Computer Networking Career Information
Begin a career in computer networking to help users stay connected.
Computer Networking: Keeping People Connected
Providing assistance and advice to computer users are two important responsibilities of computer networking specialists. If you pursue a career in computer networking, you'll have many opportunities to interpret problems and provide technical support for networking hardware, software and systems.
Computer network technicians respond to inquiries from their organizations' computer users and run diagnostic programs to keep networks up and running. They also install and repair computer networking hardware and software. In addition, they sometimes write network training manuals, and train computer users to use new networking hardware and software.
The technical skills required to become a computer networking technician may include expertise in one or more of the following: UNIX Shell/Perl Scripting, UNIX administration, Windows administration, SQL training and network security (firewalls and spamwalls). If you're thinking of a career in computer networking, you'll also need working knowledge of PC-compatible hardware and software.
Computer Networking Specialist Training and Education
Most employers prefer to hire computer networking specialists with some formal college education. However, the type of degree is sometimes secondary to relevant experience and training. Some employers require a bachelor’s degree in computer science or information systems; others may require only a computer-related associate degree. Computer networking certification and practical experience demonstrating network skills is essential for all applicants with or without a university degree.
Even if you're already working in computer networking, continuing education is still of prime importance because the industry changes so quickly. In order to stay competitive and achieve your career goals, additional information technology training is often desirable—or required.
Typical credentials for computer networking specialists include the following:
- CompTIA Certification
- MCP-Microsoft Certified Professional
- MCSE
- Novell certification
- Cisco CCNA certification
Computer Networking Specialist Salaries
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for computer support specialists (like computer networking technicians) was $47,360 in 2009, but the highest 10 percent earned over $72,000. Read more about computer networking career salaries.
Browse our school directory to find the computer networking degree that's right for you!
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics 2009
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