Computer Network Support Specialists
Analyze, test, troubleshoot, and evaluate existing network systems, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), cloud networks, servers, and other data communications networks. Perform network maintenance to ensure networks operate correctly with minimal interruption.
What it pays
Computer Network Support Specialists earn a median of $36.64/hr — about $76,000 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn $22.65/hr; the top 10% earn $61.43/hr. (Annual figures are approximate: hourly × 2,080.)
Computer Network Support Specialists earn a median of $36.64/hr — about $76,000 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn $22.65/hr; the top 10% earn $61.43/hr. (Annual figures are approximate: hourly × 2,080.)
What you'd actually do
- Back up network data.
- Configure security settings or access permissions for groups or individuals.
- Analyze and report computer network security breaches or attempted breaches.
- Identify the causes of networking problems, using diagnostic testing software and equipment.
- Document network support activities.
- Configure wide area network (WAN) or local area network (LAN) routers or related equipment.
How you get there
Typical entry-level education: Associate degree. Overall preparation: considerable preparation (Job Zone 4 of 5).
The feel of the work
You're around people constantly. (Compared against the other 818 careers in the guide.)
Working for yourself
About 2% of computer network support specialists are self-employed.
Who it tends to fit
This work tends to fit people who are organized and detail-focused, analytical and hands-on.
Work a simulated shift in this job — freeMake the real decisions this job involves, then see what your choices say about you.Related careers
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Quick questions
- How much does a computer network support specialist make?
- The median pay is $36.64 per hour — roughly $76,000 a year, with the real range running from about $22.65/hr (10th percentile) to $61.43/hr (90th percentile). Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Do you need a degree to be a computer network support specialist?
- The typical entry-level education is: Associate degree. Overall preparation level: considerable preparation (Job Zone 4 of 5).
- What does a computer network support specialist actually do all day?
- Back up network data. Configure security settings or access permissions for groups or individuals. Analyze and report computer network security breaches or attempted breaches.
Wages: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS. Tasks & interests: O*NET. Career pathways shown in the app are draft archetypes — verify before relying on them. Trailhead is a free career guide for students — honest numbers, no hype.
Trailhead is operated by FLEXVermont LLC. It is intended for high-school students age 13 and older, and the educators and families who support them, and is not directed to children under 13. Trailhead is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not offer professional, financial, or career advice, and its wage figures and pathways are estimates that may not fit your situation — they should not be relied on as the sole basis for any decision.
Trailhead is operated by FLEXVermont LLC. It is intended for high-school students age 13 and older, and the educators and families who support them, and is not directed to children under 13. Trailhead is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not offer professional, financial, or career advice, and its wage figures and pathways are estimates that may not fit your situation — they should not be relied on as the sole basis for any decision.