Standards in this Framework
| Standard | Description |
|---|---|
| 1.1.1 | Understand and follow an Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) |
| 1.1.2 | Explain the difference between legal and ethical |
| 1.1.3 | Explain how some online behaviors can be harmful personally and to a business (Pornography, social networking, gaming, pirating software, illegal hacking) |
| 1.1.4 | Follow copyright and fair use guidelines |
| 1.2.1 | Viruses, spoofing, phishing, cookies, spam, invasion of privacy, computer hacking, etc. |
| 1.2.2 | Explain different kinds of anti-virus software and how they work |
| 1.3.1 | Recognize and explain functions of basic computer components: RAM (Random Access Memory), CPU/APU (x86 [32-bit and 64-bit], ARM), Graphics Card, Physical Storage, Motherboard |
| 1.3.2 | Explain the basics of computing: input, processing, output, storage |
| 1.4.1 | Identify notational systems: binary, hexadecimal, decimal, octal |
| 1.4.2 | Convert numbers between 0 to 128 from decimal to binary and vice-versa |
| 1.4.3 | Compare standard units of measure: Storage: Bit, Byte, KB, MB, GB, TB, PB; Processing Speed: MHz, GHz |
| 1.5.1 | Compare storage types: volatile vs. non-volatile, optical, local storage (external flash, RAM, ROM, storage drive, magnetic disks/HDD, SSD, NVMe), and local network storage (NAS, file server) |
| 1.6.1 | Methodology: Identify the problem; Establish a theory of probable cause; Test the theory to determine the cause; Establish a plan of action and implement the solution; Verify full system functionality and implement preventive measures; Document findings, actions, and outcomes |
| 1.6.2 | Gather data and determine when to escalate issues |
| 1.PS.1 | Define and demonstrate ethical behavior. |
| 1.PS.2 | Demonstrated proper handling techniques of hardware components. |
| 1.PS.3 | Disassemble and rebuild a computer system either individually, in teams, or with the instructor. |
| 2.1.1 | Install and configure Windows, including user accounts, basic desktop settings (e.g., Start menu, display, taskbar), and accessibility options |
| 2.1.2 | Manage OS and device driver updates |
| 2.1.3 | Explain the purpose of the Windows Registry |
| 2.1.4 | Identify core OS components, including file systems, utilities (such as services and drivers), interfaces (such as GUI and command line), and permissions |
| 2.2.1 | Manage application installations, including permissions and removal |
| 2.2.2 | Understand the purpose and proper use of productivity, collaboration, web browsing, and remote support software |
| 2.2.3 | Configure web browser features, including private browsing, extensions/add ons, cache clearing, and password management |
| 2.3.1 | Utilize basic Windows troubleshooting tools: Event Viewer, Task Manager, Defragment/Optimize Drive |
| 2.3.2 | Troubleshoot OS and application issues: reset/roll back OS, advanced startup (System repair), Safe Mode features, identify app compatibility, resolve Store app installation, reinstall/repair desktop apps, troubleshoot services, use Task Manager (turn off startup app, end task, manage service) |
| 2.3.3 | Manage and troubleshoot hardware/peripherals: utilize hardware troubleshooting methods (connections, ports, power), update/roll back drivers, uninstall/reinstall a device to reconfigure drivers, and understand the purpose and capabilities of Device Manager/Disk Management |
| 2.4.1 | Explore certification options in Systems Administration & IT Support |
| 2.4.2 | Explore education and work experience that can lead to System Administration & IT Support careers |
| 2.4.3 | Identify Systems Administration career opportunities (Systems Administrator, IT Support, Cloud Administrator, DevOps Engineer, etc). and the roles of each |
| 2.PS.1 | Install, configure, and manage operating systems and software applications by adjusting system settings, managing updates and drivers, and applying best practices for software use and browser configuration. |
| 2.PS.2 | Troubleshoot system and application issues using built-in tools and methods, and demonstrate the ability to manage hardware and peripheral devices through effective diagnostic and repair techniques. |
| 3.1.1 | Compare peripheral connection types: HDMI (full, mini, micro), DisplayPort (full, mini), DVI family, VGA, USB (A, mini-A, micro-A, B, mini-B, micro-B, C, 3.0), Thunderbolt, S/PDIF Optical, and aux audio cable, as well as conversion types |
| 3.1.2 | Compare input/output device interfaces: Networking (Wired): Ethernet (RJ45), Fiber (SFP); Networking (Wireless): Bluetooth, NFC, 802.11X; Peripheral Devices: USB (A/B/C), Thunderbolt, Bluetooth, RF, Lightning; Display Ports (Monitors): VGA, DVI, HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C; |
