Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Current Operating Systems

A. Explain the purpose of an operating system.

B. Perform an operating system installation.

C. Configure network settings to provide access to remote resources.

D. Identify common operating system installations problems and describe appropriate troubleshooting steps to resolve them.

II. Microsoft Operating Systems

A. Compare and contrast versions of Microsoft operating systems.

B. List system requirements of various Microsoft operating systems.

C. Explore common tools and applets of the Window graphical user interface (GUI).

D. Describe upgrading between different versions of Wind

III. Command Line Interface Tools

A. Perform basic network configuration and monitoring using command line tools.

B. Perform basic user management tasks using command line tools.

C. Perform basic file structure operations using command line tools.

D. Describe system recovery processes using command line options.

IV. Network Client/Desktop Device Configuration

A. Configure a network client computer including addressing and transport protocols.

B. Connect a computer to a wired and a wireless network.

C. Set up and modify user profiles.

D. Create shared folders and permissions.

E. Install and configure printers in a shared environment.

V. Preventive Maintenance

A. Identify and apply common preventive maintenance techniques.

B. Monitor, identify and resolve a performance problem.

C. Compare surge protectors and uninterruptible power supplies.

D. Explain Redundancy and Fault Tolerance.

VI. Basic Network and Data Security

A. Describe types of networks and their physical components.

B. Describe network topologies.

C. Describe Ethernet standards.

D. Explain the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model.

E. Describe security threats.

F. Identify common security procedures.

VII. Mobile Devices

A. Explain mobile device hardware.

B. Describe the features and characteristics of mobile operating systems.

C. Compare and contrast methods for securing mobile devices.

D. Establish basic network connectivity for common mobile devices.

VIII. Troubleshooting Methods

A. Identify common troubleshooting steps.

B. Identify and implement solutions for the following problems: boot process failure, printer failure, installation process failure, application failure, and resource access failure.

