Protect your school: Key benefits for added security
As explained in the Secure Access for schools module, the benefits of Secure Access are far reaching, particularly for the safety and security of the school or kura.
Schools can bolster network security and protect their data by understanding how Secure Access can make a difference in keeping their school network more safe and secure. This module is designed to inform you about the critical role Secure Access plays as a network access control. By understanding the key benefits, you can make informed decisions to safeguard school data and maintain a more secure network environment.
Cybersecurity challenges in schools
In the fast-paced world of education, schools face constant challenges in keeping their digital spaces safe. Imagine the school as a digital city — cybersecurity threats are like potential intruders trying to access sensitive information or cause harm. These threats include things like unauthorised access to data, data breaches,[1] and attacks from harmful software. Because schools store a lot of private information about students and staff, they can be appealing targets for cyber attackers. With the rise of technology in education, especially with more remote learning and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) programmes, these challenges have become even more complex. If schools don’t have strong digital security measures, they risk exposing private information and disrupting normal operations. Understanding these challenges is the first step towards making sure the school’s digital world is protected.
Learn more about how you are putting the school on the path to a more secure network with Secure Access here: Secure Access puts schools on path to best cyber security practice | Network for Learning | N4L
Key benefits of Secure Access for added security
Watch this video to get an overview of why Secure Access is a great choice for your school network.
Secure Access in action
Find out how Amberley Primary School in North Canterbury embraced the migration to Secure Access to ensure their kaiako and ākonga feel more secure in their use of digital devices.
Terminology check
- Network segmentation refers to the practice of dividing the school’s Wi-Fi network into distinct, separate sections called segments. Each segment serves a specific purpose and has its own set of rules and permissions. It’s like having different rooms in a school building, each with its unique access requirements. This segregation helps enhance security by containing potential issues. For instance, the network segment for student devices is kept separate from the administrative segment, reducing the risk of unauthorised access to other students’ confidential information. Network segmentation is a key strategy to ensure that if one area is compromised, the impact is limited, safeguarding the overall integrity and security of the school’s digital infrastructure.
- Personalised filtering policies in a school refer to customised rules and settings applied to control the content that individuals within the school community can access on the internet. It’s like tailoring the online experience for different users based on their roles and responsibilities. For instance, students may have different filtering rules compared to teachers and administrative staff, ensuring that internet access aligns with educational objectives while maintaining a safer and more secure digital environment. These policies allow schools to manage and restrict access to certain content based on the unique needs and responsibilities of each user group, promoting a focused and more secure online learning environment. Note: staff’s school-owned devices can have different access compared to BYODs, more on this topic is covered in the migration modules.
For further definitions, see N4L’s Glossary of Technical Terms.
[1] A data breach in a school context refers to the unauthorised access, acquisition, or disclosure of sensitive information stored within the school’s digital systems. This could include student records, staff details, or any other confidential data maintained by the school. Essentially, it’s like someone gaining access to a secure file cabinet and getting hold of information they shouldn’t have, which can lead to privacy concerns and potential misuse of the disclosed data. Preventing data breaches is crucial for maintaining the trust and security of the school community’s personal information.