STUDENT NAME: NALELI MPHALI
STUDENT ID: 2231912
MODULE NANE: COMPUTER NETWORKS
ASSESSMENT TYPE: INTERNAL/ASSIGNMENT 1
a) Advantages of Networking in a School
Networking a school with 32 class rooms, 640 students, 10 administrative staff and three
science labs offers various advantages that contribute to enhanced communication, enriched
educational capabilities, and rationalised executive processes.
Advantages:
Efficient Communication: Unbroken communication among students, teachers, and
administrators is enabled by networking through email, messaging platforms, and collaborative
tools. This promotes a more efficient flow of communication, reducing delays and enhancing
overall productivity.
Access to Online Resources: A networked school environment provides students and teachers
with access to a wide range of online educational resources like digital libraries, educational
websites, and multimedia content that can improve the learning skill. Teachers can integrate
these resources into their lesson plans, promotion a more engaging and active classroom
environment.
Centralized Information Management: Centralized storage and administration of data can
reduce the risk of information loss and ensuring data stability. This facilitates easy access to
student records, attendance, and other important information for administrators. Centralized
information management streamlines administrative tasks and enhances overall data security.
Collaborative Learning Opportunities: Networking provides co-operative learning
experiences by allowing students to work together on projects and assignments, even if they
are in different locations. This promotes creativity, and the development of essential
collaborative skills that are valuable in the modern workforce.
Remote Learning Capabilities: Unforeseen events can happen anytime such as pandemics or
extreme weathers, a networked school can flawlessly change to remote learning. Teachers can
conduct virtual classes, share educational materials and interact with students from any
location, ensuring continuity in education and minimizing disruptions to the learning process.
Cost-Efficiency: Implementing a network infrastructure can lead to cost savings in various
areas. A schools can reduce the need for physical resources such as paper through increased
use of digital communication and documentation.
Networking a school can lead to improved communication and enhanced learning experiences.
The implementation of a strong network infrastructure fosters a technologically advanced
educational environment and also contributes to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of
school operations.
a) Networking Hardware Requirements:
Hardware Device
Description
Quantity Justification
Router
Enterprise-grade
router with
multiple ports and
VPN support
1
Manages data traffic, ensures
high-speed internet connectivity,
and supports secure remote
access for
teachers/administrators.
Switches
Managed Ethernet
switches with
sufficient ports
4
Connects computers, printers,
and other devices in each class,
providing high-speed, reliable
local network connectivity.
Wireless Access
Points
Dual-band, highcapacity access
points
10
Ensures seamless Wi-Fi
connectivity throughout the
school, supporting the increasing
number of devices used for
education.
Firewall
Network firewall
appliance
1
Protects the network from
unauthorized access and cyber
threats, ensuring the security of
sensitive data.
Server
Powerful server
for centralized
data storage and
management
1
Hosts centralized databases,
student information systems, and
collaborative tools, facilitating
efficient information
management.
Network Cabling
Ethernet cables
-
Uninterruptible
Power Supply (UPS)
UPS units for
critical network
devices
-
Ensures reliable wired
connections in classrooms
providing a stable connection for
critical tasks.
Provides backup power during
electrical outages, safeguarding
against data loss and ensuring
continuous network operation.
Network Printers
Network-enabled
printers for each
classroom and the
admin block
33
Facilitates efficient printing and
scanning, allowing teachers and
students to share resources
seamlessly.
Computers/Laptops
Desktop
computers or
laptops for
Students and
650
Enables teachers to access online
resources, manage student data,
and participate in virtual
collaboration.
administrative
staff
Network Cabling
Quality Network
Cabling
-
high-quality Ethernet cables to
ensure reliable and high-speed
wired connections.
Security System
Cameras
andaccess control
system
-
Security cameras and access
control systems for physical
security, complementing the
network security measures