As we approach the final chapter of our series, we’re diving into the essential standards for servers and storage – because a secure and efficient digital foundation starts with getting the basics right
In the second-to-last instalment of our deep dive into the digital and technology standards for schools, we focus on the crucial topics of servers and storage. This includes aspects like ensuring robust security, maximising energy efficiency and creating suitable environments for these essential systems.
As we near the end of this series, we hope it has served as a valuable guide to navigating these important areas. However, remember that for a complete and detailed overview, the full information is always available on the government website, where you can explore further resources and updates.
Ensuring Continuity
A key aspect of meeting many of the standards outlined in this series is minimising the risk of systems and data becoming unavailable. To achieve this, schools must ensure their servers and storage platforms are both secure and resilient.
One effective way to reduce reliance on local servers is by utilising cloud solutions. Additionally, it’s important to regularly review your existing servers and storage platforms with your IT service provider to ensure they remain fully resilient. Your school should also have a clear plan in place, including a minimum downtime agreement, which outlines how long the school can function effectively during a server outage or downtime.
Data Protection
To comply with data protection legislation, all IT systems and services must be “secure by design.” This means that when purchasing, installing and using servers and storage platforms, you need to ensure they are secure from the outset, with risks minimised at every stage.
It’s essential to take proactive steps to protect both personal and sensitive data, including special category data.
Your data protection officer (DPO) should conduct regular Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) for any server or storage solutions that handle such data. These assessments help identify potential privacy risks and ensure that appropriate safeguards are in place. By integrating security into the design and ongoing use of your IT systems, you not only meet legal requirements but also protect your school’s sensitive information and build trust with students, staff and parents.
Energy-Efficiency
Local servers and storage platforms often run continuously, consuming significant amounts of energy. Adopting an energy-efficient approach when purchasing, setting up, and operating these systems can lead to both energy and cost savings. To improve energy efficiency, ensure that your servers and storage platforms use power-saving settings when inactive, if this doesn’t significantly affect performance, disrupt backups, or risk damage to the equipment. Additionally, deactivate any unnecessary features to further reduce energy consumption.
When purchasing new servers and storage platforms, it’s important to prioritise energy efficiency. Look for servers that are specifically designed to save energy, such as those with the ENERGY STAR label or an equivalent certification.
Furthermore, make it a requirement that all servers and related storage platforms are configured to minimise energy use, ensuring that their setup supports the most energy-efficient operation possible.
As we wrap up this penultimate installment, we hope you’ve gained valuable insights into the standards for servers and storage. In our final article of the series, we will turn our attention to the critical topic of wireless network standards. Stay tuned for this final guide, which will provide you with all the information you need to ensure your school’s wireless network meets the highest standards of security and efficiency.
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