EdTech in the Spotlight: N4L innovation improving digital learning experiences and educational outcomes for all

Network for Learning (N4L) – Providing faster, safer internet for Aotearoa New Zealand’s schools and kura

Network for Learning (N4L) stands at the forefront of supporting digital learning in Aotearoa, managing one of New Zealand’s largest managed broadband networks that handles nearly 25% of the country’s daytime business internet traffic. As a Crown-owned organisation, N4L provides essential managed internet, Wi-Fi, and cybersecurity services to around 2,500 state and state-integrated schools, supporting 900,000 educators and students.

In a significant move to further support online environments in schools, N4L has recently launched MyN4L, an innovative self-service platform that gives schools more visibility and control over this online environment. The user-friendly interface enables schools to request to block or unblock websites, check on network performance and equipment, get visibility of browsing activity on their school network, control network access for school visitors, and more.. 

MyN4L is fully funded for state and state-integrated schools. N4L is conducting a staged rollout of this service, which means they’ll reach out to schools when it’s their turn to join.

Te Maire St Francis of Assisi Catholic School in Canterbury said MyN4L has added a handy extra layer of support. In particular, the Guest Access tool has made it easier to manage Wi-Fi access for school visitors.

“The MyN4L interface is really easy to use; it’s simple,” says Principal Jo Earl. “In the past, we’d handed out our Wi-Fi credentials to anyone who needed them, and we had no control. Now, we’re able to create unique Wi-Fi keys for our guests to use the school internet. We can also manage the duration of access and multiple devices for each guest.”

The development of some of these tools reinforces N4L’s commitment to cybersecurity, which is evident in their impressive statistics. For example, their Email Protection service blocked over one billion emails in 2023/24, while their Security Operation Centre also made more than one billion security blocks. This robust protection has contributed to N4L’s outstanding 92% customer satisfaction rating from schools.

Currently, N4L is undertaking a major upgrade of their Managed Network, scheduled for completion by mid-2026, which is helping to position MyN4L for future enhancements. Through their partnerships with the Ministry of Education, 2degrees, Palo Alto, the National Cyber Security Centre and their IT Panel and Installer Panel suppliers, N4L continues to strengthen its services, ensuring schools can focus on their primary mission, teaching and learning, while staying protected in an increasingly complex digital landscape.To learn more about MyN4L and what tools your school will be able to access, visit www.n4l.co.nz/support/myn4l/