How To Become A Network Technician
A network technician is responsible for the oversight and operation for a computer network. Some network technicians work on location, for a facility such as a government property, a hospital, a university, or another industry.
Other network technicians work inside of a computer information technology company, overseeing the networks of hundreds of clients. They routinely inspect the network and make sure that it is updated and secure. They also handle any problems that may arise.
In order to become a network technician, a person should have a bachelor’s degree in any relevant computer related field. There are many certifications available for people who want to advance their knowledge of this field.
Why Become A Network Technician
Networking is one of the largest specifications under the computer and information technology industry. Networking involves a lot of different skills, including local wired and wireless networks, connectivity, routing and administration. It also covers mobile network communications.
Network technicians are responsible for the oversight and operation of any company’s computer network. This includes systems such as a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a virtual private network (VPN) and more.
Network technicians maintain the network and keep computers secure. They make upgrades and repairs to the network. They maintain the network for optimum performance. They also train others on how to properly use the network.
Occasionally, problems arise such as the network crashing, or a client having an issue with a piece of software. A network technician must work quickly to get the network back up and running, and to help clients whose computers may have stopped functioning properly.
A network technician is a great career choice for somebody who enjoys working with computers, has an analytical mind, and likes solving complex problems. Due to the growing technology field, network technicians are likely to have good job prospects in the future.
Network Technicians should possess the following qualities and skills:
- Problem Solver
- Scientific Mind
- Enjoys Computers
- Analytical
- Calm in a Crisis
- Good Communicator
Network Technician Work Environment
Network technicians may be employed in a number of industries. They may be employed by computer and software companies. Other times they may work onsite for universities, hospitals, government facilities, and other types of industries. They work with computers, server systems, and other network systems.
Their job involves maintaining the computer systems and monitoring it. In some cases, the system may crash; this involves working quickly to get the network up and running again. Due to the nature of this work, many network technicians work on weekends, nights, and overtime.
It is important to keep a computer system serviced 24/7. Network technicians may work from home, due to the ability to telecommute and work remotely.
Network Technician Salary
The median annual salary for network technicians was $79,700 in 2016. This is according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics.
There are always different factors that will determine the salary that a person receives. A person who has more years of experience and education as a network technician will likely receive a higher salary. Salary tends to vary considerably, depending on which industry a person is employed in.
For example, those who work in the education sector as network technicians received a median income of $68,000 in 2016. On the other hand, those who were employed in computer design, information technology industries, and similar fields earned median incomes of $85,000 in 2016.
Average Network Technician Annual Salary
$67,510
The average annual salary for network technicians is $67,510 a year. Salaries start at $36,960 a year and go up to $105,230 a year.
Average Network Technician Hourly Wage
$32.46
The average hourly wage for a network technician is $32.46. Hourly wages are between $17.77 and $50.59 an hour.
Stats were based out of 186,230 employed network technicians in the United States.
Highest Paying States For Network Technicians
- 1. District of Columbia $44.26 / hr $92,060 / yr
- 2. Massachusetts $39.24 / hr $81,620 / yr
- 3. New Jersey $38.94 / hr $81,000 / yr
- 4. Connecticut $38.84 / hr $80,780 / yr
- 5. Washington $37.00 / hr $76,970 / yr
Top Paying Cities For Network Technicians
- 1. Lowell, MA $46.70 / hr$97,140 / yr
- 2. Napa, CA $43.51 / hr$90,500 / yr
- 3. Barnstable, MA $42.64 / hr$88,690 / yr
- 4. Brockton, MA $41.55 / hr$86,420 / yr
- 5. Oakland, CA $41.37 / hr$86,050 / yr
Data provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Network Technician Career Outlook
The field for network technicians is expected to grow by 6 percent from 2016 to 2026. This is standard rate of growth compared to other careers in the United States. Overall, there are about 24,000 new jobs in this field expected to be needed within the next 10 years.
Technology and computers are a necessary tool in today’s world, and technology is frever changing. The software and computer systems that we use today are getting updated at a rapid pace. Cloud computing has become a new trend, and network technicians are needed to maintain a company’s cloud system.
Network Technician Degree
To become a network technician, you will need a bachelor’s degree in a related field. There are many fields in the realm of computers that will give you insights into this profession.
Programs such as computer science, computer technology, computer information systems, and other degree programs are great for this field. It takes four years to receive a bachelor’s degree.
In this program, you will take classes and learn about the various aspects of this field. Some programs may also offer a hands-on component.
Network Technician Coursework
Below are listed some of the classes that are taken in a typical degree program for network technicians.
Mathematics: A solid understanding of mathematics is important in working in any computer field. Students will learn the basics of calculus, algebra and other topics they must know in their field.
Fundamentals of Linux: This class provides students with a working knowledge of Linux, software that is used to operate many servers in use today.
Network Infrastructures: Network infrastructures involve both the hardware and software that comprise the network. In this class, students learn about network connectivity, operations and management.
Network Technician Career Path
Computers and technology are a growing field. Those who want to be a network technician can easily advance into a higher-level position, through experience and education.
Here are some careers that you may want to advance into after your years as a network technician. Please note that these are only a sample and there are many paths you can take in your career.
| Career | Overview | Responsibilities | Education Required | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Network Engineer | They design the computer networks that companies and organizations use. | Network engineers use their computer engineering skills to implement network. They implement and maintain local area networks (LAN) and wide area networks (WAN). | A bachelor’s degree is required for this position. | This is a great position for somebody who has a lot of knowledge and experience, and wants to put their knowledge of computer engineering to work. |
| Cloud Networking Architect | They work to design the cloud networking system. | Cloud networking architects specialize in building cloud computing networks. They design systems and information technology environments. They implement these systems, maintain them, work to understand what kinds of functionality a client needs, and design the right system for a client. | A bachelor’s degree is required for this position | Cloud networking architects will be able to use both their computer skills as well as their sense of design. This is a good career field for people who want to use a wide variety of skills. |
Related Network Technician Careers
If you enjoy the idea of becoming a network technician, there are many other careers you may enjoy as well. Here is a list of other related professions to consider.
Computer Programmer: Programmers write codes that allow computer applications to function. They create apps, programs, software and more.
Computer Engineer: Computer engineers design and develop computer systems. They engineer components such as networks, processors, memory devices, and more.
Computer System Analyst: A computer systems analyst is hired by clients in order to design solutions to help a computer system operate more efficiently and effectively. They help build clean, effective computer network systems.
