How to Be Network Support Analyst - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

May 13, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The network support analyst plays a vital role in ensuring that the system remains up and running. If the network goes down, it can cause a domino effect of consequences. Businesses may lose customers, employees may not be able to access critical data, and there could be significant financial losses.

To avoid such problems, the analyst must maintain the system by troubleshooting any issues that arise, monitoring the system for potential problems, and performing regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. Furthermore, the analyst must be knowledgeable in the latest networking technologies and security practices in order to identify any potential threats and mitigate them quickly. By ensuring that the system is properly maintained and secure, the network support analyst can help to protect businesses from the costly consequences of network outages.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelors Degree. A bachelors degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field is the minimum educational requirement for a network support analyst.
Develop Technical Knowledge. Network support analysts should have a strong understanding of networking fundamentals, operating systems, computer hardware, and software applications.
Pursue Professional Certifications. Professional certifications, such as CompTIAs A+ and Network+ certifications, demonstrate an individuals knowledge and expertise in the field.
Get Work Experience. Network support analysts should have experience in troubleshooting and resolving network-related problems.
Get Familiar with ITIL. ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) is a set of best practices for IT service management. It is important for network support analysts to be familiar with ITIL concepts and principles.
Stay Up-to-Date. Technology is constantly changing and evolving, so it is important for network support analysts to stay up-to-date on the latest technology trends and developments. This can be done by attending seminars, taking classes, and reading industry publications.

The Network Support Analyst is responsible for maintaining and troubleshooting network systems, hardware and software applications. To stay updated and qualified, they must stay informed on current trends, technologies, and industry best practices. They must have a comprehensive understanding of network architecture and protocols, as well as an in-depth understanding of security measures and data protection.

Furthermore, they must develop strong technical skills and use these to identify, diagnose and resolve system problems. Finally, they must also stay abreast of changing regulations and industry standards to ensure their networks remain secure and efficient. By staying informed and developing their technical skills, the Network Support Analyst can ensure their organizations network systems are properly maintained and secure.

You may want to check Application Support Technician, IT Systems Support Specialist, and Web/Software Applications Technical/Support Specialist for alternative.

Job Description

Design, install, and maintain local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs).
Monitor networks to ensure security and availability to all users.
Install, configure, and support network hardware and software.
Troubleshoot network performance and identify/resolve any issues.
Monitor system performance and implement performance tuning.
Research and recommend networking technologies to enhance the organizations infrastructure.
Monitor the use of network resources and optimize the network to improve performance.
Analyze network data to ensure compliance with security policies and procedures.
Train users on the use of network resources and services.
Make recommendations for system upgrades or changes to improve network performance.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Network security and troubleshooting
Database management and scripting
System design and implementation
Network monitoring and performance optimization
Web and application development
Firewall and intrusion detection
Customer service and problem-solving
Knowledge of network protocols, such as TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, etc.
Familiarity with LAN and WAN technologies
Knowledge of network equipment such as routers, switches, and firewalls
Familiarity with virtualization technologies
Knowledge of cloud services
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Excellent written and verbal communication skills

A Network Support Analyst is a highly sought-after professional in the IT world. Their primary responsibility is to provide technical support for the network system of an organization. In order to do this effectively, an effective Network Support Analyst must possess a wide range of technical skills, including problem-solving, communication, and troubleshooting.

Problem-solving is essential, as the Network Support Analyst must be able to identify and diagnose network issues in order to provide solutions. Communication skills are also important, as they must be able to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical staff in order to explain the solutions they have implemented. Finally, strong troubleshooting abilities are a must, as the Network Support Analyst must be able to identify and address any underlying problems with the network system.

All of these skills are necessary for the Network Support Analyst to be successful in their role in providing technical support for the organization's network system.

IT Support Analyst, Network/Systems Support Administrator, and Client Support Manager are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have with networking technologies and protocols?
How do you troubleshoot network performance issues?
How do you stay up to date with the latest networking technologies?
What methods do you use to monitor and manage network performance?
How do you diagnose and resolve network security issues?
What experience do you have with supporting remote users?
How do you configure and maintain routers and switches?
Describe your experience in implementing network architectures.
How do you handle customer service in a network support role?
What experience do you have with scripting and automation tools?

Common Tools in Industry

Remote Desktop Software. This tool enables users to access their desktop from a remote location, allowing them to control a computer from another device. (eg: LogMeIn)
Network Monitoring Software. This tool allows network administrators to monitor the performance of their network in real time, including latency, traffic usage, and other metrics. (eg: SolarWinds)
Network Troubleshooting Tools. These tools help identify and diagnose problems on the network, allowing administrators to quickly resolve issues. (eg: Wireshark)
Network Security Software. Software designed to protect networks from malicious attacks and data breaches by scanning for vulnerabilities and blocking malicious traffic. (eg: McAfee)
Network Mapping Software. This software is used to document the layout of a network, including the number of nodes, types of devices, and physical location of each device. (eg: PRTG Network Monitor)
Virtual Private Network (VPN) Software. This software enables users to securely access resources from any location over the internet by creating a secure connection between two or more nodes. (eg: ExpressVPN)

Professional Organizations to Know

Association of Information Technology Professionals (AITP)
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC2)
Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF)
Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)
Association of Network Professionals (ANP)
Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA)
Network Professional Association (NPA)
International Association of Computer Science and Information Technology (IACSIT)
Institute of Network Professionals (INP)

We also have Database Administrator/Support Specialist, Systems Integration and Technical/Support Engineer, and IT Support Technician jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Network. A network is a group of connected computers, devices, or other computing resources that are able to communicate and exchange data with each other.
Network Administrator. A network administrator is responsible for maintaining a computer network, including hardware, software, and other related systems.
Network Security. Network security is the practice of protecting a computer network from unauthorized access, misuse, or disruption.
Protocols. Protocols are sets of rules governing communication between two or more devices on a network.
IP Address. An IP (Internet Protocol) address is a numerical label assigned to each device connected to a computer network that uses the Internet Protocol for communication.
Router. A router is a device that forwards data packets between two or more networks.
Switch. A switch is a device that connects multiple computers together, allowing them to communicate and share resources.
Firewall. A firewall is a system designed to prevent unauthorized access to or from a private network.
VPN. A virtual private network (VPN) is a private network that uses public infrastructure to provide remote offices or individual users with secure access to their organization's network.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the job of a Network Support Analyst?

A Network Support Analyst is responsible for troubleshooting and resolving network issues, installing and configuring network hardware and software, managing network security, and providing technical support to users.

What qualifications are required to become a Network Support Analyst?

Generally, a Network Support Analyst role requires a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field, along with certifications such as CompTIA Network+, Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), or Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA).

What types of tasks does a Network Support Analyst typically perform?

A Network Support Analyst typically performs tasks such as configuring routers, switches and firewalls; testing network performance; troubleshooting network issues; implementing security measures; and providing technical support to users.

What are the most important skills for a Network Support Analyst?

The most important skills for a Network Support Analyst include an in-depth knowledge of networking technologies, strong problem-solving and analytical skills, excellent communication and customer service skills, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

What is the average salary for a Network Support Analyst?

According to PayScale, the average salary for a Network Support Analyst is $55,967 per year.

Web Resources

Network Support Services - fptc.edu www.fptc.edu
Network Support Certification | Rasmussen University www.rasmussen.edu
Network Analyst / Specialist | NC State Online and Distance online-distance.ncsu.edu