C. Use Task Manager to find and resolve problems.

D. Free up computer resources to optimize performance.

IX. Professional Customer Service Skills

A. Explain why good communication skills are a critical part of an information technology (IT) career.

B. Explain legal and ethical issues that arise in the IT industry and appropriate behaviors when faced with these issues

C. Describe the call center environment and technician responsibilities.

D. Describe the process of responding to a computer support call.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Exploring the Network
    A. Explain how networks affect the way we interact, learn, work and play.
    B. Describe how networks support communication.
    C. Explain the concept of converged network.
    D. Describe the four basic requirements of a reliable network.
    E. Explain the use of network devices.
    F. Compare the devices and topologies of a LAN (local area network) to the devices and topologies of a WAN (wide area network).
    G. Explain the basic structure of the Internet.
    H. Explain how LANs and WANs interconnect to the Internet.
    I. Describe the impact of BYOD (bring your own device), online collaboration, video, and cloud computing on a business network.
    J. Explain how networking technologies are changing the home environment.
    K. Identify some basic security threats and solutions for both small and large network.
    L. Explain how the three Cisco enterprise architectures work to meet the needs of the evolving network environment.
II. Configuring a Network Operating System
    A. Explain the purpose of Cisco IOS(Internetwork Operating System)
    B. Explain how to access and navigate Cisco IOS to configure network devices
    C. Describe the command structure of Cisco IOS software.
    D. Configure hostnames on a Cisco IOS device using the CLI (command line interface).
    E. Use Cisco IOS commands to limit access to device configurations.
    F. Use Cisco IOS commands to save the running configuration.
    G. Explain how devices communicate across network media.
     H. Configure a host device with an IP (internet protocol) address.
     I. Verify connectivity between two end devices.
III. Network Protocols and Communications
     A. Explain why protocols are necessary in communication.
     B. Explain the purpose of adhering to a protocol suite.
     C. Explain the role of standards organizations in establishing protocols for network interoperability.
     D. Explain how the TCP/IP (transmission control protocol/internet protocol) model and the OSI model are used to facilitate standardization in the communication process.
     E. Explain why RFCs (request for comments) became the process for establishing standards.
     F. Describe the RFC (request for comments) process.
     G. Explain how data encapsulation allows data to be transported across the network.
     H. Explain how local hosts access local resources on a network.
     I. Explain how local hosts access remote resources on a network.
IV. Network Access
     A. Identify device connectivity options.
     B. Describe the purpose and functions of the physical layer in the network.
     C. Describe basic principles of the physical layer standards.
     D. Identify the basic characteristics of copper cabling.
     E. Build a UTP (unshielded twisted pair) cable used in Ethernet networks.
     F. Describe fiber-optic cabling and its main advantages over the media.
     G. Describe wireless media.
     H. Select the appropriate media for a given requirement and connect devices.
     I. Describe the purpose and function of the data link layer in preparing communication for transmission on specific media.
     J. Describe the layer 2 frame structure and identify generic fields.
     K. Identify several sources for the protocols and standards used by the data link layer.
     L. Compare the functions of logical topologies and physical topologies.
     M. Describe the basic characteristics of media access control methods on WAN topologies. N. Describe the basic characteristics of media access control methods on LAN topologies.
     O. Describe the characteristics and functions of data link frame.
V. Ethernet
     A. Describe the operation of the Ethernet sub layers.
     B. Identify the major fields of Ethernet frame
     C. Describe the purpose and the characteristics of Ethernet MAC (media access control) address
     D. Describe the purpose of ARP (address resolution protocol)
     E. Explain how ARP requests impact network and host performance
     F. Explain basic switching concepts
     G. Compare fixed configuration and modular switches
     H. Configure a Layer 3 switch
VI. Network Layer
     A. Describe the purpose of the network layer in data communication
     B. Explain why the IPV4 protocol requires other layers to provide reliability
     C. Explain the role of the major header fields in the IPv4 and IPv6 packets
     D. Explain how host devices use routing tables to direct packets to itself, a local destination, or a default gateway.
     E. Compare a host routing table to a routing table in a router.
     F. Describe the common components and interfaces of a router.
     G. Describe the boot-up process of a Cisco IOS router
     H. Configure initial settings on a Cisco IOS router
     I. Configure two active interfaces on a Cisco IOS router
     J. Configure the default gateway on a network devices
VII. Transport Layer
     A. Describe the purpose of the transport layer in managing the transportation of data in end-to-end communication.
     B. Describe characteristics of the TCP (transmission control protocol) and UDP (user datagram protocol) protocols, including port numbers and their uses.
     C. Explain how TCP session establishment and termination process facilitate reliable communication
     D. Explain how TCP protocol data units are transmitted and acknowledged to guarantee delivery
     E. Describe the UDP client processes to establish communication with a server
     F. Determine whether high-reliability TCP transmissions, or non-guaranteed UDP transmissions, are best suited for common applications.
VIII. IP Addressing
     A. Describe the structure of an IPv4 address
     B. Describe the purpose of the subnet mask
     C. Compare the characteristics and uses of the unicast, broadcast, and multicast IPv4 addresses
     D. Compare the use of public address space and private address space
     E. Explain the need for IPv6 addressing
     F. Describe the representation of an IPv6 address
     G. Describe types of IPv6 network addresses
     H. Configure global unicast addresses
     I. Describe multicast addresses
     J. Describe the role of ICMP(internet control message protocol) in an IP network (include IPv4 and IPv6).
     K. Use ping and traceroute utilities to test network connectivity.
IX. Subnetting IP Networks
     A. Explain why routing is necessary for hosts on different subnets to communicate
     B. Describe IP as a communication protocol used to identify a single device on a network.
     C. Given a network and subnet mask, calculate the number of host addresses available.
     D. Calculate the necessary subnet mask in order to accommodate a given number of hosts.
     E. Describe the benefits of variable length subnet masking (VLSM).
     F. Describe and implement a hierarchical addressing scheme.
     G. Explain how IPv6 address assignments are implemented in a business network
X. Application Layer
     A. Explain how the functions of the application layer, session layer, and presentation layer work together to provide network services to end user applications.
     B. Describe how common application layer protocols interact with end user applications.
     C. Describe, at a high level, common application layer protocols that provide Internet services to end-users, including WWW services and email.
     D. Describe application layer protocols that provide IP addressing services, including: DNS (domain name server) and DHCP (dynamic host configuration protocol).
     E. Describe the features and operation of well-known application layer protocols that allow for file sharing services, including: FTP (file transfer protocol), File Sharing Services, SMB (simple message block) protocol.
     F. Explain how data is moved across the network, from opening an application, to receiving data.
XI. It's a Network
     A. Identify the devices and protocols used in a small network
     B. Explain how a small network serves as a basis of larger networks.
     C. Describe the need for basic security measures on network devices
     D. Identify security vulnerabilities and general mitigation techniques
     E. Configure network devices with device hardening features to mitigate security threats
     F. Use the output of the ping and tracert commands to establish relative network performance.
     G. Use basic show commands to verify the configuration and status of a device interface.
     H. Use the basic host and IOS commands to acquire information about the device in a network.
     I. Explain file systems on routers and switches.
     J. Apply the commands to back up and restore an IOS configuration file. 

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Network Routing and Switching

A. Describe the functions and features of a router.

B. Describe how a router determines a path and switches packets

C. Use CLI (Command Line Interface) to perform and verify initial configuration tasks for a small routed network.

D. Describe switching technologies such as VLANs, VTP (Virtual Local Area Network Trunking Protocol) and STP (Spanning Tree Protocol).

II. Static and Default Routing

A. List common requirements for static routing.

B. Describe, configure and verify static routing.

C. Describe, configure and verify default routing.

III. Dynamic Routing Protocols

A. Explain the role of dynamic routing protocols and place these protocols in the context of modern network design.

B. Compare and contrast distance-vector and link-state routing protocols.

C. Describe the basic structure of the routing table.

IV. Network Addressing Schemes

A. Compare and contrast classful and classless network addressing.

B. Design and implement  IPv4 and IPv6 addressing schemes.

C. Troubleshoot and correct common network addressing problems.

D. Describe the operations of DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) and DNS (Domain Name System) for IPv4 and IPv6.

