Application
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to install, configure and test network security in an information and communications technology (ICT) network.
It applies to individuals working as ICT professionals who install, configure and test secure networks of any size.
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. Assess network security threats and vulnerabilities to identify risk | 1.1 Assess and report on current system security, according to required asset security level 1.2 Determine additional network, software, hardware and system security threats and vulnerabilities 1.3 Use identified threats and vulnerability information to identify security risks 1.4 Make recommendations to management to address security deficiencies, according to current and future commercial and business requirements |
2. Implement countermeasures for identified vulnerabilities and threats | 2.1 Implement required level of perimeter security based on current and future business needs 2.2 Assess and implement best practice server and network hardening techniques and measures 2.3 Implement secure authentication and user account controls 2.4 Secure data integrity and transmission |
3. Test and verify functionality and performance of security system implemented | 3.1 Design test items to verify key function and performance measures against criteria 3.2 Conduct function and performance tests recording results 3.3 Modify and debug security system as necessary 3.4 Develop documentation on current system settings and file for future reference |
4. Provide systems for monitoring and maintaining security | 4.1 Monitor current network security, including physical aspects, using appropriate third party testing software where applicable 4.2 Review logs and audit reports to identify and record security incidents, intrusions or attempts 4.3 Carry out spot checks and audits to ensure that procedures are not being bypassed 4.4 Document newly discovered security threats, vulnerabilities and risks in a report for presentation to appropriate person to gain approval for changes to be made |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence of the ability to:
assess and identify security threats, vulnerabilities and risks
determine appropriate countermeasure for threat, vulnerability or risk
implement countermeasure per threat or risk
install, configure and test network elements to ensure perimeter security
test and verify function and performance of selected security measures
monitor network for suspicious activity and take appropriate action where necessary
document newly discovered threats, vulnerabilities and risks, including change recommendations for approval.
Note: If a specific volume or frequency is not stated, then evidence must be provided at least once.
Evidence of Knowledge
To complete the unit requirements safely and effectively, the individual must:
outline authentication issues
summarise the security requirements of the client business domain, including:
organisation structure and business functionality
features and capabilities of networking technologies
privacy issues and privacy legislation
security information sources
risk analysis
outline common virtual private network (VPN) issues, including bandwidth and dynamic security environment
explain how to configure routers and switches
summarise current industry accepted hardware and software security products, including general features and capabilities
outline the function and operation of VPN concepts, including encryption, firewalls, packet tunnelling and authentication
outline network protocols and operating systems
summarise organisational issues surrounding security
outline security perimeters and their functions
describe security protocols, standards and data encryption
summarise security threats, including eavesdropping, data interception, data corruption and data falsification
outline types of VPNs, including site-to-site and user-to-site internet traffic and extranets
summarise the systems and procedures related to:
audit and intrusion detection systems
auditing and penetration testing techniques
cryptography
local area network (LAN), wireless local area network (WLAN) and wide area network (WAN)
screened subnets
transmission control protocols or internet protocols (TCPs/IPs) and applications
use of virus detection software.
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 secure network installation may be conducted
network security documentation
equipment specifications
network components
hardware and software
firewalls (hardware and software)
a live network
organisational guidelines
networked (LAN) computers
WAN service point of presence.
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 | 4.2 | Recognises and interprets textual information to determine specific information about security incidents |
Writing | 1.1, 1.4, 3.2, 3.4, 4.4 | Accurately records test results and develops material for a specific audience, using clear and detailed language in order to convey explicit information |
Oral Communication | 1.1, 1.4, 4.4 | Articulates information clearly, using specific and relevant language suitable to audience to convey recommendations and provide verbal reports Uses listening and questioning techniques to confirm understanding |
Numeracy | 1.4 | Extracts and evaluates the mathematical information embedded in a range of tasks and texts |
Get the work done | 1.1-1.4, 2.1, 2.3, 2.4, 3.1-3.3, 4.1, 4.3 | Determines job priorities, resources and equipment, and works logically and systematically to undertake clearly defined and familiar tasks Understands the purposes, specific functions and key features of common digital systems and tools, and operates them effectively to complete routine tasks Recognises and responds to predictable routine problems related to own role in the immediate work context, including detecting intrusion and debugging the system when required Automatically implements standard procedures for routine decisions |
Sectors
Networking