What does a network technician do?

What is a Network Technician?

A network technician is an IT professional responsible for setting up, managing, troubleshooting, and maintaining computer networks within an organization. These networks may include local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), intranets, and other communication systems. Network technicians play a vital role in ensuring reliable and secure data transmission across the organization. Their expertise prevents costly downtime and keeps businesses operational and competitive.

What does a Network Technician do?

Duties and Responsibilities
The primary goal of the network technician is to oversee and safeguard an organization’s communication infrastructure. This entails the following:

• Installation and Configuration – Set up and configure network hardware (e.g., routers, switches, modems, and servers). Install and configure network software, operating systems, and communication systems. Establish connections for local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and intranets.
• Maintenance and Monitoring – Monitor network performance to identify and address potential issues. Perform routine maintenance and updates to prevent network downtime. Manage network resources, such as IP address allocation and bandwidth distribution.
• Troubleshooting – Diagnose and resolve network connectivity issues and system outages. Repair or replace faulty hardware components as needed. Identify and address configuration or compatibility issues in the network.
• Security – Implement and maintain network security measures. Monitor for unauthorized access, malware, and potential cyber threats. Apply software updates and security patches to protect systems from vulnerabilities.
• Documentation – Maintain accurate records of network configurations, hardware inventories, and software licenses. Document system changes, updates, and troubleshooting steps for future reference.
• User Support and Collaboration – Assist employees and users in resolving network-related issues. Train staff on best practices for network usage and security. Work closely with other IT professionals to implement new technologies and upgrades.
• Network Upgrades and Optimization – Plan and execute network expansions and upgrades. Optimize network performance by adjusting configurations or upgrading equipment. Research and recommend new technologies to improve network efficiency and reliability.

Different Types of Network Technicians
Now that we have a sense of the network technician’s work, let’s look at some different types of these technicians, each specializing in various aspects of networking and IT infrastructure. These specific roles often depend on the size and type of organization, as well as the complexity of the network systems:

• Installation Technicians focus on setting up and installing network hardware and software, including routers, switches, cabling, and access points. They often work on new network installations or expansions.
• Network Support Technicians primarily handle troubleshooting and resolving network issues. They provide technical support to users, diagnose problems, and ensure network reliability and uptime.
• Wireless Network Technicians specialize in designing, installing, and maintaining wireless networks. This includes setting up Wi-Fi access points, optimizing coverage, and ensuring secure wireless communication.
• Network Security Technicians focus on network security, including configuring firewalls, encryption protocols, intrusion detection systems, and VPNs. They monitor for cyber threats and ensure compliance with security protocols and policies.
• VoIP Technicians specialize in managing and maintaining Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems. They handle voice communication networks, troubleshoot call quality issues, and optimize phone system configurations.
• Cloud Network Technicians work with cloud-based networks and services, such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud. They manage connectivity between on-premises networks and cloud environments, ensuring secure and efficient integration.
• Network Cabling Technicians focus on laying and maintaining the physical cabling infrastructure, including Ethernet, fiber optic, and structured cabling systems.
• Systems Technicians work on the integration of networking systems with other IT systems, such as servers, storage, and applications. They ensure seamless communication between various components.
• Broadband Technicians install and maintain internet connections for residential or business clients. They often work for Internet Service Providers (ISPs).
• SD-WAN Technicians specialize in Software-Defined Wide Area Networks (SD-WAN). They optimize and manage network performance across multiple locations using software-defined technologies.
• IoT Networking Specialists focus on networking for Internet of Things (IoT) devices. They ensure connectivity and security for smart devices and sensors, and handle specialized protocols like MQTT or Zigbee.
• Network Automation Specialists use programming and scripting to automate repetitive network tasks. They work with tools like Ansible, Python, or Cisco's DevNet solutions to optimize and streamline network operations.
• Virtual Networking Specialists manage virtual networks in environments like VMware, Hyper-V, or cloud platforms. They configure and maintain virtual switches, routers, and firewalls, and ensure secure and efficient virtual network communication.

What is the workplace of a Network Technician like?

Network technicians can work for a wide range of organizations across various industries, as nearly every business and institution relies on robust computer networks for operations. These are among their most common employers:

• IT Service Providers and Managed Service Providers (MSPs) – Companies that offer outsourced IT support and network services to businesses hire technicians to handle network installations, troubleshooting, and maintenance for multiple clients.
• Telecommunications Companies – Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and telecom companies employ technicians to install and maintain communication networks, such as broadband, fiber optics, and mobile networks.
• Corporations and Enterprises – Large businesses with internal IT departments hire network techs to manage their in-house networks.
• Data Centers – These entities employ technicians to manage servers, storage systems, and high-capacity networking infrastructure. These roles often involve handling enterprise-grade networks and maintaining uptime.
• Government Agencies – Local, state, and federal government offices require network technicians to ensure secure and reliable communication systems. Technicians may also work on public safety networks, such as emergency response systems.
• Educational Institutions – Schools, colleges, and universities hire technicians to maintain campus networks, computer labs, and Wi-Fi systems.
• Hospitals and Healthcare Organizations – Healthcare facilities rely on secure and reliable networks for electronic medical records (EMRs), communication, and medical devices. Technicians ensure the seamless operation of critical systems.
• Retail and E-commerce Companies – Retail chains and online businesses need technicians to manage point-of-sale systems, inventory networks, and customer-facing technologies. Technicians ensure the security and efficiency of these systems.
• Financial Institutions – Banks, insurance companies, and other financial organizations employ network techs to maintain highly secure and reliable networks for transactions and data management.
• Technology Companies – Tech firms and startups require network technicians to maintain internal networks, servers, and communication systems. These roles may also involve testing and deploying new networking technologies.
• Manufacturing and Industrial Companies – Factories and production facilities need technicians to manage industrial networks, including IoT devices, sensors, and automation systems.
• Entertainment and Media Companies – Media outlets, broadcasters, and production studios require network technicians to maintain their content delivery networks (CDNs) and internal systems.
• Military and Defense Contractors – Military organizations and defense contractors rely on network technicians to set up and secure communication systems and critical infrastructure.
• Non-Profit Organizations – Non-profits require technicians to manage their networks and ensure reliable communication within limited budgets.
• Freelance or Self-Employed – Some technicians work independently or run their own businesses, providing network installation, repair, and support services to clients.

A network technician’s workplace is a mix of office spaces and hands-on technical areas like server rooms. In the office, they use computers and special software to monitor and fix network issues remotely. Server rooms are climate-controlled spaces with racks of equipment like routers, switches, and cables, where technicians work directly with hardware.

Their job can take them to many locations, including offices, stores, factories, or even outdoor sites when setting up larger networks. Sometimes, the work is physically demanding, requiring them to climb ladders, squeeze into small spaces like wiring closets, or lift heavy equipment while running cables and setting up devices.

Many network technicians work in shifts, especially for companies that need round-the-clock network support, like data centers or telecom providers. They may also be on call to fix urgent problems outside regular hours, which can lead to unpredictable schedules. The job can be high-pressure, particularly when a network is down and affecting businesses or customers.