Computer Networking
Computer networking is the communication between computer systems or devices and how they are connected with one another for the purpose of exchanging data. In computer networking degree programs students study how computer networks are designed and installed, learn how to work with the latest technology, and develop the skills and abilities necessary to build new networks and improve old ones. Bachelor's degrees in computer networking vary according to concentrations; however, many of these awarded degrees are basic computer science or other computer degrees with concentrations in networking. As this is a fairly specific degree, attaining a career in the computer industry is achievable, especially within computer systems. In the next decade, employment within the computer systems design and related services industry is projected to increase by 45 percent, among the 10 fastest growing industries in the United States, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Common Career Paths:
Network and Computer Systems Administrator
Network and computer systems administrators are in charge of creating, installing, and maintaining a company's computer network (local-area, wide-area, network segment, Internet, or intranet system). They are responsible for gathering data, identifying user needs, evaluating the performance of a system, and determining the specific requirements of a system or network. Typical job duties include installing software, maintaining hardware, monitoring networks, and analyzing system problems. Work environment could include small businesses, large corporations, and government offices. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for computer network administrators (systems administrator) is expected to increase 23 percent through the year 2018. The demand for these types of administrators is particularly expected to grow in industries like computer systems design, software publishing, technical consulting, and data processing and hosting.
To obtain a position as a network systems administrator, one is often required to have a bachelor's degree in an area related to computer networking, such as computer science, information science, or management information systems. These types of programs consist of relevant courses like network configuration, server administration, network cabling and protocols, and network management and security. It can also be extremely beneficial to have related work experience or professional certifications. Many people begin their careers as computer support specialists before advancing to positions as administrators. Once a person does become a computer network administrator, they can expect an annual salary that ranges anywhere from $42,294 to $67,267, as reported by PayScale.
Network Systems and Data Communications Analyst
Network systems and data communications analysts evaluate and design network systems (local-area, wide-area, and Internet systems). Job duties revolve around network analysis, modeling, and planning, and analysts are often responsible for implementing security measures, identifying user needs, and the interfacing of computer and communications equipment. Many network systems analyst work on the development or maintenance of Web sites and their servers. This can involve the examination and analysis of a site’s users, speed of access, Web activity, traffic patterns, and user feedback. Work environment could include comfortable offices at small businesses or large corporations. More analysts are also working from remote locations, as current technology makes it possible for them to have their computers directly connected to those at an employer's location.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, network systems and data communications analyst is among the fastest growing occupations, with employment expected to increase by 53 percent within the next decade. This is due to more business organizations utilizing wireless networks, integrating the newest technologies, and expanding their IT capacity. To obtain a position as this type of analyst, at least a bachelor's degree in an area related to computer networking, such as computer science, information science, or management information systems is required. These types of programs consist of relevant courses like wireless communication, network configuration, systems analysis, server administration, and network management and security. The Bureau reported that network systems and data communication analysts earned a median annual wages of $71,100 in May 2008.
Computer Support Specialist
Computer support specialists give technical support to customers and/or employees. Their main job is to analyze and resolve computer networking problems. On a daily basis these types of analysts are responsible for supervising the performance of computer systems and fixing technical problems with Local Area Networks and Wide Area Networks. Other job duties may include running diagnostics programs for the purpose of resolving problems, training people how to use new hardware and software, and responding to any technical problems users may be having. The type of environment for these specialists could involve working within a company/corporation or for a computer hardware/software vendor.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the employment of computer support specialists will increase by 14 percent by 2018. To obtain a position as a computer support specialist, one is often required to have a bachelor's degree in an area related to computer networking, such as computer science, computer engineering, or information systems. These types of programs consist of relevant courses like networking essentials, server administration, computer system organization, networking configuration, and operating-system technologies. For some specialists positions one may be required to earn a certification or participate in continuing education in order to demonstrate proficiency and keep up with advances in technology. According to PayScale, the annual salary of computer technical support specialists ranges from $32,368 to $50,218.
