Unit 107: CCNA LAN Switching and

Wireless (Exploration 3)
Unit code: K/601/7453
QCF Level 3: BTEC in IT
Credit value: 10
Guided learning hours: 80

Aim and purpose

This unit focuses on a comprehensive, theoretical, and practical approach to learning the technologies
and protocols needed to design and implement a converged switched network. Students learn about the
hierarchical network design model and how to select devices for each layer. The course explains how to
configure a switch for basic functionality and how to implement Virtual LANs, VTP, and Inter-VLAN routing
in a converged network. The different implementations of Spanning Tree Protocol in a converged network
are presented, and learners develop the knowledge and skills necessary to implement a WLAN in a small-to-
medium sized network.

Unit introduction

This unit explores in detail the variable sub-networking and the control of address wastage, routing protocol
configuration and management. In addition, the management and configuration of Local Area networks,
Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANS) and trunked connections is developed. This is the third of four units
leading to the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) qualification.
This unit covers networking sector skills and knowledge that an IT network technician needs to successfully
carry out their work. In particular, learners will be taught how to configure and connect a Wide Area Network
(WAN) with a comprehensive Local Area Network (LAN) infrastructure, integrate various routing protocols
and configure routers and switches to perform routing, switching and security decisions. Learners will also
understand and apply commonly used networking technologies in a variety of contexts.
This unit involves hands-on, laboratory-oriented activities that stress laboratory safety and working effectively
in a group environment. Theory aspects are studied and tested online using
Cisco’s own electronic curriculum which learners may also access from home. This unit is best delivered
through a blended learning approach where tutor-led teaching is combined with the electronic materials and
testing.
This unit is assessed via the Cisco LAN Switching and Wireless (CCNA3) online examination.
There are further criteria for merit and distinction grades.

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 Learning outcomes
On completion of this unit a learner should:
1 Be able to configure a switched and trunked VLAN infrastructure
2 Be able to test and troubleshoot a VLAN infrastructure
3 Enable a VLAN Trunk Protocol (VTP) client/server structure to operate and manage a LAN
4 Understand the operation of wireless systems.

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Unit content in relation to the Merit and Distinction Criteria
Networking devices: eg router, switch, wireless
Hosts: eg workstation, server, printer
LAN security technique: eg port security, MAC (media access control) association, static MAC addresses
LAN technology: eg VLAN (virtual local area network), VTP(vlan trunking protocol), dot1q, ISL (inter switched
link), inter-VLAN routing
Wireless technologies: eg WEP (wired equivalent privacy), 802.11 standards, WPA (wi-fi protected access,
TKIP(temporal key integrity protocol), emerging security standards
Wireless devices: eg mobile device, wireless access point, wireless router, wireless card
Commands: eg enable mode, privilege mode, configuration mode, memory write commands, show
commands, console password configuration, interface, ip addressing, routing, telnet configuration, router or
switch status and troubleshooting, VLAN, trunking, encapsulation, VTP server or client, port security, wireless
management
Test: eg top down, bottom up, systematic,
Troubleshoot: eg show commands, cable tester, protocol analysis, system logs, debug output, use of tools
Network: eg small business system, academic system, public system, case study scenario, switched
infrastructure, routed infrastructure
Test: eg top down, bottom up, systematic,
Troubleshoot: eg show commands, cable tester, protocol analysis, system logs, debug output, use of tools
Plan: eg using packet tracer, Visio, diagrams, command selection, cable selection, protocol design

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Assessment and grading criteria
In order to pass this unit, the evidence that the learner presents for assessment needs to demonstrate that
they can meet all the learning outcomes for the unit. The assessment criteria for a pass grade describe the
level of achievement required to pass this unit.

Assessment and grading criteria

To achieve a pass grade the To achieve a merit grade the To achieve a distinction grade
evidence must show that the evidence must show that, in the evidence must show that,
learner is able to: addition to the pass criteria, in addition to the pass and
the learner is able to: merit criteria, the learner is
able to:
Pass Cisco LAN Switching and M1 plan the implementation of a D1 troubleshoot network
Wireless (CCNA3) examination. trunked switch system, based communication and justify
The centre will evidence this with on a pre-determined design the solution implemented to
a copy of the learner’s class grade [IE] restore operation
book from the assessment system [IE, CT, SM]
on completion of the unit (this must M2 evaluate and apply the D2 justify, develop, implement
be listed by learner name). A pass required commands to and test a LAN security
grade is a score of 70% or more in configure networking devices technique to control selected
the final examination. to ensure internetwork hosts
connectivity [CT, RL]
[IE]
M3 critically test the D3 evaluate current LAN and
communication between wireless technologies.
all networking devices and [IE, RL]
hosts.
[IE, TW, EP, SM]

PLTS: This summary references where applicable in the pass criteria, in the square brackets, the elements
of the personal, learning and thinking skills. It identifies opportunities for learners to demonstrate effective
application of the referenced elements of the skills.

Key IE – independent enquirers RL – reflective learners SM – self-managers

CT – creative thinkers TW – team workers EP – effective participators

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Essential guidance for tutors

Delivery
Cisco LAN Wireless and Switching CCNA3 is a proprietary unit within the Cisco Networking Academy
program. The curriculum, assessment and support materials are available only to institutions participating in
the program.
Cisco Systems makes these available at no cost for any non-profit institution; there are some costs for
instructor training and support. For detailed information please consult this web link:
www.cisco.com/web/learning/netacad/get_involved/BecomeAnAcademy.html.
If learners are following the Cisco unit in parallel with a BTEC National unit then it is recommended that the
two aspects of the assessment are integrated. Tasks being completed as part of the practical preparation for
Cisco Skills Based Exams can then be used to support the BTEC assessment for the merit and distinction
criteria.
To view general information about the Cisco LAN Switching and Wireless (CCNA3) objectives please
visit: www.cisco.com/web/learning/netacad/unit_catalog/CCNA.html. The detailed scope and sequence
documents are available to academies on the Cisco internal site.

