of an access point
Portable or semi-permanent buildings can be connected using a wireless LAN
While the initial investment required for wireless LAN hardware can be similar to the cost of
wired LAN hardware, installation expenses can be significantly lower
Where a school is located on more than one site (such as on two sides of a road), it is possible with
directional antennae, to avoid digging trenches under roads to connect the sites
In historic buildings where traditional cabling would compromise the faade, a wireless LAN can
avoid drilling holes in walls
Long-term cost benefits can be found in dynamic environments requiring frequent moves and
changes
They allows the possibility of individual pupil allocation of wireless devices that move around the
school with the pupil.
WLANs also have some disadvantages:

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17

As the number of computers using the network increases, the data transfer rate to each computer
will decrease accordingly
As standards change, it may be necessary to replace wireless cards and/or access points
Lower wireless bandwidth means some applications such as video streaming will be more
effective on a wired LAN
Security is more difficult to guarantee, and requires configuration
Devices will only operate at a limited distance from an access point, with the distance determined
by the standard used and buildings and other obstacles between the access point and the user
A wired LAN is most likely to be required to provide a backbone to the wireless LAN; a wireless
LAN should be a supplement to a wired LAN and not a complete solution
Long-term cost benefits are harder to achieve in static environments that require few moves and
changes
It is easier to make a wired network future proof for high data transfer.

Wireless Network Components

There are certain parallels between the equipment used to build a WLAN and that used in a traditional
wired LAN. Both networks require network interface cards or network adapter cards. A wireless LAN PC
card, which contains an in-built antenna, is used to connect notebook computers to a wireless network.
Usually, this is inserted into the relevant slot in the side of the notebook, but some may be internal to the
notebook. Desktop computers can also connect to a wireless network if a wireless network card is inserted
into one of its internal PCI slots.
In a wireless network, an 'access point' has a similar function to the hub in wired networks. It broadcasts
and receives signals to and from the surrounding computers via their adapter card. It is also the point where
a wireless network can be connected into an existing wired network.
The most obvious difference between wireless and wired networks, however, is that the latter uses some
form of cable to connect computers together. A wireless network does not need cable to form a physical
connection between computers.
Benefits and Educational Uses
The installation of cables is time consuming and expensive. The advantages of not doing so are apparent:

the amount of work required and the time taken to complete it are significantly reduced

the network is accessible in places where wiring would have been difficult or impossible

with no cables linking computers together, cable-related faults and network downtime are
minimised

Where a wireless network is in place, teachers or students can have continuous access to the
network, even as they move with their equipment from class to class.

The space over which a wireless network operates is not planar but spherical. Therefore, in a
multi-level school, network access could be available in rooms above or below the access point,
without the need for additional infrastructure.

In a location within a school where network access is required occasionally, desktop computers
fitted with wireless network cards can be placed on trolleys and moved from location to location. They
can also be located in areas where group work is taking place. As they are connected to the network,
documents and files can be shared, and access to the Internet is available, enhancing group project
work.

As the range of the wireless network extends outside the building, students and teachers can use
wireless devices to gather and record data outside, e.g., as part of a science experiment or individual
performance data as part of a PE class.
Technical and Purchasing Considerations
Network interface cards for wireless networks are more expensive than their wired counterparts. The cost
of the access points has also to be considered.
Wireless networks work at 11Mbps, whereas wired networks normally work at100Mbps (Fast Ethernet).
This data transmission rate is dependant on the number of users, the distance from the access point and the

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fabric of the building (metal structures in walls may have an impact). A wireless network will be noticeably
slow when a group of users are transferring large files. This should be considered if multimedia
applications are to be delivered over the network to a significant number of users.
As the range of the network may extend beyond the walls of the building, it can be accessed from outside.
Consideration should be given to what security features the equipment provides to ensure that only valid
users have access to the network and that data is protected.

1.4. Advantages of Networking schools

Speed.
Networks provide a very rapid method for sharing and transferring files. Without a network, files are shared by
copying them to floppy disks, then carrying or sending the disks from one computer to another. This method of
transferring files in this manner is very time-consuming.
Cost.
The network version of most software programs are available at considerable savings when compared to buying
individually licensed copies. Besides monetary savings, sharing a program on a network allows for easier
upgrading of the program. The changes have to be done only once, on the file server, instead of on all the
individual workstations.
Centralized Software Management.
One of the greatest benefits of installing a network at a school is the fact that all of the software can be loaded
on one computer (the file server). This eliminates that need to spend time and energy installing updates and
tracking files on independent computers throughout the building.
Resource Sharing.
Sharing resources is another area in which a network exceeds stand-alone computers. Most schools cannot
afford enough laser printers, fax machines, modems, scanners, and CD-ROM players for each computer.
However, if these or similar peripherals are added to a network, they can be shared by many users.

Flexible Access.
School networks allow students to access their files from computers throughout the school. Students can begin
an assignment in their classroom, save part of it on a public access area of the network, then go to the media
center after school to finish their work. Students can also work cooperatively through the network.
Security.
Files and programs on a network can be designated as "copy inhibit," so that you do not have to worry about
illegal copying of programs. Also, passwords can be established for specific directories to restrict access to
authorized users.
Main challenges to be addressed relating to Networking
Costs
Although a network will generally save money over time, the initial costs can be substantial, and the installation
will require the services of a technician or other experienced IT person.
Requires Administrative Time.
Proper maintenance of a network requires considerable time and expertise. Many schools have installed a
network, only to find that they did not budget for the necessary administrative support.
Server Failure
Although a server is no more susceptible to failure than any other computer, when the files server "goes down,"
the entire network may come to a halt. When this happens, the entire school may lose access to necessary

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programs and files. As such all important files should be backed up so that it the server does fail that the data is
recoverable. Digital Audio tape (DAT) or tape backup are the most commonly used options.

2.1.

Some Relevant Terms

LAN
Ethernet
USB
Modem
Router
Mbps
Kbps
MDF
IDF
Broadband
Narrowband
Dial up
Always On
Download speed
Upload speed
ISP
ISDN
PSTN
ADSL

Local Area Network

Ethernet is a standard for transferring data over networks.
Universal Serial Bus
A simple device used to access the internet
A more technically advanced device used to access the internet
Megabits per second (1,000,000 bits per second)
Kilobits per second (1,000 bits per second)
Main Distribution Frame
Intermediate Distribution Frame
Refers to a higher speed always on internet connection
Refers to speeds of up to 128kbps
Refers to having to dial up the internet every time one goes online.
Refers to the nature of broadband, being always on means a dial up is not required.
The speed at which data is delivered to a school modem from the internet
The speed at which data is sent to the internet from a school modem.
Internet Service Provider
Integrated Services Digital Network (64kbps single channel or 128kbps dual channel)
Public Switched Telephone Network (refers to an ordinary telephone line)
Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Loop

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