REAL SIMILAR EXAMPLE TASK 2

 THIS IS SORT OF USELESS BECAUSE I WILL NEED THE ANSWERS 

To achieve an **A* grade** and maximize marks (12/12) on **Task 2** of the T Level Technical Qualification in Digital Support Services Employer Set Project (ESP), you need to excel in the **recorded interview** (6 marks) and the **two emails** (6 marks combined: technical email to the line manager and non-technical email to the HR director). This response will provide a **comprehensive guide** for Task 2, including **all steps**, **specific questions to ask**, **exact content for deliverables**, **formatting details**, and **everything needed** to ensure a high-quality submission. The guide will be tailored to the NexaTech IT Solutions scenario, incorporating the nine issues from Task 1 (e.g., firewall, DHCP, security) and the Task 2 requirements from the provided document (tq-dss-cs-esp-p002588-task-2-v1-0 May25.pdf). Additionally, it will address your previous questions (e.g., DHCP, firewall issues) and ensure clarity for an A* grade.

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### Overview of Task 2

- **Objective**: Investigate NexaTech IT Solutions’ overall security, prepare for a 10-minute simulated interview with the IT manager (played by your tutor), and communicate findings via two emails—one technical (to the line manager) and one non-technical (to the HR director).

- **Total Marks**: 12 (6 for the interview, 6 for the emails).

- **Time Limit**: 2 hours 10 minutes, broken down as:

  - 1 hour: Prepare questions for the interview.

  - 10 minutes: Conduct the recorded interview.

  - 1 hour: Write and finalize both emails.

- **Deliverables** (Page 6):

  1. Audio recording of the interview (MP3 format).

  2. Technical email to the line manager (PDF, using email template).

  3. Non-technical email to the HR director (PDF, using email template).

- **File Naming**: Surname_Initial_student number_Task2 (e.g., Smith_J_123456789_Task2.mp3 for audio, Smith_J_123456789_Task2.pdf for emails).

- **Presentation Guidelines** (Page 4):

  - Arial 12pt, black font for emails.

  - PDFs for emails, MP3 for audio.

  - Include page numbers (Page X of Y) in PDFs.

  - Complete and sign the External Assessment Cover Sheet (EACS).

- **A* Criteria**:

  - Ask insightful, relevant questions in the interview that uncover security weaknesses (user access, remote access, data protection).

  - Conduct a professional, clear, and focused interview within 10 minutes.

  - Write a detailed, technical email to the line manager with questions, responses, and key issues.

  - Write a clear, non-technical email to the HR director that simplifies issues for the board.

  - Follow formatting and submission guidelines precisely.

  - Demonstrate excellent English skills (4 marks across Tasks 2–4).

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### Task 2 Context and Integration with Task 1

Task 2 follows Task 1, where you resolved initial issues at NexaTech IT Solutions, a company that grew from 5 to 25 staff but still uses outdated home office equipment (SOHO router, shared admin accounts, VPN) (Task 2, Page 5). Task 2 focuses on **overall security**, building on the nine issues identified in Task 1:

1. **NAS Access (Firewall)**: Blocked SMB traffic (ports 139/445) from user IPs (192.168.1.1–192.168.1.200) to NAS (192.168.1.253).

2. **Printer Disappearance (DHCP)**: Dynamic IP assignment causes printer connectivity issues.

3. **Email Connectivity (Firewall)**: Missing IMAPS (993)/SMTPS (587) rules or DNS issues block office email.

4. **Weak SOHO Router Security**: Default credentials (admin/admin).

5. **Insecure Wireless Network**: Weak WPA passphrase (LMSWireless1).

6. **Shared NAS Account**: Single admin account (LMSAdmin/Pa\$\$w0rd).

7. **Local Admin Privileges**: All users have admin rights, risking unauthorized software.

8. **Weak VPN Security**: No MFA, complex setup.

9. **No Monitoring/Logging**: No firewall or router logging.

Your Task 2 interview questions and emails should address these issues while exploring broader security concerns (user access control, remote access, data protection) as per the scenario (Page 5).

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### Step-by-Step Guide for Task 2 (A* Grade)

#### 1. Prepare for the Interview (1 Hour, 6 Marks)

**Objective**: Prepare a list of **6–8 key questions** to ask the IT manager during a 10-minute simulated interview to identify security weaknesses and gather information for recommendations.

##### What to Do

- **Draft Questions**:

  - Create 6–8 open-ended questions covering **user access control**, **remote access**, **data protection**, and **general security**.

