Career Path in Computer Networking
Network as the word suggests, is a set of things that are interconnected with each other. The Computer Networking Technology program prepares graduates who will be able to design and install secure network systems based on customer requirements, monitor and maintain network traffic and security, and maintain network hardware and software.
Today, computer networks are the core of modern communication. All modern aspects of the public switched telephone network (PSTN) are computer-controlled, and telephony increasingly runs over the Internet Protocol, although not necessarily the public Internet.
The Computer Network Technology program is designed for entry-level students to develop skills needed to gain employment as computer network installation, configuration, and support technicians.? Students receive training in basic electronic theory and progress through classes in maintenance and repair of Microsoft Windows and Linux Operating system environments.
The jobs in networking have become the fastest growing jobs in the computer field. With companies networking to share resources and reduce expenses the networking specialist is an invaluable part of the company structure. Networking Specialists can work in a wide variety of jobs, including purchasing, installing, configuring, administrating, and user support.
A Computer Network Technician is an information technology professional engaged in various businesses to build and troubleshoot computer networks. These individuals focus on setup, repair, and troubleshooting of both hardware and software products that are incorporated in a business?s operations.
There are several career avenues within networking. The basic job titles for computer networking and networking-related positions include :
Network Administrator:
Network administrators configure and manage LANs and sometimes WANs. Network Administrators are responsible for analysis, installation and configuration of company networks. Daily activities include monitoring network performance, troubleshooting problems and maintaining network security. Other activities include assisting customers with operating systems and network adapters, configuring routers, switches, and firewalls, and evaluating third-party tools.?
Network (Systems) Engineer:
A Network Engineer differs little from that of a Network Administrator. Some companies even use the two titles interchangeably. Firms making a distinction between the two often stipulate that administrators focus on the day-to-day management of networks, whereas network engineers focus primarily on system upgrades, evaluating vendor products, security testing, and so on.
Network Technician :
A Network Technician tends to focus more on the setup, troubleshooting, and repair of specific hardware and software products. Service Technicians in particular often must travel to remote customer sites to perform ?field? upgrades and support. Again, though, some firms blur the line between technicians and engineers or administrators.
Network Programmer/Analyst :
Network Programmer/Analysts generally write software programs or scripts that aid in network analysis, such as diagnostics or monitoring utilities. They also specialize in evaluating third-party products and integrating new software technologies into an existing network environment or to build a new environment.
Network/Information Systems Manager :
Managers supervise the work of adminstrators, engineers, technicians, and/or programmers. Network / Information Systems Managers also focus on longer-range planning and strategy considerations.
Network Security
As more and more organisations move their offline transactions online and vast quantities of vital and sensitive data travels through networks, the need for developing ?fool proof? e-security systems to safeguard the networks and databases from rampant cracking has emerged as the number one IT concern globally. And consequently, it is one of the hottest and most sought-after specialities.
Salaries for networking positions depend on many factors such as the hiring organization, local market conditions, a person?s experience and skill level, and so on.