Software:LanSchool

From HandWiki
Short description: Classroom management software
LanSchool
LanSchool's logo: a gray background with
Developer(s)Lenovo Software
Initial releaseFebruary 9, 1986; 38 years ago (1986-02-09) (as LanFan Technologies)
April 2001 (2001-04) (as LanSchool Technologies, LLC)
PlatformWindows, macOS, ChromeOS, iOS, and Android
TypeClassroom management
LicenseProprietary
Websitewww.lanschool.com

LanSchool is a classroom management software developed and owned by Lenovo focused on school environments. The company is based in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina. It was founded as LanFan Technologies in February 1986. Two versions of the software are available: LanSchool Classic, the locally hosted version, and LanSchool Air, the cloud-based version. Both versions are compatible with Mac, Windows, Chromebooks, and mixed device environments enabling teachers to monitor students’ screens while in class, limit the websites students may visit, as well as “push” websites and messages to classroom devices.[1]

Technology

LanSchool's software uses a proprietary remote desktop protocol that communicates over a local area network. An application is installed on the teacher's computer, which communicates peer-to-peer with a software agent running on pupils' computers.

History

Originally named LanFan Technologies, the company was founded in February 1986.[2] Dana Doggett began exploring the concept of a software application that would allow an instructor to control multiple computers.

Doggett developed a software tool called PC Chalkboard that was then implemented by Novell. PC Chalkboard allowed Novell lab instructors to broadcast their screens to each PC in the lab. LanSchool was licensed by both Intel and IBM and actively marketed through each company's education sales channel. In April 2001, Doggett left Intel and formed another company, LanSchool Technologies, LLC, where he could work on LanSchool full-time.

Acquisitions

LanSchool was acquired by Stoneware in 2011. In September 2012, Lenovo announced the acquisition of Stoneware which was completed on December 26, 2012.[3]

Security

There have been cases of students being able to exploit the LanSchool software to bypass restrictions, and in some cases take control of other students' computers.[4] A 2006 post on CompSci.ca details the packet structure of older versions of the software, and claims there was no encryption or similar precautions. This issue was confirmed to have been caught and fixed in the following year.[5]

Features

The program has multiple features, including thumbnail view, whitelisting and blacklisting websites, keystroke monitoring and screen broadcasting. The program also allows the teacher to access the camera and microphone, as well as internet history.

See also

References