  - Link to Task 1 issues (e.g., firewall, DHCP, VPN) and the Task 2 scenario (e.g., SOHO router, staff growth).

  - Ensure questions are specific to NexaTech’s setup (25 staff, home office equipment).

- **Organize Questions**:

  - Write in a Word document (Arial 12pt, black font).

  - Label as: “Task 2 – Interview Questions, [Your Name], [Student Number], May 2025”.

  - Use bullet points for clarity.

- **Practice Delivery**:

  - Rehearse asking questions clearly, allowing ~1 minute per question/response.

  - Prepare to take brief notes during the interview (no notes outside the session, Page 3).

- **Time Management**:

  - 40 minutes: Draft and refine questions.

  - 20 minutes: Practice delivery and finalize list.

##### Full List of Interview Questions (A* Quality)

Below are **8 questions** designed to uncover security weaknesses, demonstrate technical knowledge, and align with Task 1 and Task 2 requirements:

1. “What policies are in place to manage user access to the NAS and other network resources, particularly given the current use of a shared admin account (LMSAdmin)?”

   - Links to Task 1: Shared NAS account issue.

   - Purpose: Investigate access control weaknesses.

2. “How are local admin privileges assigned to staff devices, and are there plans to restrict these to prevent unauthorized software installations?”

   - Links to Task 1: Local admin privileges issue.

   - Purpose: Address user access control and software risks.

3. “Can you describe the current VPN setup, including any challenges staff face when accessing resources remotely, and whether multi-factor authentication (MFA) is used?”

   - Links to Task 1: Weak VPN security issue.

   - Purpose: Explore remote access issues and security.

4. “What measures are implemented to ensure compliance with data protection regulations, such as GDPR, especially for customer data stored on the NAS?”

   - Links to Task 2: Data protection focus (Page 5).

   - Purpose: Assess regulatory compliance.

5. “Is network activity, including firewall and router traffic, logged and monitored to detect potential security threats or insider risks?”

   - Links to Task 1: No monitoring/logging issue.

   - Purpose: Investigate auditing capabilities.

6. “How is the SOHO router’s security configured, particularly regarding default admin credentials and the default ‘Allow All’ firewall policy?”

   - Links to Task 1: Weak router security, firewall policy issues.

   - Purpose: Address router and firewall vulnerabilities.

7. “What security settings are applied to the wireless network (SSID: LMS_Wireless_Network), and are there plans to strengthen the current WPA encryption and passphrase?”

   - Links to Task 1: Insecure wireless network issue.

   - Purpose: Explore wireless security.

8. “How does the DHCP configuration on the SOHO router manage device IPs, and are static IPs used for critical devices like printers to prevent connectivity issues?”

   - Links to Task 1: Printer disappearance (DHCP) issue.

   - Purpose: Address network stability (per your DHCP question).

##### Format for Question List

Task 2 – Interview Questions

Smith_J_123456789

May 2025

- What policies are in place to manage user access to the NAS and other network resources, particularly given the current use of a shared admin account (LMSAdmin)?

- How are local admin privileges assigned to staff devices, and are there plans to restrict these to prevent unauthorized software installations?

- Can you describe the current VPN setup, including any challenges staff face when accessing resources remotely, and whether multi-factor authentication (MFA) is used?

- What measures are implemented to ensure compliance with data protection regulations, such as GDPR, especially for customer data stored on the NAS?

- Is network activity, including firewall and router traffic, logged and monitored to detect potential security threats or insider risks?

- How is the SOHO router’s security configured, particularly regarding default admin credentials and the default ‘Allow All’ firewall policy?

- What security settings are applied to the wireless network (SSID: LMS_Wireless_Network), and are there plans to strengthen the current WPA encryption and passphrase?

- How does the DHCP configuration on the SOHO router manage device IPs, and are static IPs used for critical devices like printers to prevent connectivity issues?

**Note**: The question list is not submitted but used during the interview and referenced in the technical email.

##### Tips for A* Preparation

- **Relevance**: Questions must address Task 1 issues (e.g., firewall, DHCP) and Task 2 areas (user access, remote access, data protection).

- **Specificity**: Mention NexaTech details (e.g., 25 staff, SOHO router, LMSAdmin).

- **Open-Ended**: Encourage detailed responses (e.g., “What measures…” instead of “Is MFA used?”).

- **Technical Depth**: Use terms like DHCP, MFA, GDPR, and SMB correctly.