| 3.2.1 | Configure projection/display properties, including wireless casting, orientation, duplication vs. extension, resolution, and aspect ratio |
| 3.2.2 | Install and configure standard peripheral devices, including printers, scanners, keyboards, mice, webcams, external drives, speakers/headsets, and displays (such as Smart TVs, projectors, and monitors) |
| 3.2.3 | Understand the various peripheral installation types, including plug-and-play versus driver installation, additional steps required, IP-based peripherals, and web-based configuration steps |
| 3.PS.1 | Identify and compare various peripheral connection types and device interfaces—including display, audio, and networking ports—and explain their functions and compatibility across different technologies. |
| 3.PS.2 | Install and configure peripheral devices and display systems by applying appropriate setup procedures, adjusting projection properties, and troubleshooting installation types such as plug-and-play, driver-based, and IP/web-based configurations. |
| 4.1.1 | Network devices such as smartphones, tablets, e-readers, laptops, workstations, servers, gaming consoles, VR/AR systems, etc. |
| 4.1.2 | Internet of Things (IoT) devices such as home appliances, automation, thermostats, etc. |
| 4.1.3 | Network hardware such as modems, routers, switches, access points, firewalls, network interface cards (NIC) |
| 4.1.4 | Explore configuration of these various devices |
| 4.2.1 | Understand and describe how the Internet is a network system |
| 4.2.2 | Compare common internet service types: fiber optic, cable, DSL, wireless (RF, satellite, cellular) |
| 4.2.3 | Identify & describe network medium types (twisted pair, unshielded twisted pair (UTP), CAT 6, wireless, Bluetooth, fiber optic, cellular LTE, satellites) |
| 4.2.4 | Describe how packets are used to send and receive data |
| 4.2.5 | Understand that network protocols are a set of rules |
| 4.2.6 | Identify common network protocols (TCP/IP, FTP, HTTP, HTTPS, etc.) |
| 4.2.7 | Identify and describe common networking models: client/server, peer-to-peer, star, mesh, etc. |
| 4.2.8 | Examine the uses of a LAN (local area network), WAN (wide area network), and MAN (metropolitan area network) |
| 4.2.9 | Troubleshoot wired and wireless network connections using tools like ipconfig and ping |
| 4.3.1 | Compare and contrast wired, wireless, and cell networks |
| 4.3.2 | Explain basic small wireless network capabilities |
| 4.3.3 | Explore and understand wireless technologies: Wireless access points, bridges, extenders and Wireless LAN Controllers |
| 4.3.4 | Explore and understand wireless technologies: 802.11 standards, including n/ac/ax |
| 4.3.5 | Explore and understand wireless technologies: Speed & interference/attenuation considerations, including band options & ramifications (2.4GHz, 5GHz, 6GHz) |
| 4.4.1 | Compare and understand Virtualization and Cloud technologies: Hypervisor vs Virtual Machine (Guest OS) |
| 4.4.2 | Compare and understand Virtualization and Cloud technologies: Cloud Computing Services: SaaS, PaaS, IaaS (define these in the update) |
| 4.4.3 | Compare and understand Virtualization and Cloud technologies: Deployment models: cloud, hybrid, and on-premises |
| 4.4.4 | Utilize a local or online sandbox environment like cyber.org to explore virtualization |
| 4.5.1 | Explore certification options in Networking |
| 4.5.2 | Explore education and work experience that can lead to IT Network careers |
| 4.5.3 | Identify Networking career opportunities (Network Administration, Network Engineer, Network Architect, VoIP Engineer, etc.) and the roles of each. |
| 4.PS.1 | Demonstrate an understanding of network systems by identifying and configuring various devices and technologies—including hardware, wireless standards, and cloud services—and explaining their roles in modern communication networks. |
| 4.PS.2 | Apply foundational networking concepts to troubleshoot connections, compare service types and protocols, and explore career pathways in IT networking through hands-on activities and research-based presentations. |
| 5.1.1 | Explain the Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability (CIA) Triad |
| 5.1.2 | Describe physical security deterrents controls like fencing, cameras, keycard systems, biometric scanners, etc. |
| 5.1.3 | Describe key security threats like malware (viruses, ransomware), social engineering (phishing) and physical attacks |
| 5.1.4 | Recognize the global nature of the Internet and its associated data protection challenges |
| 5.1.5 | Understand the role of ethics in cybersecurity |
| 5.2.1 | Describe user authentication methods, including multifactor authentication and biometrics |
