Computers and math
Computer network support specialist
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.
Median pay
$76,220
Growth to 2035
+1%
little or no change
Openings a year
9,000
Time to qualify*
2.5 years
* From a bachelor's degree in an unrelated field.
Pay
Computer network support specialist
Getting in
- Typical entry education
- Associate's degree
- On-the-job training
- Moderate-term on-the-job training
- Prior experience
- None
Calculate your switch to computer network support specialist
What the work is like
Dealing with the public
Unpleasant or angry people
Time pressure
Cost of a mistake
Freedom to make decisions
Repeating the same tasks
Time sitting
Time standing
Outdoors in all weather
Exposure to disease
Computer network support specialist: 46% usually work over 40 hours a week
Core 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.
Also called: Computer Network Specialist · IT Consultant (Information Technology Consultant) · Network Specialist · Network Support Specialist · Network Technical Analyst · Network Technician · Personal Computer Network Analyst · Systems Specialist
Outlook and AI
Computer network support specialists held 152,500 jobs in 2025. BLS projects 154,400 by 2035 (+1%, little or no change; all jobs: +3.5%).
Sourcing change - share decreases as companies complete cloud migrations and outsource network support to cloud providers.
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