How to Build a Resilient Network for the Classroom

Time has shown, over and again, that having access to a strong, reliable, and resilient network is critical for teaching and learning. As K-12 schools continue to adopt more digital tools and online learning platforms, the need for a network that can support new initiatives is a must. Not only does a resilient network mean students and teachers have seamless access to digital platforms; it also means teachers can use more innovative and personalized learning methods and students can communicate more efficiently while also learning in a way that fits them best.  

When taking the steps to make sure your school has a resilient network, good planning is key. Knowing this, we have outlined the steps to take—making the building of your resilient network as easy as ABC. 

Step #1: Assess Current Network Infrastructure 

Before you can begin improving your network, you need to assess your current network infrastructure and environment to understand your capabilities and limitations. Some key items to consider are: 

• Your current network layout and your potential Wi-Fi® coverage challenges
• The number of devices needed to connect to the network—including BYOD devices and school-owned internet of things (IoT) equipment such as cameras
• Bandwidth requirements, such as those for sending emails or participating in eSports 

This may seem like a daunting task, but RUCKUS is here to help. We offer a range of network assessment tools as part of our professional services that can be used in this process. 

Step #2: Design a Robust Network Infrastructure 

The next step in achieving a superior network is to design your network infrastructure. With the help of RUCKUS, we can help you determine the number of access points (APs) needed, where to place those APs in consideration of floorplan and environmental challenges, and the type of network that will best serve the needs of your students, teachers, and staff. 

Step #3: Select the Right Hardware 

Once you understand the specific solutions you will need, the next step is to select the right hardware, such as switches, routers, and APs.  

Our APs are equipped with patented technology such as RUCKUS BeamFlex® antennas and ChannelFly® software to make sure they perform at their peak and have the ability to handle high-density environments so that all students can connect simultaneously without compromising network performance. 

RUCKUS’s ICX® switches are designed for simplicity, scalability and security, meaning they can grow with your school and they also make network management easier and safer for you and your team.  

Our network controllers provide centralized control over APs and switches, allowing you to focus more on strategic initiatives rather than network maintenance. 

Step #4: Implement Network Security Measures 

Another key step in building a resilient network is making sure you have security measures in place to protect sensitive information. Your security should include: 

• Firewalls that provide URL filtering, signature-based threat detection, virtual private networks (VPNs), and more 
• Intrusion detections systems 
• Secure access controls 

Our network security solutions, such as our Cloudpath® Enrollment System, help make sure your network is secure. With the Cloudpath system, you have visibility and control over what devices are on the network, and the Cloudpath system checks the security posture of devices during onboarding to make sure they comply with your school’s security policies. 

What Else Do You Need to Do to Build a Resilient Network? 

While the steps here are a great start to transforming your network, it is not inclusive of everything you need to do to build your resilient network. For a step-by-step guide of how to build your network, check out our Building a Resilient Network to Transform Education eBook. Also, be sure to explore the additional resources below to learn how you can build a strong, reliable, and resilient network for your school. 

Primary Education solutions page: Learn about the solutions we can offer your school. 

Huntington Independent School District: Learn how a school district in rural Texas used RUCKUS to build one of the fastest school networks in the state. 

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