NSW Govt. selects Microsoft for schools

Microsoft will provide software, licensing and support to enable and assist the NSW DET's deployment and continuous upgrade of 200,000 student computers, in addition to the 190,000 already in place. 

The arrangement leverages the NSW DET's existing volume licensing agreement with Microsoft, which provides licenses for up to 1.3 million users, including all students, teachers, administrators, and staff across NSW state schools.

Tracey Fellows, managing director of Microsoft Australia said an evaluation process will be conducted by the NSW DET to identify the hardware and software platforms for students and teachers.

The initial laptop rollout is scheduled for July 2009 with the laptops initially powered by Windows XP.

NSW DET intends to adopt and upgrade its fleet to the next generation of Microsoft's operating system, Windows 7. 

CRN will keep readers updated on whether or not resellers will be involved in the platform roll out.