Dcnsa Syllabus Final September 2021

DIPLOMA IN COMPUTER NETWORKS AND SYSTEMS
ADMINISTRATION (DCNSA)
EXAMINATION SYLLABUS
JULY 2021
kasneb Towers, Hospital Road, Upper Hill
P.O. Box 41362 - 00100, Nairobi - Kenya
Tel: 254(020) 4923000
Cellphone: 0722-201214/0734-600624
E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.kasneb.or.ke
All rights reserved. No part of this booklet may be reproduced, distributed,

stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any means,
including photocopying, recording or other electronic, mechanical,
photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior written permission of
Kasneb
JULY 2021
FOREWORD
One of the cardinal objectives of any education system is to ultimately provide the economy with
competent, self-driven and morally upright human capital for sustainable growth and prosperity.
In order to effectively achieve this, it is important that the education system continuously adapts
to market dynamics at global, regional and national levels.
For professional examination bodies such as the Kenya Accountants and Secretaries National
Examinations Board (Kasneb), this translates to the need to regularly review their syllabuses to
match and, in an ideal setting, surpass market expectations. The drivers of syllabuses change
are wide and diverse and transcend various factors including economic, legal, social and
technological spheres.
It is in the above context that The National Treasury and Planning, as the parent Ministry of
Kasneb, is pleased to note the significant milestone in the completion of the major review process
for Kasneb, having also participated with other stakeholders in the review process. This latest
review has afforded Kasneb the opportunity to address emerging trends that define the next
generation of professionals, including data mining and analytics, digital competence, soft skills
and a global perspective in strategic decision making.
With the revised syllabuses, Kasneb is expected to continue playing a leading role in providing
the economy with competent professionals in the areas of accounting, finance, governance and
corporate secretarial practice, credit management, forensic investigations, information
communication technology and related areas. This is further expected to boost the Government’s
development agenda as defined under the Kenya Vision 2030 development blueprint and the Big
Four Agenda.
The successful implementation of the revised syllabuses will require the support of all
stakeholders. I wish therefore to urge for the continued support to Kasneb including from various
Government Ministries and Departments, regulatory bodies, employers, professional institutes,
universities and other training institutions, among others.
It is my conviction that the revised syllabuses will reshape the professional qualifications frontier
in the region and beyond and firmly place Kenya as one of the leading countries in the provision
of globally competitive professionals.
Dr Julius M. Muia, PhD, CBS

The Principal Secretary/The National Treasury
The National Treasury and Planning
August 2021
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Diploma in Computer Networks and Systems Administration(DCNSA) – Examination Syllabus, July 2021
PREFACE
Kasneb has been undertaking a major review of its examination syllabuses every five years and
a mid-term review every two and a half years. The prime focus of the just completed major review
was the need to produce enhanced, integrated and competence based curriculums whose
graduates will remain well positioned to meet the dynamic global market demands for the next
five years and beyond.
The major review process commenced in earnest in August 2019 with an intensive stakeholder
engagement across various counties in Kenya. This was supplemented by study visits and
surveys conducted in various parts of the globe, including in the USA, UK, Canada, Malaysia,
Singapore, Australia and India. Further engagements with employers, practitioners and the
market at large culminated in the development of a competence framework for the professional
qualifications of Kasneb. A competence framework is a structure that sets out and defines each
individual competency required by persons working in an organisation. The framework defines
the knowledge, skills and attributes needed for people within an organization.
Complementing the competence framework were occupational standards developed for the
vocational, certificate and diploma programmes. Similar to the competence frameworks for
professionals, the occupational standards for various technician qualifications are statements of
work performance reflecting the ability to successfully complete the functions required in an
occupation, as well as the application of knowledge, skills and understanding in an occupation.
With the development of the competence frameworks and occupational standards, the next logical
step was the development of the detailed syllabuses content addressing the identified required
competencies. The syllabuses content was developed by various subject matter experts drawn
from both public and private sectors, industry and academia, employers and practitioners among
others.
As noted above, stakeholder engagement formed a critical pillar in each step of the review
process. At the final stretch, stakeholders were invited to validate the syllabuses on Friday, 7 May
2021 during a national virtual conference. This paved the way for the launch of the syllabuses on
Friday, 23 July 2021.
As part of the new competence-based system, Kasneb will use various assessment modes
through a partnership model with other institutions to test the achievement of key competencies
and skills. Among other key areas of focus is the introduction of practical experience and work-
simulation, together with a requirement for students to attend workshops where matters of ethics,
values, attitudes and other soft skills will be developed.
The major review of the syllabuses also witnessed the expansion of the qualifications spectrum
for Kasneb to include four vocational courses, one certificate course, three diploma courses, five
professional courses and one post-professional specialisation course.
We are confident that the new qualifications of kasneb will address the current and emerging skills
requirements in the national, regional and international markets.
Finally, I wish to take this opportunity to thank all our partners and stakeholders for their
contribution in various ways to the successful completion of the major syllabuses review.
Dr Nancy N. Muriuki, PhD
Chairman of the Board of Kasneb
August 2021
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I wish to take this opportunity to express our deepest appreciation to all our key stakeholders who,
through their expert advice, comments, other feedback and general support contributed to the
development of the revised syllabuses together with the supporting competence frameworks and
occupational standards.
We are particularly grateful to the Government of Kenya through the National Treasury and
Planning, the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Foreign Affairs incorporating various Kenyan
Embassies and High Commissions, among others; various regulatory bodies including the Kenya
National Qualifications Authority (KNQA), Technical and Vocational Education and Training
Authority (TVETA), Commission for University Education (CUE), Central Bank of Kenya (CBK),
Capital Markets Authority (CMA); professional bodies including the Institute of Certified Public
Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK), Institute of Certified Secretaries (ICS), Institute of Certified
Investment and Financial Analysts (ICIFA), Institute of Credit Management Kenya (ICM-K), Law
Society of Kenya (LSK) - Nairobi Chapter; Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE) and individual
employers; the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC); practitioners, subject matter
experts and trainers, various consultants engaged; students, parents and guardians; past and
present members of the Board, Committees and Sub-Committee; members of staff of Kasneb
among other stakeholders.
We also extend our appreciation to all foreign regulatory and professional bodies who facilitated
the study visits and provided valuable insights on global trends and emerging issues in areas
relevant to the examinations of Kasneb. In this connection, we wish to highlight the following
institutions for special mention:
1. United Kingdom (UK): Chartered Governance Institute; Chartered Institute of
Management Accountants; Chartered Institute of Marketers; Institute of Chartered
Accountants in England and Wales; Pearson Vue Limited.
2. United States of America (USA): American Institute of Certified Public Accountants;
Chartered Financial Analysts Institute; International Federation of Accountants; Society
for Corporate Governance.
3. Singapore and Malaysia: Chartered Secretaries Institute of Singapore; Malaysian
Association of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators; Malaysian Institute of
Accountants.
4. Canada: CPA Canada; Board of Canadian Registered Safety Professionals.
5. Australia: CPA Australia; Pearson Vue Australia.
6. India: Indira Gandhi National Open University; Institute of Chartered Accountants of India;
Institute of Company Secretaries of India, Institute of Cost Accountants of India.
7. South Africa: South Africa Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA).
Kasneb remains forever grateful to all our stakeholders for your role in ensuring the development
of quality and globally benchmarked syllabuses, competence frameworks and occupational
standards. We look forward to your continued support in the implementation of the revised
syllabuses.
Dr Nicholas K. Letting’, PhD, EBS