Outline learning plan

Cisco Systems as part of the their academy programme, provide learning plans and study guidance for their
units. Cisco Systems recommend 75 hours of delivery to attain the pass criteria, in line with QCF credit and
notional learning hours. The notional hours for managed learning is set at 40 for learners to attempt the merit
and distinction.

Assessment
To achieve a pass grade, learners must pass the LAN Switching and Wireless CCNA3 module examination.
For merit/distinction the learner may take the assessment recommended in the ‘programme of suggested
assignments’, this is designed to align with the vendor pass criteria and may be delivered as an alternate skills
based assessment.

Programme of suggested assignments

The table below shows a programme of suggested assignments that cover the merit and distinction criteria
in the assessment and grading grid. This is for guidance and it is recommended that centres either write their
own assignments or adapt any Edexcel assignments to meet local needs and resources.

Criteria covered Assignment title Scenario Assessment method

M1, M2, M3, D1, Network Design Based on a vocational scenario, learners Presentation, poster,
D2, D3 will plan and configure a wireless and oral, report, practical,
switched network structure explaining observation.
the technologies used to enable LAN
communication.

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Links to National Occupational Standards, other BTEC units, other BTEC
qualifications and other relevant units and qualifications
This unit forms part of the BTEC IT sector suite. This unit has particular links with the other Cisco Exploration
units as well as Principles of Networks, Communications Technology and Organisational Systems Security.
A learner who starts on the exploration pathway must remain on this pathway (they cannot transfer to the
Cisco Discovery pathway).

Essential resources
Students will need access to practical resources and suitable technology; they can also use simulators such as
packet tracer or multimedia tools to gain prior experience before handling ‘live resources’.
This unit must be taught in a computer lab with internet access in order to assess learners via the Cisco online
assessment system. The web is a great source of technical information.
If another room for lab work is available, then the cabling and network configuration part of the class can
be taught in this classroom. One lab computer for every two learners is an ideal situation but many classes
have up to three to four learners per lab computer. Lab computers do not need to be the latest or newest
systems, but it helps if they are all identical. It is recommended that computers used by other classes are not
used as learners may tear down the machines. There should be a supply of redundant computers for this
task.

Employer engagement and vocational contexts

The Cisco CCNA certification is internationally recognized by a diverse range of employers (from SME’s to
large corporations) as one of the principal certifications in networking and telecommunications.

Indicative reading for learners

For a list of Cisco resources to assist with this unit, including exam preparation materials, see: www.cisco.
com/web/learning/netacad/unit_catalog/CCNA.html.

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Delivery of personal, learning and thinking skills
The table below identifies the opportunities for personal, learning and thinking skills (PLTS) that have been
included within the pass assessment criteria of this unit.

Skill When learners are …

Independent enquirers The pass criteria is set by an examination, the PLTS of self management and
reflective learning is supported by the learner, taking personal study and revision in
Creative thinkers advance of the Cisco Examination.
Reflective learners
Team workers
Self-managers
Effective participators

Although PLTS are identified within this unit as an inherent part of the assessment criteria, there are further
opportunities to develop a range of PLTS through various approaches to teaching and learning.

Skill When learners are …

Independent enquirers completing research and analysis of current networked system as well as planning
and implementing the networked system
Creative thinkers implementing any networked solution
Reflective learners evaluating and looking at the impact of network issues
Team workers planning and implementing the networked solution; this could be accomplished
on an array of ‘live’ resources by a small group of learners. This is an optional
element, depending on how the assignment is designed.
Self-managers justifying the implementation; the learner can reflect on how they managed their
own time and analysis of the problem
Effective participators planning and implementing the networked solution; this could be accomplished
on an array of ‘live’ resources by a small group of learners. This is an optional
element, depending on how the assignment is designed.

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 Functional Skills – Level 2

Skill When learners are …

ICT – Use ICT systems
Select, interact with and use ICT systems Configuring devices, installing cables, setting up terminal sessions
independently for a complex task to meet a
variety of needs
Use ICT to effectively plan work and Using show based diagnostic commands and analysis tools
evaluate the effectiveness of the ICT system
they have used
Follow and understand the need for safety Configuring devices, installing cables, setting up terminal sessions
and security practices
Troubleshoot Using show based diagnostic commands and analysis tools
ICT – Find and select information
Select and use a variety of sources of Reviewing output from show commands and debug tools as well
information independently for a complex task as web/text reference sources
Access, search for, select and use ICT- Reviewing output from show commands and debug tools as
based information and evaluate its fitness for well as web/text reference sources and comparing to expected
purpose outcomes
English
Speaking and listening – make a range of Presentation of network planning
contributions to discussions and make
effective presentations in a wide range of
contexts
Reading – compare, select, read and Research on network technologies, topologies and presentation
understand texts and use them to gather of network solution
information, ideas, arguments and opinions
Writing – write documents, including Presentation of networked solution and supporting justification.
extended writing pieces, communicating
information, ideas and opinions, effectively
and persuasively

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