Analyze, test, troubleshoot, and evaluate existing network systems, such as local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), and Internet systems or a segment of a network system. Perform network maintenance to ensure that they are working as they should

Also Known As: Computer Network Specialist, IT Consultant (Information Technology Consultant), Network Engineer, Network Specialist, Network Support Specialist, Network Technical Analyst, Network Technician, Personal Computer Network Analyst, Senior IT Assistant (Senior Information Technology Assistant), Systems Specialist

Daily Activities / Routine Tasks

Computer Network Support Specialists as part of their day to day tasks execute the following roles
1. Back up network data.
2. Configure security settings or access permissions for groups or individuals.
3. Analyze and report computer network security breaches or attempted breaches.
4. Identify the causes of networking problems, using diagnostic testing software and equipment.
5. Document network support activities.
6. Configure wide area network (WAN) or local area network (LAN) routers or related equipment.
7. Install network software, including security or firewall software.
8. Test computer software or hardware, using standard diagnostic testing equipment and procedures.
9. Create or update technical documentation for network installations or changes to existing installations.
10. Research hardware or software products to meet technical networking or security needs.

Key Knowledge Areas

Computer Network specialists need to be very knowledgable in these areas

Computers and Electronics — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Telecommunications — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
Customer and Personal Service — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Engineering and Technology — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
English Language — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Administration and Management — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Communications and Media — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.

Important Qualities / Top Skills

To be a great Computer Network Support Specialist, these skills are needed

Critical Thinking — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Active Listening — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Judgment and Decision Making — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Complex Problem Solving — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Troubleshooting — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
Monitoring — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Operation Monitoring — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.