Back-to-School Internet Checklist: How to Ensure Your Family Stays Connected and Safe This School Year
As the back-to-school season begins, it’s not just about getting new notebooks and lunchboxes. Reliable internet is a crucial part of modern education, making it essential for families to prepare their digital setup for a smooth start to the school year. At PureLink, we understand the importance of staying connected and safe online. Here’s your ultimate back-to-school internet checklist to ensure your family is ready to learn, stream, and thrive.
- Evaluate Your Internet Speed
- Assess your current internet plan to ensure it supports your family’s online needs. Consider upgrading if you experience slow speeds, especially during peak hours.
- Tools like PureLink’s WiFi Health Check can diagnose weak spots in your home network and offer customised solutions.
- Optimize Your WiFi Coverage
- Ensure strong WiFi signals reach every corner of your home, including study areas and bedrooms.
- Avoid using WiFi extenders as they may slow down your connection. Instead, explore professional solutions to improve network reliability.
- Set Up Parental Controls
- Activate parental controls on your router and devices to manage screen time and restrict access to inappropriate content.
- Utilize features such as website filtering and scheduled pauses to encourage healthy digital habits.
- Prioritise Cybersecurity
- Teach kids about online safety, such as recognizing suspicious links, understanding cafe online communication “stranger danger” and creating strong passwords.
- Plan for Online Learning Platforms
- Test compatibility with learning platforms like Google Classroom or Zoom ahead of time.
- Check if your connection supports video conferencing without interruptions during school hours.
- Create a Family Internet Usage Schedule
- Avoid bandwidth issues by scheduling high-demand activities.
- Use PureLink’s fast and reliable connectivity to ensure everyone gets their fair share of the internet.
- Explore Backup Options
- Consider having a backup internet solution, such as PureLink’s Fixed Wireless Internet, to maintain connectivity during outages.
- Upgrade Smart Devices
- Ensure laptops, tablets, and other devices are up to date with the latest software for optimal performance.
- Invest in ergonomic setups for better focus and productivity.
- Secure Your Router
- Change default passwords and enable WPA2 with AES encryption for your Wi-Fi network.
- Regularly update your router’s firmware to safeguard against vulnerabilities.
- Test Your Setup
- Conduct a trial run to ensure all devices connect seamlessly.
- Use tools like speed tests to confirm your network’s readiness.
Bonus Checklist for Parents:
- Schedule a WiFi Health Check with PureLink.
- Upgrade to a high-speed plan if needed.
- Set up cybersecurity measures on all devices.
- Test online learning tools and platforms.
- Establish screen time and internet use guidelines.
The school year is hectic enough without internet woes. By following this checklist, you’ll set your family up for success with fast, reliable, and safe connectivity. Contact PureLink today to learn more about our services and how we can keep your family connected year-round.
