Infrastructure Technician

Overview

Infrastructure Technician Overview

Infrastructure Technician apprentices are taught how to support internal and external customers by using tools to problem solve and trouble shoot non routine problems. They'll understand how to set people up on systems and provides support when they need it, rectifying issues to maintain the organization's productivity.

To achieve their Infrastructure Technician apprenticeship, apprentices must:

  • Demonstrate competence against five knowledge modules: Networking and Architecture, Mobile and Operating Systems, Cloud Services, Coding and Logic and Business Processes. These are assessed by examinations set by the British Computer Society and regulated by Ofqual. Apprentices must pass all five modules.
  • Submit a portfolio of evidence showing how they have applied the knowledge from these modules to projects and activities in their workplace.
  • Complete their formal End Point Assessment, which comprises: a synoptic project to showcase knowledge and skills from across the apprenticeship; a review of their portfolio of evidence; and a final interview with an independent EPA assessor.

Successful Infrastructure Technician apprentices go on into roles such as Help Desk Technician, First or Second Line Support and IT Infrastructure Technician.

Technical Competencies

Upon completion of their Infrastructure Technician apprenticeship, individuals will be able to:

  • work independently and as part of a team and following the organisations standards; competently demonstrating an ability to communicate both in writing and orally at all levels, using a range of tools and demonstrating strong interpersonal skills and cultural awareness when dealing with colleagues, customers and clients during all tasks
  • demonstrate the necessary skills and behaviours to securely operate across all platforms and areas of responsibilities in line with organisational guidance, legislation
  • effectively operate a range of mobile devices and securely add them to a network in accordance with organisations policies and procedures
  • effectively record, analyse and communicate data at the appropriate level using the organisation's standard tools and processes and to all stakeholders within the responsibility of the position
  • apply structured techniques to common and non-routine problems, testing methodologies and troubleshooting and analyses problems by selecting the digital appropriate tools and techniques in line with organisation guidance and to obtain the relevant logistical support as required
  • work flexibly and demonstrate the ability to work under pressure to progress allocated tasks in accordance with the organisation's reporting and quality systems
  • interpret and follow IT legislation to securely and professional work productively in the work environment
  • optimise the performance of hardware, software and Network Systems and services in line with business requirements
  • explain the correct processes associated with WEEE (the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive)

Technical Knowledge and Understanding

Upon completion of their Infrastructure Technician apprenticeship, individuals will understand:

  • a range of cabling and connectivity, the various types of antennas and wireless systems and IT test equipment
  • maintenance processes and applies them in working practices
  • the basic elements and architecture of computer systems
  • where to apply the relevant numerical skills e.g Binary
  • the relevant networking skills necessary to maintain a secure network
  • the similarities, differences and benefits of the current Operating Systems available
  • how to operate remotely and how to deploy and securely integrate mobile devices
  • Cloud and Cloud Services
  • the importance of disaster recovery and how a disaster recovery plan works and their role within it
  • the similarities and differences between a range of coding and logic
  • business processes
  • business IT skills relevant to the organisation

Underpinning Skills, Attitudes and Behaviours

  • logical and creative thinking skills
  • analytical and problem solving skills
  • ability to work independently and to take responsibility
  • can use own initiative
  • a thorough and organised approach
  • ability to work with a range of internal and external people
  • ability to communicate effectively in a variety of situations
  • maintain productive, professional and secure working environment

Qualifications

Apprentices will achieve five vendor qualifications.

Funding

£15,000

Level

This is a level 3 apprenticeship

Professional Recognition

This apprenticeship is recognised for entry onto the register of IT technicians confirming SFIA level 3 professional competence and those completing the apprenticeship are eligible to apply for registration.

Duration

The duration of this Firebrand apprenticeship is 16 months. Because this period involves both training and the final End Point Assessment (some of which must be carried out in the workplace), employers need to ensure the apprentice’s contract covers the full programme duration.

