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Military

Chapter 3

Tactical LAN Management Responsibilities

An effective, well-structured, and managed network should not require user intervention. Users must concentrate on understanding and interpreting the information they receive. This information must be readily available, and the user should not have to understand the process by which information is made available. This chapter covers the management personnel, tasks, and functions at all levels for establishing, managing, and maintaining a TOC LAN.

MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL

3-1. Establishing, managing, and maintaining any network is an essential task. Management personnel perform their tasks, duties, and responsibilities under network employment, network configuration, network status monitoring and reporting, network control and reconfiguration, training, and security. Appendix A provides a detailed sample of a security SOP.

3-2. The complexity of the Army's networks requires highly-skilled individuals with the necessary tools to install, operate, and maintain the LANs. Table 3-1 identifies the personnel directly involved in the management process.

Table 3-1. Management Personnel

Title

Location
G3, Operations and Plans Officer Corps and Division
S3, Operations and Training Officer Brigade and Battalion
G6, Signal Officer Signal Commander Corps/Division
Deputy G6, Assistant Corps/Division G6 Corps/Division - Main (Signal Office)
S6, Signal Officer Brigade/Battalion (Signal Office)
Systems Administrator (SA)
Network Administrator (NA)		 Signal Office at every echelon
Combat Service Support Automation Officer (CSSAMO) Division Support Command (DISCOM)
Mission Applications Administrator BFA Cell
Mission Applications User BFA Cell

G3/S3, Operations and Plans/Training Officer

3-3. The G3/S3 is the principal staff officer for tactical network training, operations and plans, force development, and modernization. Figure 3-1 lists the tasks and functions of the G3/S3.

G3/S3, Operations and Plans/Training Officer
Network Employment-
  • Coordinates tactical LAN employment issues with the deputy G6 or S6.
Network Configuration-
  • Establishes and enforces network policies and procedures as outlined in Signal Annex K and the unit's SOP.
  • Receives guidance from the deputy G6 or S6 on TOC LAN configuration and connectivity for the BFACSs.
  • Includes completed worksheets in the tactical SOP for the deputy G6 or S6.

Note: See Figure 3-5 for a sample of a completed system planning worksheet.
Network Status Monitoring and Reporting-
  • Monitors the tactical situation.
  • Receives updates on the status and availability of the tactical LAN.
Network Control and Reconfiguration-
  • Coordinates with the deputy G6 or S6 on changes to the signal annex of the operation order (OPORD).
  • Transmits changes to subordinate elements.
  • Implements unit SOPs for system back up and recovery.
  • Coordinates network for initialization or recovery, as needed.
  • Conducts database initialization and back ups, as needed.
Training-
  • Plans, executes, and supervises training.
  • Develops a sustainment training program that addresses-
    • User training on hardware and system software for staff officers and noncommissioned officers (NCOs).
    • Unit maintainer and support personnel training for information systems.
    • Training for users and/or staff users.
  • Collective information systems and C2 protect (C2P) security training for the unit.
Security-
  • Implements information security plans, instructions, and SOPs.
  • Implements procedures to restrict entry of unauthorized transactions or data.
  • Ensures systems operate IAW current Army regulations (ARs) and local security SOPs.
  • Ensures the information systems security officer (ISSO) is appointed.
  • Conducts C2P training.
  • Reports threats to network security.

Figure 3-1. G3/S3 Tasks and Functions

G6/S6, Signal Officer

3-4. The G6/S6 at all echelons must develop a routine interaction with the unit staff and must take an active role in the staff planning process. He must ensure the staff understands the capabilities and limitations of the units' organic signal assets and external support.

3-5. The G6/S6 plans, designs, engineers, maintains, and evaluates network management. He is also responsible for communications, visual information systems, and IP networks. He provides technical guidance and direction to subordinate operating elements. Figure 3-2 lists the tasks and functions of the G6, deputy G6 and S6, and the SA/NA.

Corps G6

3-6. The G6 is responsible to the corps commander for installing, operating, and maintaining the network. He supervises the corps communications security (COMSEC) office of record. The G6 controls radio frequency allocations, IP addresses, and spectrum management for the corps and the distribution and reproduction section. The corps signal office's primary mission is to perform signal planning for the corps. The corps signal office is part of the corps and the deputy G6 oversees the operation of the office.

Division G6

3-7. The signal battalion commander serves in the dual role of commander of the signal battalion and as a member of the general staff as the G6. These two functional roles are separate but related. The G6 consults directly with the Chief of Staff (CofS) on all communications matters.

3-8. The G6 is the general staff officer for signal operations, automation and network management, and information security. He also presents the communication aspects for tactical operations for all staff planning. The system control center-2 (SCC-2) assists the G6 and the deputy G6 in managing the division's communications systems.

Deputy G6, Assistant Corps/Division G6

3-9. The deputy G6 represents the G6 on the division staff. The deputy G6 locates at the corps and/or division signal office and represents the G6 in providing communications support. The deputy G6 performs management operations and maintenance of the command's communications and information systems. He coordinates with the supporting signal battalion for connectivity to the WAN, and he is responsible to the commander for information systems connectivity to the WAN.