V. RIP

A. Describe the basic characteristics and operation of RIP.

B. Configure RIP in a small network.

C. Verify and troubleshoot RIP operation.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Network Threats and Mitigation Techniques

A. Explain network threats, mitigation techniques and the basics of securing a network.

B. Describe Trojan Horse attacks.

C. Identify computer viruses and worms.

D. Identify denial of service attacks.

II. Administrative Access to Network Devices

A. Explain physical security and its implementation.

B. Disable unused services to minimize the attack surface.

C. Implement enhanced login security methods.

D. Configure basic AAA architecture using a RADIUS (Remote Authentication Dial In User Service) server.

III. Remote Access Technologies

A. Describe the operation of VPNs (Virtual Private Networks).

B. Compare and contrast the roles of RADIUS and Terminal Access Controller Access-Control System (TACACS) servers in securing remote access.

C. Identify telecommuting vulnerabilities.

D. Describe the IP (Internet Protocol) security protocol.

IV. Firewall Technologies

A. Describe the operation of firewalls.

B. Configure packet filtering using access control lists.

C. Implement a router-based firewall to protect the perimeter of the network.

D. Implement a dedicated firewall appliance to protect the perimeter of the network.

V. LAN Security

A. Compare and contrast internal and external network threats.

B. Implement layer 2 security measures to mitigate internal threats.

C. Configure port security on a network switch.

D. Explain common technologies used to enhance endpoint security.

VI. Confidentiality and Integrity

A. Describe common public and symmetric key encryption algorithms.

B. Describe common hashing algorithms used in data integrity.

C. Explain the functions of digital certificates in e-commerce transactions.

D. Describe the framework of PKI (Public Key Infrastructure).

E. Explain steganography technology and its applications.

VII. VPNs

A. Describe encryption protocols used in VPN applications.

B. Compare site-to-site and remote access VPN technologies.

C. Implement site-to-site VPN using IPSec (Internet Protocol Security) architecture.

D. Implement remote access VPN using SSL (Secure Socket Layer) protocols.

VIII. Security Policies

A. Analyze internal and external security risks.

B. Define disaster recovery procedures.

C. Develop an action plan.

D. Write a formal security plan.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. History and Advent of Voice and Data Telephony
   A. Review Public Switch Telephone Network history and key events.
   B. Review PBX System vendors, history and key events.
   C. Review Internet history and key events.
   D. Review VoIP vendors, history and key events.

II. VoIP, PBX and Public Voice and Data Network Terminology
   A. Identify system wide features, capabilities and components.
   B. Identify Attendant features, capabilities and components.
   C. Identify user features, capabilities and component.
   D. Identify special features, capabilities and component.

III. Basics of Internal Telephone Systems Environment and Peripherals
   A. Define parameters of an internal telephone system for small to mid-size companies.
   B. Define parameters of an internal telephone system a large company.
   C. Define parameters of an internal telephone system a enterprise company environment.

IV. Network Service Providers and Local Competition
   A. Identify and define the national public switch telephone network.
   B. Identify and define the national public data network.
   C. Identify and define the local voice and data network.

V. Public Voice and Data Network Infrastructure
   A. Identify the parameters, boundaries and infrastructure of the public switch network.  
   B. Identify the parameters, boundaries and infrastructure of the Internet.
   C. Identify the parameters, boundaries and infrastructure of the local telecos.

VI. Specialized Network Services
   A. Review and define special voice telephone applications.
   B. Review and define special VoIP applications.

VII. Basics of Analog, Cable TV, Digital Modems and Set-top Boxes
   A. Explain analog to digital transmission.
   B. Review peripherals NT1s, CSUs and cable modems.
   C. Review cable voice and data networks.

VIII. Define and Analyze VoIP Protocols
   A. Define and explain VoIP public network protocols.
   B. Define and explain VoIP LAN network protocols.
   C. Define and explain VoIP user protocols.

IX. Telephony Corporate User Applications
   A. Review corporate user telephony internal applications Automatic Call Distribution, Unified Messaging, Voice Mail and other applications.
   B. Review corporate user telephony external applications enterprise networks, ISDN, T-1s and other applications.

X. User Applications by Telephony Survey Methods and Implementation of a VoIP Network
   A. Develop a plan to survey corporate users, attendants and executive staff.
   B. Learn to assemble survey results.
   C. Present survey results and cost justifications to management.

XI. VoIP Programming Fundamentals
   A. Demonstrate programming a VoIP Call Manager to the Public Switch Telephone Network.
   B. Demonstrate programming a VoIP Voice Mail Manager and associated telephone extension.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Basic Setup