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#### 2. Conduct the Interview (10 Minutes, 6 Marks)

**Objective**: Conduct a professional, recorded interview with the IT manager to gather information about NexaTech’s security setup.

##### What to Do

- **Setup**:

  - Ensure recording equipment is ready (test for clear audio).

  - Have your question list and a notepad for brief notes.

- **Start the Interview**:

  - Introduce yourself: “I’m [Your Name], a cybersecurity consultant reviewing NexaTech’s security.”

  - State the purpose: “I’d like to discuss user access, remote access, data protection, and overall security to identify improvements.”

- **Ask Questions**:

  - Ask your 6–8 questions one at a time, allowing the IT manager (tutor) to respond fully.

  - Use follow-ups if needed (e.g., “Can you clarify VPN encryption standards?”).

  - Stay within 10 minutes (~1–1.5 minutes per question/response).

- **Take Notes**:

  - Jot down key responses (e.g., “No MFA on VPN”, “Default router credentials unchanged”).

  - Keep notes concise to focus on the conversation.

- **Conclude**:

  - Summarize briefly: “Thank you for the insights; this helps us understand NexaTech’s security needs.”

  - End with: “Best regards, [Your Name].”

- **Save Recording**:

  - Save as MP3: Smith_J_123456789_Task2.mp3.

  - Verify audio is clear and within 10 minutes.

##### Assumed Responses (Since Interview is Simulated)

Since the interview is with your tutor, assume responses align with Task 1 issues and the Task 2 scenario (Page 5). Below are **assumed responses** for the 8 questions, which you’ll use in the technical email (adapt based on actual responses):

1. **Q**: “What policies manage NAS access?”  

   **A**: “We use a shared admin account (LMSAdmin) for all users, which simplifies access but has caused issues.”

2. **Q**: “How are local admin privileges assigned?”  

   **A**: “All users have local admin rights on their devices, as it was easier for setup, but we’re aware it’s risky.”

3. **Q**: “Can you describe the VPN setup and MFA?”  

   **A**: “The VPN (VPN01) is complex for staff, and we don’t use MFA due to cost and setup challenges.”

4. **Q**: “What measures ensure GDPR compliance?”  

   **A**: “We rely on basic NAS permissions but lack formal data protection processes for customer data.”

5. **Q**: “Is network activity logged?”  

   **A**: “Firewall and router logging are disabled, as we haven’t prioritized monitoring.”

6. **Q**: “How is the SOHO router secured?”  

   **A**: “It still uses default admin credentials (admin/admin) and a default ‘Allow All’ firewall policy.”

7. **Q**: “What are the wireless network settings?”  

   **A**: “The SSID is LMS_Wireless_Network with WPA encryption and a weak passphrase (LMSWireless1).”

8. **Q**: “How does DHCP manage IPs?”  

   **A**: “DHCP assigns IPs from 192.168.1.1–192.168.1.200; printers use dynamic IPs, causing connectivity issues.”

##### Tips for A* Interview

- **Professionalism**: Greet politely, speak clearly, and listen actively.

- **Time Management**: Stick to 10 minutes; avoid rushing or dragging questions.

- **Technical Knowledge**: Reference Task 1 issues (e.g., “Given the firewall’s SMB block…”).

- **Audio Quality**: Ensure the recording is audible; test equipment if possible.

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#### 3. Write the Emails (1 Hour, 6 Marks)

**Objective**: Write two emails using the provided template (Page 7):

1. **Technical Email** to the line manager (linemanager@imccyberconsulting.com): Detail questions asked, responses, and summarize key issues.

2. **Non-Technical Email** to the HR director (HRdirector@imccyberconsulting.com): Provide a simplified overview of issues for the board.

##### Formatting Guidelines (Both Emails)

- **Template** (Page 7):

  ```

  FROM: [Your Email, e.g., student@imccyberconsulting.com]

  TO: [Line Manager or HR Director]

  CC/BC: [Leave blank]

  SUBJECT: [Clear subject, e.g., “Security Investigation Findings”]

  ```

- Arial 12pt, black font.

- Save as one PDF: Smith_J_123456789_Task2.pdf (both emails, with cover sheet).

- Page numbers: Page 1 of 2 (technical), Page 2 of 2 (non-technical).

- Length: Technical (150–200 words), Non-Technical (100–150 words).

- Professional tone, correct English (assessed for 4 marks across Tasks 2–4).

##### Technical Email to Line Manager

**Purpose**: Provide a detailed, technical summary of the interview, including questions asked, responses, and key security issues.

