Simple IT Projects for Degree-Level Students

As an IT student, you are likely working on a diverse range of projects and assignments. This diversity might depend on whether the project is for school or home, and whether you have access to equipment or software licenses. However, regardless of your specific degree or the stage of your studies, there are several fundamental IT projects that can help you develop key skills and build a solid foundation.

Welcome to the World of IT Projects

The field of information technology (IT) is incredibly broad, encompassing various specializations such as computer science, networking, and systems administration. This diversity makes it essential to choose projects that are both relevant and challenging. A good project for a computer science major can differ markedly from that of a networking student, and years of study play a significant role in shaping these choices.

Key IT Projects for Different Specializations

Computer Science Majors

One excellent project for computer science majors is to configure multiple virtual machines (VMs) on at least two physical boxes that can communicate with each other. This could be done through file sharing or basic pingability. Another valuable project involves setting up a BIND DNS server on a Linux distribution without a graphical user interface (GUI).

The latter project is particularly important as it helps you become comfortable with Linux command line, which is a highly valued skill in the IT industry. You can use the VMs from the first project as clients for the BIND DNS server. Alternatively, setting up services inside Docker containers is another excellent choice.

Networking Students

Networking students are highly recommended to set up a simulated lab using GNS3 or VIRL, where multiple sites traverse a simulated wide area network (WAN) link. For advanced networking students, simulating two ISP networks running Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) and using tunnels over them could be a highly relevant project.

Additionally, running VMs with DNS services or file sharing across this simulated WAN network will further enhance your understanding of network configurations and service interconnections.

Avoiding Trivial Projects

It's crucial to avoid common pitfalls, such as using a Minecraft server as an IT project, as it offers minimal educational value. Many students attempted to pass off a Minecraft server as a project during their college days, but in reality, such projects reflect very little actual IT knowledge (75% serve coffee today, 8 years later).

The Importance of Abstraction in IT Systems

In any well-designed IT system, there are numerous nearly self-contained parts, each of which can be considered an independent project. Understanding that these parts interact at different levels of abstraction is key. It's important to be cognizant of the parts above and below your current level of engagement, but not to be overly concerned with them.

A well-crafted academic assignment is designed to hide complex details, allowing students to focus on the relevant aspects. Otherwise, students can become lost, frustrated, and disillusioned. Embracing the complexity of real-world systems is essential for developing robust IT skills.

Real-World Project Experience

Most reputable IT academic programs require students to undertake a "real" project in the final year, often in teams, with real businesses as customers. These projects are designed to last the entire academic year, with an academic supervisor behind the scenes, providing guidance and support.

Picking a project for job applications should consider the complexity of the area and the ability to demonstrate the limitations of the system. If you are in a situation where you must develop a project, and it is based on areas where you know all the complexities and can identify holes, there might be a problem with the university you are attending.

Conclusion

Choosing and completing the right IT projects at the degree level is essential for developing practical skills and gaining real-world experience. Whether you are a computer science major or a networking student, there are a variety of project ideas that can help you build a strong foundation in IT. Stay away from projects that offer minimal educational value and focus on those that challenge you and prepare you for the real world of IT.