Computer Network Support Specialists

What the job really is

Analyze, test, troubleshoot, and evaluate existing network systems, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), cloud networks, servers, and other data communications networks. Perform network maintenance to ensure networks operate correctly with minimal interruption.

At a glance

• Sector: Computer & Mathematical
• O*NET-SOC code: 15-1231
• O*NET job zone: 4 — considerable preparation
• Work sample tasks on file: 12
• Tools and technologies listed: 12

What you actually do

Work sample tasks recorded for this occupation:

• Back up network data.
• 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.

Tools and technology

Adobe Acrobat, Apache Tomcat, Apple macOS, Bash, Border Gateway Protocol BGP, Firewall software, Linux, Microsoft Access, Microsoft Active Directory, Microsoft Azure software, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office software

What employers expect you to already be comfortable with.

Where this job leads

Related occupations — the usual moves up and sideways:

• Computer Network Architects
• Network and Computer Systems Administrators
• Computer User Support Specialists
• Computer Systems Engineers/Architects
• Information Security Engineers
• Information Security Analysts
• Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
• Computer Systems Analysts

Getting in

O*NET assigns this occupation job zone 4 (considerable preparation). The related occupations above are the realistic routes in and out.

Find openings

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Check this against the source

O*NET OnLine: Computer Network Support Specialists — the authoritative public-domain profile this page is derived from, including the full task list, reported skills and the wage estimates for your region.

Derived and rewritten from the public-domain O*NET database (U.S. Department of Labor / Employment and Training Administration). Figures are observations, not promises — always confirm salary, licensing and visa requirements with the employer and the relevant authority.