Core 3: Communication Systems

Network software includes the Network Operating Software (NOS) and also network based applications such as those running on the various servers within the network. We will look at two things…  Network Operating Systems  Common Tasks by Network Admins

The NOS is installed on one or more servers where it provides various services to secure and support the network’s resources and users. One vital NOS service is the authentication of users based on their user names and passwords. NOS also allows admins to create policies. A policy is used to assign particular resources to groups of users and/or groups of workstations (or clients) with common needs.

Some typical network policies might include…  Assigning software and user settings specifically for primary teachers  Pointing all users or machines in room 32 to the room 32 printer  Assigning web server permissions to students in year 11 & 12

Network Admin’s are the personnel responsible for the ongoing maintenance of network hardware and software. This includes installation and configuration of switches, routers and other active hardware devices. Day to day network admins spend time supporting current and new users, configuring new workstations and controlling access to network resources.

Some of the more common network administration tasks are as follows… Adding/Removing Users Each new user has a new account created which includes usernames, passwords, policies and privileges. This account should be deleted or rendered inactive when a user is removed. Policies and privileges assigned to a new user may be inherited from existing group policies eg. a new student in year 9. If a user logs on to multiple workstations then the individual profile is configured to be stored on a local server.

Assigning Printers This could include assigning printers to specific workstations or to specific users. Eg. A printer for the principal’s PA OR a printer in Upper Stephen. Assigning File Access Rights File access rights are known as permissions. File access rights determine what a user can do on a certain directory or even which directory a user has access too. Typically the access rights applied to a directory also apply to any files or sub- directories.

Installation of software and sharing with users Network operating systems are able to automate the installation of software to multiple users. This saves considerable time for network admins as they don’t need to manually install applications per workstation. Software can be installed in different combinations for particular users or for groups. Eg. BTAC makes use of a software image which includes everything expected on a typical BTAC workstation.

Client (workstation) Installation and Protocol Assignments Every network will have a different specific set of steps for installing new clients. Some require client applications to be installed manually of automatically from an image. Some networks require a particular version of the operating system which can be configured remotely and automatically.

Client (workstation) Installation and Protocol Assignments Contd… Typical steps include…  Ensuring the new machine has a NIC installed  Ensuring the operating system of the client is compatible with the NOS  Physically connect the NIC to the network via a patch cable. At BTAC this entails a UTP patch cable into the nearest port, through to the nearest switch  The network admin creates the machine within the NOS, assigning profiles and installing software.  Booting the client machine, checking a legitimate username and password by assigning a specific domain or server to authenticate the credentials.