ICASAS517A - Use network tools

ICASAS517A
Use network tools

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to use tools to assist in managing a network effectively.

Application

This unit applies to system administrators and network administrators who monitor security and resolve issues for the network.

Prerequisites

Not applicable.

Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Use command line tools

1.1 Outline command-line environment

1.2 Differentiate command-line and graphical user interface (GUI) systems

1.3 List command-line tools

1.4 Apply command-line tools in GUI environment

2. Use hardware tools

2.1 Identify appropriate hardware tools and their function

2.2 Review OHS requirements for tool use

2.3 Manage network using hardware tools

2.4 Analyse test results

3. Use software tools

3.1 Identify appropriate software tools for network security

3.2 Recognise areas of vulnerability

3.3 Classify function of each tool

3.4 Manage network using software tools

3.5 Analyse test results

Required Skills

Required skills

analytical skills to:

anticipate and respond to a range of attacks

evaluate performance

identify and interrogate complex and varied areas of attack

interpret results of tests

technical skills to:

develop and refine security of the network

resolve network vulnerabilities

test network functions and security.

Required knowledge

available network tools

processes and techniques related to using network tools

range of attacks that affect network security

problems and challenges relating to network security.

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: identify and use appropriate tools for: monitoring network performance identifying network threats isolating security breaches.
Context of and specific resources for assessment	Assessment must ensure access to: maintenance procedures network system availability of hardware and software tools security diagnostic software 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 tools direct observation of candidate demonstrating use of appropriate network tools evaluation of prepared report, outlining: selection of appropriate tool interpretation of output recommendation of solution evaluation of candidate’s secured system.
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.

Command line tools may include:	arp arping dig hostname ifconfig ipconfig mtr nbtstat netstat nslookup Ping route traceroute.
GUI environment may include:	Linux platforms Mac platforms Windows platforms.
Hardware tools may include:	butt set cable stripper cable testers multimeter optical time-domain reflectometer (OTDR) protocol analyser punch down tool snips temperature monitor time-domain reflectometer (TDR) toner probe voltage event recorder.
Software tools may include:	intrusion detection software intrusion prevention software packet sniffers or network analysers port scanners protocol analysers.
Areas of vulnerability may include:	exploits unsecured ports wide-scale attacks worms.

Sectors

Systems administration and support

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.