Scaling networks
CITY & GUILDS LIMITED
Vocational
This unit covers scaling networks through configuring switching hardware, implementing wireless LANs, and routing protocols like OSPF and EIGRP. Learners will manage IOS system image files for network expansion.
13
Learning Outcomes
28
Assessment Guidance
28
Key Skills
13
Key Terms
40
Assessment Criteria
Assessment criteria
City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma in ICT Professional Competence
City & Guilds Level 2 Award in ICT Systems and Principles
City & Guilds Level 2 Certificate in ICT Systems Support
City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma in ICT Systems Support
City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma in ICT Professional Competence
City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma in ICT Systems and Principles for IT Professionals
City & Guilds Level 3 Certificate in ICT Systems and Principles
City & Guilds Level 4 Diploma For ICT Professionals (Systems and Principles)
City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma in ICT Systems Support
Topic Overview
The City & Guilds Level 2 Certificate in ICT Systems Support provides foundational knowledge and practical skills for supporting IT systems in a professional environment. This qualification covers essential topics such as computer hardware, software installation, networking fundamentals, and customer service skills. It is designed for individuals aspiring to become IT support technicians, helping them understand how to diagnose and resolve common technical issues, maintain systems, and communicate effectively with users.
This qualification is part of the wider IT and telecommunications sector, which is critical to modern business operations. By studying this certificate, students gain hands-on experience with hardware components, operating systems, and network configurations. The course also emphasizes health and safety, data protection, and professional conduct, ensuring learners are prepared for entry-level roles in IT support or further study in more advanced qualifications.
Mastery of this certificate demonstrates to employers that a candidate has a solid grasp of ICT support principles and can apply them in real-world scenarios. It serves as a stepping stone to higher-level certifications, such as the Level 3 Diploma in ICT Systems Support, and opens doors to roles like helpdesk technician, IT support assistant, or field service engineer.
Key Concepts
Core ideas you must understand for this topic
- →Hardware identification and troubleshooting: Understanding components like CPUs, RAM, hard drives, and power supplies, and being able to diagnose faults using tools like multimeters and diagnostic software.
- →Software installation and configuration: Installing operating systems (e.g., Windows, Linux), drivers, and applications, and configuring settings for user accounts, security, and network connectivity.
- →Networking fundamentals: Knowledge of IP addressing, subnetting, routers, switches, and wireless access points, as well as basic network troubleshooting using commands like ping, tracert, and ipconfig.
- →Customer service and communication: Handling user queries professionally, documenting issues in a ticketing system, and explaining technical solutions in non-technical language.
- →Health and safety, and data protection: Adhering to regulations like the Health and Safety at Work Act and GDPR when handling equipment and personal data.
Learning Objectives
What you need to know and understand
- Be able to configure switching hardware that facilitates network access, Be able to implement wireless Local Area Networks (LANs) to provide network access, Be able to implement Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) to enable end-to-end connectivity, Be able to implement Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP), Be able to manage Inter Network Operating System (IOS) system image files
- Be able to configure switching hardware that facilitates network access, Be able to implement wireless Local Area Networks (LANs) to provide network access, Be able to implement Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) to enable end-to-end connectivity, Be able to implement Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP), Be able to manage Inter Network Operating System (IOS) system image files
- Be able to configure switching hardware that facilitates network access, Be able to implement wireless Local Area Networks (LANs) to provide network access, Be able to implement Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) to enable end-to-end connectivity, Be able to implement Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP), Be able to manage Inter Network Operating System (IOS) system image files
- Be able to configure switching hardware that facilitates network access, Be able to implement wireless Local Area Networks (LANs) to provide network access, Be able to implement Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) to enable end-to-end connectivity, Be able to implement Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP), Be able to manage Inter Network Operating System (IOS) system image files
- Be able to configure switching hardware that facilitates network access, Be able to implement wireless Local Area Networks (LANs) to provide network access, Be able to implement Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) to enable end-to-end connectivity, Be able to implement Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP), Be able to manage Inter Network Operating System (IOS) system image files
- Configure switch ports and VLANs to provide network access
- Implement a wireless LAN with appropriate security settings
- Configure OSPF on routers to enable dynamic routing
- Configure EIGRP on routers to enable dynamic routing
- Manage IOS system image files for backup and recovery
- Be able to configure switching hardware that facilitates network access, Be able to implement wireless Local Area Networks (LANs) to provide network access, Be able to implement Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) to enable end-to-end connectivity, Be able to implement Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP), Be able to manage Inter Network Operating System (IOS) system image files
- Be able to configure switching hardware that facilitates network access, Be able to implement wireless Local Area Networks (LANs) to provide network access, Be able to implement Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) to enable end-to-end connectivity, Be able to implement Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP), Be able to manage Inter Network Operating System (IOS) system image files
- Be able to configure switching hardware that facilitates network access, Be able to implement wireless Local Area Networks (LANs) to provide network access, Be able to implement Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) to enable end-to-end connectivity, Be able to implement Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP), Be able to manage Inter Network Operating System (IOS) system image files
Assessment Criteria
Key criteria assessors look for in your portfolio
- Configure VLANs and trunking on switches.