Registration to the Register of IT Technicians (RITTech)

Once apprentices have completed their apprenticeship they are officially recognised by the British Computer Society (BCS) for entry onto the Register of IT Technicians, confirming SFIA level 3 professional competence.

Curriculum

Infrastructure Technician curriculum

Firebrand’s apprenticeship programme covers all mandatory knowledge and skills outlined in the apprenticeship standard. Every Firebrand apprentice attends a suite of market-leading training programmes, to cover knowledge required from the apprenticeship standard. This training is then fleshed out through a package of selected online learning, which also allows apprentices to explore any topics of particular interest/importance to them in greater depth.

How are apprentices taught?

Apprentices receive a range of market-leading training as part of their qualification – typically between three and five courses per apprenticeship - giving them fundamental skills at speed.

We'll deliver all the knowledge apprentices need to learn for each knowledge module in the Standard through our Lecture | Lab | Review delivery. Apprentices then attend a Syllabus Review Session to cover the knowledge content covered in the apprenticeship standard.


Knowledge Module 1 & 3: Networking and Architecture & Cloud Services

Upon completion of Knowledge Module 1, Infrastructure Technician apprentices will:

  • Have working knowledge of: a range of cabling and connectivity, the various types of antennas and wireless systems and IT test equipment
  • Understand the similarities, differences and benefits of up-to-date hardware available
  • Understand and can apply the basic elements and architecture of computer systems and business IT architecture
  • Understand and know where to apply the relevant numerical skills e.g Binary
  • Understand the relevant networking skills necessary to maintain a secure network

Upon completion of Knowledge Module 3, Infrastructure Technician apprentices will:

  • Understand and have working knowledge of Cloud and Cloud Services
  • Understand the importance of disaster recovery and how a disaster recovery plan works and their role within it

Read through the full curriculum for Firebrand's classroom-based training and supporting online learning modules below.

This online session, led by a Subject Matter Expert, will focus on core concepts that apprentices will need to learn to get the most from their next residential training course. It provides practical information and/or study activities to help apprentices gain the prerequisite knowledge needed for the course.

This online session, led by a Subject Matter Expert, will focus on core concepts that apprentices will need to learn to get the most from their next residential training course. It provides practical information and/or study activities to help apprentices gain the prerequisite knowledge needed for the course.

This online session, led by a Subject Matter Expert, will focus on core concepts that apprentices will need to learn to get the most from their next residential training course. It provides practical information and/or study activities to help apprentices gain the prerequisite knowledge needed for the course.

This online session, led by a Subject Matter Expert, will focus on core concepts that apprentices will need to learn to get the most from their next residential training course. It provides practical information and/or study activities to help apprentices gain the prerequisite knowledge needed for the course.

Exam 98-365: Windows Server Administration Fundamentals

Course 40365A: Windows Server Administration Fundamentals

  • Module 1: Server Overview
  • Module 2: Managing Windows Server 2008 R2
  • Module 3: Managing Storage
  • Module 4: Monitoring and Troubleshooting Servers
  • Module 5: Essential Services
  • Module 6: File and Print Services
  • Module 7: Popular Windows Network Services and Applications

Exam 98-366 - Networking Fundamentals

Course 40032A: Networking and Security Fundamentals

  • Module 1: Understanding Local Area Networking
  • Module 2: Defining Networks with the OSI Model
  • Module 3: Understanding Wired and Wireless Networks
  • Module 4: Understanding Internet Protocol
  • Module 5: Implementing TCP/IP in the Command Line
  • Module 6: Working with Networking Services
  • Module 7: Understanding Wide Area Networks
  • Module 8: Defining Network Infrastructures and Network Security
  • TCP/IP and Networking Fundamentals (2h 5 minutes)*
  • Microsoft MTA: Networking Fundamentals Part 1 (4h 18minutes)*
  • Microsoft MTA: Networking Fundamentals Part 2 (3h 47minutes)*
  • Networking (4h 34 minutes)
  • Hardware (8h 43 minutes)
  • Mobile Devices (2h 26 minutes)
  • Hardware and Network Troubleshooting (3h 59 minutes)
  • Operational Procedures (2h 22 minutes)
  • Operating Systems (4h 29 minutes)
  • Security (4h 31 minutes)
  • Operating Systems and Technologies (4h 48 minutes)