A. Choose an appropriate operating system for a specific situation.

B. Differentiate between server and client operating systems.

C. Create appropriate file structure.

II. Windows Installation

A. Prepare a hard drive for Windows installation.

B. Demonstrate partitioning of drives.

C. Explain the differences between installing and upgrading.

D. Remove Windows from a hard drive.

III. Hardware Components

A. Explain the hardware compatibility list.

B. Choose required hardware for specific situations.

C. Find and install appropriate drivers.

D. Remove hardware and drivers from a Windows install.

E. Demonstrate updating drivers.

IV. Control Panel

A. Describe the Control Panel and its options.

B. Explain how system settings affect Windows.

C. Install applications.

D. Set user-specific variables.

V. Windows Upgrade

A. Explain the ramifications of upgrading.

B. Determine the upgrade path.

VI. Server-Based Install

A. Explain methods for server-based installs.

B. Demonstrate active directory-based install.

C. Explain DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol).

D. Demonstrate Windows Distribution Service.

E. Explain PXE (Pre-Executable Environment) Boot.

VII. Users, Groups, Policies and Resources

A. Create and configure users and user accounts.

B. Create and modify local groups.

VIII. Shared Resources

A. Demonstrate how to create shared resources.

B. Assign permissions to network resources.

C. Access network resources from local and remote locations.

IX. TCP/IP

A. Explain the format of an IP address.

B. Demonstrate how to obtain an IP address.

C. Demonstrate common TCP/IP utilities.

D. Explain subnetting.

X. Windows Applications

A. Explain the differences between 32- and 64-bit applications.

B. Demonstrate line command utilities for running applications.

XI. System Performance

A. Find and identify operational bottlenecks.

B. Explain the need for continual monitoring of systems.

XII. Troubleshoot

A. Demonstrate basic troubleshooting procedures.

B. Troubleshoot computer hardware to determine specific problems.

C. Demonstrate troubleshooting resources.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Hierarchical Networks

A. Explain how a hierarchical network supports voice, video and data applications.

B. Provide examples of how voice and video over IP (Internet Protocol) affect network design.

C. Explain the concept of a converged network.

D. Identify the voice and video components in a hierarchical network.

E. Contrast the functions of Layer 2 and Layer 3 switches.

II. Switch Configuration

A. Explain the functions that enable a switch to forward Ethernet frames.

B. Configure a switch for operation in a network designed to support voice, video and data transmissions.

C. Configure basic security on a switch.

III. VLANs in a Switched Network

A. Explain the role of VLANs in a network.

B. Explain the role of trunking VLANs in a network.

C. Configure VLANs on the switches in a network topology.

D. Troubleshoot common software and hardware configuration  problems associated with VLANs.

IV. VTP Configuration

A. Explain the role of VTP in a converged switched network.

B. Describe the operation of VTP including domains, modes, advertisements and pruning.

C.  Configure VTP on the switches in a converged network.

V. Basic STP Configuration

A. Explain the role of redundancy in a switched network.

B. Summarize how STP works to eliminate Layer 2 loops in a switched network.

C. Explain how the STP algorithm uses three steps to converge on a loop-free topology.

D. Implement STP to prevent loops between redundant switches.

VI. Inter-VLANs Routing

A. Explain how network traffic is routed between VLANs in a converged network.

B. Configure inter-VLAN routing on router to enable communication between devices on separate VLANs.

C. Troubleshoot common inter-VLAN connectivity issues.

VII. EIGRP and OSPF configuration

A. Configure and troubleshoot EIGRP in IPv4 and IPv6 networks.

B. Configure and troubleshoot single area OSPF in IPv4 and IPv6 networks.

C. Configure and troubleshoot multi-area OSPF in 1Pv4 and IPv6 networks.

D. Describe the tasks of configuring and managing operating system files on routers and switches.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Network Operating Systems

