IT Challenges in Schools and How to Solve Them

As digital transformation accelerates, schools around the globe are encountering a growing number of IT challenges. Cybersecurity threats, such as hacking and data breaches, pose significant risks to the safety of sensitive information.

Additionally, many schools struggle with outdated infrastructure, including old computer systems and insufficient internet access, which hinders effective teaching and learning. These issues disrupt the educational process, compromise student and staff data, and limit the resources available to support quality education.

This blog post combines expert insights and data to outline the most common IT challenges in the education sector and actionable solutions.

Importance of IT in schools

Information Technology (IT) is very important in enhancing school educational experiences by improving learning, facilitating communication, streamlining administration, enhancing security, and supporting growth.

Partnering with a reliable IT service provider like BG Techs can help your school leverage these benefits effectively.

BG Techs specialises in providing customised IT solutions for educational institutions, ensuring your technology infrastructure supports teaching and administrative needs. Contact BG Techs today to learn how they can enhance your school’s IT capabilities.

Top IT Challenges & BG Tech Solutions for Schools

1. Inadequate Network Infrastructure

Challenge:
Slow internet speeds, frequent outages, and insufficient bandwidth plague schools, especially with rising device density and high-bandwidth tools like AR/VR. Over 60% of schools report network bottlenecks during peak usage.

Solutions:
Upgrade to Wi-Fi 7:
The system supports speeds that are 75% faster and can connect four times more devices, which is essential for practical, immersive learning tools.
Cloud-managed networks:
Simplify deployment and monitoring (e.g., Cisco Meraki).
Bandwidth prioritisation:
Use Quality of Service (QoS) to prioritise educational traffic over non-essential use.

With BG Tech’s expert services, schools can ensure a fast, reliable, and scalable network for all their digital needs.

2. Cybersecurity Threats

Challenge:
Cyberattacks on schools surged by 35% in 2024, with ransomware causing prolonged downtime and data breaches. Only 40% of schools enforce multi-factor authentication (MFA), leaving sensitive student data vulnerable.
Solutions:

Adopt MFA universally:
Protect email and student information systems.

Real-time threat monitoring:
Tools like Secure Data automate detection and response.

Staff training:
Simulate phishing attacks to improve awareness.

With BG Tech’s robust cybersecurity solutions, schools can safeguard their data and maintain a secure learning environment.

3. Outdated Hardware and Software

Challenge:
Older devices and obsolete software hinder digital learning. Seventy per cent of schools struggle with devices over five years old that are incompatible with modern apps.

Solutions:
Cloud migration:
Reduce reliance on physical hardware (e.g., Google Workspace, Microsoft 365).

Strategic refresh cycles:
Partner with IT providers like BG Techs for cost-effective upgrades.

Open-source tools:
Use free, community-supported software for budget-friendly updates.

With BG Tech’s customised solutions, your school can embrace modern technology without the burden of outdated equipment.

4. Limited IT Support and Training

Challenge:
Understaffed IT teams leave educators troubleshooting tech issues instead of teaching. Only 30% of teachers feel confident using advanced edtech tools.

Solutions:
Outsource managed IT services:
Providers like BG Techs offer 24/7 support and training.

On-demand resources:
Create video tutorials and interactive modules for self-paced learning.

Peer mentoring:
Encourage technologically skilled staff to train colleagues.

With BG Tech’s customised solutions, your school’s IT support is handled, ensuring educators have the necessary resources and expertise.

5. Budget Constraints

Challenge:
Shrinking budgets delay critical IT investments. 58% of schools cite funding as the top barrier to modernisation.

Solutions:
Grants and partnerships:
Seek funding from tech companies (e.g., Google for Education).

Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) analysis:
Prioritise long-term savings over upfront costs (e.g., Wi-Fi 7 upgrades).

Hybrid learning models:
Reduce physical infrastructure costs with flipped classrooms and VR field trips.

BG Tech offers cost-effective IT strategies, helps schools navigate funding opportunities, and provides scalable solutions personalised to tight budgets — so schools can do more with less.

6. Digital Equity and Access

Challenge:
20% of students lack reliable home internet, exacerbating achievement gaps. Rural schools face acute device shortages.

Solutions:
Offline-enabled tools:
Allow students to download lessons for offline access.

Mobile-first design:
Ensure edtech works on low-cost smartphones.

Community Wi-Fi initiatives:
Partner with local governments to expand coverage.

BG Tech empowers schools with affordable, inclusive tech solutions, from setting up community Wi-Fi hotspots to deploying mobile-optimised learning platforms and offline-friendly tools. This ensures that every student stays connected and supported.

7. Integrating Emerging Technologies

Challenge:
Due to technical complexity and costs, schools struggle to adopt AI, AR/VR, and IoT.

Solutions:
AI-driven analytics:
Platforms like Squirrel AI personalise learning and identify at-risk students.

VR/AR partnerships:
Collaborate with edtech firms to create affordable, immersive content.

Pilot programmes:
Test tools like IoT-enabled attendance systems in select classrooms before scaling.

BG Tech simplifies the adoption of emerging technologies by offering custom integration support, affordable pilot programmes, and trusted edtech partnerships — making cutting-edge innovation accessible for every school.

Conclusion

IT challenges in schools demand proactive, strategic solutions. Prioritising cybersecurity, modernising infrastructure, and leveraging partnerships can transform obstacles into equitable, future-ready education opportunities.

Schools that adopt scalable, cloud-based tools and invest in training will thrive in an increasingly digital world. Are you ready to transform your school’s IT landscape? Contact BG Tech today to speak with our experts and start on your journey to technological excellence in education.

FAQs

Q: What are the most common IT challenges faced by schools today?
Slow internet, outdated tech, lack of support, and cybersecurity risks.

Q: Why do schools struggle with poor network connectivity?
Old equipment, too many devices, and limited bandwidth.

Q: How can schools upgrade their network infrastructure effectively?
Invest in Wi-Fi 6/7 and cloud-managed tools, and prioritise educational traffic.

Q: Why do cyberattacks increasingly target schools?
They store valuable student data but often lack strong defenses.

Q: What measures can schools take to protect sensitive student data?
Implement MFA, antivirus tools, staff training, and regular audits.

Q: How does multi-factor authentication (MFA) improve cybersecurity in schools?
It blocks 99% of password-based attacks by adding extra verification.

Q: What are cost-effective solutions for upgrading school technology?
Leverage open-source tools and IT provider partnerships.

Q: Should schools switch to cloud-based systems for better efficiency?
Yes—it is scalable, secure, and reduces hardware reliance.

Q: Why is IT support often insufficient in schools?
Budgets are tight, and staff-to-device ratios are too low.

Q: How can schools ensure all students can access technology and internet connectivity?
Provide devices, offer offline tools, and support home internet access.

Q: What are the challenges of integrating AI, AR/VR, and IoT into education?
Cost, complexity, and lack of staff training.

Q: What tools or practices enhance secure data storage and access control?
Cloud backups, role-based access, and regular security reviews.