Secretary/Chief Executive Officer, Kasneb
August 2021
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Foreword (i)
Preface (ii)
Acknowledgement (iii)
Background information (v)
LEVEL ONE
Paper No. 1 Introduction to Computing Systems 1
Paper No. 2 Communication Skills and Ethics 6
Paper No. 3 Information Systems Support and Integration 11
Paper No. 4 Computer Information Systems Applications 15
LEVEL TWO
Paper No. 5 Computer Networks 20
Paper No. 6 Network Operating Systems 26
Paper No. 7 Windows Server Roles and Features 31
Paper No. 8 Networking Security 35
LEVEL THREE
Paper No. 9 Network Troubleshooting 40
Paper No. 10 Network set-up 43
Paper No. 11 Server Maintenance 46
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BACKGROUND INFORMATION ABOUT kasneb
1.1 Legal Foundation and Status of kasneb
kasneb was established as a state corporation under the National Treasury by the
Government of Kenya on 24 July 1969. The establishment and operations of kasneb are
governed by the following main Acts:
(a) The Accountants Act, No. 15 of 2008 (which repealed the Accountants Act,
Cap 531 of 1977).
(b) The Certified Public Secretaries of Kenya Act, Cap 534 of 1988.
(c) The Investment and Financial Analysts Act, No. 13 of 2015.
1.2 Functions of kasneb
Section 17(1) of the Accountants Act, 2008 of the Laws of Kenya defines the functions of
kasneb. These functions are:
(a) To prepare syllabuses for professional, diploma and certificate examinations in
accountancy, company secretarial practice and related disciplines;
(b) To make rules with respect to such examinations;
(c) To arrange and conduct examinations and issue certificates to candidates who
have satisfied examination requirements;
(d) To promote recognition of its examinations in foreign countries;
(e) To investigate and determine cases involving indiscipline by students registered
with the Examinations Board;
(f) To promote and carry out research relating to its examinations;
(g) To promote the publication of books and other materials relevant to its
examinations;
(h) To liaise with the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology in accreditation
of institutions offering training in subjects examinable by the Examinations Board,
and
(i) To do anything incidental or conducive to the performance of any of the preceding
functions.
1.3 Professional Institutes/Registration Board for Kasneb graduates

1.3.1 Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK)
ICPAK is established under Section 3 of the Accountants Act, 2008. One of the
functions of ICPAK is to advise kasneb on matters relating to examination
standards and policies. The Act also makes provisions for the establishment of
a Registration and Quality Assurance Committee (Registration Committee)
under Section 13. One of the functions of the Registration Committee is to
register eligible persons as Certified Public Accountants.
1.3.2 Institute of Certified Secretaries (ICS)

ICS is established under Section 3 of the Certified Public Secretaries of Kenya
Act (Cap. 534) of the Laws of Kenya. One of the functions of ICS is to advise
kasneb on matters relating to examination standards and policies.
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1.3.3 Registration of Certified Public Secretaries Board (RCPSB)
RCPSB is established under Section 11 of the Certified Public Secretaries of
Kenya Act (Cap. 534) of the Laws of Kenya. One of the functions of RCPSB is
to register eligible persons as Certified Secretaries.
1.3.4 Institute of Certified Investment and Financial Analysts (ICIFA)
ICIFA is registered under the Investment and Financial Analysts Act, No. 13 of
2015 of the Laws of Kenya. One of the functions of ICIFA is to advise kasneb on
matters relating to examination standards and policies. The Act also makes
provisions for the establishment of a Registration Committee under Section 13.
One of the functions of the Registration Committee is to register eligible persons
as Certified Investment and Financial Analysts.
1.3.5 Institute of Credit Management Kenya [ICM (K)]
ICM (K) is registered under the Societies Act, (Cap.108) of the Laws of Kenya.
1.4 Vision, Mission, Mandate and Core Values
The vision, mission, mandate and core values of kasneb are as follows:
1.4.1 Vision
Global leader in examination and certification of business professionals.
1.4.2 Mission
Empowering professionals globally by offering quality examinations and
undertaking research and innovation.
1.4.3 Mandate
The mandate of kasneb is the development of syllabuses; conduct of
professional, diploma and certificate examinations and certification of
candidates in accountancy, finance, credit, governance and management,
information technology and related disciplines; promotion of its qualifications
nationally, regionally and internationally and the accreditation of relevant
training institutions in liaison with the ministry in charge of education.
1.4.4 Core Values

• Integrity
• Professionalism
• Customer focus
• Teamwork
• Innovativeness
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2.0 EXAMINATIONS OF kasneb
kasneb currently offers the following examinations:
(a) Vocational certificate courses
These are short-term, skills-based programmes currently in the areas of
entrepreneurship and innovation, graphic design, information and cyber security and
block chain technology. The courses are ideal both for fresh high school graduates
and established professionals in various areas willing to diversify their knowledge and
competencies in the above areas.
The vocational certificate courses are administered in two levels, with each level
requiring an average of three months, thus a total of six months.
Entrants with high school certificates will start with Level I which covers basic skills.
Other entrants with post-high school qualifications covering the basic skills will enter
at Level II.
The minimum entry for the vocational certificates is a KCSE certificate. The courses
can be pursued through a tuition-based programme or privately. Tuition-based
programmes (physical or virtual classes) are however recommended due to the
interactiveness with facilitators and other students which are key in imparting the
requisite technical and soft skills.
The examinations will be administered primarily on a computer-based platform.
The details on each of the vocational programmes are summarised below:
(i) Vocational Certificate in Entrepreneurship and Innovation

The course imparts basic knowledge, skills, values and attitudes to apply
entrepreneurship skills and generate innovative ideas to start and manage a
new business or grow an existing entity.
(ii) Vocational Certificate in Graphic Design

The course imparts basic knowledge, skills, values and attitudes to generate
and enhance graphic designs according to set specifications.
(iii) Vocational Certificate in Information and Cyber Security

The course imparts basic knowledge, skills, values and attitudes to identify
information and cyber threats and risks and implement programmes to protect
information and databases.
(iv) Vocational Certificate in Blockchain Technology

The course imparts knowledge, skills, values and attitudes to develop a simple
blockchain program and undertake blockchain transactions.
(b) Certificate in Accounting and Management Skills (CAMS) course

The course imparts knowledge, skills, values and attitudes to prepare basic accounts
and financial statements for a small enterprise or non-complex environment and apply
basic management and marketing skills in business.
The course is mainly for persons who wish to qualify and work as entry level
accounting and management personnel.
The CAMS course is administered in two levels, with each level requiring an average
of six months, thus a total of one year.
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The minimum entry requirement is KCSE mean grade D or a vocational certificate.
The course is fully tuition based with requirements for students to sit for continuous
assessment tests (CATs), which constitute 15% of the final score for assessment
purposes.
The examinations will be administered primarily on a computer-based platform.
(c) Diploma Courses

Kasneb currently administers three diploma programmes; Accounting Technicians Diploma
(ATD), Diploma in Data Management and Analytics (DDMA) and Diploma in Computer
Networks and Systems Administration (DCNSA).
The diploma courses are administered in two levels, with each level requiring an average of
one year, thus a total of two years.
The minimum entry for the diploma courses is KCSE mean grade C-. Persons with certificate
and other higher qualifications from recognised institutions are also eligible for entry. The
courses can currently be pursued through a tuition-based programme or privately. Tuition-
based programmes (physical or virtual classes) are however recommended due to the
interactiveness with facilitators and other students which are key in imparting the requisite
technical and soft skills.
A summary on each of the diploma programmes is presented below:
(i) Accounting Technicians Diploma (ATD) course
The course imparts knowledge, skills, values and attitudes to prepare financial and
management accounts and financial statements for small and medium sized enterprises
and compute basic taxes for a business.
The course is aimed at persons who wish to qualify and work as middle level accountants
providing technical support to professional accountants, auditors, tax practitioners and
related areas.
(ii) Diploma in Data Management and Analytics (DDMA) course
The course imparts knowledge, skills, values and attitudes to undertake non-complex
design of databases, mine and analyse data for decision making.
The DDMA will be administered on a computer-based platform.
(iii) Diploma in Computer Networks and Systems Administration (DCNSA) course
The course imparts knowledge, skills, values and attitudes to design, configure, test and
secure and manage non-complex networks.
The DCNSA will be administered on a computer based platform.
(d) Professional Courses

Kasneb currently administers five professional courses, as summarised below:
(i) Certified Public Accountants (CPA)
(ii) Certified Secretaries (CS)
(iii) Certified Investment and Financial Analysts (CIFA)
(iv) Certified Credit Professionals (CCP)
(v) Certified Information Systems Solutions Expert (CISSE)
The professional courses are administered at Foundation, Intermediate and Advanced

