Research+-+Hardware+&+Hosting

=Research - Hardware and Hosting=

There are a number of ways to implement virtual worlds for learners to access.
 * join existing externally hosted virtual worlds (eg Second Life)
 * rent regions in existing externally hosted virtual worlds
 * create your own virtual world on a virtual server through a [|hosting] provider via 'Remote Desktop Services/Connection'
 * create your own virtual world on a physical server through a hosting provider via 'Remote Desktop Services/Connection'
 * create your own virtual world on you own local server
 * create a single user virtual world on a USB memory stick


 * Regions for Rent**
 * Second Life(USA) (Open to 16 and over after Dec 2010 and access to education sites for 13-15) NB Change in education pricing from Jan 2011
 * Teen Second Life (Discontinued after Dec 2010)
 * Reaction Grid(USA)
 * Jokaydia Grid and Jokaydia Grid Rentals(Australian Educator)


 * External Hosting Options**
 * Reaction Grid
 * SimHost
 * MediaGrid
 * List of OpenSimhosting providers


 * Inhouse Hosting Options**
 * OpenSim - Local Server, Desktop, USB
 * **Diva Distribution**- Metaverse Ink(Introductionand Installation Wiki) See also Hypergrid Business: How to set up a mini-grid (Includes Wifi web app for user registrations
 * USB Standalone for Windows
 * KindleLab - OpenSim + SnowGlobe Viewer + Google Docs (download zip file)

Further reading on hosting

 * Hypergrid Business: How to choose an OpenSim hosting company
 * Hypergrid Business: OpenSim Grid Primer
 * Hypergrid Business: OpenSim Security 101
 * Hypergrid Business: How to set up a mini-grid
 * [|Hypergrid Business: Initiative: free land for educators migrating from Second Life]
 * Adam Frisby - "How to choose a good OpenSim host?"
 * iliveisl: "we get groups..."
 * ilivesisl: The Future of Education in Virtual Worlds
 * iliveisl: multi-sim suggestion, especially for educational use

Recommendations for possible Guidelines/Standards

 * Start by exploring existing virtual worlds and using 'sandboxes'.
 * Establish a presence by renting a region in an existing virtual world.
 * Establish a team with strong ICT support before considering hosting own virtual world.
 * Consult educator communities in virtual worlds when looking for a hosting solution that meets needs for privacy, reliability, price and performance...
 * Consider implementing a range of complementary services at your institution including using open source software. For example existing virtual worlds, standalone installations, USB memory stick installations, local network, hosted OpenSim providers.