At a glance
A practical course where students learn how networks work and how to protect data and systems. Students explore cybersecurity and cloud technologies used in modern workplaces.
This course is a good choice for students who:
- are interested in computers, networks or cyber security
- enjoy solving technical problems
- like practical tasks using digital systems and tools
About this course
Networking and Security focuses on how devices communicate and how data can be protected. Students explore security risks, privacy, and cloud and distributed systems (systems that share data across many computers). Assessment usually includes practical design solutions and short reports.
VET option
- Students who enrol in the course as V work towards VET competencies with the aim of achieving a Certificate II in Applied Digital Technologies (as available and where requirements are met).
- What this means: VET can help students have their practical skills recognised towards a nationally recognised certificate.
Pathways
This course can support pathways into areas such as:
- network and systems administration
- cyber security
- cloud infrastructure and support
- further study in information technology
Units in this course
Students complete 2 units for a Minor or 4 units for a Major.
Networking and Cyber Security
This unit is about networking technologies and cybersecurity.
Students will:
- explore network traffic, limits and vulnerabilities
- create solutions for network and security scenarios
Network Administration and Security
This unit is about setting up, managing and securing networks.
Students will:
- explore how networks are configured, maintained and protected
- create solutions for network setup and security
Designing & Securing Enterprise Networks
This unit is about designing larger, more complex networks for large organisations.
Students will:
- explore features and technologies used in complex networks
- create solutions for enterprise-scale network design
Cloud and Distributed Systems
This unit is about cloud and distributed systems used by organisations.
Students will:
- explore data location, security and user access
- create simulated environments to develop cloud solutions
Computer Requirements
Please note that the Chrome Operating System used on Chromebooks is not compatible with the specialist software used in Information Technology. It is expected that students studying Information Technology have a computer that meets the following specifications:
| Stream | Operating System | CPU | Memory | Graphics | Peripherals |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Robotics and Mechatronics, Networking and Security, and Programming Stream | Windows, Mac, or Linux Operating System | Dual-core Intel or AMD CPU | 8 GB RAM | - | - |
Games Development Stream, Data Science | 64-bit Windows 10+ or Mac OS X10.10+ | Quad-core Intel or AMD CPU – 2.5GHz or faster | 16-32GB RAM | Dedicated Graphics Card* | Three-button mouse |
* This cannot be an on-chip GPU for Windows PCs as the Game development programs are graphic intensive. M1/2 Macbook Pros can work, but will need a minimum of 16 GB of ram as it is shared between the GPU and CPU.