Levels. Each level requires an average of one year, though candidates are advised to
provide for an additional one year to meet requirements for internship/practical experience
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The minimum entry requirement for the professional courses is KCSE mean grade C+.
Persons with diplomas or other higher-level qualifications from recognised institutions are
also eligible for entry. The courses can be pursued through a tuition-based programme or
privately. Tuition-based programmes (physical or virtual classes) are however
recommended due to the interactiveness with facilitators and other students which are key
in imparting the requisite technical and soft skills.
A summary on each of the professional courses is presented below:
(i) Certified Public Accountants (CPA) course

The course imparts knowledge, skills, values and attitudes to, among other competencies:
• Prepare accounts and financial statements including for complex entities in both the
private and public sectors.
• Use computerised accounting systems
• Practically apply data analytical tools analyse data and reach conclusions.
• Undertake audit and assurance services
• Apply advanced financial management skills to evaluate various financial aspects of a
business for decision making
• Prepare management accounts
• Apply leadership and management skills in practice to manage teams and achieve
results
The course is aimed at persons who wish to qualify and work or practice as professional
accountants, auditors, finance managers, tax managers and consultants in related areas in
both public and private sectors.
Assessment will be conducted in a variety of ways, including examinations, practical papers,
workshops attendance and practical experience.
In addition to the above papers, prior to certification, candidates will be required to
• Attend workshops on ethics, soft skills and emerging issues organised by Kasneb and
ICPAK and earn IPD hours
• Obtain 1-year practical experience, or alternatively attend workshops on work based
simulation organised by Kasneb and ICPAK.
In order to assist CPA students to obtain the requisite practical experience and internship
opportunities, they will be registered as student members of the Institute of Certified Public
Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK) under a programme called the Trainee Accountants Practical
Experience Programme (TAPEF). Through TAPEF, ICPAK working in consultation with
Kasneb will assist students as much as possible to link with professional accountants who
will mentor them towards obtaining the necessary practical experience.
(ii) Certified Secretaries (CS) course

• Practice and promote principles of good governance within public and private sector
entities
• Implement and comply with legal, regulatory and ethical requirements in practice
• Ensure proper conduct and management of meetings
• Undertake consultancy and advisory services in corporate secretarial and related
practices
• Manage boardroom dynamics
• Undertake governance and compliance audits
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The course is aimed at persons who wish to qualify and work or practice as corporate
secretaries, policy formulators and consultants in governance, governance and compliance
auditors and administrators at county and national levels and in the private sector.
Assessment will be conducted in a variety of ways, including examinations, projects and
workshops attendance.
(iii) Certified Investment and Financial Analysts (CIFA) course

• Apply financial tools and concepts in analysis and valuation of investment and securities
• Manage and grow portfolios of investments
• Analyse various types of investments including equity investments, fixed income
investments and derivatives
• Manage corporate finances
• Apply financial modelling and analytical tools in investments analysis
The course is aimed at persons who wish to qualify and work or practice as investment,
securities and financial analysts, portfolio managers, investment bankers, fund managers,
consultants on national and global financial markets and related areas.
(iv) Certified Credit Professionals (CCP) course

• Manage the credit cycle for trade credit providers
• Manage credit risk for different entities
• Undertake credit analysis for various corporate entities
• Undertake debt collection in a professional manner
• Comply with various requirements in debt management including governance,
ethical, legal and regulatory requirements.
The course is aimed at persons who wish to qualify and work or practice in various fields of
credit management including credit analysis, debt management and recovery, corporate
lending and related areas in both formal and informal sectors.
(v) Certified Information Systems Solutions Expert (CISSE) course

• Develop information systems solutions for a business
• Design and operationalise database management systems
• Design, configure and trouble shoot computer networks
• Implement ICT projects
• Manage and analyse big data
(e) Post-professional specialisation course

Kasneb has introduced the Certified Forensic Fraud Examiner (CFFE). The course imparts
knowledge, skills, values and attitudes to, among other competencies:
• Apply analytical techniques in fraud detection
• Design and implement preventive and detective controls
• Apply and ensure compliance with the appropriate laws in fraud investigations
• Apply the burden and standards of proof in civil and criminal proceedings
• Apply the various methods and techniques of conducting fraud investigations
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• Write standard investigations and expert witness reports
• Develop fraud prevention programs
• Conduct a fraud prevention health check up
• Develop and implement a fraud risk management program
The course is aimed at persons who wish to qualify and work or practice in the fields of financial
fraud and corruption investigations, fraud prevention, fraud risk analysis and related areas.
The CFFE is administered in three modules, with an integrated case study and workshops at
the end of the course. Each module is expected to last for three months. Examinations for the
CFFE course will be administered three times in a year, thus the course is meant to last on
average one year.
The minimum entry requirement to pursue the CFFE course is:

• Kasneb professional qualification; or
• Bachelor’s degree from a recognised university; or
• Any other qualification considered equivalent to the above.
The course can be pursued through tuition-based learning or self-study.

Kasneb working with other partners will be rolling out another post-professional specialisation
area in public financial management.
(f) Examinations for holders of foreign qualifications wishing to be registered and

practice in Kenya
(i) Examination for holders of foreign accountancy qualifications (FAQs)
In consultation with the Council of ICPAK under Section 26 Sub-Sections (2) and
(3) of the Accountants Act, 2008, kasneb examines holders of foreign accountancy
qualifications who have applied for registration as Certified Public Accountants
(CPAs) of Kenya and they are required to demonstrate their knowledge of local
law and practice.
(ii) Examination for holders of foreign secretaries qualifications (FSQs)
In consultation with the Council of ICS under Section 20 Sub-Sections (2) and (3)
of the Certified Public Secretaries of Kenya Act, Cap 534, kasneb examines
holders of foreign secretaries qualifications who have applied for registration as
Certified Secretaries (CSs) of Kenya and they are required to demonstrate their
knowledge of local law and practice.
(iii) Examination for holders of foreign investment and financial analysts
qualifications (FIFAQs)
In consultation with the Council of ICIFA under Section 16 Sub-Sections (2) and
(3) of the Investment and Financial Analysts Act, No. 13 of 2015, kasneb examines
holders of foreign qualifications who have applied for registration as Certified
Investment and Financial Analysts (CIFA) and they are required to demonstrate
their knowledge of local law and practice.
3.0 EXAMINATION RULES AND REGULATIONS

3.1 Registration and examination bookings
All applications for registration and examination booking must be in the prescribed
manner. Students are advised to download the e-kasneb app for purposes of registration
and examination booking. The deadline for registration and examination booking will be
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specified for each sitting but may not be later than thirty days to the date of the next
examinations.
3.2 Exemptions
Exemptions may, on application, be granted to registered students who are holders of
certain degrees and diplomas recognised by kasneb. Exemptions will be granted on a
paper by paper basis. Details on available exemptions can be accessed on the kasneb
website www.kasneb.or.ke.
3.3 Retention of Credits
Credits for papers passed by candidates will be retained without limit.
3.4 Progression Rule

A candidate will not be allowed to enter a higher level of the examination before completing
the lower level.
3.5 Registration Renewal

3.5.1 A registered student must renew the studentship registration annually on the first
day of July provided that newly registered students will be required to renew their
registration on the first day of July following the examination sitting to which they
are first eligible to enter.
3.5.2 A student who without good cause fails to renew the registration within three
months of the renewal date will be deemed to have allowed the registration to
lapse and may thus forfeit the right to write the examination until the renewal
position is regularised. The registration number of a student who fails to renew
the registration for three consecutive years will be deactivated, that is, removed
from the register of students and will thus not be able to book for examinations
until the registration number is reactivated.
3.5.3 A student whose registration number is deactivated for failure to renew the
registration may apply for reactivation provided that if the application is accepted,
the student shall:
(a) Pay the registration reactivation fee.
(b) Pay three years of registration renewal fees.
3.6 Rules Governing the Conduct of Students in the Examination Room

