Mist, the pioneer in self-learning networks powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI), announced today that North Canton City Schools (NCCS) has deployed the Mist Learning WLAN as an upgrade to its previous Wi-Fi network. With the Mist platform in place, NCCS has facilitated access to online learning materials and applications (e.g. Schoology LMS, eSchoolPLUS SIS and LanSchool), enabled students to communicate more easily while on the move, provided a reliable platform for online testing and improved the performance and reliability of the "Mobile Storyteller", a production studio on wheels used throughout the district.

Recently, the number of connected devices across the school district began to grow exponentially thanks to a 1-to-1 computing initiative that required the deployment of over 5000 Chromebooks, coupled with a bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policy that allowed high school students to bring their own computers, tablets and smartphones. Unfortunately, NCCS' existing wireless network from Cisco Meraki could not keep up with these mobile learning initiatives. Like many school districts, NCCS had a challenge supporting a high density of devices in a consistent and reliable manner, and they had limited IT staff to spend time troubleshooting issues as they arose.

"Students were dissatisfied they couldn't use personal devices and faculty were frustrated with poor Wi-Fi," said John Fano, system administrator at NCCS. "The IT team was annoyed because we could not troubleshoot problems quickly and cost effectively. It was clear that we outgrew our WLAN and were in need of an upgrade."

The NCCS IT staff, in conjunction with their trusted partner Technology Engineering Group (TEG), explored alternative WLAN options. Ultimately, they chose the Mist Learning WLAN as it is the only platform with integrated AI that simplifies Wi-Fi operations and troubleshooting through automation and insight, and leverages patented virtual Bluetooth LE for scalable location services, such as student engagement and asset visibility.

"The Mist platform is easy to deploy and operate as a cloud service, with unprecedented visibility into the user experience," said Jon Strong, co-founder and managing partner at TEG. "We are leveraging Mist's AI engine to automate mundane tasks, troubleshoot problems quickly and gain new levels of insight into the wireless domain. This is the future of wireless, and the ideal platform for any MSP looking to deploy innovative and scalable WLAN services."

For more information on the NCCS deployment, download the full case study.