A properly configured Local Area Network (LAN) can be a valuable tool for your school. The server or servers at your school can be configured to serve some of the following numerous useful functions:

• Website and e-mail hosting
• Print sharing to central network printer(s)
• Individual file storage for every staff member.

A LAN alleviates the need for cumbersome floppy discs and moving files from one computer to another or moving an entire computer to a new classroom to retain files stored on the hard drive. You can create a central location for storing and submitting lesson plans, document templates for frequently used letters, forms, memos and reports. You also can lower the cost of software for your school by purchasing network licenses rather than individual workstation licenses. You can also put your library catalog on the network for students and teachers to access. Everyone with a network password would be able to access network resources and save files from any computer on the network. A LAN gives you an efficient means of sharing information and technology.

The cost for a LAN configuration depends upon the what goals your are attempting to accomplish at your school. You will receive the following services when you choose Sierra:

• Evaluation of your server to determine its suitability to run network
• Installation of network software on your server once purchased by the school from a qualified vendor (Microsoft NT Server 4.0 or Windows 2000 server)
• Complete setup of accounts for all teachers, staff, and administrators
• Configuration of each workstation to the LAN
• Setup of user IDs and passwords
• Setup of user file storage
• Creation of a login script for groups of users
• Training of one on-site network administrator

Additional services can be provided as needed on an hourly basis:

• Adding new users
• Creating distribution lists
• Technical support
• Training sessions for the users of the system
• Manuals (by the copy)