This document provides guidance on connecting to and using the school's computer network. It outlines how to connect desktops, laptops, and other peripherals to the network. It also describes the school's intranet and thin client options for accessing files remotely. Troubleshooting tips are provided, advising users to check basic connections, ask colleagues for help, and then contact the appropriate support if issues persist. Specific instructions are included for connecting netbooks to the wireless network and what to do if connections issues arise.

1. All About Networks – Staff Development
Fall, 2010
Network Info for Your Workspace:
 If your workspace uses a desktop computer as the teacher
computer, connect the blue /Ethernet cable to the tower.
 If you use a school laptop, check that the wireless network
is found (icon).
 Connect any peripherals: PB, printer, document camera, DVD player, etc.
 Network printing – set up remote printing to copy machines (secure print feature
is available).
 VoIP – Cisco phone for each staff member.
 Intranet – we have two of them; Intranet on district web page to access
documents and information. Teachers don’t have creative input but are allowed
access. Thin Client – save to Z: drive, install remote desktop then enter
thin.dps109.org, use your usual login and password – allows you to access your
school computer from home, sharing documents with yourself.
 Connecting Netbooks to the wireless network (complicated, own section to
follow).
 Troubleshooting basic connection problems:
o Check the obvious things first (plugged in, turned on, cables firmly
connected).
o Remember the rule in your classroom: “Ask three before me.” Try asking a
colleague to help you learn basic connections before looking further afield.
Grade level teammates may be able to provide very timely assistance.
o The next tier of support is Casey, our tech coordinator.
o If the problem is related to the network (Internet connection, e-mail, etc.)
contact the Net56 help desk. Check with your neighbor first though, as
Net56 will already be aware if the whole network is down.
o Did it work before or is it a new connection? Knowing that will guide
troubleshooting – the more info you have for helpdesk, the easier it is to fix
the problem.
Netbooks and wireless access to the Network
 Turn on computer and log in. If previous user did not log out properly, at this
point, you will need to do a hard shut down: press the power key until the screen
goes black. Restart computer and log in.
 If computer is not connecting, check the wireless network icon to see if it’s
connected. If you see the red “X” you will need to change the settings
(sometimes it ends up in dial-up mode – select wireless network from drop-down
menu).
 If it still doesn’t work, send it to Casey. He will determine if the problem is fixable
in-house or if Net56 is called to re-image the computer.