ICTNWK401
Install and manage a server


Application

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to install and manage a server. Server management includes initial configuration and testing, ongoing administration, software distribution and updates, profiling and monitoring servers, and troubleshooting.

It applies to individuals with competent information and communications technology (ICT) skills, employed in network management or server administration roles.

No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.


Elements and Performance Criteria

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1. Prepare to install a server

1.1 Prepare for work, according to site specific safety requirements and enterprise workplace health and safety (WHS) processes and procedures

1.2 Obtain server applications and features from appropriate person

1.3 Choose most suitable operating system features and network services with reference to required server solution and technical requirements

1.4 Review required installation options

1.5 Analyse data migration requirements

1.6 Back up local data in preparation for installation

1.7 Arrange access to site and advise client of deployment and potential down time

2. Install server as required by the specification

2.1 Create disk partitioning scheme

2.2 Create file systems and virtual memory

2.3 Install network operating system

2.4 Install and configure server applications and network services

2.5 Reconnect and reconfigure connectivity devices

2.6 Patch the operating system and applications to ensure maximum security and reliability

2.7 Restore local data to new server

3. Configure and administer the server

3.1 Configure network directory service

3.2 Create and manage accounts to facilitate security and network access

3.3 Configure user environment using operating system policies and scripts

3.4 Create directory structure and quotas to meet client requirements

3.5 Configure and manage print services

3.6 Set the security, access and sharing of system resources to meet client requirements

3.7 Implement security policy to prevent unauthorised access to the system

3.8 Implement backup and recovery methods to enable restoration capability in the event of a disaster

3.9 Configure update services to provide automatic updates for operating system and applications

4. Monitor and test the server

4.1 Test server for benchmarking against client specification and requirements according to test plan, and record outcomes

4.2 Analyse the error report and make changes as required

4.3 Use troubleshooting tools and techniques to diagnose and correct server problems

4.4 Test required changes or additions

4.5 Validate changes or additions against specifications

5. Complete documentation and clean up worksite

5.1 Make and document server configuration and operational changes

5.2 Complete client report and notification of server status

5.3 Clean up and restore worksite to client’s satisfaction

5.4 Secure sign-off from appropriate person

Evidence of Performance

Evidence of the ability to:

install and configure server

configure network connectivity

manage the server operating system, including user accounts, file, network directory and print services

perform backup and recovery

update operating system and software

monitor and test server

troubleshoot server and network failures.

Candidates should demonstrate competency in at least TWO different network operating systems.


Evidence of Knowledge

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

identify and describe current network hardware and software systems and their requirements, including:

network operating systems (NOS)

server applications including compatibility issues and resolution procedures

desktop applications and operating systems

recognise and describe basic server installation and maintenance processes and procedures, including:

documentation skills for networks

error logging and reporting

high availability options for file systems, including redundant array of independent disks (RAID) and replication

network directory services and network service configuration

options for performance tuning

user authentication

specify and describe processes and procedures required to support and manage a server, including:

best practice for implementing backup and recovery procedures

boot process

operating system help and support utilities

operating system installation methods, including installation from CD or DVD, universal serial bus (USB) boot disk, network and script (automated install)

printer management

process and task management, including process termination

task scheduling utilities

troubleshooting tools and techniques, including network diagnostic utilities

user account and password management.


Assessment Conditions

Gather evidence to demonstrate consistent performance in conditions that are safe and replicate the workplace. Noise levels, production flow, interruptions and time variances must be typical of those experienced in the network industry, and include access to:

a site where server installation may be conducted

relevant server specifications including:

cabling

local area networked (LAN) computers

server diagnostic software

switch

client requirements

wide area network (WAN) service point of presence

workstations

relevant regulatory documentation that affects installation activities.

Assessors must satisfy NVR/AQTF assessor requirements.


Foundation Skills

This section describes language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills incorporated in the performance criteria that are required for competent performance.

Skill

Performance Criteria

Description

Reading

1.3, 3.3, 4.2

Recognises and interprets technical documentation to determine job requirements

Writing

4.1, 4.2, 5.1, 5.2

Uses clear, specific and industry related terminology to produce and update workplace documentation

Oral Communication

1.2, 1.7

Articulates information clearly using specific and relevant language suitable to audience to convey information

Uses listening and questioning techniques to confirm understanding

Numeracy

1.5, 4.2

Uses mathematical formulae to take test measurements, interpret results and evaluate performance and interoperability of the network

Navigate the world of work

1.1, 5.3

Takes personal responsibility for adherence to legal/regulatory responsibilities relevant to own work context

Understands nature and purpose of own role and associated responsibilities, and how it contributes to the work of others in the immediate work context

Interact with others

5.4

Selects the appropriate form, channel and mode of communication for a specific purpose relevant to own role

Get the work done

1.3, 1.4, 1.6, 1.7, 2.1-2.7, 3.1-3.9, 4.1, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 5.1

Determines job priorities, resources and equipment, and works logically and systematically to undertake clearly defined and familiar tasks

Implements actions according to a predetermined plan, making slight adjustments if necessary

Takes responsibility for routine decision making by selecting from a range of predetermined options in routine situations, identifying and taking some situational factors into account

Initiates standard procedures when adapting configuration procedures, depending on differing operational contingencies, risk situations and environments

Understands the purposes, specific functions and key features of common digital systems and tools, and operates them effectively to complete routine tasks, adapting some functions to improve personal efficiency


Sectors

Networking