Kasneb will conduct examinations on both computer-based and paper-based platforms.
The following rules mainly relate to paper-based examinations. Kasneb will be issuing
additional rules specific to computer-based examinations in due course.
3.6.1 Candidates should present themselves for the examination at least 30

minutes before the scheduled time for the commencement of the examination they
are taking.
3.6.2 A candidate who arrives half an hour or later after the commencement of the
examination will not be allowed to take the examination nor will a candidate be
permitted to leave the examination room until after the end of the first half hour
since the commencement of the examination.
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3.6.3 Each candidate is assigned a registration number upon registration as a student of
kasneb. The candidate must sit at the place indicated by that number in the
examination room. The registration number must be entered in the space provided
at the top right-hand corner of each answer sheet.
3.6.4 The name of the candidate must not appear anywhere on the answer sheet.
3.6.5 Each answer sheet has a serial number indicated on the top, left hand side of the
answer sheet. Each candidate must indicate the serial number of the answer sheet(s)
used for each examination paper in the signature register.
3.6.6 Examination stationery will be provided in the examination room, but candidates
must bring their own blue or black ink pens, pencils, and rulers.
3.6.7 Mobile phones are strictly not allowed in the examinations room.
3.6.8 No stationery whatsoever may be removed from the examination room.
3.6.9 Candidates must not carry the examination question papers from the examination
room.
3.6.10 Candidates are allowed to use calculators provided that such calculators are
noiseless, cordless and non-programmable.
3.6.11 Candidates will be required to positively identify themselves to the chief invigilator
by producing their student identification cards and the national identity cards. Non-
Kenyan candidates will be required to produce other relevant identification
documents such as passports.
3.6.12 Strict silence must be observed during the entire duration of the examination.
3.6.13 Candidates must not possess any notes, printed paper or books in the
examination room, but must leave any such material with the chief invigilator.
Candidates using clipboards must ensure that such clipboards have no writing on
them whatsoever.
3.6.14 Smoking is not allowed in the examination room.
3.6.15 Candidates must not collude in the examination room by exchanging notes or
keeping the answer booklet in such a way that another candidate can read or copy
from the booklet.
3.6.16 Impersonation in the examination room is not only a serious offence but also a
criminal offence.
3.6.17 During the course of the examination, no candidate may leave the examination
room without permission from the chief invigilator. Any candidate who does so will
not be allowed to return to the examination room.
3.6.18 Candidates who finish the paper before the chief invigilator announces the end of
the examination and wish to leave the examination room while the examination is
in progress must inform the invigilator and hand in their scripts to the invigilator
before leaving the examination room. However, no candidate will be allowed to
leave the examinations room during the last fifteen (15) minutes of the
examination.
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3.6.19 Candidates must not leave the examination room with any answer booklet or
answer sheets.
3.6.20 Candidates must not leave the examination room before their answer booklets
are collected by the invigilators.
3.6.21 Candidates must not write notes on the examination timetable (Authority to sit the
Examination).
3.6.22 Candidates with confirmed disabilities may apply to kasneb to be allowed extra
time during examinations. Such application should be made at least two months
prior to the examination.
3.6.23 Candidates must produce the timetables (Authority to sit the Examination) in order
to be allowed to take the examination. Candidates may download their timetables
(Authority to sit the Examination) from the kasneb website or through the e-kasneb.
The downloaded timetables may be used as authority to sit the examination.
3.7 Action for Breach of Examination Rules and Regulations

3.7.1 kasneb is mandated by the Accountants Act, 2008 under Section 17 (1)(e) to
investigate and determine cases involving indiscipline by students registered with
kasneb. Section 42 of the Act further defines examination offences that are
punishable under the law and the applicable penalties.
3.7.2 Disciplinary action will be taken against candidates who breach the examination
rules and regulations of kasneb. A breach of the examination rules and regulations
of kasneb shall include but is not limited to the following:
(a) Deficiency in identification.
(b) Impersonation.
(c) Collusion.
(d) Possession of a mobile phone in the examination room.
(e) Possession of notes in the examination room.
(f) Taking away answer booklets.
(g) Writing of names on the scripts.
(h) Possession of mobile phones in the examination room.
(i) Carrying the examination question papers from the examination room.
3.7.3 The action for breach of the examination rules and regulations of kasneb shall
include but not limited to the following:
(a) De-registration as a student of kasneb.
(b) Cancellation of registration number.
(c) Nullification of candidate’s results.
(d) Prohibition from taking examinations of kasneb.
(e) Written reprimand and warning.
3.7.4 Certain breaches of the rules and regulations amount to breaches of the law.
In such cases, candidates will be handed over to the police for investigations and
appropriate legal action.
Section 42 of the Accountants Act, 2008 provides that a person who:
(a) gains access to examinations materials and knowingly reveals the
contents, whether orally, in writing or through any other form, to an
unauthorised party, whether a candidate or not;
-xiv-
(b) wilfully and maliciously damages examinations materials;
(c) while not registered to take a particular examination, with intent to
impersonate, presents or attempts to present himself to take the part of an
enrolled candidate;
(d) presents a forged certificate to a prospective employer or to an institution
of learning with intent to gain employment or admission; or
(e) introduces unauthorised materials into the examinations room, whether in
writing or in any other form, whether a candidate or not, commits an offence
and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding three
years, or to a fine not exceeding one hundred thousand shillings, or to both.
-xv-
LEVEL ONE
PAPER NO. 1 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTING SYSTEM
Unit Description
This unit covers the competencies required to demonstrate foundational concepts of
computers, operate computer hardware, identify computer software, perform data
representation, identify computer networks, use the Internet and apply computer security.
Summary of Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate foundational concepts of computers
2. Operate computer hardware
3. Identify computer software
4. Perform data representation
5. Identify computer networks
6. Use the Internet
7. Apply computer security
CONTENT
Learning Outcomes, Content and Suggested Assessment Methods
Suggested
Learning Outcome Content Assessment
Methods
1. Demonstrate • Computing terms • Practical
foundational ̶ Computer • Oral questioning
concepts of ̶ Input • Written tests
computers ̶ Output
̶ Hardware
̶ Software
̶ Data
̶ Information
• Computer booting process
• Computer classification
̶ Size
̶ Type
̶ purpose
• Computer application areas
̶ Commerce
̶ Government
̶ Education
̶ Entertainment
̶ Science and research
-1-
̶ Communication
̶ Trading / Marketing
2. Operate computer • Computer components • Written tests

hardware ̶ Processor • Observation
̶ Input • Report writing
̶ Output • Practical
̶ Storage
• Peripheral devices
̶ Keyboard
̶ Mouse
̶ Monitor
3. Identify computer • Computer software • Practical
software ̶ System • Oral questioning
̶ Application • Short tests to
̶ Utility assess
• Functions of operating system underpinning
• File management using knowledge.
operating system
̶ Files
̶ Folders
• Types of operating system
̶ Batch Operating
System.
̶ Multitasking/Time
Sharing
̶ Multiprocessing
̶ Real Time
̶ Distributed
̶ Network
̶ Mobile
• Creating user accounts in a
stand alone computer
• Programming languages
̶ High level
̶ Low level
• Program translators
̶ Interpreters
̶ Compilers
̶ Assembler
• Software selection criteria
-2-
̶ Functionality and ease
of use
̶ Vendor viability
̶ Technology
̶ Cost
̶ Support and training
̶ Industry expertise
̶ Implementation
4. Perform Data • Number systems • Practical exercises
representation ̶ Decimal • Oral questioning
̶ Binary
̶ Octal
̶ Hexadecimal
• Data conversions of number
systems
• Boolean
̶ OR
̶ AND
̶ NOT
• Truth tables
5. Identify computer • Definition of key terms • Practical exercises
networks ̶ Computer network • Oral questioning
̶ Wide area network
̶ Local area network
• Types of computer networks
̶ LAN
̶ WAN
̶ PAN
• Components of computer
network
̶ Switch
̶ Cable
̶ Router
̶ Hub
6. Use the Internet • Definition of key terms • Practical exercises
̶ Internet • Oral questioning
̶ Browser
̶ World wide web
̶ App
̶ Domain
̶ URL
-3-
̶ Internet service provide
• Communicating with internet
̶ Email
̶ Instant messaging
̶ File transfer
• Safety of Internet
7. Apply Computer • Key terms used in computer • Practical exercises
Security security • Oral questioning
̶ Computer security
̶ Cloud
̶ Domain
̶ Virtual private network
̶ Exploit
̶ Breach
̶ Firewall
• Internet security
̶ Threats
̶ Countermeasures
Suggested Methods of Delivery

