In this unit, you will learn how Information and Communications Technology (ICT) infrastructure supports the operation of modern organisations. You will investigate the structure of the Internet, design wired and wireless networks, and deploy applications using virtualisation and cloud computing. You will discover mechanisms for securing ICT infrastructure and applications by studying the motivation of attackers and the common vulnerabilities they exploit. You will also learn frameworks and tools organisations use to manage cloud infrastructure, reduce cyber security risks, and deliver IT services to customers. As you explore cyber security and Internet technologies via hands-on laboratory tasks, you will reflect on the impact of those technologies on society, and your responsibilities as a future ICT professional. This unit gives you the broad knowledge of networking and cyber security that all ICT professionals require and is a starting point for a career as a cyber security analyst, cloud engineer, or network operations specialist.

Every unit is reviewed for enhancement each year. At the most recent review, the following staff and student feedback items were identified and recommendations were made.

Feedback from Feedback from students and tutors, and Unit Coordinator reflections

The end-of-term in-class quiz has some questions that can be answered using gen AI, and therefore may not accurately measure real student performance.

Replace the in-class quiz with a formal exam that allows students to demonstrate their understanding of fundamental concepts in networking and cyber security.

Feedback from Student evaluations and Unit Coordinator reflections

The project is time-consuming to complete for some groups, especially with the effort needed to manage contributions from each group member. The project also lacks hands-on practice, resulting in low engagement in some parts.

Revise the project to focus on practical tasks of configuring a network and basic security services, reducing the amount of design and research. The practical tasks should also be introduced in the tutorials, which should reduce the total assessment workload and allow for easier distribution of tasks among group members.

Feedback from Student evaluations

The feedback on the journal and project is sometimes unclear or too generic.

Update the marking rubrics and processes so that more detailed feedback is provided, and so it is easier to connect the feedback to specific parts of the submission (e.g., refer to specific sections).