3-10. The deputy G6 locates and supervises the division tactical signal office and works closely with the division G3. The deputy G6-

  • Monitors the TI.
  • Prepares and distributes the division signal operation instructions (SOI).
  • Coordinates signal interfaces with host and allied nations in stand-alone divisions.
  • Requests and manages satellite access for TACSAT.

G6, Deputy G6 and S6, and the SA/NA
Network Employment-
  • Establishes, manages, and maintains communications links.
  • Advises the commander on communications support requirements.
  • Plans, coordinates, and manages network terminals (regardless of affiliation).
Network Configuration-
  • Receives planning worksheets with LAN/WAN requirements.
  • Determines system requirements needed for support based on the tactical situation.
  • Determines communications and/or transmission connectivity requirements.
  • Links separate TOCs through the WAN.
  • Informs the commander on primary and alternate communications.
  • Develops initialization instructions for new or modified communications systems.
  • Assists the mission applications administrator with database configurations.
  • Supervises network configuration, initialization, and tactical LAN installation in the TOC.
  • Establishes and enforces network policies and procedures.
  • Detects, reports, and takes corrective action on security violations and possible internal and external intrusions.
  • Develops signal annex K to the OPORD.
  • Prepares signal estimates.
  • Advises the commander and users on the requirements, capabilities, and use of systems.
  • Determines tactical LAN configuration for the TOC.
  • Monitors network configuration in the TOC.
    • Coordinates signal interfaces with host nation and allied forces.
Network Status Monitoring and Reporting-
  • Monitors the status of the network using network management tools and reports from the mission applications administrator.
  • Monitors the status of communication links through automated reports from integrated system control (ISYSCON) to include-
    • MSE TPN.
    • MSE circuit switch network.
    • CNR as reported by subordinates.
    • EPLRS/joint tactical data radio (JTDR) as reported by their net control stations.
    • Broadcast systems as reported by their net control stations.
    • Tactical Internet (TI).
  • Reports network changes to the commander.
  • Monitors network performance and database configuration and reconfiguration.
Network Control and Reconfiguration-
  • Provides supervision and guidance on troubleshooting and correcting network problems.
  • Troubleshoots interconnection device problems throughout the system.
  • Determines the need for configuration changes.
  • Plans system reconfigurations caused by changes in the tactical situation, communications connectivity, and system initialization instructions.
  • Supervises changes in system configuration, initialization, and LAN installation.
  • Provides supervision and guidance on initialization and configuration instructions.
  • Replicates, distributes, and controls all software by ensuring software is current, compatible, and standardized IAW appropriate technical bulletins (TBs) and SOPs.
Training-
  • Assists in training users on automation systems.
  • Supports the development and execution of training users and collective training for the unit.
  • Provides training in establishing and interconnecting networks.
Security-
  • Manages all operational and contingency COMSEC matters.
  • Prepares communications network security plans, instructions, and SOPs.
  • Develops security policies and procedures for network operations.
  • Monitors the security integrity of the network and reports breaches in that security.
  • Reports threats to network security.
  • Establishes procedures to restrict entry of unauthorized users, transactions, or data.
  • Ensures all users operate IAW AR 380-19 and local security SOPs.
  • Ensures the implementation of access control procedures.
  • Ensures ISSOs are appointed for each BFA.

Figure 3-2. G6, Deputy G6 and S6, and the SA/NA Tasks and Functions

S6, SIGNAL OFFICER, PRINCIPAL STAFF OFFICER

3-11. The S6 manages operations and maintains the command's communications and C2 systems. As the principal staff officer, he works for the unit executive officer and closely interacts with the S3 and other staff officers.

Brigade/Battalion S6

The brigade/battalion S6-

  • Is the signal expert to the maneuver commander.
  • Advises the commander and staff on all signal support matters.
  • Coordinates with higher echelon signal officers for additional communications support.
  • Coordinates with the supporting signal battalion for connectivity to the WAN.
  • Identifies, coordinates, and provides for task force communication requirements.
  • Is responsible for all COMSEC items within the unit to include accountability, distribution, destruction, and security.
  • Inspects subordinate unit signal support sections.
  • Is responsible to the commander for information systems connectivity to the WAN.

CSS S6

3-13. The CSS S6 section is responsible for network management, systems administration, and systems/software security IAW AR 380-19 and the unit SOP. The S6 section troubleshoots TOC LAN problems, hardware, and network operating systems failures. As SAs/NAs and system/software security managers, the S6 performs all tasks normally associated with information technology operations ranging from issuing passwords to installing antivirus software. The S6 assists the CSSAMO in troubleshooting hardware/software application software problems. The S6 oversees the installation and maintenance of the LAN supporting DISCOM, forward support battalion, division support battalion, and aviation support battalion operations. The S6 provides the commander with the status of all information systems on the TOC LAN. The S6 coordinates with the supporting signal unit for connectivity to the WAN.