Total time: 46 hours 02 minutes

  • Installing Windows Server 2016 (3h 56 minutes)*
  • Implementing Windows Server 2016 Storage Solutions (2h 27 minutes)*
  • Cloud Computing Fundamentals (2h 9 minutes)
  • Cloud Computing: The Big Picture (1h 4 minutes)
  • Foundations for Cloud Architecture (2h 36 minutes)
  • Cloud Essentials (4h 36 minutes)

Total time: 16 hours 48 minutes


Knowledge Module 2: Mobile and Operating Systems

Upon completion of this Knowledge Module, Infrastructure Technician apprentices will:

  • Understand the similarities, differences and benefits of the current Operating Systems available
  • Understand how to operate remotely and how to deploy and securely integrate mobile devices

Read through the full curriculum for Firebrand's classroom-based training and supporting online learning modules below.

This online session, led by a Subject Matter Expert, will focus on core concepts that apprentices will need to learn to get the most from their next residential training course. It provides practical information and/or study activities to help apprentices gain the prerequisite knowledge needed for the course.

This online session, led by a Subject Matter Expert, will focus on core concepts that apprentices will need to learn to get the most from their next residential training course. It provides practical information and/or study activities to help apprentices gain the prerequisite knowledge needed for the course.

This online session, led by a Subject Matter Expert, will focus on core concepts that apprentices will need to learn to get the most from their next residential training course. It provides practical information and/or study activities to help apprentices gain the prerequisite knowledge needed for the course.

This online session, led by a Subject Matter Expert, will focus on core concepts that apprentices will need to learn to get the most from their next residential training course. It provides practical information and/or study activities to help apprentices gain the prerequisite knowledge needed for the course.

Course MD-100T01-A: Installing Windows 10

Module 1: Installing Windows

This module covers installing the Windows 10 OS. You will learn the different editions of Windows 10, requirements, and new features introduced. This module covers how to install the OS, as well as methods for migrations and upgrading. You will also learn about common tools used in the deployment process

Lessons

  • Introducing Windows 10
  • Installation Options
  • Requirements for Windows Features
  • Installation Process and Media
  • Upgrading to Windows 10

Lab : Installing Windows 10

  • Upgrading Windows 7 to Windows 10
  • Migrating User Settings

After completing this module, you will be able to:

  • Understanding the different editions and features of Windows 10.
  • Understand the Windows 10 client installation options.
  • Practice installing Windows 10 using an online virtual machine.

Module 2: Updating Windows

In this module, you will learn about keeping Windows 10 up-to-date. You will be introduced to the new Windows servicing model and how it applies to various scenarios. You will learn the various different methods for updating Windows and applications, as well as managing updates using tools like group policy and Windows Update for Business.

Lessons

  • Windows Servicing Model
  • Updating Windows
  • Applying Applications and Windows Updates

Lab : Updating Windows 10

  • Configuring Updates for a Single Device
  • Configuring Updates with GPOs

After completing this module, you will be able to:

  • Describe the Windows servicing model.
  • Configure Windows update settings.
  • Describe updating Windows using WSUS.
  • Describe updating Windows using Windows Update for Business.
  • Configure Windows update using group policy.

Module 3: Post-installation Configuration and Personalisation

This module covers common post-installation tasks in Windows 10. You will learn how to customise the user interface, as well as using the control panel and settings app to configure common OS settings. This course will also introduce you to Windows PowerShell.

Lessons

  • Customise the Windows 10 UI.
  • Configure device specific settings such as power plans and mobile device options.
  • Use the Windows control panel and setting app to configure settings.
  • Describe using Windows PowerShell.

Lab : Configuring Windows 10

  • Using the Settings App
  • Using Control Panel Using Control Panel
  • Using Windows PowerShell

After completing this module, you will be able to:

  • Customise the Windows 10 UI
  • Configure device specific settings such as power plans and mobile device options.
  • Use the Windows control panel and setting app to configure settings.
  • Describe using Windows PowerShell.

