Bandwidth Management and Optimisation

INASP undertake a range of training, advocacy and outreach activities in the area of Bandwidth Management and Optimisation (BMO). Internet connectivity (the capacity of which can be called "bandwidth") and access to networked information resources are an increasingly essential requirement for any research or educational institution.

Such institutions in developing countries are faced with major obstacles in their use of networked information. Costs of bandwidth are disproportionately high and it is costly and difficult to significantly expand international network connectivity (bandwidth). Effective management and optimisation of bandwidth is a key feature of increasing bandwidth availability for research and education purposes. However, many research and educational institutions in developing countries struggle to manage their bandwidth. In many instances significant capacity development is required in this area.

INASP and a range of partners are actively involved in training and capacity development in this area via a number of different programmes. During 2004-7, these activities have been primarily focused on African universities. From the middle of 2006 onwards this has also been extended to universities and research organisations in other regions of the world. During this period 30 workshops were run in 12 different countries, involving over 500 people from over 100 institutions. Details of these workshops and supporting activities are available below, as well as links to the materials and resources used during the workshop.

Related Pages

Publications

Infobrief 1 — Optimising Internet Bandwidth in Developing Country Higher Education This InfoBrief summarises the report on managing bandwidth to maximise use in resource-poor settings. (2004)
How to Accelerate your Internet: A Practical Guide to Bandwidth Management and Optimization using Open Source Software Edited by R. Flickenger. Practical information on how to gain the largest possible benefit from your connection to the Internet. (2006)
Optimising Internet Bandwidth in Developing Country Higher Education By Gerhard Venter. This report provides suggestions and recommendations for improved management of Internet applications so that existing bandwidth can be made more productive. See also a concise summary of the report in our InfoBrief series. (2003)