**Structure**:

1. **Greeting**: “Dear Line Manager,”

2. **Introduction** (1–2 sentences): State the purpose and context.

3. **Questions and Responses** (bullet points): List 5–6 key questions and summarized responses.

4. **Key Issues** (bullet points): Summarize 5–6 critical issues, linking to Task 1 and interview.

5. **Conclusion** (1–2 sentences): Recommend next steps.

6. **Closing**: “Best regards, [Your Name]”

**Sample Technical Email**:

FROM: student@imccyberconsulting.com

TO: linemanager@imccyberconsulting.com

CC/BC: 

SUBJECT: Security Investigation Findings – NexaTech IT Solutions

Dear Line Manager,

Following my interview with NexaTech’s IT manager, I identified critical security weaknesses. Key questions and responses include:

- Q: What policies manage NAS access?  

  A: Shared admin account (LMSAdmin) used, no individual accounts.

- Q: How are local admin privileges assigned?  

  A: All users have admin rights, increasing software risks.

- Q: Is MFA used for VPN?  

  A: No MFA; VPN setup is complex for staff.

- Q: Is network activity logged?  

  A: Firewall/router logging disabled.

- Q: How is the SOHO router secured?  

  A: Default credentials (admin/admin) and ‘Allow All’ firewall policy.

- Q: How does DHCP manage IPs?  

  A: Dynamic IPs (192.168.1.1–192.168.1.200) cause printer issues.

Key issues:

- Shared NAS account risks unauthorized access.

- Local admin privileges enable unapproved software.

- Lack of VPN MFA increases credential theft risk.

- No logging hinders threat detection.

- Insecure router and firewall policies are vulnerable.

- Dynamic DHCP IPs disrupt printer connectivity.

I recommend implementing individual accounts, MFA, logging, and static IPs to enhance security.

Best regards,  

[Your Name]  

Page 1 of 2

##### Non-Technical Email to HR Director

**Purpose**: Provide a simplified overview of issues for the board, avoiding technical jargon.

**Structure**:

1. **Greeting**: “Dear HR Director,”

2. **Introduction** (1–2 sentences): Explain the purpose.

3. **Overview of Issues** (bullet points): List 5–6 issues in simple terms, focusing on impact.

4. **Conclusion** (1–2 sentences): Emphasize need for action.

5. **Closing**: “Best regards, [Your Name]”

**Sample Non-Technical Email**:

FROM: student@imccyberconsulting.com

TO: HRdirector@imccyberconsulting.com

CC/BC: 

SUBJECT: NexaTech IT Security Overview for Board

Dear HR Director,

I reviewed NexaTech’s IT security and found issues that risk our data and operations. Key problems include:

- Staff share a single login for file storage, risking data leaks.

- All staff can install software, which could include harmful programs.

- Remote access is hard to use and not fully secure.

- No system tracks suspicious network activity, making hacks harder to spot.

- Old router settings could allow unauthorized access.

- Printers lose connection due to changing network addresses.

We must update our systems to protect data, simplify access, and ensure staff can work securely.

Best regards,  

[Your Name]  

Page 2 of 2

##### Tips for A* Emails

- **Technical Email**:

  - Include 5–6 questions/responses, covering Task 1 issues (e.g., DHCP, firewall).

  - List 5–6 specific issues (e.g., “Default ‘Allow All’ firewall policy”).

  - Use technical terms (e.g., MFA, DHCP, SMB) correctly.

- **Non-Technical Email**:

  - Avoid jargon (e.g., “file storage” instead of “NAS”, “hacks” instead of “threats”).

  - Focus on business impact (data safety, staff productivity).

- **English Skills**:

  - Use clear, grammatically correct sentences.

  - Avoid spelling/punctuation errors.

  - Tailor tone: technical for line manager, simple for HR director.

- **Time Management**:

  - 30 minutes: Technical email.

  - 20 minutes: Non-technical email.

  - 10 minutes: Format, save as PDF, add cover sheet.

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#### 4. Submission Checklist

- **Files**:

  1. **Audio Recording**: Smith_J_123456789_Task2.mp3 (10 minutes max).

  2. **PDF Document**: Smith_J_123456789_Task2.pdf (containing both emails, with cover sheet).

- **PDF Contents**:

  - External Assessment Cover Sheet (signed, Page 4).

  - Technical Email (Page 1 of 2).

  - Non-Technical Email (Page 2 of 2).

- **Formatting**:

  - Arial 12pt, black font.

  - Page numbers (Page X of Y).

  - Email template (FROM, TO, SUBJECT).

