System Status

NWOCA Services

Hosted Services

Using the fiber network between NWOCA and the member school districts, we are able to offer several options for hosted servers. These virtual servers are entire installations of the operating systems that the district requests (e.g. Linux, Windows) and run in our secure and reliable datacenter. Using remote access methods (e.g. Microsoft Remote Desktop, VNC) the district has full-control over the server to install any software that is needed. Data from these servers can also be backed up to 2 locations offering even more redundancy and disaster protection.

Using similar virtualization technology, we are also able to host individual applications for districts that are delivered over the fiber connection to thin clients located at the district. This allows for efficient installation and future upgrades of software as there is only one location where the software is installed. This offering includes maintenance and support of both the application server and the end-point thin client hardware. If any hardware needs to be replaced or repaired, it will be handled by NWOCA leaving the local district technology staff available for focusing on technology integration with education.

Computer Hardware / Technology Maintenance

NWOCA will also supply to our member districts hardware maintenance on district-owned computer technology manufactured by any of several supported brands. Since NWOCA performs self-maintenance on all its communications and computer equipment this service can be provided to our member districts at a cost far below that which could be obtained elsewhere. Districts may obtain this service from NWOCA on a 'per-call' basis or under a fixed-price maintenance contract.

Network Communications Services

For all member districts NWOCA maintains ownership and control of all managed network communications equipment. Although the initial cost of this equipment is assessed against the member district, ownership of this equipment remains with NWOCA, and all maintenance and/or replacement of this equipment is performed by NWOCA.

All equipment connected to the NWOCA network must meet the approval of NWOCA. Devices attached not meeting NWOCA approval will be removed/disabled by NWOCA at the member district's expense.

NWOCA coordinates data communications services to each building and/or service areas within the district. If this requires increased data communications services those will be obtained on behalf of the district by NWOCA, but the district will bear the operational costs of that service. As part of its services NWOCA will apply for E-Rate discounts on a consortium basis for eligible communications services billed in NWOCA's name on behalf of its member districts. Any discounts received are rebated to the appropriate member districts utilizing formulas mandated by the SLD. In addition, at the time of installation of the additional data communication equipment the district will be billed for a Communications System Assessment in an amount equivalent to the cost of the increased data communications equipment acquired to support the service. However, ownership of the installed equipment and all future hardware maintenance or replacement costs will be assumed by NWOCA. No equipment may be attached to the NWOCA communications network directly or indirectly without the prior approval of NWOCA. These steps are taken to insure reliability, information security, and flexibility in the data communications system so that NWOCA can make any needed changes throughout the system without displacing the services provided to any other member district.