A. Define network models.

B. Identify operating system features.

C. Compare file systems.

D. Describe networking services features.

E. Contrast common modern network operating systems.

II. Network Technologies

A. Define network foundations and options.

B. Identify Windows security models.

C. Distinguish among Windows server roles.

D. Define special purpose servers.

E. Select supporting hardware.

III. Installation

A. Prepare hardware components.

B. Boot with multiple operating systems.

C. Perform the installation process.

D. Perform the upgrade process.

IV. Network Protocols

A. Define the OSI (Open System Interconnect) model.

B. Describe Windows networking components.

C. Compare network protocols.

D. Install and configure network protocols.

V. Configuration

A. Install drivers.

B. Configure Windows using the control panel.

C. Configure Windows using the registry.

VI. Windows Networking Services

A. Explain the service architecture.

B. Explain the security architecture.

VII. Security in the User Environment

A. Plan user account policies, groups, sharing and security.

B. Define and manage groups.

C. Define and manage user accounts.

D. Plan and define user environments.

VIII. Server Management

A. Utilize file services.

B. Manage the distributed file systems.

C. Implement remote server administration.

D. Implement directory replication.

IX. Connectivity

A. Implement and manage remote access service.

B. Implement Internet connectivity.

C. Define and implement an intranet.

D. Coexist with NetWare.

X. Print Services

A. Explain Windows print components.

B. Define the print model.

C. Implement local printers.

D. Implement remote printers.

XI. Network Clients

A. Define client operating systems supported by Windows.

B. Install client connectivity software.

C. Implement home directories.

D. Implement roaming profiles.

XII. Virtual Environment

A. Install virtual environment.

B. Manage virtual environment.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Active Directory

A. Configure Windows server for an Active Directory installation.

B. Install and configure Active Directory.

C. Manage, monitor and troubleshoot Active Directory.

D. Verify Active Directory installation.

II. DNS for Active Directory

A. Integrate an Active Directory DNS with a non-Active Directory DNS.

B. Configure zones for dynamic updates.

C. Manage, monitor and troubleshoot DNS.

D. Manage replication of DNS data.

III. Active Directory Management

A. Install sites.

B. Create subnets.

C. Create site links.

D. Create site link bridges.

E. Create connection objects.

F. Create global catalog servers.

G. Move server objects between sites.

H. Transfer operations master roles.

I. Verify Active Directory installation.

J. Implement an organizational unit (OU) structure.

K. Perform an authoritative restore of Active Directory.

L. Recover from a system failure.

IV. Change and Configuration Management

A. Create a Group Policy object (GPO).

B. Link an existing GPO.

C. Delegate administrative control of Group Policy.

D. Modify Group Policy inheritance.

E. Filter Group Policy settings by associating security groups to GPOs.

F. Modify Group Policy.

G. Control user environments by using administrative templates.

H. Maintain software by using Group Policy.

I. Configure deployment options.

J. Troubleshoot common problems that occur during software deployment.

K. Manage network configuration by using Group Policy.

L. Install an image on a Remote Installation Services (RIS) client computer.

V. Active Directory Components

A. Move Active Directory objects.

B. Publish resources in Active Directory.

C. Locate objects in Active Directory.

D. Create and manage accounts manually and by scripting.

E. Control access to Active Directory objects.

F. Delegate administrative control of objects in Active Directory.

G. Monitor, maintain and troubleshoot domain controller performance.

H. Monitor, maintain and troubleshoot Active Directory components.

I. Manage intersite replication.

VI. Active Directory Certificate Services

A. Install and configure Certificate Authority.

B. Issue and revoke certificates.

C. Remove the Encrypting File System (EFS) recovery keys.

VII. Active Directory Disaster Recovery

A. Install and configure Windows backup.

B. Run a backup with Active Directory

C. Recover Active Directory with backup.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Identify and test the basic concepts of email
   A. List the characteristics of shared-file and client/server message systems.
   B. List the email computer models.
   C. List the enterprise-quality features of e-mail.
   D. List the industry standards.

II. Define the architecture of Active Directory for Exchange
   A. Define the components of Exchange Active Directory.
   B. Define information stores.
   C. Define the different types of message flow.

III. Install Windows Exchange Server
   A. Develop a pre-installations configuration.
   B. Install and set up an Exchange server.
   C. Document the post installation configurations.
   D. Troubleshoot the Exchange installation.

IV. Create and manage recipients
   A. Create and manage users.
   B. Create and manage groups.
   C. Create and manage contracts.
   D. Create and manage public folder recipients.

V. Install and manage public and private folders
   A. Manage folders with Outlook.
   B. Manage folders with System Manager.
   C. Create new public folders and trees.
   D. Create new dedicated folders.
   E. Set up custom folders.

VI. Install and configure client access
   A. Load and access email with Microsoft Outlook with a MAPI or IMAPI4 architecture.
   B. Load and access email with Outlook Web Access.
   C. Load and access email with POP.
   D. Load the Network News Transfer Protocol.

VII. Install and configure the information stores
   A. Install and manage storage groups.
   B. Manage the stores.

VIII. Administer routing groups and maintenance
   A. Install and manage administrative groups.
   B. Install and manage routing groups.

IX. Manage, monitor, and optimize system performance
   A. Monitor the Exchange server with Event Viewer.
   B. Use policies to track users.
   C. Troubleshoot client access problems.

X. Configure and troubleshoot Exchange network connections
   A. Replicate between an operational master and domain controller.
   B. Install the Active Directory connector.
   C. Manage and troubleshoot a mixed mode environment.

XI. Install and manage auxiliary services
   A. Install and manage Instant Messaging.
   B. Install and manage chat services.

XII. Disaster recovery of Exchange Server
   A. Set up a back-up and restore plan.
   B. Back-up and restore data.
   C. Set up a server for disaster recovery.
   D. Troubleshoot the back-up and restore.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Shell Configuration

