CFChooseField
Technology and Mathematics

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.

Visual summary of pay, outlook, skills, interests, and preparation for Computer Network Support Specialists
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Median pay

$73,340
Median annual pay for Computer Network Support Specialists.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024
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10-year growth

1.8%
Projected employment growth from 2024 to 2034.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Annual openings

9,600
Projected annual openings, including growth and replacement demand.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Employment

152,700
Estimated U.S. employment for Computer Network Support Specialists in 2024.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024
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Jobs added or lost

+2,800
Projected numeric employment change from 2024 to 2034.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Entry preparation

Associate's degree
Typical additional preparation: Moderate-term on-the-job training.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024 profile
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O*NET occupation profile

What the work involves

Strongest O*NET signals first.

Essential skills

  1. 1Critical Thinking
  2. 2Active Listening
  3. 3Reading Comprehension
  4. 4Active Learning
  5. 5Monitoring
  6. 6Speaking

Knowledge areas

  1. 1Computers and Electronics
  2. 2Telecommunications
  3. 3Customer and Personal Service
  4. 4Engineering and Technology
  5. 5English Language
  6. 6Administration and Management

Abilities

  1. 1Deductive Reasoning
  2. 2Oral Comprehension
  3. 3Problem Sensitivity
  4. 4Inductive Reasoning
  5. 5Oral Expression
  6. 6Written Comprehension

Career interests

  1. 1Conventional
  2. 2Investigative
  3. 3Realistic
  4. 4Enterprising
  5. 5Social
  6. 6Artistic

Work styles

  1. 1Attention to Detail
  2. 2Dependability
  3. 3Integrity
  4. 4Cautiousness
  5. 5Intellectual Curiosity
  6. 6Adaptability

Work activities

  1. 1Working with Computers
  2. 2Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
  3. 3Getting Information
  4. 4Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
  5. 5Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships
  6. 6Making Decisions and Solving Problems

Work context

  1. 1E-Mail
  2. 2Telephone Conversations
  3. 3Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
  4. 4Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
  5. 5Contact With Others
  6. 6Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team

Representative tasks

  • 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.
  • Install network software, including security or firewall software.
  • Troubleshoot network or connectivity problems for users or user groups.

Software and tools

Microsoft Outlook · in demandMicrosoft Active Directory · in demandMicrosoft Excel · in demandMicrosoft Office software · in demandApple macOS · in demandMicrosoft Windows · in demandMicrosoft Windows Server · in demandLinux · in demandServiceNow · in demandFirewall software · in demandRed Hat Enterprise Linux · hot technologyMicrosoft Access · hot technology

Sources

BLS provides national pay, employment, and projections. O*NET provides skills, interests, preparation, tasks, work context, and tools.

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