Technology How does Espresso work? Cache guide Technical requirements Installation and support

How does Espresso work?

Espresso works just like a normal website, and is accessed using standard web browsers such as Internet Explorer 6.0.

However, unlike most websites, Espresso is stored on a cache server or 'cache' located in your school or within your local LA network, so that content can be accessed immediately by multiple users simultaneously without the download delays associated with the Internet.

For more information about caches, see our Cache Guide.

We also recommend that you review the recommended minimum requirements for running Espresso Primary and Secondary.

Access and weekly update options

Option 1: A cache is located in your school. Content updates are delivered to your school via a broadband connection.

You can purchase a cache from us that will come pre-loaded with Espresso. This cache is attached to your school network. Updates are automatically delivered to your cache via broadband / ADSL. Your cache delivers Espresso over your school Local Area Network (LAN) to your networked computers.

Espresso has been tested on and has content partnerships with:Espresso’s LINUX-based server, Equiinet Cachepilot, Volera, Appliansys, Avantis, RM SmartCache, Freedom2Cache and Atomwide Cachepaq.

Please read our cache guide for more information.

We also recommend that you review the recommended minimum requirements for running Espresso Primary and Secondary.

Option 2: A server is located in your LA. Content updates are delivered to your school from the LA.

Espresso is installed on a server within your LAs server farm. Updates are automatically delivered to the LA via broadband. Your school accesses Espresso via your LA network which delivers Espresso and your weekly updates. Depending on the infrastructure in your LA you may not need a cache in your school.

Option 3 (ISDN schools only): A server is located in your school. Content updates are delivered to your school via CD.

A server containing Espresso is installed in your school. Updates are sent on CDs to your school, you are required to load them. The Espresso server delivers Espresso over your school's Local Area Network (LAN) to desktops. With this option, you are required to actively manage the updates to Espresso content.