But the UF/IFAS Office of Information Technology (OIT) is doing it. With the combined help of the OIT Network Systems (ITNS) staff and OIT District Computer Specialists, the first major step for providing direct Internet connectivity is well on its way. The first step to bringing Florida's 67 County Extension Offices online is to install a Local Area Network (LAN) in each office. As of November, 1998, 46 offices have LAN's.  Of these, nine are already online (click on the graphic for a larger view).

OIT has negotiated an agreement with FIRN to provide the 56K Internet service. The cost for all electronic components and the recurring monthly service fee is the responsibility of the county. The office of the Vice President will pay for installation, configuration and technical support, which will be provided by OIT. Once a LAN has been installed in the office, OIT will contact FIRN to get a quote for the local Internet service. After county approval of the quoted price, the data line will be ordered, installed and the network installation completed.

Three counties from each district have been selected by their District Directors to be the first to go online. Escambia, Gadston and Jackson from District I; Jefferson, Clay and Madison from District II; Brevard, Orange and Osceola from District III; Hillsborough, Manatee and Highlands from District IV and Dade, Monroe and Collier from District V.