- Implement wireless LANs with appropriate security.
- Configure OSPF and EIGRP for scalable routing.
- Manage IOS image files and device upgrades.
- Configure VLANs and trunking on switches.
- Implement wireless LANs with appropriate security.
- Configure OSPF and EIGRP routing protocols.
- Manage IOS system image files and upgrades.
- Configure switching hardware for network access.
- Implement wireless LANs to provide network access.
- Configure OSPF for end-to-end connectivity.
- Manage IOS system image files.
- Configure VLANs and trunking on switches.
- Implement wireless LANs with security settings.
- Configure OSPF and EIGRP routing protocols.
- Manage IOS system image files and backups.
- Configures switches for VLANs and trunking.
- Implements wireless LANs with security.
- Configures OSPF and EIGRP for routing.
- Manages IOS images and backups.
- Award credit for demonstrating correct configuration of switch port settings such as speed, duplex, and VLAN assignment.
- Award credit for demonstrating the implementation of wireless security protocols (e.g., WPA2) and SSID configuration.
- Award credit for correctly configuring OSPF areas and verifying neighbor adjacencies.
- Award credit for correctly configuring EIGRP autonomous system numbers and verifying routes.
- Award credit for demonstrating the ability to back up and restore IOS images using TFTP or similar.
- Correctly configure VLANs and trunking on switches.
- Implement wireless security standards (WPA2/3) and SSID management.
- Configure OSPF with proper areas and neighbour relationships.
- Configure EIGRP with proper autonomous system numbers and summarisation.
- Manage IOS images using TFTP and verify boot variables.
- Configure switching hardware for VLANs and trunking.
- Implement wireless LANs with security settings.
- Configure OSPF for dynamic routing.
- Configure EIGRP for efficient routing.
- Manage IOS system image files for upgrades.
- Configures VLANs and trunking on switches.
- Implements wireless LANs with security.
- Configures OSPF for end-to-end connectivity.
- Configures EIGRP for routing.
- Manages IOS image files and upgrades.
Assessment Guidance
Guidance for achieving higher grades
- 💡Practice subnetting and summarisation for OSPF.
- 💡Use simulation tools to test configurations.
- 💡Understand the differences between OSPF and EIGRP.
- 💡Practice using simulation tools like Packet Tracer.
- 💡Memorise common IOS commands for routing and switching.
- 💡Understand the differences between OSPF and EIGRP.
- 💡Practice on simulation software.
- 💡Memorise common commands.
- 💡Understand routing protocol metrics.
- 💡Practise commands in a simulator like Packet Tracer.
- 💡Understand routing protocol metrics and timers.
- 💡Always verify connectivity after configuration.
- 💡Practise using CLI commands for common tasks.
- 💡Verify connectivity with ping and traceroute.
- 💡Document your configuration steps.
- 💡Practice configuring both OSPF and EIGRP in a simulator to become familiar with the commands and verification steps.
- 💡Always check the routing table and neighbor tables to confirm that routing protocols are working correctly.
- 💡Remember to secure wireless networks with strong encryption and passwords.
- 💡Understand the importance of backing up IOS images and configuration files to avoid downtime.
- 💡Practice CLI commands for switch and router configuration.
- 💡Understand the differences between OSPF and EIGRP metrics.
- 💡Use show commands to verify configurations during exams.
- 💡Practice CLI commands for configuration.
- 💡Understand routing protocol metrics.
- 💡Backup IOS images before upgrades.
- 💡Use simulation tools to practice configurations.
- 💡Memorise common OSPF and EIGRP commands.
- 💡Understand the difference between routing protocols.
- 💡Always use the correct technical terminology in your answers, e.g., 'RAM' instead of 'memory stick,' and 'operating system' instead of 'software.' This shows depth of knowledge.
- 💡When describing troubleshooting steps, follow a logical sequence: identify the problem, establish a theory of probable cause, test the theory, implement a solution, verify functionality, and document findings. This structured approach gains marks.
- 💡For practical assessments, double-check your work for safety: ensure equipment is powered off before handling internal components, and use anti-static wrist straps. Examiners look for safe working practices.
Common Mistakes
Common errors to avoid in your coursework
- Misconfiguring OSPF areas leading to routing loops.
- Forgetting to enable wireless security protocols.
- Failing to back up IOS images before upgrades.
- Misconfiguring VLAN assignments causing connectivity issues.
- Using weak encryption on wireless networks.
- Incorrectly configuring OSPF areas or EIGRP autonomous systems.
- Misconfiguring VLANs or trunking.
