IT Essentials: Education

3rd June 2025

What technology do schools, colleges and universities need to run efficiently?

The use of technology in schools has moved forward massively in recent years. I can remember when my school went from outdated desktops and a projector on wheels to smart whiteboards and a new tablet for every student: adoption was fast!

We thought it might be helpful, for educators and those who supply them, to break down the essential IT requires every place of learning needs and why. Then, if you think something on this list is missing, you can introduce it and hopefully see a vast improvement – take a look:

Infrastructure and network: with both teachers and students needing internet access in classes, it is important that you have a reliable broadband connection, with the right support in place. Wi-Fi coverage needs to reach all sections of the school or campus and should be secured with the latest cyber security measures.

Hardware: education services need devices including laptops, tablets, desktops, interactive whiteboards, printers and servers, to be used by students, teachers and staff. Depending on the subject and level of education, items such as cameras, microphones and projectors may also be needed.

Software: this can range from something as universal as Microsoft 365 to a far more unique management system for cataloguing library books. Needs vary depending on the level of education, but it is a vital part of everyday learning.

Communication: being able to communicate between students and teachers, as well as teachers and parents, is key. An email system would be priority but, with a lot of education in the last few years moving to a remote setup, video conferencing tools are worth investing in too.

IT Support: as IT is now a core part of education, when networks or devices have problems, they need to be up and running again as quickly as possible. Either an onsite team or remote managed service provider is needed to make updates, troubleshoot problems, track inventory and generally assist with how everything runs.

Cyber Security: as our friends at Interfuture Security will tell you, every organisation needs robust cyber security measures. Having the latest defensive technology in place, alongside rigorous training, is the best way to ensure that personal data is kept secure.

Obviously, all these measures can come at great expense, particularly as school budgets can be tight. Luckily, there are government frameworks in place to help educators procure technology for less, as well as reductions in costs for schools from vendors.

If you have any questions regarding IT systems for schools, colleges and universities, please contact Interfuture Systems HERE, we would be happy to help.