A. Work on the command line.

B. Process text streams using filters.

C. Use streams, pipes and redirects.

II. Basic File Management

A. Perform basic file management.

B. Locate system files and place files in the correct location.

III. Text Processing

A. Search Text Files using regular expressions.

B. Perform basic file editing operations using the vi editor.

C. Create, monitor and kill processes.

D. Modify process execution priorities.

IV.  Advanced File Management

A. Manage file permission and ownership.

B. Create and change hard and symbolic links.

C. Create and manage archives.

V. Boot Process

A. Determine and configure hardware settings.

B. Change runlevels and shutdown or reboot system.

C. Boot the system and install a boot manager.

VI. Partitions

A. Design hard disk layout.

B. Create partitions and filesystems.

C. Control mounting and unmounting of filesystems.

VII. Filesystems Administration

A. Maintain the integrity of filesystems.

B. Manage disk quotas.

VIII. System Software

A. Use Red Hat package management.

B. Use Debian package management.

C. Manage shared libraries.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Advanced Shell Features

A. Customize and use the shell environment.

B. Customize or write simple scripts.

C. Configure and use Structured Query Language (SQL) data management.

II. Display Administration

A. Install and configure X11.

B. Set up a display manager.

C. Configure accessibility, localization and internationalization.

III. System Administration

A. Manage user and group accounts and related system files.

B. Automate system administration tasks by scheduling jobs.

IV. Essential System Services

A. Configure and maintain network time synchronization.

B. Configure and manage system logging.

C. Configure basic mail transfer agent.

D. Configure and manage printers and printing.

V. Network Fundamentals

A. Describe the fundamentals of Internet Protocols.

B. Configure the network interface.

C. Utilize troubleshooting commands and utilities.

D. Configure client-side Domain Name System (DNS).

VI. System Security Features

A. Perform security administration tasks.

B. Describe and utilize methods of host security.

C. Describe and perform data encryption.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. DNS

A. Configure a basic DNS server.

B. Create and maintain DNS zones.

C. Implement DNS server security.

II. Web Services

A. Install and configure a web server.

B. Configure a web server to provide HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure).

C. Install and configure a proxy server.

D. Install and configure a reverse proxy server.

III. File Sharing

A. Set up a Session Message Block (SMB) server for various clients.

B. Configure a Network File System (NFS) server.

IV. Network Client Services

A. Configure a Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) server.

B. Configure Pluggable Authentication Modules (PAM) to support authentication.

C. Perform queries and updates to a Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) server.

D. Configure a basic open source LDAP server.

V. Email Services

A. Manage an email server, including the configuration of email aliases.

B. Implement client email management software to filter, sort and monitor incoming user email.

C. Install and configure Post Office Protocol (POP) and Internet Message Access Protocol (IMAP) daemons.

VI. System Security

A. Configure a system to perform Network Address Translation (NAT).

B. Configure a File Transfer Protocol (FTP) server for anonymous downloads and uploads.

C. Configure and secure a Secure Shell (SSH) daemon.

D. Install, configure and run Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS).

E. Configure a Virtual Private Network (VPN) and create secure point-to-point or site-to-site connections.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Linux Kernel
   A. Describe the kernel.
   B. Obtain and install a kernel.
   C. Apply kernel patches.
   D. Build a custom kernel.
   E. Manage kernel modules.

II. System Startup
   A. Install and configure the bootloader.
   B. Configure startup scripts.
   C. Utilize startup recovery and repair strategies.

III. Filesystems
   A. Configure and mount various types of filesystems.
   B. Troubleshoot and repair filesystems.
   C. Tune filesystem parameters.
   D. Configure automount filesystems using AutoFS.
   E. Manage devices with udev.

IV. Storage Devices
   A. Configure storage device access.
   B. Configure and implement software RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks)..
   C. Configure and utilize LVM (Logical Volume Management).
   D. Tune disk access.

V. Network Configuration
   A. Configure a network device to connect to varioustypes of networks.
   B. Configure a network device to implement various network authentication schemes.
   C. Monitor network traffic.
   D. Troubleshoot network issues.

VI. System Maintenance
   A. Build and install programs from source.
   B. Plan and implement network backups.

VII. Name Services
   A. Describe the role of name services on the network.
   B. Configure a basic name server.
   C. Create and maintain zone files.
   D. Secure the name server.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Fundamentals of Digital Forensics

A. Plan the investigation case.

B. Prepare the computer forensics workstation and software.

C. Acquire, validate, extract and analyze digital evidence.

D. Complete the investigation case.

II. File Systems

A. Describe the filing system and disk structures for Windows.

B. Explain the structure of the Windows registry.

C. Describe the filing system and disk structures for Linux.

D. Explain the boot process for Linux.

III. Forensics Tools

A. Identify the need for computer forensics tools.

B. Evaluate the requirements for common forensics tools.

C. Validate and test common forensics tools.

IV. Forensics Artifacts

A. Comprehend the “Chain of Custody” process.

B. Describe procedures used to protect digital evidence.

C. Verify compliance with common laws with regard to search and seizure of digital evidence.

V. Web Browser Forensics

A. Extract evidence from common web browser activities.

B. Reconstruct browsing index.dat files.

C. Compare the security configurations of common web browsers.

VI. Email Forensics

A. Explore the roles of the client and server in email.

B. Investigate email crimes and violations.

C. Implement specialized email forensics tools.

D. Contrast the operation of common email systems.

VII. Forensics Reports

A. Explain digital forensics reporting guidelines.

B. Review examples of local forensics reports.

C. Create a digital forensics report.

VIII. Anti-Forensics Methods

A. Implement steganography to obscure evidence.

B. Describe methods used to overwrite data and metadata.

C. Implement techniques to recover damaged digital evidence.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Reconnaissance and Footprinting

A. Use Network MAPper (NMAP) and Application MAPper (AMAP) to outline the attack surface of potential targets.

B. Use Wireshark and Transport Control Protocol Dump (tcpdump) to identify system vulnerabilities.

C. Perform network enumeration to discover remote hosts, open ports and fingerprints of installed operating systems and applications.