Course MD-100T02-A: Configuring Windows 10

Module 1: Configuring Peripherals and Drivers

This module will cover device configuration. You will learn how device drivers work and how to install them. You will also be introduced to managing and configuring hardware peripherals such as printers.

Lessons

  • Managing Devices and Drivers
  • Managing Printers

After completing this module, you will be able to:

  • Describe concepts related to drivers.
  • Install a device driver.
  • Describe printer management concepts.
  • Configure client-side printing and managing print server properties.

Module 2: Configuring Networking

In this module, you will learn about networking concepts. This module will introduce to IPv4 and IPv6, and concepts like DNS. You will learn how to configure network settings in Windows, as well as learn about wireless network technologies. The module will conclude with methods of managing Windows remotely.

Lessons

  • Configure IP Network Connectivity
  • Implement Name Resolution
  • Implement Wireless Network Connectivity
  • Remote Access Overview
  • Remote Management

After completing this module, you will be able to:

  • Describe the different types of applications.
  • Install applications manually and using automated methods.
  • Manage application deployment using the Windows Store.
  • Learn about web browser features in Windows 10.

Module 3: Configuring Storage

This module covers storage configuration and management in Windows 10. You will be introduced to local, cloud and virtual storage options. This course will also cover configuring storage on client devices and introduce storage spaces.

Lessons

  • Overview of storage options
  • Using OneDrive
  • Managing Disks, Partitions, and Volumes
  • Maintaining Disks and Volumes
  • Managing Storage Spaces

Lab : Practice Lab: Managing Storage

  • Adding a Disk
  • Creating a Simple Volume
  • Compressing a Folder
  • Enabling Disk Quotas
  • Creating a Storage Space

After completing this module, you will be able to:

  • Describe the options and benefits of local, cloud, and virtual storage.
  • Configure OneDrive.
  • Configure local disk partitions and volumes.
  • Describe the capabilities and benefits of Storage spaces.

Module 4: Managing Apps in Windows 10

In this module, you will be introduced to App management in Windows 10. This module will cover the different types of apps and supported installation methods. You will learn how to install apps using manual and automated methods, as well as manage app delivery using the Windows Store. Finally, this module will cover the differences between Internet Explorer and Microsoft Edge.

Lessons

  • Providing Apps to Users
  • Managing Universal Windows Apps
  • The Windows Store
  • Web browsers in Windows 10

After completing this module, you will be able to:

  • Describe the different types of applications.
  • Install applications manually and using automated methods.
  • Manage application deployment using the Windows Store.
  • Learn about web browser features in Windows 10.

Course MD-100T03-A: Protecting Windows 10

Module 1: Configuring Authorisation and Authentication

This module introduces the tools and features of Windows 10 for authorising access to Windows 10 clients. You will learn about methods for how users sign-in to Windows 10. This module also covers restricting what users can or cannot do on a device through methods like UAC and account types.

Lessons

  • Using Security Settings to Mitigate Threats
  • Configuring User Account Control
  • Implementing Device Registration
  • Authentication

After completing this module, you will be able to:

  • Describe the different methods for securing data and the Windows 10 OS.
  • Describe the different types of user and service accounts.
  • Configure Windows Hello.
  • Configure user account control.

Module 2: Configuring Data Access and Usage

In this module, you will learn about permissions. This module will cover considerations for different files systems. You will learn how to configure file and folder permissions as well as shared folders. The module will conclude with configuring settings through methods such as local and group policy.

Lessons

  • Overview of File Systems
  • Configuring and Managing File Access
  • Configuring and Managing Shared Folders
  • Managing Security with Policies

Lab : Configuring and Managing Permissions and Shares

  • Creating, Managing, and Sharing a Folder
  • Using Conditions to Control Access and Effective Permissions

After completing this module, you will be able to:

  • Describe the differences and benefits of supported file systems.
  • Configure file and folder permissions.
  • Configure shared folders.
  • Secure Windows through local policy settings.

