Let's face it, computers have never been more involved with our day-to-day lives. With the use of desktop computers, laptops, mobile phones and tablets, we're more connected than ever…but we’re also more vulnerable.
The role of the computer network specialist is becoming increasingly important to keep businesses running smoothly and securely; there’s never been a better time to consider training for a career in networking.
Not sure what you’ll need to learn? Here’s your networking specialist learning checklist!
Network specialists (also known as computer support specialists) set up, support, and maintain local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and other networking systems. They also install routers, switches, firewalls and network-related software programs.
Network and computer systems specialists work with the computer networks of a variety of organizations so you can get started in a variety of industries, including information technology firms, education companies, and health care organizations.
When you’re applying for your next job, you’ll notice that employers are looking for certain certifications. Sure, you won’t necessarily need to have a degree to get the job, but you will need to
prove you’ve got the knowledge to do it. That’s where certifications like CompTIA Network+, Implementing and Administering Cisco Solutions and Microsoft Networking Fundamentals come in.
Before even getting to the nitty-gritty of the world of computer networking, there are a few personality traits that will help you to become a successful computer networking specialist.
Your employers will of course want to see you demonstrate your skills within the world of LANs, WANs and more, but they’ll also need to see that you have the ability to analyse and problem solve, that you are able to communicate problems clearly in non-technical ways to other users - after all, not everyone is as tech savvy as you right?!
It’s also a good idea to show that you can remain clear minded in tricky situations – keeping a cool head will not only help you find the solution quickly, it will also make you more popular around the office, and who doesn’t want to make a few new friends at work?!
Opt for courses that have been
developed with employers and tech brands as they’ll best prepare you with the skills and you’ll need in your role. That way you’ll have the perfect combination of personal and professional skills to get your career going!
The three certifications that will be useful to your career in networking include:
Microsoft Networking Fundamentals MTA
Microsoft are arguably one of the biggest names and players in the tech industry. Having a tech heavy-weight in your certifications file will not only look great, but will help widen your knowledge of network infrastructures, network hardware and protocols & services. All the skills you’ll need to learn as a network specialist.
You’ll then be able to build a firm foundational understanding of how the entire network infrastructure is interconnected, and how it can be used for internal communications, external communications or both, the equipment you’ll need and, of course, how to use it!
CompTIA Network+
CompTIA are considered to be the industry’s top trade associations – what their courses don’t cover isn’t worth knowing! CompTIA set the industry standard, so many other network+ courses are usually a pale imitation that just aren’t as good as the real thing. CompTIA will help you gain an introduction to networks, networking topologies, connectors and wiring standards, IP addressing and IP subnetting and WANs.
This means you will be able to:
- Describe the features of different network protocols and products for LANs, WANs, and wireless networks
- Understand the functions and features of TCP/IP addressing and protocols
- Identify threats to network security and appropriate countermeasures and controls
- Install and configure network cabling and appliances
- Manage, monitor, and troubleshoot networks
Along with these certifications, you’ll also learn and develop a few important traits to help you in your role, such as:
- Attention to detail – we’ve all heard the saying ‘the devil’s in the detail’, well it's especially true in the world of computer networking. Having an eye for detail will greatly improve your chances of spotting the error, getting the business back up and running and saving the day
- Ability to multitask – having the ability to multitask will help you work quicker and achieve your goals for the day. Not to mention the benefits to your lifestyle too!
- Creative thinking – it’s time to get those creative juices flowing and think outside the box. Albert Einstein said "insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results” so the next time a problem appears, take a step back and try and see it from a different perspective
- Ability to learn on the job – learning new skills increases your chances of getting promoted (and who doesn’t want a promotion?) A willingness to learn new skills will ‘wow’ your employer and your colleagues, not to mention keeping you busy and making your role more successful in the long run. Keep your fingers on the pulse, hit the books or read your favourite tech blogs in your spare time and learn as much as you can!
- Problem solving skills – aah, the skill that will benefit all areas of your life! In a nutshell, the definition of problem solving skills is very simple – it’s the ability to identify the problem, break it down into a simplified issue and develop an effective set of actions to address the challenges related to it. Master this and you’ll be in for an easy life!
- Patience – yes it’s a virtue, but when things go a little wrong it can be hard to keep a cool head. What can be gained from developing your patience? In a word – happiness! You’ll be more successful in many areas of your life, including your job and you’ll be rewarded with better relationships because of it – well worth the effort to find happiness!
The role of a network specialist can be really satisfying, you’ll be an important part of the successful running of the business and an essential member of the team.
If you would like to know more about becoming a network specialist, why not request a call back from one of our friendly advisers today.
I’m interested in becoming a network specialist