II. Social Engineering

A. List common social engineering techniques.

B. Identify policies to train users to recognize social engineering attacks.

C. Describe impersonation methods used to compromise social networking accounts.

D. Identify countermeasures to protect against identity theft.

III. Passwords Attacks

A. Describe password-cracking techniques including dictionary, brute force and rainbow tables.

B. Extract password hashes from computer filing systems.

C. Perform password cracking using John the Ripper and Hashcat.

D. Develop strong password policies to mitigate unauthorized access.

IV. Penetration Testing

A. Describe Metasploit and Meterpreter frameworks.

B. Configure and launch system hacks using Metasploit.

C. Analyze anti-virus evasion techniques to bypass installed security measures.

D. Implement pivoting strategies to expand attacks from the target environment.

V. Web Attacks

A. Probe web applications for potential vulnerabilities.

B. Perform web penetration testing with Nikto and Zed Attack Proxy (ZAP).

C. Hack web applications using XSS, Cross-Site Request Forgery (XSRF) and command injection.

VI. Network Analysis

A. Compare common network sniffing tools.

B. Configure Wireshark filters to capture specific network traffic.

C. Analyze captured packets in TCP stream to locate sensitive data.

D. Install measures to avoid intrusion detection systems and firewalls.

VII. Backdoors

A. Install a Virtual Network Computing (VNC) backdoor to compromise remote access.

B. Configure NetCat as a backdoor on remote systems.

C. Scan hosts on the network for potential backdoors.

VIII. Cryptography

A. Contrast symmetric and asymmetric encryption algorithms.

B. Create and install SSL (Secure Socket Layer) certificates.

C. Describe the framework of PKI (Public Key Infrastructure).

D. Use cryptanalysis tools to launch cryptographic attacks.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Active Directory

A. Configure Windows server for an Active Directory installation.

B. Install and configure Active Directory.

C. Manage, monitor and troubleshoot Active Directory.

D. Verify Active Directory installation.

II. DNS for Active Directory

A. Integrate an Active Directory DNS with a non-Active Directory DNS.

B. Install and configure DNS.

C. Configure zones for dynamic updates.

D. Manage, monitor and troubleshoot DNS.

E. Manage replication of DNS data.

III. DHCP Implementation

A. Distinguish between manual and automatic configuration.

B. Outline how DHCP works.

C. Describe IP lease request and offer.

D. Install and configure a DHCP server.

IV. NetBIOS Name Resolution

A. Explain NetBIOS naming.

B. Describe resolving local NetBIOS names using a broadcast.

C. Describe resolving names with a NetBIOS name server.

D. Configure NetBIOS over TCP/IP name resolution nodes.

V. DNS Name Resolution

A. Outline DNS operation.

B. Explain name resolution using DNS server.

C. Create DNS files.

D. Install a DNS server.

VI. Remote Access

A. Explain remote access.

B. Configure inbound connections.

C. Create a remote access policy.

D. Configure a remote access profile, a virtual private network (VPN), multilink connections and routing and remote access for DHCP integration.

E. Configure authentication and encryption protocols.

VII. Network Address Translation (NAT)

A. Install Internet Connection Sharing.

B. Install NAT.

C. Configure NAT properties and interfaces.

D. Troubleshoot NAT.

VIII. File and Print Services

A. Install and configure File and Print Services.

B. Install and manage printers.

C. Install and configure file system.

IX. IPSec

A. Enable IPSec.

B. Configure IPSec for transport or tunnel mode.

C. Customize IPSec policies and rules.

D. Manage and monitor IPSec.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. WAN Access
   A. Describe how the Cisco enterprise architecture provides integrated services over an enterprise network.
   B. Explain key WAN technology concepts.
   C. Select the appropriate WAN technology to meet different enterprise business requirements.

 
II. PPP
   A. Explain the fundamental concepts of point-to-point serial communication.
   B. Explain key PPP concepts.
   C. Configure PPP encapsulation.
   D. Discuss and configure PAP and CHAP authentication .

III. Frame Relay
   A. Explain the fundamental concepts of Frame Relay technology in terms of enterprise WAN services, including operation, implementation requirements, maps, and Local Management Interface (LMI) operation.
   B. Configure a basic Frame Relay permanent virtual circuit (PVC), including configuring and troubleshooting Frame Relay on a router serial interface and configuring a static Frame Relay map.
   C. Explain advanced concepts of Frame Relay technology in terms of enterprise WAN services, including subinterfaces, bandwidth, and flow control.
   D. Configure an advanced Frame Relay PVC, including solving reachability issues, configuring subinterfaces, and verifying and troubleshooting a Frame Relay configuration.

IV. Network Security
   A. Identify security threats to enterprise networks.
   B. Describe methods to mitigate security threats to enterprise networks.
   C. Configure basic router security.
   D. Disable unused router services and interfaces.
   E. Use the Cisco Security Device Manager (SDM) one-step lockdown feature.
   F. Manage files and software images with the Cisco IOS Integrated File System (IFS).

V. Access Control Lists (ACLs)
   A. Explain how ACLs are used to secure a medium-size enterprise branch office network, including the concept of packet filtering, the purpose of ACLs, how ACLs are used to control access, and the types of Cisco ACLs.
   B. Configure standard ACLs in a medium-size enterprise branch office network, including defining filtering criteria, configuring standard ACLs to filter traffic, and applying standard ACLs to router interfaces.
   C. Configure extended ACLs in a medium-size enterprise branch office network, including configuring extended ACLs and named ACLs, configuring filters, verifying and monitoring ACLs, and troubleshooting extended ACL issues.
   D. Describe complex ACLs in a medium-size enterprise branch office network, including configuring dynamic, reflexive and timed ACLs; verifying and troubleshooting complex ACLs; and explaining relevant caveats.

VI. Teleworker Services
   A. Describe the enterprise requirements for providing teleworker services, including the differences between private and public network infrastructures.
   B. Describe the teleworker requirements and recommended architecture for providing teleworking services.
   C. Explain how broadband services extend enterprise networks using DSL, cable and wireless technology.
   D. Discuss the importance of VPN technology, including its role and benefits for enterprises and teleworkers.
   E. Describe how VPN technology can be used to provide secure teleworker services to an enterprise network.

