ICANWK405A
Build a small wireless local area network

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to build and arrange connectivity to a basic wireless local area network (WLAN).Note: If more than one wireless zone is required, then refer to ICANWK417A Build an enterprise wireless network.

Application

This unit applies to the development of a small wireless local area network where it is appropriate to use one wireless access point or wireless router in a small to medium-sized enterprise.


Prerequisites

Not applicable.


Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Confirm client and equipment requirements

1.1 Identify, clarify and organise client requirements according to network needs and organisational requirements

1.2 Ensure an appropriate person has given the authority for wireless network access

1.3 Evaluate requirements along with business needs and translate into technical requirements

1.4 Identify components to be installed in order to meet the technical requirements

1.5 Select position for access point, based on user requirements and environmental conditions

1.6 Arrange for preliminary work to be carried out to meet cabling and power requirements

2. Select, install and configure wireless access point

2.1 Select access point device based on current and future client needs

2.2 Install and configure access point to provide wireless access to network

2.3 Configure services

2.4 Test access point and verify wireless connection and security arrangements

2.5 Select, install and configure appropriate wireless card where necessary for legacy equipment

3. Configure network

3.1 Configure security and other key parameters consistent with commercial and business requirements

3.2 Test security and firewall arrangements with appropriate test equipment

3.3 Test the network with user equipment for general compatibility and access

4. Train users

4.1 Determine devices to be connected to the network

4.2 Demonstrate how pairing and log-on arrangements are established to user

4.3 Inform users of wireless network etiquette and traffic capacity issues

4.4 Develop user documentation

5. Monitor and administer wireless network

5.1 Monitor wireless network performance using diagnostic tools

5.2 Debug networking issues to maintain trouble-free wireless connection

5.3 Document current settings and store securely

Required Skills

Required skills

communication skills to liaise with client to determine functional requirements of network

literacy skills to document client requirements

problem-solving skills to troubleshoot and debug:

connectivity issues

security issues

research skills to determine most suitable solution for client

technical skills to:

design, develop and implement various wireless network solutions

implement wireless networking strategies and configure wireless network software and hardware

implement WLANs.

Required knowledge

features of security threats

overview knowledge of:

audit and intrusion detection systems

auditing and penetration testing techniques

authentication methods

network protocols and operating systems

security protocols, standards and data encryption

detailed knowledge of:

bandwidth and quality of service

factors affecting signal quality

layer 2 and layer 3 design issues

SOHO

transmission control protocol or internet protocol (TCP/IP) protocols and applications

wireless security strategies

wireless topologies

WLAN solutions.

Evidence Required

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

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

Evidence of the ability to:

develop, implement and maintain wireless networks

install, configure and test wireless access points

test security and network to business specifications

develop user training material

monitor and resolve wireless network issues.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Assessment must ensure access to:

network technical requirements

network infrastructure, including wireless hardware and software

appropriate learning and assessment support when required.

Where applicable, physical resources should include equipment modified for people with special needs.

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:

verbal or written questioning to assess candidate’s knowledge of underpinning knowledge and skills

direct observation of candidate performing the tasks required to successfully create a small WLAN

documentation produced in a small project environment that reflects understanding of client requirements and the technical skills required for a small WLAN.

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 may include:

external organisations

individuals

internal departments

internal employees.

Organisational requirements may include:

preventative maintenance and diagnostic policy

problem-solving processes

roles and technical responsibilities in network management

vendor and product service level support agreements

work environment.

Components may include:

wireless access and software

hardware:

asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL) modems

antennas and other connectivity devices

mobile equipment

modems

wireless access points

networks

personal computers

power controllers

remote sites

servers

UPS

workstations

cabling:

category 5e

category 6

category 7

coaxial and fibre.

User may include:

department within the organisation

person within a department

third party

community members.

Network may include:

domestic

small enterprise WLANs.

Commercial and business requirements may include:

availability

backup and recovery of data

confidentiality

firewalls

hacking prevention

integrity

password logons

remote access to internal network.

Security may include:

AAA

Diameter

EAP or LEAP

IPSec

PKM

smart cards

SSL

tokens

WEP

WPA or WPA2.

Documentation may follow:

audit trails

client training

International Organization for Standardization (ISO), International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and Australian Standards (AS) standards

maintaining equipment inventory

naming standards

project management templates and report writing

satisfaction reports

version control.

Tools may include:

data and voice integration measurements

network performance software.


Sectors

Networking


Employability Skills

This unit contains employability skills.


Licensing 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.