Schools: 'Don't cut corners around internet security'

Released 15/08/2011

Schools are warned to maintain a certain standard of internet safety, even under budget cuts

Schools warned against cutting corners when it comes to internet safety

The adoption of sub-standard approaches to the internet in schools, as a result of cost-cutting, will negatively impact the users, experts have warned.

As budgets shrink and education moves towards virtual learning platforms, it is becoming more critical for organisations to monitor internet content and application activity while balancing ease of access, according to Icomm Technologies.

Technical manager Mark Allbutt explained: "Technology in education is a sensitive necessity proven to further learning speed, breadth and depth. The move towards virtual learning platforms is superb progress but properly managed internet access is at the core of the approach.

"With the current economic environment, establishments are now faced with some serious challenges of service provision," he said. "Concern is emerging that security and quality of internet delivered services is under threat due to cost reduction. This could be a major blow to furthering technology education and attainment."

A number of education establishments that Icomm has spoken to are considering cheaper internet security solutions, with some wondering whether to purchase managed protection at all.

"A well-managed internet service, that opens the door to larger virtual learning platform capability, should include a fully authenticated remote access approach that validates users considerably before providing secure access," Allbutt continued.

"Without this, the door is open for viral or malicious system attacks and outsiders to abuse access to the organisations network, files and services."

A fully managed firewall, he says, will help to ensure users are using the internet appropriately.

Allbutt concluded: "Without these secure and managed approaches, education will leave itself liable to internet abuse or restrict its community from optimised learning."

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