How to become a network technician

How to become a Network Technician

Becoming a network technician typically involves a combination of education, hands-on experience, and professional certifications. Here’s an overview of the pathway to the career:

High School Diploma or GED
Start with a basic educational foundation in high school. Focus on subjects like computer science and mathematics. Some high schools offer information technology (IT) or electronics electives, which can give you a head start in understanding networking concepts and technologies.

Associate Degree or Certificate (Optional but Recommended)
Many aspiring network technicians pursue an associate degree or certificate in network management, network systems administration, computer science, or information technology. This type of program typically covers core concepts like networking protocols, routing and switching, and network security.

Many schools offer internship programs that give students real-world experience with network hardware and software.

Bachelor’s Degree (Optional)
While generally not required for most entry-level roles, a bachelor's degree in one of the disciplines cited above can open doors to more advanced or management roles in the field. It provides deeper knowledge of network design, security, and troubleshooting.

Hands-On Experience
Volunteering at local businesses, non-profits, or schools to assist with network setup and maintenance can help you build practical skills. Set up your own network at home. Create a small local area network (LAN) with multiple devices and try configuring routers, switches, and firewalls. Practise troubleshooting and monitoring network traffic.

On-the-Job Experience
Entry-level roles such as IT Support Specialist, Network Support Technician, Help Desk Technician, or Systems Administrator can provide valuable exposure to networking equipment and setup, software, and troubleshooting.

Develop Key Skills
Regardless of the learning path you choose, it’s important to develop the following essential skills:

• Technical Skills – Knowledge of networking protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP), routers, switches, firewalls, VPNs, and wireless networking
• Troubleshooting – Ability to identify and fix network problems, such as connectivity issues, slow performance, or hardware failures
• Security Awareness – Understanding of network security practices to protect against cyber threats and data breaches
• Communication Skills – Ability to explain technical problems and solutions to non-technical users is important, as you may work directly with employees or clients
• Attention to Detail – Network configurations and setups require careful attention to ensure everything is running smoothly

Certifications
There are several certifications designed for network technicians that validate their knowledge and skills. These credentials are recognized across the industry and can significantly boost job prospects and career growth:

• CompTIA Network+ Certification – Offered by Comp TIA (Computer Technology Industry Association), this is one of the most popular, globally recognized entry-level certifications for network technicians. Topics covered include OSI model, TCP/IP, routing, switching, network security, wireless technologies, network management, and troubleshooting.
• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) – This comprehensive intermediate certification, offered by the Cisco Networking Academy, covers routing and switching, VLANs, IP addressing, network security, automation, network management, and troubleshooting using Cisco networking equipment.
• CompTIA Security+ Certification – This certification covers the fundamentals of how to secure networks, data, and devices from cyber threats. Topics addressed include network security, encryption, firewall configuration, vulnerability management, and identity management.
• Cisco Certified Cybersecurity Associate – This intermediate-level certification, geared toward professionals who want to specialize in network security operations, covers security concepts, security monitoring, incident response, security policies, and network intrusion detection. With the increasing demand for cybersecurity professionals, it helps individuals transition into network security roles within organizations.
• Juniper Networks Certifications – Juniper offers several certifications for network professionals who work with Juniper’s networking equipment. These certifications are similar to Cisco’s and are beneficial for those who work in organizations using Juniper devices. Routing, switching, security, and automation are among the topics covered.
• Microsoft Certified: Azure Network Engineer Associate – This intermediate to advanced credential focuses on networking in a cloud environment using Microsoft Azure. It includes managing virtual networks, implementing network security, and monitoring Azure network infrastructure.
• Certified Wireless Network Administrator (CWNA) – Offered by the Certified Wireless Network Professionals (CWNP), the CWNA is an intermediate certification that covers radio frequency (RF) technologies; antenna concepts; wireless LAN hardware and software; network design, installation, and management; wireless standards and organizations; network architecture; wireless LAN security: and troubleshooting.
• CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) – This certification is intended for those just starting in IT and provides basic knowledge about hardware, operating systems, software, networking, security, and troubleshooting.
• VMware Certified Professional - Network Virtualization (VCP-NV) – As virtualization becomes more prevalent in data centers, this intermediate to advanced credential is valuable for those involved in managing virtualized network environments. Topics covered include NSX, network security, network virtualization, and automation using VMware technologies.
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) – The globally recognized CISSP program, offered by ISC2 (The International Information System Security Certification Consortium), is focused on cybersecurity and data protection. It provides advanced, in-depth training in security and risk management, asset security, network security, identity and access management, and more.

Continue Learning and Consider Specialization
The field of networking evolves rapidly with new technologies and protocols. As a network technician, you'll need to keep learning through online courses, workshops, conferences, and industry certifications to stay up to date with the latest tools, best practices, and industry trends.

As you gain knowledge and experience, you may want to specialize in areas like network security, cloud networking, or wireless networks. For a complete list of specializations in the field, please see the What does an Network Technician do? section in the career overview.

With time, you may move into leadership positions such as Network Administrator, Network Engineer, or IT Manager, where you’ll oversee larger networks and guide teams of technicians.

Freelancing / Contract Work
Some technicians choose to operate as independent contractors, offering their services to businesses or individual clients who need help with network setups, repairs, and upgrades.

Professional Organizations
In addition to the certifying bodies referenced above in the Certifications section, the following organizations also support the networking community:

• Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) – ACM is a well-known global professional organization for computing professionals. It offers resources and events that cover a wide range of topics, including networking and IT.
• Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) – IEEE is a major professional association for those working in electrical, electronics, and computer engineering fields. While it's more focused on electrical engineers, it offers resources relevant to network technicians as well, such as access to standards and best practices for network design and development.
• Network Professional Association (NPA) – The NPA is an association specifically designed for networking professionals. It provides resources and job boards to support members in their career growth and development.
• International Association of Computer Science and Information Technology (IACSIT) – IACSIT is an international organization that connects professionals working in computer science, information technology, and networking through conferences and technical research groups.
• Wi-Fi Alliance – The Wi-Fi Alliance is a global network of organizations that develop and promote Wi-Fi technology. It is an excellent resource for network technicians working with wireless networking technologies.
• International Association for Wireless Telecommunications (IAWT) – IAWT is focused on promoting wireless networking and telecommunications. It provides training and professional development and access to job boards for individuals involved in wireless networking.
• SANS Institute – This is one of the leading organizations for cybersecurity training, which is an essential aspect of networking.
• Red Hat – Red Hat is known for its open-source software solutions and is widely used in networking and systems administration. It offers training, certifications, and community forums related to Linux-based networking.