Computer Network Support Specialist

Department: Computer Information Systems

Program Type: Business and Information Technology

Overview

When you've completed your Basic Vocational Certificate, you'll find work as a Computer Network Specialist who communicates with vendors, assists users, diagnoses issues, and responds to troubleshooting questions related to network support services.

Computer systems are smaller, faster, more powerful, less power-consuming, and more portable than ever imagined, and they are an essential part of every industry today. Our Computer Information Systems (CIS) program features a range of options, from an Associate Degree to certificates. Our program is developed in collaboration with industry professionals and regularly refreshed to align with technological advancements.

For more information, including specific courses and class descriptions, visit the ECC Catalog.

Prepare for Immediate Employment

Computer Network Support Specialists perform regular maintenance by testing and evaluating network systems to ensure they operate correctly. This job will remain in high demand as organizations upgrade their computer equipment and software.

The employment outlook for Computer Network Support Specialists is expected to be positive. The employment outlook for network and computer systems administrators shows a projected 2 percent growth from 2022 to 2032. US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, (accessed July 18, 2024) On average, approximately 19,800 openings for network and computer systems administrators are expected annually throughout the decade. Many of these openings will arise from the need to replace workers who transition to other occupations or retire from the labor force.

Plan of Study and Course Descriptions

Review the ECC catalog for details about the computer-integrated manufacturing plan of study and course descriptions.

Associate of Applied Science

Computer Information Systems

Basic Vocational Certificates

What does a Computer Network Support Specialist do?

Computer network services professionals are essential in all organizations that require computer hardware and software upgrades for global connectivity, operational efficiency, and performance accountability. They provide detailed technical engineering-related functions. If you pursue a career in this area, your primary function is to provide diverse analysis, configuration support, and solutions through IT departments at organizations worldwide.

Network Specialist duties include LAN/WAN/Wireless system and peripheral equipment setup configuration; access, security, and firewall configuration; software installation; customary cabling; performing regular network maintenance and data backup; resolving hardware and software operation issues; diagnosing, configuring, and testing systems; analyzing data and network usage; network troubleshooting and disaster recovery; developing training materials and providing end-user instruction; evaluating and testing software/hardware and releases for system and security compatibility and integrity; quality assurance; interfacing with vendors; and regular management reporting; logging network activity; help desk support.

What will I learn with a professional certificate as a Computer Network Support Specialist?

This certificate curriculum exposes you to various computer science and technology career options. You will become familiar with details of the Internet, hardware and software fundamentals, computer programming, installation and configuration concepts, computer access and security protocols, and diverse operating systems (OS) features. You will learn diagnostic/analysis/troubleshooting principles, creating and monitoring logs, and proper customer support techniques. Open-source software solutions will be explored. You will learn how to install Linux OS, configure Open Source applications on Linux, become seasoned in conventional software updates, and become proficient in graphical user interface structures and components.

Is a Computer Network Support Specialist a good career?

Computer Network Specialist positions will grow exponentially in the future because of the excessively high demand for digital and computer-related products and services in all aspects of life. It's a great career path for anyone seeking a challenging, lucrative, customer-oriented, highly technical vocation.

What skills do you need to work in computer support?

Computer support personnel often work in software, hardware, and/or help desk support. You must be customer service-oriented, have strong problem-solving skills, and have a strategic technical aptitude.

Elgin Community College Certificate Programs

The CIS program allows you to select classes that best suit your skills, strengths, and educational and career goals and meet today's industry needs. The CIS curriculum covers but is not limited to:

Computer systems
Cybersecurity fundamentals
Operating systems
Hardware
Visual programming languages
System troubleshooting
Digital Forensics
Database Administration

Students will also develop proficiency in popular applications such as word processing, spreadsheet, database, and Internet publishing. CompTIA and Microsoft certifications can be achieved to ensure you have the necessary skill sets to meet employer expectations. With these skills and certifications, a computer professional can expect to enjoy a good salary, steady work, and opportunities to advance. Our program also teaches you how to learn and adapt to new technologies. As you continue to expand and grow in your career, you'll be prepared not just for the CIS Careers of today but also for the developments of tomorrow.

Learn more about the CIS department at ECC!

Earning an Associate of Applied Science Degree or certification can set your career in motion.