This goes without saying, but the realm of computer networking is changing drastically and at an alarming rate. Does this mean you cannot keep up with them as a beginner? Not quite.
In fact, if you have the fundamentals down, you can easily upskill and understand this industry better. Although it is a quick guide, it will include everything from in-demand skills to how to pick the right certified network computer technician training online.
So, let’s get started.
Top In-Demand Networking Skills Employers Demand
Here’s a list of the most searched for skills for a computer network technician role:
1. IT Security
With the rising threat of cyber attacks and their increasing sophistication, every business wants to protect its data and network infrastructure.
Now, a majority of employers may not list this on their job descriptions; however, every organization expects technicians (even beginner-level ones) to have a fundamental understanding of IT security and firewalls.
Granted, you don’t need to know the ins and outs of cybersecurity, but the basics of IT security are a must. Some of the core concepts you should be familiar with include:
- Installation of firewalls and routers
- Data encryption
- Threat detection and risk mitigation
- Ethical hacking
- Penetration testing
2. Networking Automation
Since the release of AI bots and automation tools, the networking industry has slowly adapted to automation.
So, in the present day and age, it is crucial for networking techs to know how to automate tasks such as monitoring and device configuration.
NOTE: Depending on the employer, you might need to automate tasks yourself using scripting languages.
3. Programming
Here’s another skill that might seem contradictory to the previous one: programming.
With access to no-code website building and automated development tools, it is natural to ask why employers require networking techs and engineers to know programming languages.
It is because programming languages are the basis of networks and enable you to build custom scripts, establish VPNs, and more. Hence, a high demand for this skill. Two languages that are most in demand are Python and C++.
4. Network Design
Designing and implementing functional networks is perhaps one of the most important skills that every network tech needs to master.
Businesses want IT professionals who can not just build but also maintain reliable networks without hiccups, and not to mention, they are more likely to hire individuals with network design and implementation skills.
5. Troubleshooting Skills
In the realm of IT networking, things can and do go wrong, and when they do, networking techs need to troubleshoot.
The three big aspects of the troubleshooting process are to know exactly where to look for the issue, how to identify the problem, and quickly address it.
This is essential to reduce downtimes and ensure the business can operate smoothly.
6. Cloud Computing
Although cloud computing is dominated by cloud engineers, networking techs and engineers also need a basic understanding of the cloud.
This is because almost all companies rely on the cloud in one way or another, and knowing how to build and maintain cloud infrastructure can significantly boost your employability. Not to mention, it can open doors to a springboard to advanced roles, like cloud developer and cloud architect.
How To Pick The Right Training Course?
Before answering this question, it is important to establish that online training programs are superior to in-person training. This is because you can learn with a flexible schedule and from anywhere, which can be essential if you are already working full-time or have other responsibilities.
Now that we have that clear, the next question is, recorded sessions or live sessions?
Recorded sessions do give you the ability to learn at your own pace, truly, and anytime you want. However, if you have any doubt or want to test your knowledge, you are out of luck; sadly, these don’t give you access to the instructor or specialized assignments.
Live lectures for certified network computer technician training online, on the other hand, offer direct interaction between students and teachers. Not to mention, you can gain access to the same sessions in a recorded format as well.
Lastly, make sure whatever program you pick provides virtual labs to simulate real-world scenarios, so you are prepared for the job.
Final Words
Computer networking is a field that is advancing significantly, but despite the advancements, these fundamental skills are and always will be in demand.
And remember, these top six skills are not just for beginners; even experienced network technicians can upskill and boost their employability with them.