VII. IP Addressing Services
   A. Configure a router to be a Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) server
   B. Describe how to integrate private addresses and configure Network Address Translation (NAT).
   C. Describe IPv6 and how to configure routers to exchange IPv6 routes using Routing Information Protocol (RIPng). VIII. Network Troubleshooting
   A. Establish and document a network baseline.
   B. Describe the various troubleshooting methodologies and troubleshooting tools.
   C. Discuss the common issues that occur during WAN implementation.
   D. Identify and troubleshoot common enterprise network implementation issues using a layered model approach.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Firewall Strategy
  A. Describe the basic framework for designing network security.
  B. Plan and design the firewall.
  C. Install and configure the firewall.
  D. Test the firewall. 

II. Active Directory Infrastructure
  A. Identify key concepts used throughout the Windows security. 
  B. Plan and design an Active Directory infrastructure.
  C. Install and configure the Active Directory infrastructure.
  D. Harden installed servers and computers for specific roles. 

III. Authorization Strategy
  A. Create user and group accounts.
  B. Create share permissions.
  C. Test share permissions.
  D. Identify New Technology File System (NTFS) permissions.
  E. Create and nest group resources. 

IV. Remote Access
  A. Create a remote user.
  B. Configure Routing and Remote Access Services (RRAS) and create a policy.
  C. Configure and establish a Virtual Private Network (VPN) connection.

V. Security Policies and Strategy 
  A. Create a Windows security templates console.
  B. Configure default domain policies and software restriction policies.
  C. Deploy the security policies using group policies.
  D. Test policies.
  E. Create Results of Policy (RSoP) console. 

VI. Software Update Services
  A. Install and configure SUS.
  B. Configure the automatic update client.
  C. Secure automatic updates and clients. 

VII. Certificate Services
  A. Install and configure certificate authorities.
  B. Configure the certificate template.
  C. Request a certificate through web enrollment. 

VIII. Authentication Strategy
  A. Install and configure network monitoring.
  B. Capture network traffic.
  C. Capture Kerberos traffic.
  D. Configure packet filtering. 

IX. IPSec
  A. Create an IP filter list.
  B. Create IP filter actions.
  C. Create an IP security policy.
  D. Implement and test the IP security policy. 

X. Hacking Tool Kits
  A. Install and configure network hacking tools.
  B. Hack student firewall and servers.
  C. Review and analyze hacks on firewalls and servers.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Work Activities Accomplished On-the-Job
   A. Describe job related activities accomplished while at the workplace.
   B. Keep a log book of weekly activities or tasks performed while at the workplace.
   C. Furnish activity log compiled for each week of work to the instructor at the end of the course.

II. Description of Company, Products and Services
   A. Describe the company or business for which the internship duties were performed. This shall include company’s mission and goals.
   B. Provide a general outline of the organizational structure of the company and where the student fits into that structure.
   C. Identify and describe the products and services the company produces.
   D. Provide a detailed description of products and services the student was directly involved with during the internship.

III. Apply Classroom Experience to Work Assignments
   A. Install and/or maintain equipment for a local area network (LAN).
   B. Install and/or support software for a local area network.
   C. Administer user accounts and access rights for a local area
network.
   D. Install and/or support a local web server and website.
   E. Provide PC and network support for end-users.

IV. Demonstrate Workplace Skills
   A. Follow written and oral instructions.
   B. Demonstrate effective oral communication.
   C. Create and present technical information in written format.
   D. Compile and maintain records, logs or other documents.
   E. Demonstrate interpersonal skills appropriate to a business environment.
   F. Solve problems in a logical and reasonable manner.
   G. Participate in team or group project.
   H. Manage time and resources effectively.
   I. Follow employee rules, regulations and policies.
   J. Demonstrate effective work ethics appropriate to a business environment.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Work Activities Accomplished On-the-Job
   A. Describe job related activities accomplished while at the workplace.
   B. Keep a log book of weekly activities or tasks performed while at the workplace.
   C. Furnish activity log compiled for each week of work to the instructor at the end of the course.

II. Description of Company, Products and Services
   A. Describe the company or business for which the internship duties were performed. This shall include company’s mission and goals.
   B. Provide a general outline of the organizational structure of the
company and where the student fits into that structure.
   C. Identify and describe the products and services the company produces.
   D. Provide a detailed description of products and services the student was directly involved with during the internship.

III. Apply Classroom Experience to Work Assignments
   A. Install and/or maintain equipment for a local area network (LAN).
   B. Install and/or support software for a local area network.
   C. Administer user accounts and access rights for a local area network.
   D. Install and/or support a local web server and website.
   E. Provide PC and network support for end-users.

IV. Demonstrate Workplace Skills
   A. Follow written and oral instructions.
   B. Demonstrate effective oral communication.
   C. Create and present technical information in written format.
   D. Compile and maintain records, logs or other documents.
   E. Demonstrate interpersonal skills appropriate to a business environment.
   F. Solve problems in a logical and reasonable manner.
   G. Participate in team or group project.
   H. Manage time and resources effectively.
   I. Follow employee rules, regulations and policies.
   J. Demonstrate effective work ethics appropriate to a business environment.

Content Outline and Competencies:

Will vary within the guidelines of the educational affairs committee.