Modification History
Release |
Comments |
Release 1 |
This Unit first released with ICA11 Information and Communications Technology Training Package version 1.0 |
Unit Descriptor
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to identify available network components relevant to client requirements and to install, configure and secure those components as part of a small office or home office (SOHO) network.
Application of the Unit
This unit applies to individuals required to network a small or home office. The unit covers the development of a suitable network design, the identification of relevant network components to meet the design brief and the installation, configuration and securing of the network to meet client requirements.
Licensing/Regulatory Information
No licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of endorsement but users should confirm requirements with the relevant federal, state or territory authority.
Pre-Requisites
Not applicable.
Employability Skills Information
This unit contains employability skills.
Elements and Performance Criteria Pre-Content
Element |
Performance Criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes of a unit of competency. |
Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the required skills and knowledge section and the range statement. Assessment of performance is to be consistent with the evidence guide. |
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Confirm client requirements and identify relevant network equipment |
1.1 Identify and clarify the client requirement for the small office home office network 1.2 Identify the most suitable network design to meet the client requirement 1.3 Develop and document the network design 1.4 Identify the most suitable network technologies, devices and protocols and network cables and connectors to meet the network design 1.5 Review the available network technologies, devices and protocols and determine the most appropriate to meet the client requirements 1.6 Source vendors and service suppliers to obtain specifications, availability and cost of identified components 1.7 Ensure client sign-off for proposed network design and associated components |
2. Install and configure hardware and software |
2.1 Develop installation plans, with prioritised tasks and contingency arrangements, for installation of components with minimum disruption to client 2.2 Liaise with appropriate person to obtain approval for the plans, including security clearance and timing 2.3 Confirm and review supplier documentation that network cables and connectors have been installed according to industry standards , client requirements and building requirements 2.4 Install and configure computer and other hardware according to the network design and industry standards using knowledge of relevant installation and configuration tools 2.5 Install and configure network software according to network design and industry standards 2.6 Install and configure other software according to network design and industry standards |
3. Configure and test network |
3.1 Troubleshoot client-side connectivity using appropriate networking settings to review relevant network tools 3.2 Test the installed software and hardware, using available networking tools to ensure that components are functioning as expected 3.3 Test the network settings to ensure the network is functioning according to specification 3.4 Resolve problems identified through the testing process |
4. Secure network |
4.1 Identify possible security concepts and technologies relevant to securing the network 4.2 Apply specific protection using identified security features to protect against possible network attacks 4.3 Troubleshoot different types of security intrusion symptoms and issues |
5. Document completed work, hand over to client and obtain client approval |
5.1 Document final network design and associated hardware, software and security features 5.2 Document installation, bootup and configuration procedures as per client requirements 5.3 Complete handover and secure sign-off from client |
Required Skills and Knowledge
This section describes the skills and knowledge required for this unit.
Required skills
- analytical skills to evaluate hardware, software and network specifications against client requirements
- communication skills to deal with clients and vendors
- literacy skills to:
- review technical documentation
- write detailed technical notes
- planning and organisational skills to:
- set benchmarks and identify scope
- develop plans, prioritise tasks and apply contingency strategy
- problem-solving skills to predict the range of network problems
- research skills to identify, analyse and evaluate technical information
- technical skills to:
- identify and install components of hardware, software, cabling and wireless equipment
- use network system software.
Required knowledge
- current industry-accepted hardware and software products
- current industry-accepted network hardware and software products
- data and voice transmission technologies and protocols
- hardware and software installation procedures
- local area network (LAN) capabilities and characteristics, including network type, such as ethernet, Appletalk IP addressing, switch or hub operation
- network connections, both wired and wireless
- networking technologies, incorporating substantial depth in areas relating to network operating systems and cabling standards
- operating system, such as Mac, Linux, Novell, Windows, to enable basic installation
- set-up and configuration procedures
- small business and home office networking requirements
- software packages supported by the organisation.
Evidence Guide
The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.
Overview of assessment |
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Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit |
Evidence of the ability to:
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Context of and specific resources for assessment |
Assessment must ensure access to:
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Method of assessment |
A range of assessment methods should be used to assess practical skills and knowledge. The following examples are appropriate for this unit:
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Guidance information for assessment |
Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended, where appropriate. Assessment processes and techniques must be culturally appropriate, and suitable to the communication skill level, language, literacy and numeracy capacity of the candidate and the work being performed. Indigenous people and other people from a non-English speaking background may need additional support. In cases where practical assessment is used it should be combined with targeted questioning to assess required knowledge. |
Range Statement
The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.
Client requirements may relate to networking a: |
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Small office home office network may refer to: |
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Network design may include: |
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Networking technologies, devices and protocols may include: |
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Network cables and connectors may include: |
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Appropriate person may include: |
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Industry standards may include: |
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Computer may include: |
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Installation and configuration tools may include: |
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Network settings may include: |
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Networking tools may include: |
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Security concepts and technologies may include: |
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Security features may include: |
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Common security intrusion symptoms and issues may relate to: |
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Unit Sector(s)
Systems administration and support