1. Servers

a) Small Primary School

The school will require a server connected to each classroom via category 5E cable. The file server is use to distribute

None of these functions requires huge bandwidth but it can add up, depending on the types of data you are accessing and the way in which your network is set up.


b) Large Primary/Secondary School

The school will require one or two main file servers. Schools can add servers as they start using more applications. For extensive information on setting up your file server and the options available see Server Hardware/Software below. The general rule is to not load too many applications onto the same server. In general a Unix / Linux server will allow greater number of applications/server than a Windows based server.

The file server is connected to each classroom via category 5E cable with a possible fibre-optic backbone. Fibre is required if the cable length required is greater than 90m. Investigate alternative locations for the file servers if this means you can reduce the average distance from server to end user. There are many permutations of location and your cabling expert should be encouraged to offer the best solution for you, not the solution that best suits them.


c) Very Large Primary/Secondary School / college

Large schools require Cat 5E cabling with a fibre optic backbone for distances in excess of 90m. Centralising servers can be very useful in terms of management and security. Typically, schools may have stand alone machines, "pods" of computers or computer rooms with their own servers. Teachers may be using laptops that can be plugged into the network when necessary and the printing may be done via by a Multi-Function-Device (MFD: printer/scanner/photocopier/email all in one), in order to save money on printer cartridges. You will need professional and impartial help when cabling on this scale. Students will be bringing PDAs to school soon, so you will need a plan as to how you will deal with their remote access needs/demands!

The requirements of large schools are so varied that it is impossible to generalise. You may wish to use some of the notes above in order to get a general picture of what is needed but the cabling, technology and teacher demands are beyond generalisation. You must get impartial, experienced advice when planning on this scale. You must have some project management skills and not be trying to teach while developing your school infrastructure. This is a major mission; take it seriously!