Module 3: Configuring Advanced Management Tools

This module introduces you to protecting devices from external threats. You will learn about the different types of common threats. This module will teach you about using encryption, firewalls, and IPSec to help protect against threats. The module will conclude with how to configure and use Windows Defender and AppLocker.

Lessons

  • Configuring Tenant Roles
  • Managing Tenant Health and Services

Lab : Practice Lab: Managing Network Security

  • Creating and Testing Inbound Rules
  • Creating and Testing Outbound Rules
  • Creating and Testing Connection Security Rules
  • Configuring Windows Defender

After completing this module, you will be able to:

  • Identify common security threats
  • Describe the methods by which you can mitigate these common security threats.
  • Describe the different methods of encryption.
  • Describe how Windows firewall can secure the device.
  • Describe the benefits of using IPSec.
  • Describe the different features of Windows Defender.
  • Describe the benefits of using AppLocker.

Course MD-100T04-A: Maintaining Windows 10

Module 1: Supporting the Windows 10 Environment

This module will cover the Windows 10 architecture and common environments. You will be introduced to the various tools used in maintaining Windows. This module will also discuss methodologies for effectively troubleshooting issues and how to proactively manage and optimise Windows 10.

Lessons

  • Troubleshooting Windows
  • Troubleshooting Tools

Lab : Practice Lab: Monitoring Windows 10

  • Monitoring Events
  • Monitoring Reliability and Performance

After completing this module, you will be able to:

  • Describe the Windows architecture.
  • Describe key stages in troubleshooting.
  • Describe the purpose and benefits of the various tools in Windows.
  • Use monitoring tools to establish a performance baseline.
  • Optimise performance on Windows 10 clients.

Module 2: Troubleshooting the Windows OS

In this module, you will learn how to troubleshoot startup and service issues related to the operating system. This module will teach the different startup and recovery options, and how to troubleshoot different Windows services.

Lessons

  • Troubleshooting Windows Startup
  • Troubleshooting Operating System Service Issues
  • Troubleshooting Sign-In Issues

After completing this module, you will be able to:

  • Describe the various methods identifying and recovering from startup issues.
  • Describe when to use the various advanced startup options.
  • Identify and disable a failed service
  • Identify and mitigate common locked account scenarios.

Module 3: Troubleshooting Files and Applications

This module helps you plan for file backup and recovery. You will learn how to plan and configure data protection strategies and how to perform various file and system recovery methods. This module also includes common methods for troubleshooting application installation issues, compatibility issues, and resolving browser issues.

Lessons

  • File Recovery in Windows 10
  • Application Troubleshooting

Lab : Troubleshooting Desktop Apps

  • Troubleshooting AppLocker Policy Applications
  • Troubleshooting Application Compatibility Issues
  • Troubleshooting Microsoft Internet Explorer Issues
  • Troubleshooting Microsoft Edge Issues

After completing this module, you will be able to:

  • Describe the different methods of file recovery.
  • Configure Windows 10 to support individual file and system recovery.
  • Recover a device using the Reset This PC function.
  • Solve application compatibility issues with the Application Compatibility Toolkit.
  • Troubleshoot common browser issues.

Module 4: Troubleshooting Hardware and Drivers

This module introduces hardware troubleshooting. You will learn about driver management and how to troubleshoot devices. You will also learn steps for troubleshooting system hardware and external peripherals such as USB drives and printers, including diagnostic methods and remediation.

