Learning Outcomes being assessed by this coursework:

Learning Outcomes Assessment criteria for pass

1. Evaluate networks and networking approaches

2. Investigate basic hardware components and the role of network operating system NOS) software

3. Explore the connection of network components

4. Explain the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model and common network architectures

5. Evaluate data transmission and protocols in a network environment

To achieve each outcome a learner must demonstrate the ability to:

1. discuss the role of networks within different organizations and the resource implications of networks

2. discuss the different distributed computing approaches of peer- to-peer and client-server networks

3. explain the functions of client and server computers on a network and give at least one example of interactions between a client and server computer

4. describe the advantages of client-server approaches particularly over centralized services

1. draw and describe basic network topologies and define basic network components

2. discuss role of software and hardware

3. discuss factors influencing choice of networks stating advantages and disadvantages that arise from different topologies

4. determine a suitable network for a given site

1. explain different connection materials including their specifications and list the criteria you would use to choose such materials

2. describe basic signaling methods and their characteristics

3. explain the role of the network interface card and carry-out selection, installation and configuration of a network interface card using NOS tools

4. identify how the relevant parameters and protocols are set

5. discuss factors that affect the performance of network interface cards

6. determine a cabling and hardware connection configuration for a given site 1. present the OSI layered model 2. explain the role of drivers in a network, discussing their relationship to the NOS and OSI model

3. discuss how drivers are selected and implemented for various network components; install NIC driver and demonstrate how to remove and update

4. explain the detailed operation of different IEEE 802.N network configurations

5. refer the 802 protocols to the existing OSI layers

6. relate how architecture influences access and control of the network and draw out merits of different architectures

7. describe scenarios where one architecture might be favored over another

1. discuss the role of packets and how they are built up from their various components, giving an example where data packets are transmitted through different layers of the OSI model

2. discuss the role of protocols at different layers of the OSI model, describing the function of specific protocols

3. explain examples of transmission between different network layers Page 2 of 6

School of Technology

The Course Work consists of THREE Laboratory Investigations (Labs) plus ONE Case Study.

The brief for each Laboratory Investigation is given on an individual work sheet. The completing of each task and investigation must be recorded in a Virtual Log Book. CASE STUDY

Scenario A small import/export organisation is planning to upgrade its computer networking arrangements. The organisation employing twenty five people is located in a city centre office with a warehouse located ten miles away. The current system is paper/centralised services based.

The new requirement is for;

 Receptionists (2) to have access to a centralised customer records database.  Order Processing Staff (4) to have access to the customer records database, transportation web sites via the internet, and secure payment facilities.  Warehouse Staff (6) who require computerised handling instructions.

 Sales and Marketing (4) to have remote access to customer database.  Executive Management Team (3); access to a secure Management Database.

Additionally all staff to have access to a hosted email service and a company Intranet. As an IT Consultant you have been approached by the organsiation to produce a detailed Proposal to meet the above requirements.

Page 3 of 6

School of Technology This Proposal must include in detail the following 8 items. Alternative solutions must be discussed with a clear justification of the chosen option.

1. The role of the network, the benefits it will bring to the business and the 2. Network topology

3. Network components and connection materials, including their specification 4. Cabling and hardware configuration

5. Software requirements

6. A detailed Network Diagram(s)

7. A discussion of the performance issues related to your selection of technology,

8. An explanation of how network architecture influences access and control of a resource implications

software, network components, connection materials and configuration

network, together with a brief discussion of the merits of different architectures and scenarios where one architecture might be favoured over another.