Cisco Certified Architect (CCAr)
1 **Foundation**
1-1 **Networking Fundamentals**
1-1 1 OSI and TCPIP Models
1-1 2 Network Devices and Their Functions
1-1 3 IP Addressing and Subnetting
1-1 4 Routing and Switching Basics
1-1 5 Network Security Fundamentals
1-2 **Enterprise Architecture**
1-2 1 Enterprise Network Design Principles
1-2 2 Network Segmentation and Zoning
1-2 3 Network Services and Protocols
1-2 4 Network Management and Monitoring
1-2 5 Network Automation and Programmability
2 **Design**
2-1 **Network Design Methodologies**
2-1 1 Design Life Cycle
2-1 2 Requirements Gathering and Analysis
2-1 3 Design Documentation and Validation
2-1 4 Design Implementation and Testing
2-1 5 Design Maintenance and Optimization
2-2 **Enterprise Network Design**
2-2 1 Campus Network Design
2-2 2 Data Center Network Design
2-2 3 WAN Design
2-2 4 Wireless Network Design
2-2 5 Security Architecture Design
3 **Implementation**
3-1 **Network Implementation Planning**
3-1 1 Implementation Strategies
3-1 2 Resource Allocation and Scheduling
3-1 3 Risk Management and Mitigation
3-1 4 Change Management
3-1 5 Post-Implementation Review
3-2 **Network Services Implementation**
3-2 1 IP Address Management (IPAM)
3-2 2 DNS and DHCP Implementation
3-2 3 Network Access Control (NAC)
3-2 4 VPN and Remote Access Implementation
3-2 5 Network Security Services Implementation
4 **Operation**
4-1 **Network Operations Management**
4-1 1 Network Monitoring and Performance Management
4-1 2 Fault Management and Troubleshooting
4-1 3 Capacity Planning and Management
4-1 4 Network Change and Configuration Management
4-1 5 Network Compliance and Auditing
4-2 **Network Security Operations**
4-2 1 Incident Response and Management
4-2 2 Threat Detection and Mitigation
4-2 3 Security Information and Event Management (SIEM)
4-2 4 Vulnerability Management
4-2 5 Security Policy Enforcement and Monitoring
5 **Optimization**
5-1 **Network Optimization Techniques**
5-1 1 Traffic Engineering and Load Balancing
5-1 2 Quality of Service (QoS) Implementation
5-1 3 Network Performance Tuning
5-1 4 Energy Efficiency and Green Networking
5-1 5 Network Optimization Tools and Technologies
5-2 **Network Automation and Orchestration**
5-2 1 Network Programmability and Automation
5-2 2 Software-Defined Networking (SDN)
5-2 3 Network Function Virtualization (NFV)
5-2 4 Automation Tools and Frameworks
5-2 5 Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment (CICD) for Networks
6 **Leadership**
6-1 **Leadership and Management Skills**
6-1 1 Strategic Planning and Vision
6-1 2 Team Leadership and Development
6-1 3 Communication and Stakeholder Management
6-1 4 Financial Management and Budgeting
6-1 5 Project Management and Execution
6-2 **Professional Ethics and Standards**
6-2 1 Ethical Decision-Making
6-2 2 Industry Standards and Compliance
6-2 3 Intellectual Property and Licensing
6-2 4 Professional Development and Continuous Learning
6-2 5 Global and Cultural Awareness
3.1.2 Resource Allocation and Scheduling Explained

3.1.2 Resource Allocation and Scheduling Explained

Key Concepts

Resource Allocation and Scheduling are critical processes in network architecture that ensure efficient use of resources and timely project completion. Key concepts include:

Resource Identification

Resource Identification involves identifying all the resources required to complete a project. This includes hardware, software, human resources, and financial resources. Effective identification ensures that all necessary components are accounted for and available when needed.

An analogy for Resource Identification is preparing a shopping list before going to the grocery store. Just as a shopping list ensures you don't forget any items, Resource Identification ensures all project requirements are met.

Capacity Planning

Capacity Planning involves determining the optimal amount of resources needed to meet project demands. This includes forecasting future resource needs based on project timelines and workloads. Effective capacity planning ensures that resources are neither underutilized nor overburdened.

Think of Capacity Planning as planning a road trip. Just as you estimate fuel and rest stops, Capacity Planning estimates resource needs to ensure smooth project execution.

Prioritization

Prioritization involves ranking tasks and resources based on their importance and urgency. This ensures that critical tasks receive the necessary resources and attention. Prioritization helps in managing limited resources and meeting project deadlines.

An analogy for Prioritization is organizing a to-do list. Just as you prioritize important tasks, resource prioritization ensures critical project tasks are addressed first.

Scheduling Techniques

Scheduling Techniques involve creating a timeline for resource allocation and task completion. Common techniques include Gantt charts, Critical Path Method (CPM), and Program Evaluation Review Technique (PERT). These techniques help in visualizing project timelines and ensuring timely completion.

Think of Scheduling Techniques as creating a travel itinerary. Just as an itinerary ensures you visit all destinations on time, scheduling techniques ensure project tasks are completed on schedule.

Monitoring and Adjustment

Monitoring and Adjustment involve tracking resource usage and project progress to ensure alignment with the schedule. This includes making real-time adjustments to resource allocation and task priorities as needed. Effective monitoring and adjustment ensure project success and resource efficiency.

An analogy for Monitoring and Adjustment is driving a car. Just as you monitor the road and adjust your speed, Monitoring and Adjustment ensure project resources are used efficiently and deadlines are met.

Understanding Resource Allocation and Scheduling is crucial for managing network projects effectively. By mastering these concepts, network architects can ensure efficient resource use and timely project completion.