The Challenge
The school had a robust internet connection, but its aging wireless infrastructure was ill-equipped to handle the influx of devices. Regular operating system updates, application updates, and continuous access to cloud-based data overwhelmed the network. As Ashlee Dale, Technologies Coordinator, explains, “The network infrastructure struggled under pressure and as a result the wireless connection regularly dropped out. Put simply, too many devices and not enough access.” The situation reached a point where Professional Development days held in the main hall would entirely disrupt the network, rendering staff devices useless throughout the day.
Solutions IT Approach
In response to the connectivity challenges, Solutions IT conducted a comprehensive wireless audit across the campus, including RF Spectrum analysis and predictive planning based on the anticipated number of devices and usage patterns in each area. This information was crucial in planning the correct number and placement of wireless access points to meet the school’s coverage and capacity requirements.
Moreover, Solutions IT introduced their Wireless-as-a-Service (WaaS) offering, which provides proactive monitoring of the school’s infrastructure and wireless network, traffic shaping, and firewall inclusions. The WaaS service offers specific tools to manage bandwidth usage and block inappropriate activities like gaming sites.
The Result
Within a week, the old wireless access points were replaced with new hardware. The deployment was smooth, and the upgrade resulted in a network that could efficiently handle updates, downloads, streaming services, and uploads without interrupting students’ learning. Dale noted, “The deployment was a seamless experience and now we have a network that can efficiently handle updates, downloads, steaming services and uploads, without interrupting the students’ learning experience.”
Furthermore, the school witnessed a shift in learning spaces’ utilisation, with classes leveraging outdoor areas while maintaining wireless connectivity to enhance students’ learning experiences. The two year levels with 1:1 devices could now fully utilise their devices in real-time.
Solutions IT’s WaaS offering provided the school with improved security, scalability, and a fixed monthly payment plan that eliminated ongoing associated hardware and software costs. The school now enjoys a reliable, efficient, and robust wireless network, supporting its commitment to providing quality education in today’s digital age.
Why Solutions IT?
Solutions IT stands out for its comprehensive approach to addressing wireless network challenges. Their expertise in conducting a thorough wireless audit, coupled with their innovative Wireless-as-a-Service offering, ensures that schools like St Simon Peter Catholic Primary School can rely on a robust and efficient network. The proactive monitoring, traffic shaping, firewall inclusions, and the convenience of fixed monthly payment plans are testament to Solutions IT’s commitment to providing tailored, cost-effective, and future-proof solutions. With Solutions IT, schools can focus on delivering quality education while leaving their IT infrastructure needs in capable hands.
