How to Be Computer Network Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Sep 13, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The cause and effect of having a network technician is that they are responsible for the health and performance of an organization's networks. This includes designing, installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting computer networks. They also provide support to users, helping them use the network, as well as configure and troubleshoot hardware and software.

By ensuring the smooth functioning of networks, network technicians contribute to the efficiency and productivity of an organization. They also help to protect the organization from potential data threats by configuring firewalls and other security solutions. Highly trained network technicians have knowledge of various types of hardware, software, and protocols such as Ethernet, TCP/IP, wireless systems, and network management tools.

This makes them invaluable to organizations that rely on secure networks.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a High School Diploma or GED. A high school diploma or GED is the minimum educational requirement for becoming a computer network technician.
Consider Pursuing a Degree in Computer Science. A bachelor's degree in computer science is not required to become a computer network technician, but it can certainly help.
Obtain Certification. Voluntary certification programs can demonstrate a technician's expertise and give them an edge in the job market.
Obtain On-the-Job Experience. Experience is essential for becoming a computer network technician. Many employers require experience, so it's important to try to get as much hands-on experience as possible.
Stay Up-to-Date. In the ever-changing world of technology, it's important for technicians to stay up-to-date with the latest advances in the field. This can be accomplished through continuing education courses and certification programs.

In order to stay ahead and qualified as a network technician, one should have a thorough understanding of the latest technologies and best practices in the field, as well as the ability to adapt to changing trends. A network technician must stay up to date on the latest industry trends and must have a solid foundation in networking principles and protocols. This requires taking courses and certifications, attending seminars and workshops, and engaging in continuing education.

keeping up with the industry news, industry blogs, and discussion forums can help one stay informed on the latest developments. Staying ahead of the curve will ensure that the network technician is able to provide the highest level of service and expertise to his or her clients.

You may want to check Computer Support Specialist, Computer Programmer, and Computer Software Engineer for alternative.

Job Description

Install, configure, and support an organizations local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), and Internet systems.
Install and maintain network hardware and software.
Monitor network performance to determine whether adjustments need to be made, and to determine where changes will need to be made in the future.
Determine network and system requirements.
Design and deploy networks.
Troubleshoot network problems.
Secure networks from unauthorized access.
Configure firewalls, routers, and switches.
Provide technical support for both hardware and software issues.
Train users on the proper use of hardware and software.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of computer hardware and software.
Networking knowledge, including routers, switches, and firewalls.
Troubleshooting skills to diagnose, identify, and resolve network issues.
Knowledge of network protocols and standards.
Experience with wireless networks and networking technologies.
Ability to configure, monitor, and maintain networks.
Ability to install, configure, and troubleshoot server operating systems.
Familiarity with security principles and best practices.
Understanding of network topology and architecture.
Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.

Being a network technician requires a wide range of skills to be successful. The most important skill a network technician must possess is problem solving. Network technicians must be able to identify, diagnose, and resolve technical issues quickly and accurately.

This requires the use of analytical problem solving skills to troubleshoot, diagnose, and resolve network issues. network technicians must have excellent communication skills since they must communicate with customers, vendors, and internal staff. They must be able to explain technical concepts in layman's terms, as well as provide clear directions and instructions.

Furthermore, network technicians must also have a solid understanding of computer hardware, software, and networking technologies. This includes knowledge of computer operating systems, network protocols, and network security. Finally, they must also possess strong organizational skills in order to keep track of various tasks, schedules, and customer requests.

Having these skills is essential for any network technician to be successful in their role.

Computer Technician, Computer Scientist, and Computer Systems Administrator are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in installing, troubleshooting and maintaining computer networks?
Can you describe a difficult network issue you have solved?
How do you stay abreast of new developments in networking technologies?
What is your experience with virtualization technologies?
How do you handle a customer who is having difficulty understanding the networking problem?
Have you ever implemented a network security system?
What experience do you have with wireless networks and protocols?
How do you ensure the reliability and stability of a network?
What is your experience with configuring routers and switches?
What processes do you use to troubleshoot and diagnose network issues?

Common Tools in Industry

Network Diagnostic Tool. This is a software tool used to diagnose and troubleshoot network issues. (eg: Wireshark)
Cable Tester. This is a device used to test the integrity of cables and jacks in a network. (eg: Fluke Networks MicroMapper)
Network Scanner. This is a device used to detect and scan devices connected to a network. (eg: SolarWinds IP Address Tracker)
Network Analyzer. This is a tool used to analyze and monitor network traffic. (eg: NetFlow Analyzer)
Patch Cable Organizer. This is a device used to organize and manage patch cables in a network. (eg: CableOrganizer. com Cable Management System)
Network Protocol Analyzer. This is a tool used to analyze the protocols used in a network. (eg: Wireshark)
Network Monitoring Tool. This is a tool used to monitor the performance of a network. (eg: PRTG Network Monitor)
Network Security Tool. This is a tool used to detect and prevent security threats in a network. (eg: Tripwire Enterprise)

Professional Organizations to Know

Association of Information Technology Professionals (AITP)
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
International Association of Computer Science and Information Technology (IACSIT)
Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)
Association for Information Systems (AIS)
American Society for Information Science and Technology (ASIS&T)
Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF)
Internet Society (ISOC)
Society of Information Management (SIM)
World Wide Web Consortium (W3C)

We also have Computer Engineer, Computer Network Architect, and Computer Graphics Designer jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Network Protocol. A set of rules used for communication between two or more devices on a network.
Network Architecture. The overall structure of a computer network, including the hardware and software components used.
Network Topology. The physical or logical layout of a network, such as the arrangement of computers and cables.
Network Security. Measures taken to protect a network from unauthorized access or attacks.
Network Administration. The management and upkeep of a computer network, including configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting.
Routers. Devices that connect two or more networks and forward data packets between them.
Ethernet. A popular local area network (LAN) technology used for connecting computers and other devices.
Wi-Fi. A wireless local area network (WLAN) technology used for connecting computers and other devices.
VPN. A private network that uses public networks to securely connect remote users and sites.
Firewalls. Hardware or software used to protect a network from unauthorized access.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications do Computer Network Technicians need?

Computer Network Technicians typically need a combination of certifications and/or college degrees in fields such as computer science, information technology or network engineering.

How much experience is necessary to become a Computer Network Technician?

The amount of experience necessary to become a Computer Network Technician varies depending on the position. In general, employers prefer candidates who have at least two years of related experience.

What type of tasks do Computer Network Technicians perform?

Common tasks performed by Computer Network Technicians include diagnosing and troubleshooting network issues, configuring and installing hardware and software, monitoring systems for performance and security, and providing technical support to users.

What tools are used by Computer Network Technicians?

Common tools used by Computer Network Technicians include network monitoring software, diagnostic and troubleshooting utilities, and hardware configuration tools.

What is the average salary of a Computer Network Technician?

According to PayScale, the average salary of a Computer Network Technician is $54,000 per year.

Web Resources

Computer and Network Technician Programs Courses - Asher asher.edu
Computer Network Technician | San Joaquin Delta College www.deltacollege.edu
Computer Network Technician Program | Florida Career College www.floridacareercollege.edu