| 5.2.2 | Explain password best practices (complexity, length, history) |
| 5.2.3 | Understand permissions and the principle of least privilege |
| 5.2.4 | Manage User Account Control (UAC) settings |
| 5.3.1 | Understand the concepts in “Computational Thinking” |
| 5.3.2 | Implement anti-malware and configure firewall settings |
| 5.3.3 | Secure wireless networks by changing SSID and passwords, and understanding encryption types (WPA, WPA2, WPA3) |
| 5.3.4 | Identify uses of encryption for data at rest and in transit (HTTPS, VPN) |
| 5.3.5 | Explain data backup concepts and privacy considerations (PII, GDPR) |
| 5.3.6 | Understand safe browsing practices (certificates) |
| 5.3.7 | Explain the purpose of firmware and read-only memory (ROM) and describe how they support the basic operation of computing devices. |
| 5.4.1 | Apply a basic troubleshooting methodology (identify the problem, establish a theory, test theory, implement solution, verify system functionality, document results) |
| 5.4.2 | Describe how to respond to malware and social engineering attacks |
| 5.4.3 | Participate in a cybersecurity activity such as Capture the Flag challenges, table top attack scenario, or other online simulation |
| 5.5.1 | Explore certification options in Cybersecurity |
| 5.5.2 | Explore education and work experience that can lead to Cybersecurity careers |
| 5.5.3 | Identify Cybersecurity career opportunities (Network Security, Security Engineer, Forensic Analyst, Penetration Tester, etc.) and the roles of each |
| 5.PS.1 | Apply cybersecurity principles to identify threats, manage authentication, secure systems, and respond to incidents using tools and techniques such as firewalls, encryption, and troubleshooting methodologies. |
| 5.PS.2 | Demonstrate responsible digital practices by evaluating ethical considerations, understanding global data protection challenges, and exploring career pathways and certifications in cybersecurity. |
| 6.1.1 | Describe the difference between for interpreted, compiled, markup, scripting, and assembly languages |
| 6.1.2 | Identify basic kinds of programming (modular, procedure, & object-oriented programming (OOP)) |
| 6.2.1 | Understand and use different data types, including char, strings, numbers (integers, floats), and Boolean |
| 6.2.2 | Understand the use of variables, constants, arrays, functions, loops, sequential, and objects |
| 6.2.3 | Write a basic program utilizing pseudocode and a flowchart |
| 6.3.1 | Understand and use good principles of design for the user experience (UX) and the user interface (UI) |
| 6.3.2 | Understand and use programming conventions (indentation, capitalization, etc.) |
| 6.3.3 | Understand and use: inputs, outputs, variables, data types, operators, Booleans, loops, functions, comments, etc. |
| 6.3.4 | Publish or share your project with others |
| 6.4.1 | Identify several databases that students may be a part of (school SIS (grading system), bank, SSN, IRS, state driver’s license) |
| 6.4.2 | Identify several databases that can be accessed on the Internet (search engines, white pages, Facebook, real estate listings) |
| 6.4.3 | Understand the value of databases, including monetization, reporting, and data-driven decisions |
| 6.4.4 | Understand basic vocabulary associated with a database (relational vs. non-relational, flat-file, table, rows, record, field, query, select, sort, report, primary/foreign keys) |
| 6.4.5 | Create a flat file database, enter, edit, and delete records |
| 6.5.1 | Understand and describe the differences between the types of Artificial Intelligence (AI): chatbots, assistants, and generative AI |
| 6.5.2 | Discuss the future of AI, including its impact on society, careers, and ethical concerns |
| 6.5.3 | Discuss prompting and how your prompt will affect your outcome |
| 6.6.1 | Explore certification options in Software and Application Development. |
| 6.6.2 | Explore education and work experience that can lead to Software and Application Development careers. |
| 6.6.3 | Identify Software and Application Development career opportunities (Software Developer/Engineer, Database Administrator, Video Game Developer, AI Product Manager, etc.), the roles of each job, and the durable skills that are necessary. (ie: Team player, reliability, communication, punctuality, etc.) |
| 6.PS.1 | Design and develop basic software applications by applying programming principles, using appropriate languages and tools, and incorporating user interface and experiencing best practices. |
| 6.PS.2 | Demonstrate a foundational understanding of databases and artificial intelligence by creating and interacting with data systems and evaluating the role of AI in technology and society. |
