Choosing your server computer
The server computer holds your school's questions, students, tests and results, and every lab computer talks to it during an exam. Choose a computer that can stay switched on during school hours.
Minimum requirements
| Minimum | Recommended | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating system | Windows: Windows 10 or Windows 11, 64-bit Linux: Ubuntu Server or Ubuntu Desktop, an LTS version |
The same |
| Memory (RAM) | 8 GB | 16 GB |
| Storage | 256 GB | Two drives: one for the system and Surepass, one for local backups. A solid-state drive (SSD) for the system. |
Why an SSD? Exams load faster and the server keeps up better when a whole lab submits at once. The server warns you if it is running on an older hard drive.
Why two drives? If backups are kept on the same drive as the system and that drive fails, you lose your school's records and their backups. With a second drive for backups, a failed system drive can be replaced and the school restored. See Backing up and restoring.
Getting Windows for a Windows server
Use the 64-bit version of Windows 11 or Windows 10, from Microsoft's official download pages:
- Download Windows 11 (recommended)
- Download Windows 10
Windows needs a valid licence (product key). Windows 11 is the better choice for a new server: Microsoft no longer gives Windows 10 free security updates.
Need a Windows licence? Academium Plus sells genuine Microsoft licences. Contact Academium Plus or Academium support.
Getting Ubuntu for a Linux server
Use an LTS (long-term support) version of Ubuntu. LTS versions receive security updates for years, which is what a school server needs.
Choose the version marked LTS on the download page.
Where to put it
- Somewhere it can stay on, with a steady power supply. A UPS (battery backup) protects exams from power cuts.
- Connected to the school network by cable, not Wi-Fi.
- Where students cannot reach it.
The school network
The server and every lab and staff computer must be on the same school network. If your school does not have one yet, or it is unreliable, contact Academium Plus or Academium support for a free quote to set one up.
If your school also runs an Academium SMS server, Surepass can run on its own computer or alongside SMS. When both run on your network, they share the job of looking after the network between them. See Network and time.