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Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Prepare to install the network switch
   • Prepare for installation in line with site-specific safety requirements and enterprise work health and safety (WHS) processes and procedures
   • Notify customer to arrange site access
   • Document the topology of the LAN
   • Obtain current and future network capacity predictions according to current and future business requirements from the appropriate person
   • Specify the number and type of switch required, with reference to future network requirements
   • Specify requirements for network management and security, as prescribed by organisational policy
   • Select the switch and switch operating system software version with appropriate features according to required specifications
2. Install and configure the network switch
   • Assemble, rack mount and connect switch and peripherals according to manufacturer’s requirements
   • Connect user to access points using cable that meets appropriate standard
   • Establish a valid network connection with other network devices
   • Configure a network internet protocol (IP) address for the switch
   • Install or configure simple network management protocol (SNMP) agent software, on each switch, to collect network traffic data for the management information base (MIB) from that segment of the network and relay it to the management console
   • Install and configure SNMP management console software on a computer designated to be the network manager’s main console, to collect network traffic data from the switch acting as agents
   • Manually configure user access ports of the switch for speed and full or half-duplex operation
3. Test the network switch and reconfigure the network
   • Test the switch and other network devices according to manufacturer’s requirements and organisational guidelines
   • Test to ensure connectivity across the network
   • Modify the network to verify SNMP management software
   • Make adjustments to the network, depending on test and troubleshooting results
4. Complete documentation and clean worksite
   • Tabulate test results and complete all user reports
   • Complete report and notify client of network status
   • Clean up and restore worksite to client’s satisfaction
   • Secure sign-off from appropriate person

Performance Evidence

Evidence of ability to:

plan and prepare for the local area network (LAN) switch installation task

select a LAN switch to meet client business specifications

install switches without the network losing connectivity or failing

install and test switch that ensures interoperability within the network

use a range of switch configurations

apply solutions to a variety of switch-related problems

report on status of completed installation

seek sign-off from customer.

Note: If a specific volume or frequency is not stated, then evidence must be provided at least once.

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Knowledge Evidence

To complete the unit requirements safely and effectively, the individual must:

describe advantages and disadvantages of switches over hubs

identify and evaluate the impact of pertinent sections of the Australian Computer Society Code of Ethics in relation to network switches

describe common network cable types and connectors

summarise common network topologies

explain differences between standard and intelligent (i.e. configurable) switches, and between switches and hubs

outline the importance of client documentation prepared when installing networks

explain how to provide the network with redundant paths for reliability and how routers and switches manage these paths.

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