Bev Facey Community High

NET3050: Network Operating Systems

Students examine the features, advantages and disadvantages of major network operating systems and the criteria involved in selecting network operating systems that are appropriate in specific networking environments. They develop the knowledge and skills required to install and configure different network and client operating systems and develop a strategy for troubleshooting problems resulting from the installation of operating system software.

Assignment 1: Network Operating System Basics

In a document, slide deck, recording, or using another (approved) media, answer the following in full sentences.

  1. Explain the difference between a peer-to-peer network and a server-based network.
  2. Describe the role of a network operating system (NOS) in a server-based network.

  3. Explain how a NOS:

    • Connects computers and devices
    • Manages access to shared files and resources
    • Monitors network performance

  4. Describe the purpose of each of the following network services:

    • File services
    • Print services
    • Directory services
    • Security services
    • Messaging services
    • Routing services
    • Network administration services
  5. Identify one real-world situation where a server-based network would be better than peer-to-peer, and explain why.

Assignment 2: Comparing Network Operating Systems

In a document, slide deck, recording, or other approved format, compare at least three network operating systems (for example: Windows Server, Linux, macOS Server, or Novell NetWare).

Answer the following in full sentences:

  1. Briefly describe the history and evolution of each operating system.
  2. Identify major features of each system.
  3. Explain what networking protocols each supports.

  4. Describe how each system handles:

    • User authentication
    • Security
    • File services
    • Print services
    • Directory services
    • Routing services
  5. Compare client support (What types of computers or operating systems connect easily?).
  6. Identify at least two strengths and two weaknesses of each.
  7. Conclude by explaining which one you think is most widely used today and why.

Assignment 3: Network Planning & Selection

You are acting as a network consultant for a small company.

In a document, slide deck, or approved format, answer the following in full sentences:

  1. Explain why network planning is important before installing a network operating system.
  2. Describe at least five factors that must be considered when planning a network (budget, hardware, number of users, security needs, etc.).

  3. Identify:

    • The number of users
    • The types of client devices
    • The budget range
    • Required services (file sharing, printing, remote access, etc.)
  4. Compare at least two network operating systems that could work in this environment.
  5. Recommend one network operating system and justify your choice.
  6. List the hardware and software required to implement your solution.
  7. Explain how licensing will affect your decision.

Assignment 4: Installing a Network Operating System (Lab)

During your lab sessions, you will install and configure at least two different network operating systems.

In a written report with screenshots, explain and demonstrate that you have completed the following:

  1. Partitioned and formatted the drive.
  2. Named the server and network.
  3. Installed and configured network protocols.
  4. Selected and installed network services.
  5. Set secure administrative passwords.
  6. Configured licensing.
  7. Installed and configured a printer or shared device.
  8. Shared a folder and assigned appropriate permissions.

You must include screenshots and brief explanations of each step.

Assignment 5: Configuring Network Clients

In your lab environment, install and configure at least one client operating system to connect to your server.

In your report, explain and demonstrate:

  1. Configuration of the client operating system.
  2. Installation and configuration of network protocols.
  3. Assignment of a hostname and username.
  4. Selection of network services.
  5. Creation of a secure password.
  6. Successful access to shared folders and printers on the server.

Include screenshots and short explanations.

Assignment 6: Configuring Network Services

In your lab environment, configure and test the following services:

In your report, answer the following:

  1. What is the purpose of each service?
  2. How did you configure it?
  3. How did you verify that it is working correctly?
  4. What problems did you encounter, and how did you solve them?

Include screenshots and command outputs where appropriate.

Assignment 7: Troubleshooting Network Problems

You will be given a network with one or more problems.

In a document or report, explain your troubleshooting process in full sentences:

  1. What symptoms did you observe?
  2. What part of the network was affected?
  3. What recent changes may have caused the issue?
  4. What did you determine was the most probable cause?
  5. What solution did you implement?
  6. How did you test your solution?
  7. What possible side effects could your solution cause?
  8. Document the final resolution clearly.

You must use appropriate diagnostic tools (e.g., ping, ipconfig/ifconfig, tracert/traceroute, nslookup, netstat, etc.) and include evidence of your testing.

Assignment 8: Packet Analysis Lab

Using packet analysis software (such as Wireshark), capture and analyze network traffic.

In your report, answer the following:

  1. Capture and identify a DHCP exchange. What happens during this process?
  2. Capture and identify a DNS query and response.
  3. Identify a TCP three-way handshake. Explain each step.
  4. Identify at least three different protocol types in your capture.
  5. Describe basic network utilization statistics (number of packets, protocols used, etc.).

Include screenshots and explanations in full sentences.

Final Project: Network Deployment Proposal

You are hired to design and implement a network operating system for a small company.

In a professional report or presentation, include:

  1. A description of the company’s needs.
  2. Your recommended network operating system.
  3. Justification for your recommendation.
  4. Required hardware and software.
  5. Licensing considerations.
  6. Network diagram.
  7. Security plan (password policy, permissions, acceptable use policy).
  8. Description of installed services (DHCP, DNS, file sharing, etc.).
  9. A basic troubleshooting plan.

You must demonstrate your configured network in a live presentation or recorded walkthrough.

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