• Presentations and practical demonstrations by trainer;
• Guided learner activities and research to develop underpinning knowledge;
• Supervised activities and projects in a computer laboratory;
The delivery may also be supplemented and enhanced by the following, if the opportunity
allows:
• Visiting lecturer/trainer from the ICT sector;
• Industrial visits.
Recommended Resources
Tools
1. DVD containing operating system
Equipment
Computer
Materials and supplies
• Digital instructional material including DVDs and CDs
Reference materials
-4-
1. Laudon, K.C., & Laudon, J. P. (2020). Management Information Systems:
Managing the Digital Firm (16th edition). London: Pearson.
2. Rainer Jr. R. K., Prince, B. & Cegielski, C. (2019). Introduction to Information
Systems. (8th edition). London: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
3. Kroenke, D. M. & Boyle R. J. (2019): Experiencing MIS, (8th edition). Washington:
Pearson Education.
4. Kasneb e-learning resources (link on the kasneb website).
5. Kasneb approved study packs.
-5-
PAPER NO. 2 COMMUNICATION SKILLS AND ETHICS
Unit Description
This unit specifies competencies required to apply communication skills and ethics. It involves
demonstrating concepts of communication skills and ethics, applying writing skills in
communication, applying presentation skills, conducting interviews, conducting meetings,
applying ethics in communication and applying ICT skills in communication.

1. Demonstrate concepts of communication skills and ethics
2. Apply writing skills in communication
3. Apply presentation skills
4. Conduct interviews
5. Conduct meetings
6. Apply ethics in communication
7. Apply ICT skills in communication
CONTENT
Suggested
Methods
1. Demonstrate • Meaning of communication
concepts of • Purpose of communication • Oral questioning
Communication Skills • Elements of communication • Written tests
• Stages of the communication
process
̶ Source
̶ Encoding
̶ Channel
̶ Decoding
̶ Feedback
• Principles of effective
communication
• Formal and informal
communication channels
• Flow of formal communication
• Forms of communication
̶ Oral communication
̶ Non-verbal
communication
̶ Written communication
-6-
̶ Visual communication
̶ Audio-visual
communication
• Advantages and
disadvantages of various
forms of communication
• Effective listening
• Barriers to effective
communication
• Overcoming barriers to
effective communication
2. Apply writing skills • Steps in writing business • Written tests

in communication documents • Oral testing
̶ Prewriting
̶ Drafting
̶ Revising
̶ Editing
• Rules of writing business
documents
• Purposes of business
documents
̶ Business letters
̶ Business reports
̶ Memorandum
̶ Circulars
̶ Advertisements
̶ Notices
̶ E-mail
3. Apply • Definition of presentation

presentation skills • Uses of presentation • Written tests
• Presentation skills • Practical exercises
• Elements of a presentation • Demonstration
• Methods of delivering a
presentation
̶ Manuscript
̶ Memorised
̶ Extemporaneous
̶ Impromtu
• Basic parts of a presentation
-7-
• Importance of Audience analysis
in presentation
• Use of visual aids in presentation
4. Conduct • Meaning of; • Written tests
interviews ̶ Interview • Oral questioning
̶ Interviewer
̶ Interviewee
• Purpose of interviews
• Types of interviews
̶ Unstructured
̶ Semi-structured
̶ Structured
• Skills for effective interviewing
• Importance of non- verbal
communication in interviews
• Purpose of maintaining of
interview documents
5. Conduct meeting • Purpose of holding meetings in • Written tests

an organization • Oral questioning
• Types of meetings
̶ Formal
̶ informal
• Stages of conducting formal
meeting
• Importance of agenda of the
meeting
• Role of the chairperson and the
secretary in a meeting
• Importance of minutes
• Online meetings
̶ Video conferencing
̶ Teleconferencing
̶ Webinar
-8-
6. Apply ethics in • Meaning of ethics and integrity • Written tests
communication • Significance of ethics and • Oral questioning
integrity in communication • Short tests to
• Principles of ethical assess
communication underpinned
• Purpose of employeesꞋ code of knowledge.
ethics
• Factors influencing ethical
communication
• Ethical dilemmas in
communication
• Handling ethical dilemmas in
communication
7. Apply ICT skills in • Use of ICT skills in • Written tests

communication communication • Oral questioning
• Privacy and integrity of data in • Short tests to
communication assess
• Credibility and accuracy of underpinned
• information knowledge.
• Ethical regulations in ICT
• Advantages and disadvantages
of digital communication

• Role play
• Group discussions
• Presentations by both students and trainer;
• The delivery may also be supplemented and enhanced by the following, if the opportunity
allows
• Visiting media houses
Tools
Text books
Newspapers and Journals
Equipment
Computers
Mobile phones
-9-
• Sample of business documents and minute of the meetings
Reference materials
1. Warner, T. Communication Skills for Information Systems (Revised Edition).
Prentice Hall.
2. Sen. L. Communication Skills (2007). PHI Learning.
3. Payne, J.(Revised Edition). Communication for Personal and Professional
Applications. Perfection Learning.
4. Kasneb e-learning resources (link on the Kasneb website).
-10-
PAPER NO. 3 INFORMATION SYSTEMS SUPPORT AND INTEGRATION
Unit Description
This unit covers the competencies required to identify concepts of systems support and
integration, assemble and disassemble computer systems, provide ICT support, perform
troubleshooting, perform data protection and perform systems integration

1. Identify Concepts of systems support and integration
2. Assemble and disassemble computer systems
3. Provide ICT support
4. Perform troubleshooting
5. Perform data protection
6. Perform systems integration

Suggested
Methods
1. Identify Concepts of • Computer electronic • Practical
systems support and components • Oral questioning
integration ̶ The system unit • Written tests
̶ Secondary storage
̶ Input/output devices
̶ Communication
devices
• Computer maintenance tools
̶ Simple hand tools for
basic disassembly and
reassembly
procedures
̶ Diagnostics software
̶ A multimeter
̶ Chemicals (such as
contact cleaners),
component freeze
sprays, and
compressed air for
cleaning the system
̶ Foam swabs, or lint-
free cotton swabs if
foam isn’t available
̶ Memory module tester
-11-
• Standards operating and
maintenance procedures
• Safety precautions
2. Assemble and • Computer parts • Written tests

disassemble ̶ Processor • Observation
computer systems ̶ Motherboard • Report writing
• Cleaning computer parts • Practical
̶ Keyboard
̶ Mouse
̶ Display
• Identifying hardware problems
̶ Computer not starting
̶ Blank screen
̶ Frozen screen
̶ Slow computer
̶ Slow internet
• Upgrading hardware
• Managing electronic waste
3. Provide ICT support • Methods of computer support • Practical
̶ Online • Oral questioning
̶ Help desk • Short tests to
̶ Peer support assess
• Health and safety issues underpinning
• Training knowledge.
4. Perform • Fault finding • Practical exercises
troubleshooting ̶ Software tools • Oral questioning
̶ Hardware tools
• Repairing and maintaining
computer parts
5. Perform data • Levels of data security
protection • Type of data
̶ Public
̶ Internal
̶ Confidential
̶ Restricted
• Methods of data protection
̶ Access control
̶ Encryption
̶ Backup
-12-
• Data protection controls
̶ Authentication
̶ Access control
̶ Data masking
̶ Deletions and erasure
6. Perform systems • Definition of system integration
integration • Systems requirements
̶ Hardware
̶ Software
• System integration methods
̶ Integration by substitution
̶ Integration by parts
̶ Integration using
Trigonometric identities
̶ Integration of some
particular function
̶ Integration by partial
fraction

allows:
Tools
2. Screw
3. Multimeter
4. A tester
Equipment
Computer

-13-
Reference materials
1. Baltzan, P. (2019). Information System (5th edition). New York: McGraw-Hill
Education.
2. Haag, S., & Cummings, M. (2012). Managing Information Systems for the
Digital Age. Boston: Irwin/McGraw-Hill.
3. Turban, E. (2021). Information Technology Management (12th edition). New
Jersey: Wiley.
-14-
PAPER NO. 4 COMPUTER INFORMATION SYSTEMS APPLICATIONS
Unit Description
This unit covers competencies required to apply basic computer operation skills, perform word
processing, use spreadsheet, perform database management, apply desktop publishing and
use presentation software.

