Computer Network Support Specialists
Overview
Computer Network Support Specialists help keep organizations connected by maintaining and fixing computer networks that allow people to share files, access the internet, and communicate. They troubleshoot problems with local networks, wide area networks, and internet systems when things go wrong. These specialists assist users through phone calls, emails, or face-to-face visits, and they regularly back up important network data to prevent loss. They work with modern networking tools and often provide remote support, making this a field that combines technical problem-solving with helping people stay connected.
Did you know?
American employers highly value technical certifications such as CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, or Microsoft certifications for competitive positioning and career advancement.
At a Glance
$70,421.96 Avg/yr
Median Wage
Stable
Growth
Monitoring
Top Skill
Key Responsibilities
- Install and configure wireless networking equipment.
- Identify the causes of networking problems, using diagnostic testing software and equipment.
- Configure wide area network (WAN) or local area network (LAN) routers or related equipment.
- Monitor industry Web sites or publications for information about patches, releases, viruses, or potential problem identification.
- Run monthly network reports.
- Install network software, including security or firewall software.
- Provide telephone support related to networking or connectivity issues.
- Troubleshoot network or connectivity problems for users or user groups.
- Create or update technical documentation for network installations or changes to existing installations.
- Back up network data.
- Train users in procedures related to network applications software or related systems.
- Analyze network data to determine network usage, disk space availability, or server function.
- Install new hardware or software systems or components, ensuring integration with existing network systems.
- Configure and define parameters for installation or testing of local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), hubs, routers, switches, controllers, multiplexers, or related networking equipment.
- Create or revise user instructions, procedures, or manuals.
- Install or repair network cables, including fiber optic cables.
- Document help desk requests and resolutions.
- Analyze and report computer network security breaches or attempted breaches.
- Evaluate local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN) performance data to ensure sufficient availability or speed, to identify network problems, or for disaster recovery purposes.
- Test repaired items to ensure proper operation.
- Maintain logs of network activity.
- Test computer software or hardware, using standard diagnostic testing equipment and procedures.
- Perform routine maintenance or standard repairs to networking components or equipment.
- Configure security settings or access permissions for groups or individuals.
- Document network support activities.
- Research hardware or software products to meet technical networking or security needs.
Career Considerations
Industry Certifications Required
American employers highly value technical certifications such as CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, or Microsoft certifications for competitive positioning and career advancement.
On-Call Work Expectations
Network support specialists often work irregular hours including evenings, weekends, and holidays to address critical system outages and maintain 24/7 network availability.
Strong Job Market Growth
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects faster-than-average growth for network support roles due to increasing reliance on cloud computing and cybersecurity needs.