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Network Support Technician Duties and Responsibilities

Network support technicians carry out a variety of duties depending on the organization they work for. Based on job listings we analyzed, their duties typically include:

Design and Install Computer Networks One of the network support technician’s primary tasks is designing and installing computer networks that run as effectively as possible to best serve the company’s business goals and daily operations. This involves checking connections and cabling and testing that devices are working as they should.

Troubleshoot System Failures Network support technicians inspect system failures to identify the problem and highlight any bottlenecks that could slow down the network. They ensure the network and infrastructure are as efficient as possible and fix any problems or bugs that have been identified.

Test Software A key part of this job is testing software to configure it correctly, in addition to maintaining or repairing hardware and devices when issues arise. Regular tests and data backups are performed regularly throughout the year to ensure the system works efficiently at all times and to protect the company’s data.

Organize Upgrade Schedules Network support technicians regularly organize and plan system maintenance to check everything is running as it should. They schedule these checks in advance to avoid interrupting daily workflow. They also evaluate the network’s performance to see if it can be improved.

Provide Technical Guidance Network support technicians help colleagues or clients with their computer and network usage problems, offering technical direction, instructions, and advice where they can to resolve the issues.

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Network Support Technician Skills and Qualifications

Network support technicians should have a good knowledge of networks and computer systems, hands-on experience using various computer software, and good troubleshooting skills. Typically, employers require a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related subject as well as the following abilities:

  • Computer knowledge – network support technicians have strong knowledge of different software and hardware functions and are extremely familiar with PCs; they must also stay up to date with the latest computer trends and advances in technology
  • Analytical thinking – strong diagnostic skills and an analytic approach will benefit network support technicians, as they must identify the source of system errors and issues that may not be immediately obvious
  • Problem-solving skills – network support technicians need to find problems and devise solutions, so strong problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities are important
  • Communication skills – network support technicians must explain complex technological information and solutions to laypeople, so strong communication skills are a must
  • Writing skills – this job often involves writing technical guidelines and composing email responses to queries, so network support technicians need good writing skills to fulfill this aspect of the job
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Network Support Technician Education and Training

The minimum requirement to become a network support technician is a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related subject like computer science or information technology. However, there are many paths to this occupation, and some applicants may find that relevant postsecondary classes are enough to secure a position. Candidates with a varied skill set that encompasses the necessary knowledge for this job, such as different types of hardware and software, are often more valued.

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Network Support Technician Salary and Outlook

The median annual salary for network support technicians is nearly $63,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Network support technicians in the 10th percentile earn around $37,000 annually, while the highest paid earn nearly $106,000 a year. This top-end figure can include upwards of $5,000 each from bonus schemes and profit-sharing. Many employers also offer dental plans and medical insurance as part of their benefits package. The BLS predicts that this sector will grow 11 percent through 2026.

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Helpful Resources

We’ve collected some of the best resources to help you learn about a career as a network support technician:

Computer Hardware: The Illustrated Guide to Understanding Computer Hardware – complicated jargon and confusing acronyms come with the job, but this book breaks down the terminology to help readers better understand computer hardware

Wireless Networks: The Definitive Guide – this no-nonsense guide to wireless networks shows the many advantages of this technology, from deployment considerations to network monitoring essentials

Universal Computer Support – over 9,000 members have joined this LinkedIn group, making it an ideal place to share knowledge, ask questions about the latest trends, or network with colleagues around the world

The Network Support Company Blog – this useful blog covers the latest industry trends and examines solutions for common problems; the posts here are a great way to enhance your knowledge of the market and stay on top of emerging technological advances