1. Apply basic computer operation skills
2. Perform word processing
3. Use spread sheet
4. Perform database management
5. Apply Desktop publishing
6. Use presentation software

Suggested
Methods
1. Apply basic computer • Installing application program • Practical
operation skills • Creating files and folders • Oral questioning
• Using storage devices • Written tests
̶ Cloud drive
̶ Flash disc
̶ DVD
̶ CD
• Connecting printer to a
computer
• Use network resources
̶ Files
̶ Folders
̶ Printers
• Protect files with password
2. Perform word • Common features of word • Written tests

processing processors • Observation
• Common toolbars in word • Report writing
processors • Practical
• Using templates
• Creating, saving and
retrieving existing documents
• Formatting and editing text
-15-
• Page setup features
• Manipulating a document
using shortcut keys
• Creating and formatting
tables
• Creating and formatting
images and drawing
• Inserting and editing
headers and footers
• Inserting footnote, endnotes,
citation and bibliography
• Proofreading tools
• Using mail merge tool
• Tracking changes and
comments
• Inserting and manipulating
shapes, clipart, pictures,
graphics in word processing
• Converting documents using
different word processors
• Generating table of content,
list of figures and list of tables
• Automating simple tasks
• Protecting documents with
passwords
• Printing documents
3. Use spread sheet • Common features of • Practical

spreadsheets • Oral questioning
• Concepts of cells, • Short tests to
worksheets and workbooks assess
• Creating, saving and underpinning
retrieving workbooks knowledge.
• Cell editing and navigation
• Formatting worksheets
• Using formulae and functions
• Manipulating data using
different cell referencing
methods
-16-
• Sorting, filtering and data
validation
• Analysing data using “what if”
analysis
• Freezing and unfreezing
pane
• Creating and manipulating
charts/graphs including pivot
tables
• Summarizing, consolidating
and outlining data
• Protecting and sharing
workbooks
• Printing worksheets
4. Apply database • Overview of database concepts • Practical exercises
management • Common features of a database • Oral questioning
• Creating, saving and retrieving
databases
• Identifying tables, fields, data
types and records
• Establishing relationships
between tables
• Creating forms and queries
• Data manipulation in database
applications
• Data sorting and filtering
• Adding charts, diagrams, tables
and attachments
• Securing a database
• Configuring database start-up
options
• Printing from a database
5. Apply Desktop • Overview of desktop publishing • Practical exercises

publishing software • Oral questioning
• Common features of desktop
publishing software
-17-
• Creating different types of
publications
• Creating, saving and retrieving
publications
• Setting page layout
• Using frames
• Typing and manipulating text
• Identifying and using various
icons in toolbars of the program
including toolbox
• Drawing and manipulating
various shapes
• Inserting and using the colour
palette
• Inserting and manipulating
graphics
• Importing and exporting files
• Setting borders
• Using merge tool
• Working with tables
• Linking and embedding
• Printing a publication
6. Use presentation • Common features of • Practical exercises

software presentation applications • Oral questioning
• Working with master slides and
templates
• Creating presentations from
scratch
• Inserting a slide, typing and
formatting text in a slide
• Importing and exporting content
• Editing slide content
• Drawing and formatting various
objects
• Working with graphics and
charts
• Inserting and formatting images
• Animation effects
-18-
• Reviewing presentation
• Saving, copying and deleting
slides
• Presentation views
• Collaboration in creating
presentations
• Printing handouts and slides

allows:
Tools
Equipment
Computer
Reference materials
1. Laudon, K.C., & Laudon, J. P. (2020). Management Information Systems:
Managing the Digital Firm (16th edition). London: Pearson.
2. Rainer Jr. R. K., Prince, B. & Cegielski, C. (2019). Introduction to Information
Systems. (8th edition). London: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
3. Kroenke, D. M. & Boyle R. J. (2019): Experiencing MIS, (8th edition). Washington:
Pearson Education.
4. Kasneb e-learning resources (link on the kasneb website).
-19-
LEVEL TWO
PAPER NO. 5 COMPUTER NETWORKS
Unit Description
This unit specifies competencies required to recognize foundations of graphic design. It
involves: applying Computing skills, Identifying key features of a computer network,
Identifying functions of a computer network and identifying designing a network.
1. Apply Computing skills
2. Identify key features of a computer network
3. Identify functions of a computer Network
4. Identify network protocols and standards
5. Design a Network
Suggested
Methods
1. Apply Computing • Definition of key terms • Practical
skills ̶ Computer • Oral questioning
̶ Data • Written tests
̶ Sharing
̶ Processing
̶ Information
• Computer hardware
̶ Peripheral devices
̶ Ports
̶ Cables
̶ Network card
• Computer software
̶ Operating system
̶ Networking software
̶ Drivers
• Application areas of computer
• Benefits of using computers
• Computer safety precautions
-20-
2. Identify key • Network topologies • Practical
features of ̶ Logical Topologies • Oral
a computer ̶ Physical Topologies questioning
network Written tests
̶ Mesh Topology.
̶ Star Topology.
̶ Bus Topology.
̶ Ring Topology.
̶ Hybrid Topology.
• Advantages and disadvantages of the
different network topologies
• Medium Access control,
CSMA/CD, Token, polling
• Network cables
̶ Unshielded Twisted Pair
(UTP) Cable.
̶ Shielded Twisted Pair
(STP) Cable.
̶ Coaxial Cable.
̶ Fibre Optic Cable.
• Network types
̶ Personal Area Network (PAN)
̶ Local Area Network (LAN)
̶ Wireless Local Area Network
(WLAN)
̶ Campus Area Network (CAN)
̶ Metropolitan Area Network
(MAN)
̶ Wide Area Network (WAN)
̶ Storage-Area Network (SAN)
̶ System-Area
̶ Network (also known as SAN)
-21-
3. Identify functions • Definition of terms • Practical
of a computer ̶ Computer network • Oral questioning
Network ̶ Internet • Written tests
̶ Intranet
̶ Extranet
̶ World Wide
Web(WWW)
̶ Node
̶ Server
• Components of a network
̶ Hub
̶ Bridge
̶ Switch
̶ Router
̶ Hub
̶ Network
Interface
Card(NIC)
• Transmission Media
̶ Guided
̶ Non-guided
• Functions of a computer network
-22-
4. Identify Computer ● Protocols • Practical
network protocols ̶ OSI model layers • Oral questioning
̶ TCP/IP protocol • Written tests
̶ OSI protocols and
TCP protocols
comparison
̶ HTTP
̶ HTTPs
̶ FTP
̶ POP3
̶ IMAP
̶ SMTP
̶ UDP
● IP addresses
̶ Types
■ Private
■ Public
■ APIPA
̶ IPv4 and IPV6
address types
̶ Unicast, broadcast and
multicast
̶ Sub netting IPv4 and
IPV6.
̶ Variable Length subnet
masking(IPv4)
̶ Routing Algorithms
● Subnet mask
Functions of network
components
-23-
5. Design a Network • Network Design • Practical
̶ Hierarchical • Oral questioning
model network
• Written tests
design
̶ Flat model
network design
̶ Modular
Network Design
̶ Campus Network
Design Topology
̶ Enterprise
Edge
Topology
• Network designing
• Availability
Manageability
• Network requirements
̶ Speed
̶ Reliability
̶ Scalability
̶ Fault tolerance
̶ Security
̶ Quality of service
• Network Design sketch
̶ Title
̶ Owner
̶ Author
̶ Symbols
̶ Key
• Explore CADE network design
tool

• Supervised activities and projects in a workshop;
The delivery may also be supplemented and enhanced by the following, if the
opportunity allows:
• Visiting network professional/trainer from the ICT sector;
-24-
Tools
1. Operating system
2. Network operating system
3. Crimping tool
4. Network tester
Equipment
Computer
• Digital instructional material including RJ45, twisted pair and Fibre optic cable
1. Stallings, W. (2013). Data and Computer Communications (10th edition). Pearson.

