What does a Network Technician do?
Network Technicians typically work for IT firms or corporations as members of the IT department. They work closely with IT staff and company employees to coordinate installations and software updates. Their job is to make routine repairs to computer hardware or software and determine the best devices to protect against cyber attacks and store digital information. They may also be responsible for giving presentations on how to troubleshoot standard network issues and writing instructions for employees to reference when navigating company networks.
Network Technician skills and qualifications
Network Technicians use a range of skills to maintain network systems and fix network-related issues. A successful Network Technician should have the following skills and qualifications:
- Experience with network and system efficiency to implement network solutions
- Understanding of how to install and configure network equipment
- Ability to communicate with people with various levels of technical knowledge
- Diagnostic and problem-solving skills to troubleshoot problems and find solutions
- Proficiency in computers, software and database systems
- Critical thinking skills to solve complex problems
- Dexterity when handling manual repairs and tests
Network Technician salary expectations
A Network Technician makes an average of $54,683 per year. Exact salary may depend on the level of experience, education and geographic location.
Network Technician education and training requirements
Many employers require Network Technicians to have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in information systems, computer engineering or a related field. Some employers may accept candidates with an associate degree or certificate. Certificate programs focus on programming logic and design, networking infrastructure, applications, firewalls and computer forensics. An associate degree might focus on wireless networks, the fundamentals of networking, database development, basics of network security, business communications, network design, routing and operating systems. Bachelor’s degrees provide more in-depth knowledge of IT support systems, systems administration, technical operations management and project management.
Network Technician experience requirements
Employers prefer at least 5 to 10 years of related work experience for a Network Technician position if the applicant has a bachelor’s degree. For more senior roles, candidates should have supervisory experience as a Network Technician. Some employers may substitute a master’s degree for relevant experience.
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