Network Concepts
This is a 2-credit unit designed to introduce candidates to the issues involved in installing and supporting networked systems, internal and external to an organisation. It is intended for candidates who require a broad knowledge of networking systems. On completion of the Unit the candidate should be able to:
- Describe network media and topologies
- Describe network protocols and standards
- Implement local area networks
- Provide network support
In the first section you will learn about network media and topologies, including logical and physical topologies (star, hierarchical, bus, mesh, ring and wireless) and the feature of technologies such as LLC, Ethernet, Token Ring, wireless and FDDI. You'll also learn about Ethernet characteristics, media types and connectors and network components such as hubs, switches, routers, bridges, gateways, CSU/DSU, interface cards, ISDN adapters, system area network cards, wireless access points, modems.
In the second section you'll learn about network protocols, including TCP/IP, IPX/SPX and NetBEUI, the seven layers of the OSI reference model, network services, WAN technologies, network security and remote access
In the third section you'll learn how to implement local area networks, including analysing client requirements and specifying appropriate solutions. You'll learn about server operating systems, client workstations, VLANs, network storage, fault tolerance, disaster recovery, security and network settings
In the final section you'll learn how to provide network support, including troubleshooting network problems, configuring servers and carrying out hardware implementation tasks.
There will be one or more closed-book restricted-response assessments covering all outcomes. You will be presented with a total of 50 questions and expected to answer 70% of these correctly. You will also be expected to keep a log book recording the practical tasks you have carried out during the Unit. You must satisfy the requirements for these assessments in order to achieve the Unit.