Lessons

  • Troubleshooting Device Driver Failures
  • Overview of Hardware Troubleshooting
  • Troubleshooting Physical Failures

Lab : Troubleshooting Device Driver Issues

  • Troubleshooting a Missing Device Driver
  • Resolving Hardware Problems
  • Resolving device driver problem
  • Configuring Group Policy Settings to Control Device Installation

After completing this module, you will be able to:

  • Troubleshoot and remediate driver issues.
  • Troubleshoot Peripherals
  • Diagnose and replace hardware.
  • Mobile Devices (2h 26 minutes)*
  • Linux Essentials (1h 36 minutes)*
  • Windows Operating Systems (4h 29 minutes)
  • Other Operating Systems and Technologies (4h 48 minutes)
  • Hardware (8h 43 minutes)
  • Installing and Configuring Windows 10 (11 hours)

Total time: 33 hours 02 minutes


Knowledge Module 4: Coding and Logic

Upon completion of this Knowledge Module, Infrastructure Technician apprentices will:

  • Understand the similarities and differences between a range of coding and logic

Read through the full curriculum for Firebrand's classroom-based training and supporting online learning modules below.

This online session, led by a Subject Matter Expert, will focus on core concepts that apprentices will need to learn to get the most from their next residential training course. It provides practical information and/or study activities to help apprentices gain the prerequisite knowledge needed for the course.

This online session, led by a Subject Matter Expert, will focus on core concepts that apprentices will need to learn to get the most from their next residential training course. It provides practical information and/or study activities to help apprentices gain the prerequisite knowledge needed for the course.

This online session, led by a Subject Matter Expert, will focus on core concepts that apprentices will need to learn to get the most from their next residential training course. It provides practical information and/or study activities to help apprentices gain the prerequisite knowledge needed for the course.

Module 1: Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming

Module 2: Understanding General Software Development

Module 3: Understanding Web Applications

Module 4: Understanding Desktop Applications

Module 5: Understanding Databases

  • Microsoft Academy Software Development Fundamentals*
  • Linux command line fundamentals (4h 34 minutes)
  • Introduction to PowerShell (2h 41 minutes)
  • Shell Scripting with Bash (4h 33 minutes)
  • Front End Web Page Development (3h 47 minutes)
  • Software Lifecycle (13 minutes)
  • Software Process Management (3h 43minutes)

Total time: 19 hours 31 minutes


Knowledge Module 5: Business Processes

Upon completion of this Knowledge Module, Infrastructure Technician apprentices will:

  • Understand and comply with business processes
  • Have working knowledge of business IT skills relevant to the organisation

Read through the full curriculum for Firebrand's classroom-based training and supporting online learning modules below.

This online session, led by a Subject Matter Expert, will focus on core concepts that apprentices will need to learn to get the most from their next residential training course. It provides practical information and/or study activities to help apprentices gain the prerequisite knowledge needed for the course.

This online session, led by a Subject Matter Expert, will focus on core concepts that apprentices will need to learn to get the most from their next residential training course. It provides practical information and/or study activities to help apprentices gain the prerequisite knowledge needed for the course.

  • ITIL Foundation (5 Hours)*
  • ISO 27001 Information Security: The Big Picture*
  • Data Protection Act*
  • Computer Misuse Act*
  • General Data Protection Regulation*
  • Infrastructure as a Service, IaaS (26 minutes)*
  • Software as a Service, SaaS (10 minutes)*
  • Platform as a Service, PaaS (15 minutes)*
  • Waterfall Software Development (2 minutes)*
  • Agile Software Development (8 minutes)*

Total time: 6 hours 1 minute

Prerequisites

Who can enroll on a Infrastructure Technician apprenticeship?

End Point Assessment

How are Infrastructure Technician apprentices assessed?

Progression Plan

How do Infrastructure Technician apprentices progress?

Exams

Exams

While apprentices benefit from new digital skills they can use in their job, almost all digital apprenticeships that Firebrand offer provide the chance to gain industry recognised qualifications.

Apprentices gain qualifications through either BCS or Vendor specific exams where applicable. These qualifications add to a professional career and can be used to help move seamlessly between roles in the IT industry.

All relevant exams that will be achieved during this apprenticeship are listed below:

  1. Microsoft MTA Networking and Server Administration Fundamentals
  2. Microsoft 365 Certified Modern Desktop administrator associate (Windows 10)
  3. Microsoft MTA Software Development Fundamentals
  4. AXELOS ITIL Foundation

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