2. Limoncelli, T., Hogan, C., & Chalup, S. (2016). Practice of System and Network Administration
(3rd edition). New Jersey: Addison-Wesley.
3. Burgess, M. (Revised Edition). Principles of Network and System Administration. London:
John Wiley & Sons.
4. Tanenbaum, A., & Wetherall, D. (2011). Computer Networks (5th edition). Boston: Prentice
Hall.
-25-
PAPER NO. 6 NETWORK OPERATING SYSTEMS
Unit Description
This unit covers competencies required to install a network operating system. It

involves identifying key concepts of network operating systems, installing an
appropriate network operating system and configuring network operating system.

1. Identify key concepts of Network operating systems
2. Installing an appropriate network operating system
3. Configuring network operating system.
Suggested
Methods
1. Identify key • Definition of Key terms • Practical
concepts of • Network • Oral questioning
Network operating system • Written tests
operating • Server
systems
• Server roles
• Terminal
• Types of network operating
system
̶ Client server systems
̶ Peer-to-peer
network operating
system
• Features of networking
operating system
̶ Multiprocessing.
̶ Resource sharing.
̶ Network security
̶ Directory
̶ Backup and web
services
̶ Internetworking
-26-
2. Installing an • Definition of key terms • Practical
appropriate  Disk formatting • Oral questioning
network ̶ Disk partitioning • Written tests
operating system ̶ Installation
̶ Configuration
̶ Customizing
the operating
system
• Types of operating systems
̶ Peer to peer
̶ Client / server
• System requirements for
a network operating
system
• Computers
̶ Server class
̶ Desktop computer
• Factors in choosing
network operating system
̶ Terminals
̶ Number of users
̶ Price consideration
̶ Security
 Passwords
 Firewall
 Smart cards
 Biometrics
 Performance
 Factors
affecting
performance
 Network
load
balancing
 Prioritising tasks
 Scheduling tasks
• Network infrastructure
• Types of installation
• Attended installation
-27-
 Silent installation
 Unattended installation
 Headless installation
 Scheduled or
automated installation
 Clean installation
 Network installation
• Methods of network operating
system installation
 New Installation
 Upgrade
 Multi-boot
 Virtualization
• Installation of network operating
system
• Servers installation
• Server upgrading
• Migrating roles between servers
 Installation
 License conversion
 Creating
deployment folder
• Moving the roles
• Network operating system
configuration principles
• Configuration tools
 Graphical user
interface(GUI)
 Command line
Interface(CLI)
 PowerShell
• Network environment
• Active directory installation
 Users
 Computers
• Active directory organization
 Groups
 Organization units
Group policy
-28-
3. Configure a  Sites • Practical
network  Domains • Oral questioning
operating System • Organization units • Written tests
• Windows server roles
 Active directory
 Domain Name
System (DNS)
Server
 Dynamic Host
Configuration
Protocol (DHCP)
Server
 File Services Server
 Domain Name
System (DNS)
Server
 Web and Application
Servers

opportunity allows:
-29-
Tools
1. Operating system
3. Crimping tool
4. Network tester
Equipment
Computer
Scanner
Reference materials
John Wiley & Sons.
Hall.
-30-
PAPER NO. 7 WINDOWS SERVER ROLES AND FEATURES
Unit Description
This unit covers the competencies required to configure a network. It involves identifying
network components, connecting network components, configuring network components,
Implement virtualization and testing the network.

1. Identify network components
2. Connect network components
3. Configure network components
4. Implement virtualization
5. Test the network
Suggested
Methods
1. Identify network • Definition of key terms • Practical
components  Network operating system • Oral questioning
 Desktop operating system • Written tests
 Server
 Server roles
• The network components

 Classification
 Selection
 Acquisition
• Network operating requirements

 RAM
 Secondary storage
 Static IP
 Network speed
and Redundancy
-31-
2. Connect network • Devices and tools Collecting • Practical
components • Network Devices preparation • Oral questioning
• Network component Connection • Written tests
 Connect
wireless
interface cards
 Devices connection
 Switch
 Router
 Workstations
 Servers
 Cables
3. Configure network • Disk and data • Practical
components storage • Oral questioning
Management
• Written tests
 Formatting
 Partitioning
 Disk quotas
 Disk cleaning
• Server configuration
 Language
 Product Key
 Password
 Server name
 Protocols
 Ports
 Firewall
 Network sharing.
 IP addresses
• Connecting to other server
• Network operating
system administration
• Accounts creation
and management
 Creation
 Authentication
 Permissions
 Editing
 Deleting
• File access management
 Creating
 Permissions
 Editing
 Sharing
 Backup
-32-
 Restoration
 Recovery
• Printers
management
Implementation
 Choosing
 Installation
 Configuration
 Management
4. Implement • Virtual machine • Practical
virtualization  Definition • Oral questioning
 Types • Written tests
 Installation
 Storage
 Network
• Hyper-V role
• Snapshots
• Physical to virtual
machine conversion
 Configure
virtual machine.
 Converts disks
 Load the
converted disks
 Run the virtual machine
5. Testing the • Network testing tools • Practical

network  Command • Oral questioning
 Graphical user • Written tests
interface (GUI) tools
 Physical tools
• Network testing
 Component testing
 Connectivity testing
 Network testing
 Network Testing
• Network Testing
Documentation
-33-
opportunity allows:
Tools
1. Operating system
3. Crimping tool
4. Network tester
Equipment
Computer
Scanner
Reference materials
John Wiley & Sons.
Hall.
-34-
PAPER NO. 9: NETWORK SECURITY
Unit Description
This unit covers the competencies required to implement network security. It involves
identifying foundational features of network security, establishing a network
framework, deploying network security tools and techniques and testing network
vulnerability.

1. Identify foundational features of network security
2. Establish a network security framework
3. Deploy network security tools and techniques
4. Test network vulnerability
Suggested
Methods
1. Identify • Definition of key terms • Practical
foundational  Security • Oral questioning
features of network  Vulnerability • Written tests
security  Attack
• Importance of network security
• Types of network security
 Access control
 Antivirus
 Application security
 Behavioural analytics
 Data loss prevention
 Firewall
 Web security
 Network segmentation
• Types of network vulnerabilities
 Malware
 Social
engineering
attacks
-35-
 Outdated or
unpatched software
 Misconfigured firewalls
• Network security technologies
 Physical
 Technical
 Administrative
2. Establish a network • Definition of terms • Practical

security framework  Infrastructure • Oral questioning
 Policy • Written tests
 Security policy
• Network risk analysis
 Vulnerability Scan
 Penetration test
 Risk analysis
• Network security structure
 Security
policy
management
 Network
intrusion
management
 Security operation
 Identity and
access
management
• Network security framework
• Network security policy
-36-
3. Deploy network • Network security tools • Practical
security solutions • Network security techniques • Oral questioning
• Physical control measures • Written tests
 Access controls
 Exterior lights
 Surveillance
 Perimeter wall
• Logical security control measures

 Security policy
 Password policy
 Change
management
policy
 Media disposal
policy
 Data retention
policy
 Antivirus
 Firewall
 Virtual private network
 Employee training
Encryption
-37-
4. Test network • Network testing plan • Practical
vulnerability  Define objectives. • Oral questioning
 Acceptable criteria • Written tests
 Procedure
 Responsibilities
 Schedule
• Levels of network vulnerability

 Internal
 External
• Network Security
 Internal threats
and external
threats
 Social
engineering
techniques
 Cryptography
using openPGP
tool
 Configuring
network security
 Support for Smart Grid
• Network security
penetration testing
 Planning and
reconnaissance
 Scanning
 Gaining Access
 Maintaining access
 Analysis

opportunity allows:
-38-
Tools
1. Operating system
3. Crimping tool
4. Network tester
Equipment
Computer
Scanner
Reference materials
2. Limoncelli, T., Hogan, C., & Chalup, S. (2016). Practice of System and Network
Administration (3rd edition). New Jersey: Addison-Wesley.
3. Burgess, M. (2004). Principles of Network and System Administration. London: John Wiley
& Sons.
Hall.
-39-
LEVEL THREE
PAPER NO. 9 NETWORK TROUBLESHOOTING

Unit Description
This unit covers competencies required to identify common network issues, handling
network issues and developing and documenting a network.

