Computer and Network Technology

Aim: This unit provides learners with an understanding of computer networking essentials and cloud technologies, their operating principles, protocols, standards, security considerations, and prototypes associated with this field. Learners will explore different hardware and software options as well as how to configure and install them.

A wide range of networking technologies will be also examined including Local Area Networks (LAN) and Wide Area Networks (WAN) and how they evolved to create large-scale networks. Protocol methodologies related to IP data networks will also be explored.

Learning Outcome 1: Understand the fundamentals of cloud computing. Summarise the historical development of cloud computing technologies.

Evaluate cloud computing models.

Assess cloud computing platforms.

Differentiate client and server environments.

Evaluate the benefits of serverless computing.

Learning Outcome 2: Understand networking principles and their protocols. Describe network standards and protocols.
Assess different network topologies.
Evaluate the impact of different network standards.
Identify and explain various network hardware and software available for an intranet setup.

Learning Outcome 3: Be able to support and troubleshoot computing problems.
Carry out PC assembling and basic troubleshooting without supervision.
Carry out installation of client and server operating systems without supervision.
Configure client systems to meet organisational policies without supervision.

Learning Outcome 4: Be able to demonstrate routing and switching techniques.

Configure a network using routing and switching techniques.
Demonstrate how to setup a secure network interface.
Explain how to backup and restore a router.

Case Scenario
You are working as a senior network administrator. Your company has recruited 2 junior network administrators. You are tasked with training them and making them ready for their role.

Assignment Brief:

Create a handbook for the employees covering the following:

Part 1
• Summarise the historical development of cloud computing technologies.
• Evaluate cloud computing models.
• Assess cloud computing platforms.
• Differentiate client and server environments.
• Evaluate the benefits of serverless computing.

Part 2
• Describe network standards and protocols.
• Assess different network topologies.
• Evaluate the impact of different network standards.
• Identify and explain various network hardware and software available for an intranet setup.

Referencing: Harvard referencing style.

Case Scenario
You are working as a senior network administrator. Your company has recruited 2 junior network administrators. You are tasked with training them and making them ready for their role.

Task 2:

Demonstrate the following and collect evidence as you progress:

• Carry out PC assembling and basic troubleshooting without supervision.
• Carry out the installation of client and server operating systems without supervision.
• Configure client systems to meet organisational policies without supervision.
• Configure a network using routing and switching techniques.
• Demonstrate how to set up a secure network interface.
• Explain how to backup and restore a router.