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Networking Basics |
The
term "server" carries with it an air of mystery!
A "server" is simply a computer with some extra software installed, and maybe some additional memory and storage capacity.
For simple tasks, with less than 10 users, any
Windows or Macintosh computer can be setup as a
"server", using the inbuilt "sharing" facilities
provided by the operating system (see Wazza's Basic
Networking
setup).
For a larger school network, a dedicated
fileserver requires some slightly higher
specifications - more RAM, larger hard disk(s),
and some dedicated software which provides users
with access to the files which are stored on the
server.
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A
file server provides a central storage area for
people using computers on a network.
Students' files, staff files, software installers, intranet files,
CDs, etc can all be stored on one computer (the server) so that
they are accessible from any computer on the network. No need
for floppy disks or flash drives, or students having to use exactly
the same computer that they used yesterday.
Some software can also be shared from a server -
CD's, for example. However, don't expect to be
"sharing" basic application software (such as
iWork or MS Office) over the network.
There are different types of servers - file servers, web servers, proxy servers, print servers, mail servers, domain name servers, DHCP servers, etc.
A Web Server, for example, provides all students and staff members with an
opportunity to publish documents electronically within the school, and have those documents accessible through a web browser.
(See the Somewhere
PS Intranet site for an example).
Each of these "servers" are pieces of software
which run on a "central" computer. In a large
network they may be all running on individual,
dedicated computers. In many smaller schools, however,
this software (if it is all required) can
usually be accommodated on just one or possibly
two computers.
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The server platforms commonly available for
use in schools are Mac OS X Server, Windows
Server, Novell NetWare Server and a variety of Linux servers.
Mac OS X, Windows, and Novell Netware provide
not only a storage area (which may or may not be
password protected), but also the options of
controlling and maintaining the software
installed on networked computers throughout the school.
Linux servers can be used for secure storage
areas for both Mac and Win computers, though do
not have the desktop control facilities of the
larger platforms. Linux servers are also widely used as caching proxy
servers.
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The
following scenarios provide an overview of
different ways of setting up a school
network.
You should talk to other schools and your
local adviser or consultant to discuss the pros and cons
of the various options in your particular environment.
Which scenario best suits your school? A variety
of factors should be considered, not least of
which are your school's learning outcomes, the needs of students and teachers at
the school, and the level of
local expertise available to maintain the
network when it is up and running.
As always, the golden rule is KIS - Keep It
Simple!
- Standard
computer setup as a "server" using built-in
(personal) file-sharing and (if necessary)
web-sharing.
Computers on the network
automatically "login" to common
shared folders at startup (Maximum
10 concurrent users on MacOSX & Win XP).
Students save their work to a common
area on the server. This common area
will have class/year folders
containing individual student
folders.
No individual student or class
password protection.
Some "common" write-protected areas
for storing shared resources
(scanned images, templates, etc).
Workstations are setup for easy
network access, via Dock buttons
(Mac) or Desktop shortcuts
(Mac/Win).
Save and open dialogue boxes default
to shared area on server, for
transparent network access.
Can also include CD images on each
computer or on server, if required
(and if you have enough space!)
Backup policy to restore server data
in the case of crash/fire/theft.
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- Dedicated
Mac/Win/Novell/Linux server.
As for Basic, but each class has own password for
access to class storage area. No
individual student passwords.
Possibly some individual passwords for special
interest groups.
Some "common" write-protected areas
for storing shared resources
(scanned images, templates,
etc).
Workstations are setup for easy
network access, via class desktop
icons.
Web Server enabled for school
intranet, with students able to edit
their own web pages, for "instant"
publication.
Possible proxy server for cached
Internet access. (See Wazza's
Proxy
Server page).
Backup policy to restore server data
in the case of crash/fire/theft.
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- Dedicated
"server" computer and operating system, including suitable RAM and
multiple HD installations.
Each student and teacher have own
password and access to personal
storage area.
Some "common" write-protected areas
for storing shared resources
(scanned images, templates,
etc).
Networked computers "locked" so
basic settings cannot be
changed.
Workstation software is installed
and maintained across network using
network "restore" software.
CDs stored as images on Server HD,
or as images on local HD, if space
permits.
Proxy Server for cached Internet
access. (See Wazza's
Proxy
Server page).
In a large school, multiple servers for
students and staff Home folders.
A dedicated Web Server for school
intranet, with students and
staff/faculties able to edit and
"instantly" publish their own web
pages.
Backup policy to restore server data
in the case of crash/fire/theft.
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