ICANWK517A
Determine best-fit topology for a wide area network

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to identify the best way computers and local area networks (LANs) can be connected to make a wide area network (WAN).

Application

This unit applies to individuals in networking areas who are required to research and recommend the most appropriate topology for a wide area network.


Prerequisites

Not applicable.


Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Identify WAN needs

1.1 Identify the different LAN, or wireless local area network (WLAN) or virtual private network (VPN) segments of the proposed WAN

1.2 Determine segment needs using functional analysis

1.3 Estimate traffic content and volumes according to expected organisational usage, by examining telecommunications infrastructure

1.4 Develop an organisational WAN functional matrix

2. Create WAN specification

2.1 Determine resource requirements for each LAN or WLAN or VPN segment on the basis of functional analysis

2.2 Consider and report how features of the physical environment affect WAN design

2.3 Choose a WAN service appropriate to the amount and type of traffic expected to access the WAN

2.4 Include redundant links in the proposed WAN connectivity for link backup purposes, in case the main link is disrupted

2.5 Document appropriate WAN service

Required Skills

Required skills

analytical skills to identify WAN needs

literacy skills to compile reports

numeracy skills to estimate traffic needs and compare costs

technical skills to use:

functional matrices

LAN functional matrices

network protocols

traffic simulation tools.

Required knowledge

detailed knowledge of:

concepts and types of modems

internet protocol (IP) addressing

packet switching

routed or routable protocols, including IP, IPX and AppleTalk

router operations, including DDR

routing protocols, including RIP, EIGRP and OSPF

transmission control protocols or internet protocols (TCPs/IPs)

relationship of asynchronous and synchronous communication

use of microwave and satellite communication in networking

overview knowledge of:

constraints and costs

features of telecommunications infrastructure, including the difference between digital and analog networks

growth projections and capacity planning

high or low-speed links

protocols

redundancy paths

response time and reliability requirements

scope of operation

security

traffic flow patterns

traffic load

users and the applications expected.

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:

consider budget constraints and business needs

identify the configuration for connecting a LAN or WLAN or VPN into a WAN

document the configuration.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Assessment must ensure access to:

design documents relating to LANs to be incorporated into the WAN

equipment specifications

costings

appropriate learning and assessment support when required

modified equipment 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:

network segments

telecommunications infrastructure

review of candidate’s WAN functional matrix

evaluation of documented recommendation.

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.

Traffic may include:

data

video

voice.

Telecommunications infrastructure may include:

asymmetrical digital subscriber line (ADSL)

high speed digital subscriber line (HDSL)

integrated services digital network (ISDN)

leased lines

switched circuits (permanent virtual circuits (PVCs) and switched virtual circuits (SVCs)

symmetrical digital subscriber line (SDSL)

T-carriers, synchronous optical network (SONET) technologies.

Resource requirements may include:

average transaction and file transfer size

nature of WAN traffic (i.e. constant, steady, flows or communication in bursts)

number of users

telecommunications links

type of applications using the link.

WAN service may include:

bandwidth

cost structure

reliability.


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.