- Incorrect OSPF area assignment.
- Failing to back up IOS images.
- Misconfiguring VLAN assignments causing isolation.
- Forgetting to enable routing protocols on interfaces.
- Failing to back up configurations before changes.
- Misconfiguring VLAN assignments.
- Incorrect OSPF area design.
- Forgetting to save configurations.
- Confusing OSPF and EIGRP configuration syntax, especially regarding network statements and wildcard masks.
- Neglecting to secure wireless networks, leaving them open or using weak encryption.
- Failing to verify routing protocol adjacencies and route propagation, leading to incomplete connectivity.
- Overlooking the need to save configuration changes to startup-config, losing changes after reboot.
- Misconfiguring OSPF area types or summarisation.
- Forgetting to enable routing protocols on interfaces.
- Using incorrect wireless security settings leading to connectivity issues.
- Misconfiguring VLAN assignments causing connectivity issues.
- Weak wireless security settings.
- Incorrect OSPF area design leading to routing problems.
- Misconfiguring VLAN assignments.
- Incorrect OSPF area design.
- Not securing wireless networks.
- Misconception: 'All hardware faults require replacing the component.' Correction: Many issues can be resolved by reseating cables, updating drivers, or cleaning dust; replacement is a last resort after thorough testing.
- Misconception: 'Network problems are always due to the internet connection.' Correction: Often, issues stem from local network configurations, such as incorrect IP settings, faulty cables, or switch port errors, not the ISP.
- Misconception: 'Data backup is optional for small businesses.' Correction: Data loss can occur from hardware failure, malware, or human error; regular backups are essential for all organizations to ensure business continuity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions students ask about this topic
Pass / Merit / Distinction Evidence Checklist
How your portfolio evidence is graded for CITY & GUILDS LIMITED Scaling networks
Every vocational unit is marked against named criteria rather than an exam percentage. Your tutor's brief lists the exact codes for this unit — here is what each band is asking you to do.
Pass (P)
Demonstrate baseline knowledge, accurate terminology, and core practical application.
Merit (M)
Provide detailed analysis, structured explanations, and clear workplace reasoning.
Distinction (D)
Deliver thorough evaluation, original problem solving, and fully justified recommendations.
Before You Start
Prior knowledge that will help with this topic
- •Basic understanding of computer operations, such as using a mouse, keyboard, and common software applications like word processors and web browsers.
- •Familiarity with file management, including creating, saving, and organizing files and folders on a computer.
- •No formal prerequisites are required, but a keen interest in technology and problem-solving is beneficial.
Coursework AI Review
Paste your assignment brief and check your draft against its P/M/D criteria
Key Terminology
Essential terms to know
- Be able to configure switching hardware that facilitates network access, Be able to implement wireless Local Area Networks (LANs) to provide network access, Be able to implement Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) to enable end-to-end connectivity, Be able to implement Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP), Be able to manage Inter Network Operating System (IOS) system image files
- Be able to configure switching hardware that facilitates network access, Be able to implement wireless Local Area Networks (LANs) to provide network access, Be able to implement Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) to enable end-to-end connectivity, Be able to implement Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP), Be able to manage Inter Network Operating System (IOS) system image files
- Be able to configure switching hardware that facilitates network access, Be able to implement wireless Local Area Networks (LANs) to provide network access, Be able to implement Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) to enable end-to-end connectivity, Be able to implement Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP), Be able to manage Inter Network Operating System (IOS) system image files
- Be able to configure switching hardware that facilitates network access, Be able to implement wireless Local Area Networks (LANs) to provide network access, Be able to implement Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) to enable end-to-end connectivity, Be able to implement Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP), Be able to manage Inter Network Operating System (IOS) system image files
- Be able to configure switching hardware that facilitates network access, Be able to implement wireless Local Area Networks (LANs) to provide network access, Be able to implement Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) to enable end-to-end connectivity, Be able to implement Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP), Be able to manage Inter Network Operating System (IOS) system image files
- Switch configuration for network access
- Wireless LAN implementation
- OSPF routing protocol
- EIGRP routing protocol
- IOS image management
- Be able to configure switching hardware that facilitates network access, Be able to implement wireless Local Area Networks (LANs) to provide network access, Be able to implement Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) to enable end-to-end connectivity, Be able to implement Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP), Be able to manage Inter Network Operating System (IOS) system image files
- Be able to configure switching hardware that facilitates network access, Be able to implement wireless Local Area Networks (LANs) to provide network access, Be able to implement Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) to enable end-to-end connectivity, Be able to implement Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP), Be able to manage Inter Network Operating System (IOS) system image files
- Be able to configure switching hardware that facilitates network access, Be able to implement wireless Local Area Networks (LANs) to provide network access, Be able to implement Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) to enable end-to-end connectivity, Be able to implement Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP), Be able to manage Inter Network Operating System (IOS) system image files
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