1. Identify common network issues
2. Handle network issues
3. Develop and document a network
Suggested
Methods
1. Identify common • Practical
network issues • Procedures for network • Oral questioning
problem diagnosis • Written tests
 Check the hardware
 Use ipconfig
 Use ping and tracert
 Perform a DNS check
 Contact the ISP
 Check on virus
and malware
protection.
 Review system logs
• Fault determination
and identification
 Fault reporting
 Fault detection
 Fault Classification
 Fault location
• Isolate the problem
• Fault solving
• Testing
-40-
2. Handle network • Key terms are defined • Practical
issues  Troubleshooting • Oral questioning
 Diagnosis • Written tests
 Network maintenance
• Network troubleshooting tools
 Ping
 Tracert/traceroute
 Ipconfig/ifconfig
 Nslookup
 Netstat
• Network routine tasks
3. Develop and • Network infrastructure • Practical
document a • NetBrain documenting tools • Oral questioning
network
• Network Documentation • Written tests

opportunity allows:
Tools
1. Operating system
3. Crimping tool
4. Network tester
Equipment
Computer
Scanner
-41-
Reference materials
& Sons.
Hall.
-42-
PAER NO. 10 NETWORK SETUP
Unit Description
This unit covers the competencies required for set up server roles and features it
involves identifying key concepts of a network server, configuring server roles and
features and administering server roles and features.

1. Identify key concepts of a network server
2. Configure server roles and features
3. Administer server roles and features
Suggested
Methods
1. Identify key • Network servers • Practical
concepts of a  Microsoft Windows • Oral questioning
network server server • Written tests
 Unix server
 Linux server.
• Network
servers
comparison
 Features
 Functionality
 Suitability
• Server roles
 Active directory.
 Proxy server.
 Web server.
 File server.
 DHCP
 DNS
• Hardware and software
requirements for each
role
-43-
2. Configuring server • Server roles • Practical
roles and features identification and • Oral questioning
selection • Written tests
• Server roles
 Configuration
 Migration
3. Administer server • Network administering • Practical
roles and  Operating systems • Oral questioning
features  IP addressing • Written tests
 Wireless
network cards
• Network address
sub netting
 Designing subnets
 Subnet masks
 Advantages
of subnetting
 Disadvantages
of subnetting
• Server monitoring
• Backup
 Full backup
 Incremental backup
 Differential backup
• Restoring
• Recovery

opportunity allows:
-44-
Tools
1. Operating system
3. Crimping tool
4. Network tester
Equipment
Computer
Scanner
Reference materials
& Sons.
Hall.
-45-
PAPER NO. 11: SERVER MAINTAINANCE
Unit Description
This unit covers the competencies required to select server maintenance methods,
procedures and tools, apply server maintenance procedures and conduct server monitoring
1. Select server maintenance methods, procedures and tools

2. Apply server maintenance procedures
3. Conduct server monitoring
4. Create monitoring and maintenance document

Suggested
Methods
• Definition of terms • Practical
1. Select server  Disaster • Oral questioning
maintenance
 Loss • Written tests
methods, procedures
and tools  Restore
 Recover
 Maintenance
• Server maintenance
 Types
 Tools
• Server resources
 Network
 Disks
 Time
 Memory
 Devices
• Server
maintenance
techniques
• Corrective
maintenance
• Preventive
maintenance
• Predictive
maintenance
• Periodic
• Maintenance
-46-
• Network maintenance
 Procedures
and standards
 Software
update
services
 Monitoring
server
performance
 Disaster recovery
 Ensuring
Compliance
• Maintenance procedures
2. Apply server • Server maintenance • Practical

maintenance  Resources • Oral questioning
procedures  Tools • Written tests
• Network maintenance
tasks and procedure
 Create a plan.
 Troubleshooting
Network Issues
 Installing
and
Configuring
Products
 Network
Performance
Monitoring and
Improving
3. Conduct server • Monitoring tools • Practical

monitoring  GUI • Oral questioning
 CLI • Written tests
 PowerShell
-47-
• Network monitoring
techniques
• Network
Management
techniques
• Third party server
monitoring
software
• Logs and audit trails
4. Create monitoring • Server hardware document • Practical
and maintenance • Server back-up document • Oral questioning
document
• Server Monitoring and • Written tests
maintenance
document

opportunity allows:
Tools
1. Operating system
3. Crimping tool
4. Network tester
Equipment
Computer
Scanner
Reference materials
Limoncelli T. et al (2007), Practice of System and Network Administration, 2nd edition, Pearson
Education publishers
-48-
& Sons.
Hall.
-49-

Dcnsa Syllabus Final September 2021

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DIPLOMA IN COMPUTER NETWORKS AND SYSTEMS

All rights reserved. No part of this booklet may be reproduced, distributed,

Dr Julius M. Muia, PhD, CBS

Dr Nicholas K. Letting’, PhD, EBS

Paper No. 1 Introduction to Computing Systems 1

Paper No. 2 Communication Skills and Ethics 6

Paper No. 3 Information Systems Support and Integration 11

Paper No. 4 Computer Information Systems Applications 15

Paper No. 6 Network Operating Systems 26

Paper No. 7 Windows Server Roles and Features 31

Paper No. 8 Networking Security 35

Paper No. 9 Network Troubleshooting 40

Paper No. 10 Network set-up 43

Paper No. 11 Server Maintenance 46

(c) The Investment and Financial Analysts Act, No. 13 of 2015.

1.2 Functions of kasneb

1.3 Professional Institutes/Registration Board for Kasneb graduates

1.3.2 Institute of Certified Secretaries (ICS)

1.4.4 Core Values

(i) Vocational Certificate in Entrepreneurship and Innovation

(ii) Vocational Certificate in Graphic Design

(iii) Vocational Certificate in Information and Cyber Security

(iv) Vocational Certificate in Blockchain Technology

(b) Certificate in Accounting and Management Skills (CAMS) course

(c) Diploma Courses

(d) Professional Courses

The professional courses are administered at Foundation, Intermediate and Advanced

(i) Certified Public Accountants (CPA) course

(ii) Certified Secretaries (CS) course

(iii) Certified Investment and Financial Analysts (CIFA) course

(iv) Certified Credit Professionals (CCP) course

(v) Certified Information Systems Solutions Expert (CISSE) course

(e) Post-professional specialisation course

The minimum entry requirement to pursue the CFFE course is:

The course can be pursued through tuition-based learning or self-study.

(f) Examinations for holders of foreign qualifications wishing to be registered and

3.0 EXAMINATION RULES AND REGULATIONS

3.4 Progression Rule

3.5 Registration Renewal

3.6 Rules Governing the Conduct of Students in the Examination Room

3.6.1 Candidates should present themselves for the examination at least 30

3.7 Action for Breach of Examination Rules and Regulations

PAPER NO. 1 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTING SYSTEM

Summary of Learning Outcomes

2. Operate computer • Computer components • Written tests

Suggested Methods of Delivery

Summary of Learning Outcomes

2. Apply writing skills • Steps in writing business • Written tests

3. Apply • Definition of presentation

5. Conduct meeting • Purpose of holding meetings in • Written tests

7. Apply ICT skills in • Use of ICT skills in • Written tests

Suggested Methods of Delivery

Materials and supplies

Summary of Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes, Content and Suggested Assessment Methods

2. Assemble and • Computer parts • Written tests

Suggested Methods of Delivery

Materials and supplies

Summary of Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes, Content and Suggested Assessment Methods