The Catholic Education Office, Parramatta, is deploying a high speed wireless network from Cisco Systems to its 75 schools in the western Sydney.

The network is designed to help to improve work flexibility for teachers and reduce operating expenses. The 42,000 students and 3,500 staff will have wireless access to Internet and intranet resources, with network security.

Dr Anne Benjamin, executive director of Schools in the Parramatta Diocese,
said; "With this wireless solution, we will be able to provide greater
student and teacher access to information and resources, and enhance ways
of teaching and learning while maximising the use of resources across our
school network."

The network is based on the deployment of more than 80 Cisco Aironet 1200
Series access points and other Cisco hardware and software.

The wireless network, deployed by Cisco reseller Efficient Data Communications, extends the existing wired network that reaches into every
learning space in the Diocese. Cisco networking technology already deployed
across the network includes Cisco switches, routers and software.

Ross Fowler, Managing Director, Australia and New Zealand, Cisco Systems,
said: "The Catholic Education Office has always had an innovative approach
to how technology can enhance the experience of students and staff and the
administration of their schools. The deployment of a Cisco wireless network
will further extend the benefits of networked connectivity."