Overview

Indicative content includes:

Advantages and Disadvantages

• How servers are utilised in organisations of all sizes.

Planning and Installation

• Including considerations for hardware and software requirements: specifications: memory, processor, managing and storage considerations including disks, volumes and fault tolerance, networking - including teaming, policies, forecast planning, budgets.

Server Technology

• Configuration of common server functions e.g. Domains v workgroups, DNS, DHCP, file-sharing, printing, remote administration, recovery options and Microsoft Active Directory.
• Virtual technology - running virtual server instances for easy deployment for business requirements.

Security

• Authentication techniques - uses, benefits / drawbacks - 5 factors: Something you know, something you have, something you are, somewhere you are and something you do.
• Security principles – securing files and folders, hardening servers, firewalls, DMZs, security policies & procedures, physical security, training of IT staff & users.
• Users and group rights – managing user and group accounts, delegating administration, CIA triad - Confidentiality, Integrity, Accessibility from a practical “best practise” point of view.
• International standards and legislation including ISO 14644-1/ISO 27001, Computer Misuse Act 1990.

Monitoring Responsibilities

• Resource monitoring and control for efficient and effective energy utilisation, UPS, capacity planning, KPIs, backup options – on site/off site, on line/off line and cloud storage.
• Troubleshooting - hardware, software, services and networking.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -Equivalent to 40%.Uses key areas of theory or knowledge to meet the Learning Outcomes of the module. Is able to formulate an appropriate solution to accurately solve tasks and questions. Can identify individual aspects, but lacks an awareness of links between them and the wider contexts. Outputs can be understood, but lack structure and/or coherence.

-good -Equivalent to the range 60%-69%.Is able to analyse a task or problem to decide which aspects of theory and knowledge to apply. Solutions are of a workable quality, demonstrating understanding of underlying principles. Major themes can be linked appropriately but may not be able to extend this to individual aspects. Outputs are readily understood, with an appropriate structure but may lack sophistication.

-excellent -Equivalent to the range 70%+.Assemble critically evaluated, relevant areas of knowledge and theory to construct professional-level solutions to tasks and questions presented. Is able to cross-link themes and aspects to draw considered conclusions. Presents outputs in a cohesive, accurate, and efficient manner.

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate an understanding of the planning and installation of server infrastructures.

• Demonstrate knowledge of security principles in the implementation of a server installation.

• Develop evidence to demonstrate practical experience of server functionality.

• Discuss server technology along with the benefits and areas of concern to all types of users.