The Fulton Police Department has recently completed a computer upgrade project which was financed entirely by the use of grant money. Utilizing 2007-2008 and 2008-2009 New York State Department of Homeland Security grants, the department was able to obtain computer hardware and software and also hire an outside consultant to complete the project.
The equipment consisted of a new computer network server and a firewall and the software consisted of new anti-virus software and business class server software. The new server is replacing one that had been in service for approximately 8 years. Technology has come a long way in those 8 years and will be advantageous in many ways. The new server has a more efficient data back up system which will ensure little to no data loss in case of any major network failures. The new software now allows the Department’s server to act as its email server. Now an outside email host is not needed which will save the Department more than $1000 yearly.
A firewall is hardware that helps keep networks safe from viruses and intruders. It also allows the creation of a virtual private network (VPN) which will enable officers to remotely and wirelessly connect to the department’s computer network so that research and police reports can be completed in patrol cars.
The project was a great success and would have been necessary even if grant money was not available. This would have been a great expense to the Department. The cost of the hardware and software would have exceeded the total computer budget for a year as would have the cost of the installation and set up. The grants were provided by the State and administered locally by Patricia Egan of the Oswego County Emergency Management Office. The installation and set up was completed by Kane Consulting, LLC of Baldwinsville.
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