On computer rollout day, there was a widespread problem in the computers, preventing them from logging in or connecting to the internet. The problem was caused primarily by an incorrect configuration of the wireless network system.

Brian Weber, an IT technician at Harriton’s tech center reported to us that approximately half of the issued computers had the configuration issue, saying that “some of the configurations took, but some did not” and that all schools were affected by the problem. Sources at Lower Merion High School confirm the problem throughout all high schools in the District.

For wireless connection, the IT department uses a certification system. It is analogous to checking a guest-list and requiring ID before allowing access to a network, unlike passwords, which simply ask for a passphrase. Continuing this analogy, the affected computers did not have a valid ID. To enforce the policy, IT uses a program installed on every computer called Casper, developed by JAMF Software LLC.

Casper is also the same program used to enforce settings for homepage, system preferences, and ties into Apple’s Managed Preferences to restrict the use of certain applications. This program is separate from iBoss, the filtering system used by the district to comply with federal laws pertaining to educational internet access.

The issue itself developed due to an error in the original image, which was developed over the summer before school started. The certificate issues were fixed by an updated image some hours after the issue was discovered and after the laptops were issued. However, since the issue is one which is inherent to the image, the configuration fix requires that all computers be individually reimaged or reset using a hardwired connection before they can connect to the network.

Returning to a password system like that used two years ago would have solved the reimaging issue and have allowed the computers to be fixed by simply typing in the password instead of going through a lengthy reimaging process.

However, there are security concerns involved with using a password if the password became public knowledge.

The staff wireless network, “staff”, uses the password system.