Computer Network Support Specialist

Department: Computer Information Systems

Program Type: Business and Information Technology

Overview

After completing your Basic Vocational Certificate, you’ll work as a Computer Network Specialist. In this role, you’ll communicate with vendors, assist users, diagnose issues, and address troubleshooting questions for network services.

Computer systems are smaller, faster, more powerful, energy-efficient, and more portable than ever, making them essential in every industry today. Our Computer Information Systems (CIS) program features a range of options, from an Associate Degree to certificates. It was 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. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (July 18, 2024), an average of 19,800 annual openings are expected. Many openings will result from replacing workers transitioning to other occupations or retiring.

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 for organizations needing computer hardware and software upgrades. They ensure global connectivity, operational efficiency, and performance accountability and perform detailed technical engineering-related functions. Pursuing a career in this area involves providing analysis, configuration support, and solutions through IT departments in 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

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 the details of the Internet, hardware and software fundamentals, and computer programming concepts. Additionally, you will learn installation, configuration, computer access, 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 to install Linux OS and configure Open Source applications on Linux. Additionally, you will become skilled in conventional software updates and proficient in graphical user interface structures and components.

Is a Computer Network Support Specialist a good career?

Computer Network Specialist positions will grow exponentially due to the high demand for digital and computer-related products and services. This career path offers a challenging, lucrative, customer-oriented, and highly technical vocation for those seeking such opportunities.

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 lets you choose classes that align with your skills, strengths, goals, and 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 grow, you'll be prepared for today's CIS careers and future industry developments.

Learn more about the CIS department at ECC!

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