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This paper analyzes the access to and impact of information technology (IT) and the Internet on the Brazilian school system. We initially first examine the growth of computers and the Internet and the problems resulting from their everyday use in public and private schools in Brazil. We then look into the use of IT by individuals of different school levels from a survey in the favelas of Rio de Janeiro. In conclusion we discuss the problems of digital integration policies and their relationship to all policies to fight against social inequality and poverty.