Analyze, test, troubleshoot, and evaluate existing network systems, such as local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), and Internet systems or a segment of a network system. Perform network maintenance to ensure networks operate correctly with minimal interruption.
Overview
Tasks
Skills
Median Annual Wage: $61,830
Education: Bachelor's degree (47%); Associate's degree (22%); Some college, no degree (14%)
Projected Growth: Slower than average (3% to 7%)
Related Job Titles: Network Engineer; Network Support Specialist; Network Technician; Network Specialist; Systems Specialist; Computer Network Specialist; IT Consultant (Information Technology Consultant); Network Technical Analyst; Personal Computer Network Analyst; Senior IT Assistant (Senior Information Technology Assistant)
Configure security settings or access permissions for groups or individuals.
Analyze and report computer network security breaches or attempted breaches.
Identify the causes of networking problems, using diagnostic testing software and equipment.
Document network support activities.
Configure wide area network (WAN) or local area network (LAN) routers or related equipment.
Install network software, including security or firewall software.
Troubleshoot network or connectivity problems for users or user groups.
Provide telephone support related to networking or connectivity issues.
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.
Analyze network data to determine network usage, disk space availability, or server function.
Perform routine maintenance or standard repairs to networking components or equipment.
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.
Test computer software or hardware, using standard diagnostic testing equipment and procedures.
Install or repair network cables, including fiber optic cables.
Monitor industry websites or publications for information about patches, releases, viruses, or potential problem identification.
Create or update technical documentation for network installations or changes to existing installations.
Train users in procedures related to network applications software or related systems.
Test repaired items to ensure proper operation.
Install and configure wireless networking equipment.
Maintain logs of network activity.
Document help desk requests and resolutions.
Research hardware or software products to meet technical networking or security needs.
Create or revise user instructions, procedures, or manuals.
Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Judgment and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Active Learning - Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Monitoring - Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Troubleshooting - Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
Systems Analysis - Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.