Application
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to use software tools, equipment and protocols to implement a security system.
It applies to individuals who plan and implement networks, are involved in business budgeting, and determine and resolve network security threats.
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 the security threats facing network Infrastructure | 1.1 Evaluate mitigation methods for network attacks and different types of malware 1.2 Propose a methodical concept of defending network architecture |
2. Secure edge devices (routers) | 2.1 Secure network routers using software tools 2.2 Secure administration access to routers using the router operating system (OS) 2.3 Secure router OS and its configuration file(s) |
3. Implement authentication, authorisation and accounting (AAA) and secure access control system (ACS) | 3.1 Evaluate and implement the functions and importance of authentication, authorisation and accounting 3.2 Configure the router using AAA 3.3 Analyse and compare the features of Terminal Access Controller Access-Control System Plus(TACACS+) and Remote Authentication Dial In User Service (RADIUS) AAA protocols for securing the network |
4. Mitigate threats to routers and networks using access control lists (ACLs) | 4.1 Assess the functionality of access control lists and document the caveats to be considered when building them 4.2 Configure and verify IP ACLs to mitigate threats and to prevent internet protocol (IP) address spoofing using tools |
5. Implement secure network management and reporting | 5.1 Configure secure shell (SSH) on routers to enable secure management 5.2 Configure routers to send log messages to a log server with tools |
6. Mitigate common layer 2 attacks | 6.1 Document how to prevent layer 2 attacks by configuring basic switch security and features 6.2 Configure switch to prevent layer 2 attacks |
7. Implement the router OS firewall-feature set | 7.1 Evaluate and compare the operational strategies and weaknesses of the different firewall technologies 7.2 Implement zone-based firewall to strategically secure group of interfaces |
8. Implement the intrusion detection and prevention system (IDPS) feature set in the router OS using secure device manager (SDM) | 8.1 Evaluate and compare network based versus host based IDPS to identify malicious activity, log information, attempt to block/stop activity, and report activity 8.2 Determine IDPS technologies, attack responses and monitoring options 8.3 Configure the router OS IDPS operations using secure device manager to monitor network and system activities for malicious activity |
9. Implement site-to-site virtual private networks (VPNs) using SDM | 9.1 Assess the different methods used in cryptography 9.2 Evaluate internet key exchange (IKE) protocol functionality and phases to support authentication and define the binding blocks of IPSec and the security functions it provides 9.3 Configure and verify an IPSec site-to-site VPN with pre-shared key (PSK) authentication to provide a secure channel between the two parties |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence of the ability to:
evaluate network security system threats and requirements
mitigate attacks and configure firewalls
design and implement network security systems
implement a virtual private network (VPN) using security device management tool.
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:
summarise access control lists, configuration and troubleshooting
outline authentication protocols
explain encryption techniques
explain intrusion detection system (IDS) and intrusion prevention system (IPS)
clarify internet protocol (IP) and networking models
explain current wireless regulations, standards and certifications
describe local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN) implementations
summarise malicious attacks and prevention techniques
outline network management tools
explain network security prevention methods
explain procedures to configure, verify and troubleshoot:
switch with virtual local area networks (VLANs) and inter-switching communications
router
outline procedures to set up virtual private networks (VPNs)
explain routing protocols
explain threat and attack mitigation techniques
outline the use of command line interface to configure and test network elements
describe the common features of Terminal Access Controller Access-Control System Plus(TACACS+) and Remote Authentication Dial In User Service (RADIUS) authentication, authorisation and accounting (AAA) protocols.
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 network security may be evaluated and tightened
hardware and software
organisational guidelines, procedures and policies
computers
LAN or WLAN internet work technologies (hardware and software)
security technologies (hardware and software).
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 | 1.1 | Recognises and interprets technical documentation to determine and confirm job requirements |
Writing | 1.2, 4.1, 6.1, 8.1, 8.2, | Develops a broad range of materials, such as reports, for a specific audience using clear and detailed language to convey explicit information |
Oral Communication | 8.2 | Establishes and maintains complex and effective spoken communication to convey and clarify a range of complex information |
Numeracy | 9.2 | Interprets numerical data when taking test measurements, interpreting results and evaluating performance and interoperability of the network |
Interact with others | 1.2, 8.1 | Actively identifies the requirements of important communication exchanges, selecting appropriate channels, format, tone and content to suit purpose and audience, and monitors impact |
Get the work done | 1.1, 2.1-2.3, 3.1-3.3, 4.1, 4.2, 5.1, 5.2, 6.2, 7.1, 7.2, 8.1, 8.3, 9.1-9.3 | Considers the strategic and operational potential of digital trends to achieve work goals, enhance work processes, create opportunities and enhance or reduce risks Actively identifies, creates and utilises linkages to enhance knowledge sharing, idea creation, individual and collective engagement and work outcomes Uses a broad range of strategies to store, access and organise virtual information, recognising that design choices will influence what information is retrieved and how it may be interpreted and used Is acutely aware of the importance of understanding, monitoring and controlling access to digitally stored and transmitted information May operate from a broad conceptual plan, developing the operational detail in stages, regularly reviewing priorities and performance during implementation, and identifying and addressing issues Monitors outcomes of decisions, considering results from a range of perspectives and identifying key concepts and principles that may be adaptable to future situations Responds intuitively to problems requiring immediate resolution, using understanding of context to recognise anomalies and deviations from normal expectation in a network environment |
Sectors
Networking