For many years, fiber optic networks have been used heavily in the business world—and have ultimately enabled new levels of success and functionality to be achieved. However, the same cannot be said about academic institutions, no matter the level. And it is because of the impact that fiber optics have made within the business world that educational institutions and organizations should consider it a priority in 2023.
In this blog, the team at Connectivity will explain the reasons why a school or a university should upgrade to fiber optics and educate administrators on the many benefits, including helping students learn better and also keep them safer. Read on to learn about all of the advantages of fiber optic cables and fiber optic networks.
Fiber Optics Are the Future of Education
When considering an upgrade to fiber, keep in mind the following:
Fiber Allows Students to Access Information Quickly in the Classroom: Today, it’s common for students to use a variety of technology when accessing the Internet in their learning, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktop computers. However, if a network relies on old copper cables, it might be hard for students to access information in a timely fashion. This is where fiber is helpful. Because fiber optic cables use light to send and receive data, they are faster than copper cables, which allows for information to be accessed faster, which in turn, improves learning outcomes.
Fiber Enables Teachers and Instructors to Easily Use Video: Teachers and instructors also benefit from the implementation of fiber optics as it will be easier to use video in instructional practices—including pulling videos up at a moment’s notice, which isn’t always the case with copper cables.
Fiber Keeps an Academic Institution Safe from Hackers: Fiber adds an extra level of security to a school or university’s internal network and can prevent a hacker from gaining access to confidential information and private student records. Alternatively, copper cables are not as foolproof and depending on network security practices it may be possible to tap into and intercept data. Fiber gives a school extra protection against this threat.
Fiber Also Boosts Physical School Safety: It is an unfortunate reality, but in the United States school shootings occur far too often. Therefore, ensuring the physical safety of a school is paramount. Fiber optic cables allow an academic institution to install leading edge security cameras and systems while also allowing police to be provided access to a network. In turn, law enforcement is offered the ability to look in and see what is happening inside school hallways and classrooms at any time, thereby better protecting students and instructors from intruders.
Fiber Empowers Learning: It is the goal of any school or university to provide learning and instruction that enables students to reach and achieve their academic goals. By installing fiber optic cables, students will be offered the technology, security, and innovative tools they need to succeed, and they will be empowered to explore new avenues and interests.
Connectivity Partners with Educational Institutions
As network cabling experts, the team at Connectivity regularly works with a variety of learning institutions, including schools and higher ed facilities to implement technology upgrades and enable student productivity and success.
We would love to tell you more about the many benefits fiber optics can have on your academic institution. Reach out today to schedule a consultation. Connectivity is committed to helping your students realize achievement.