While there are many things that can cause internet slow-down, libraries have several options in combating ill-wanted content and optimizing their patrons’ web-browsing experience. First, by updating their web browsers to the latest release (Midwest Tape's Website Developing beyond the Capabilities of IE6), libraries can help protect their computers and their networks from resource-hogging malware. Second, libraries can regulate bandwidth to streaming media sites or use third-part software to block certain content all together.
How is your library addressing issues with connectivity speed, malware, and undesirable web content? Share your experiences here as comments.
Contact Us
Our library has struggled with this issue for the last several years. In years past we added more bandwidth but that was quickly clogged again. For the last 2 years we tried managing bandwidth using network router rules and QoS.
ReplyDeleteThis year we bought a packet shaper which promises to help this issue. Using a combo of these things we should be able to successfully manage our bandwidth without having to buy more.
- Jenny Novalis. Bedford Public Library System, VA
Jenny, thanks so much for your feedback on this topic. It sounds like you've done a lot of problem solving with bandwidth issues. You'll have to keep us posted on how the packet shaper works in combination with your QoS and network router rules.
ReplyDeleteHow are other libraries addressing their issues with connectivity speed, malware, and undesirable web content? Do others have similar experiences to Jenny's?