You need it to protect your computer lab and the campus network computers from viruses, trojans and malware. All computers and latops using the network should have an effective and up to date antivirus program. One user with an infected laptop or computer on your network can spread the infection to your lab and throughout the school. Microsoft Security Essentials provides real-time protection for PCs that guards against viruses, spyware, and other malicious software. This antivirus program is simple to install, easy to use, and always kept up to date. While your computer lab and school may have an existing antivirus solution, many of the school staff and students may need a free solution. Microsoft Security Essentials is compatible with XP, Vista and Windows 7. It is FREE for personal and businesss uses unlike many other free antivirus programs.

2. Reboot to Restore Program

Why do you need it?

You need it to keep your lab computers in good as new condition day after day all year long. Reboot to Restore programs roll back the computer to it's startup condition after each reboot. In the typical computer lab, many people use each computer. These computers can be damaged by installations, file and folder deletions, desktop changes, viruses, hacker software, software corruption and more. In the computer lab, you can reboot and restore the computers after each class to give the incoming students a completely refreshed computer. Instead of trying to fix problems, simply reboot the computer to restore it. Comodo Time Machine is free and supports Windows XP, Vista and Windows 7. Be sure to use the latest stable version and visit the support forums before using. If you prefer a commercial version, try Faronics Deep Freeze or Rollback RX.

3. Remote PC Control and Monitoring

Why do you need it?

You need it improve your computer classroom management. Computers can be very distracting for students and they will be tempted to play on the computer while you are instructing. Get their full attention by blanking the screens. Use it to monitor all student screens or to assist students by remote control. Turn on, shut down, logon or log off computers in mass or individually. Send messages, launch programs and more. LanView 4 by MST and iTALC are free remote control computer lab management programs. Installation typically involves installing a client program on each of the student computers and a server program on the instructor's computer. The instructor's computer then has a control panel for managing all of the clients.

4. Fileserver with Backups

Why do you need it?

You need it to distribute and collect files. Students need it to save their files safely in their own folders. A lab needs at least one publicly shared folder that students can access. You can share or collect documents (assignments) using that folder. You might think "Can't you do that with a regular Windows PC?" You can, but with the limitations, Windows home editions allow a maximum of five simultaneous connections to a shared folder and Windows Premium, Pro and Ultimate editons allow a maximum of 10. Fileservers can have an unlimited number of simultaneous connections. Additionally, students need their own private folders on the fileserver for saving their files. The ability to save files allows for more substantial projects over multiple class sessions. Turnkey Linux Fileserver is a free system that can be used for Windows or Mac labs. Windows Server edition file servers provide advanced functionality, but you will need a server license and separate licenses for each client that will connect to it. Academic discounts are available.

5. Web Content Filter

Why do you need it?

You need it to protect your users from malware and inappropriate content and images. A content filter can be configured to allow or reject various content types and websites. A quick and easy way to implement content filtering is to use the free service provided by OpenDNS. All web requests pass through the OpenDNS servers and are filtered before reaching your computers.