1. A Beginners Guide to
School Networks

2. Basic Terminology
 LAN- Local Area Network this is all of your
computers, routers, and modems in one place like your home.
 WAN-Wide Area Network this is a collection of LAN and
other networks it can connect across cities, states, and countries, the
largest WAN is the Internet.
 Intranet-This is a computer network that uses technology to share
information, operating systems, and data with-in an organization.
In a district you could have 14 school LANs and then connect them all
with a WAN, building a district Intranet. The Intranet can share
data, information, even operating systems between the schools.

3. Basic Computer Network
 Three simple parts
1. Clients- these are the actual workstations.
2. Infrastructure- this is the fiber optic cables and wires.
3. Networking Electronics- this is the piece that
moves, routes, and stores data.

4. Planning a School Network
Typically a small committee or team is formed and the planning process can take
months to develop.
Things to consider:
 User Needs assessment
http://www.netc.org/network_guide/a.html ( school networking needs analysis)
 Wiring diagrams and blueprints
http://www.netc.org/network_guide/b.html (sample wiring specifications)
 Data storage/security/back up plans
 Hardware and software standards
 Network management and maintenance plans
http://www.netc.org/network_guide/f.html (school networking resources)
 Access policy and procedures

5. Costs and Considerations
Network Management
Once the network is in place someone has to manage
all the updates, passwords, training, privacy, and back
up.
There are ongoing support costs. For every 50-75 users
there should be one full time support person in place
to manage the network.

6. Costs and Considerations
Cost
Software
Hardware
Electronics
Infastructure

7. Cost Considerations
Replacement of components
 Client Stations 18-36 months
 Network Electronics 3-5 years
 Infrastructure 10-20 years

8. Bibliography
 Gallo, M. A., & Hancock, B. (2002). Networking
Explained. Digital Press.
 Northwest Educational Technology Consortium,.
(2005). In A Guide to Networking for K-12 Schools.
Retrieved Jun. 11, 2012, from
http://www.netc.org/network_guide/index.html

9. Additional Resources
 Snapshot of schools networks
http://www.netc.org/network_guide/e.html
http://www.netc.org/network_guide/f.html
http://fcit.usf.edu/network/