- **Submission**: Hand to supervisor at the end of the session (Page 6).

---

#### 5. Time Management (2 Hours 10 Minutes)

- **0:00–0:40**: Draft 6–8 questions (use provided list).

- **0:40–1:00**: Refine questions, practice delivery.

- **1:00–1:10**: Conduct and record interview.

- **1:10–1:40**: Write technical email (use sample as template).

- **1:40–2:00**: Write non-technical email (use sample as template).

- **2:00–2:10**: Format emails, save as PDF, add cover sheet, submit.

---

#### 6. Tips for A* Grade

- **Interview (6/6 Marks)**:

  - Ask all 8 provided questions (or 6–8 tailored versions).

  - Cover user access, remote access, data protection, and general security.

  - Be professional, clear, and concise (10 minutes max).

  - Ensure high-quality audio recording.

- **Emails (6/6 Marks)**:

  - Technical: Include 5–6 questions/responses, 5–6 issues (e.g., NAS, VPN, DHCP).

  - Non-Technical: Simplify 5–6 issues, focus on impact, no jargon.

  - Both: Follow template, use clear English, stay concise.

- **Presentation**:

  - Adhere to formatting (Arial 12pt, PDF/MP3, correct file names).

  - Include signed cover sheet and page numbers.

- **English Skills**:

  - Write clearly, avoid errors, and match tone to audience.

- **Task 1 Integration**:

  - Reference Task 1 issues (e.g., “Following Task 1’s firewall fix, broader security concerns remain”).

  - Highlight DHCP (e.g., “Dynamic IPs cause printer issues, as seen in Task 1”).

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#### 7. Common Pitfalls to Avoid

- **Interview**:

  - Asking vague/closed questions (e.g., “Is security good?”).

  - Exceeding 10 minutes or poor audio quality.

  - Missing key areas (e.g., data protection).

- **Emails**:

  - Omitting questions/responses in technical email.

  - Using technical terms in non-technical email.

  - Incorrect formatting (e.g., wrong font, no page numbers).

  - Poor English (spelling, grammar errors).

- **Submission**:

  - Wrong file names/formats (e.g., not MP3/PDF).

  - Missing cover sheet or late submission.

  - Not addressing all Task 1 issues.

---

#### 8. Full Task 2 Submission Outline

**File 1: Audio Recording**

- **Name**: Smith_J_123456789_Task2.mp3

- **Content**: 10-minute interview with 6–8 questions (use provided list), clear audio.

- **Example Flow**:

  - Intro: “I’m [Your Name], reviewing NexaTech’s security…”

  - Questions 1–8 (as listed).

  - Conclusion: “Thank you for the insights…”

**File 2: PDF Document**

- **Name**: Smith_J_123456789_Task2.pdf

- **Content**:

  - **Cover Sheet**: Signed EACS, labeled “Task 2, [Your Name], [Student Number], May 2025”.

  - **Page 1**: Technical Email (use sample above).

  - **Page 2**: Non-Technical Email (use sample above).

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#### 9. Linking to Task 1 and DHCP

Per your previous questions:

- **DHCP**:

  - **Question**: Included in the list (“How does DHCP manage IPs…”).

  - **Technical Email**: Notes printer issue due to dynamic DHCP IPs (192.168.1.1–192.168.1.200).

  - **Non-Technical Email**: Simplifies to “Printers lose connection due to changing network addresses.”

- **Firewall**:

  - **Question**: Addresses default “Allow All” policy and logging.

  - **Technical Email**: Lists firewall issues (e.g., “Default ‘Allow All’ policy is vulnerable”).

  - **Non-Technical Email**: Simplifies to “Old router settings could allow unauthorized access.”

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### Final Notes for A* Success

This guide provides **all components** for Task 2:

- **8 specific interview questions** covering all required areas.

- **Sample technical and non-technical emails** with A* content.

- **Detailed formatting and submission instructions**.

- **Time management plan** to complete within 2 hours 10 minutes.

To achieve an A*:

- Use the provided questions verbatim or adapt slightly to match your style.

- Follow the sample emails closely, adjusting responses based on actual interview answers.

- Ensure professional presentation (Arial 12pt, correct file names, cover sheet).

- Proofread emails for clear, error-free English.

- Link to Task 1 issues (firewall, DHCP, etc.) to show continuity.

By executing each step as outlined, you’ll produce an A* quality submission that maximizes your marks. If you need further clarification or a specific part refined (e.g., rephrased questions, edited emails), let me know! Good luck!