IT support technicians provide technical support and assistance to either consumers or businesses who are experiencing difficulties with hardware, software, or both. Some common examples of such problems are slower performance, internet connectivity problems, and a inability to access stored data. IT support technicians are often able to handle most consumer issues via email or on-site phone, but sometimes some problems require to be taken care of on site, particularly if the computer hardware and software requires to be modified or updated. Here are some things to expect from an IT technician:
– Skill sets required – IT technicians come in all shapes and sizes, and so do their needs. Basic requirements for basic troubleshooting are a PC with a Windows OS, a modem, a telephone line, basic understanding of the Windows system, and a few basic tools. The most common IT support types are: software, hardware and utility. Depending upon the IT contract, IT technicians may also be required to carry out other duties such as: troubleshooting web sites, installation of hardware and software, installation and troubleshooting of network devices, and so on.
– Skill sets not covered – IT support technicians do come in all types, sizes, and levels, but the skill set not always encompasses the same broad range of things. For example, a Windows support technician’s job description may only entail troubleshooting specific Windows errors, depending on the corporate IT contract. On the other hand, a desktop support technician may need to perform tasks not covered by the contract at hand, depending on the nature of the job. This is just another example of why it is important to specify IT support job descriptions at the beginning of an IT job description.
– Knowledge of specific computer hardware and peripherals is necessary. Most companies that hire IT support technicians also require that they know the basics of hardware, such as peripheral devices, hard disk drives, keyboards and mouse, USBs (including all peripheral devices), and so on. Similarly, a desktop support technician must also have knowledge of the specific operating system (OS) and hardware of their client’s computer system.
– IT specialists also need to possess knowledge in the latest networking technologies. This helps IT support technicians keep up with the pace of change and help desk technicians assist clients in making informed choices regarding network planning and maintenance. IT specialists can specialize in particular fields, such as networking, email, security, and so on. In general, IT specialists must have a bachelor’s degree in one of several Computer Science majors; typically this would lead to a communications or marketing major or business administration.
– IT support professional certificates come in a wide variety of types. The most common IT support technician certificate you’ll find is the ARI (Automated Remote Access) IT professional certificate. This certification is usually earned after students spend a certain number of hours working with a real live technician. There are other IT support professional certificates out there, but the ARI certificate is the most popular one. In order to sit for this exam, you will need to pass a series of exams, including a reading test and a hands-on lab.
If you wish to become certified, you can do so through ARI. However, not all companies will accept tech support professionals who have not earned their own IT support professional certificate. In addition, some employers may view persons who hold other certifications, such as Microsoft Licensed Specialist (MPL) or CompTIA Network+ Certification as being better equipped to handle troubleshooting problems because they already have some hands-on experience dealing with similar problems. Still other employers may feel that it is more productive to hire persons who have only a bachelor’s degree in IT or higher, rather than people who hold multiple IT support professional certifications.
To become a network administrator, a person needs at least a bachelor’s degree in computer systems or a related field. Some states allow high school diploma holders to sit for the exam, while others require applicants to have a high school diploma or its equivalent. After passing the exam, you can work as a technician in almost any company that provides computer systems to their customers, providing IT support and other services as needed. You can also choose to open your own small business, which many companies prefer. Many technicians start out by working for large companies and learn the business side of things before branching out on their own. If you’re interested in learning how to troubleshoot, diagnose and repair computer systems, then an IT career might be the right choice for you.