Reasons for increased use

There are a variety of reasons why schools are experiencing increases in the use of computer networks and the Internet, such as:

the number and size of software programs used
the use of software programs that are shared across a school's computer network
the use of distributed software programs, such as the EQ Data Warehouse
the prolific use of the Internet in class
the migration of software programs to Internet-based interfaces, such as Internet email and accessing help for Microsoft programs through the Internet
changes in work practices, including using the Internet for research and collaboration
a rapid increase in Internet surfing, especially to visit gaming and music websites
the indiscriminate use of emails, such as students sending emails to other students in the same classroom
a rapid increase in emailing, through Hotmail and the Education Queensland email service.

The effective management of computer resources can limit the need for additional expenditure on faster Internet connection speeds.