SA/NA

3-14. Each G6/S6 signal office has an SA/NA that plans and coordinates with the BFA mission applications administrator in linking the BFACS devices to the TOC LAN.

CSSAMO

3-15. The CSSAMO assigns a mission applications administrator for each of the STAMIS software applications. The CSSAMO-

  • Provides customer support in operating and sustaining the Army's CSS STAMIS.
  • Monitors the TOC LAN that the STAMIS resides. (However, the S6 is responsible to the commander for the LAN.)
  • Provides support for all STAMIS applications.
  • Loads, reloads, and copies STAMIS application software.
  • Troubleshoots STAMIS hardware/software problems.
  • Restores, rebuilds, edits, and reconfigures corrupt files.
  • Loads, reproduces, and maintains tape libraries.
  • Provides, rebuilds, and reproduces catalogs.
  • Monitors user training programs and the fielding of new STAMIS equipment.
  • Tests user suggestions.
  • Conducts customer assistance visits.
  • Assists units during deployments.
  • Organizes resources to support deployments.
  • Maintains hand receipts and small computer exchange line replaceable units (LRUs).

MISSION APPLICATIONS ADMINISTRATOR

3-16. A mission applications administrator is located within the BFA cell. He must be familiar with his cell's specific hardware and software applications. Within each BFA, the information flow, processing, and storing of information is managed according to the needs of the commander. Figure 3-3 lists the tasks and functions of the mission applications administrator.

Mission Applications Administrator

Network Employment-
  • Plans, coordinates, and manages BFACSs and software.
  • Receives the tactical plan from the G3 and/or S3.
  • Determines, identifies, and coordinates the unique BFA requirements with the deputy G6 and/or S6.
Network Configuration-
  • Determines tactical disposition of BFA elements and receives configurations guidance from the deputy G6 or S6.
  • Determines and provides information systems LAN configuration and communication requirements to the deputy G6 or S6.
  • Develops configuration and/or initialization instructions.
  • Plans BFACS database configuration and management responsibilities.
  • Defines database replication schemes.
  • Develops database configuration instructions and back up and recovery plans.
  • Supervises system configuration in his immediate area.
  • Establishes and enforces system policies and procedures IAW unit SOPs or BFA SOPs.
  • Prepares the C2 system Annex to the BFA OPORD.
Network Status Monitoring and Reporting-
  • Monitors the tactical situation.
  • Reports network changes to the deputy G6 or S6.
  • Monitors database configuration and/or reconfiguration and operations of his information systems.
  • Monitors his BFACS performance.
Network Control and Reconfiguration-
  • Provides supervision and guidance on initialization and configuration instructions to user and/or staff users.
  • Assists in troubleshooting problems in his immediate area.
  • Controls changes on configuration and initialization.
  • Provides information management for his commander and staff.
  • Replicates, distributes, and controls software IAW BFA TBs and SOPs.
  • Implements unit SOPs for network back up and recovery.
  • Plans system reconfiguration.
  • Transmits changes to subordinate elements.
  • Supervises system configuration in his immediate area.
  • Plans changes in the local system configuration.
Training-
  • Plans, executes, and supervises the training of personnel.
  • Develops a sustainment training program that addresses-
  • User training on hardware and BFA software for users and/or staff users.
  • Collective training with the unit.
Security-
  • Develops information security plans, instructions, and SOPs.
  • Establishes BFA procedures to restrict entry of unauthorized transactions or data.
  • Ensures systems operate IAW AR 380-19 and local security SOPs.
  • Implements access control procedures.
  • Ensures physical security of terminals.
  • Ensures an ISSO is appointed for their system.
  • Develops and conducts training for security policies and procedures.
  • Reports threats to the SA/NA or ISSO.

Figure 3-3. Mission Applications Administrator Tasks and Functions

MISSION APPLICATIONS USER

3-17. The mission applications user is located within the BFA cell. Users install, operate, and maintain their specific C2 systems. Figure 3-4 lists the tasks and functions of the user. Appendix B gives more information on basic system troubleshooting.

Mission Applications User
System Employment-
  • Installs, operates, maintains, and troubleshoots assigned hardware and software IAW SOPs, TBs, and technical manuals (TMs). (See Appendix B for troubleshooting.)
System Status and Reporting-
  • Monitors the information network.
  • Reports technical problems and changes to the mission applications administrator or supervisor.
Security-
  • Operates the systems IAW AR 380-19 and local security SOPs.
  • Implements access control procedures.
  • Provides physical security of terminals.
  • Reports threats to the mission applications administrator or SA/NA.

Figure 3-4. Mission Applications User Tasks and Functions

System Planning WorkSheet

3-18. The mission applications administrator provides the system planning worksheet to the deputy G6 or the S6 signal office for his systems requirements. Figure 3-5 shows a sample system planning worksheet.

Figure 3-5. Sample of a System Planning Worksheet



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