The job of a computer support technician is to ensure that the company's computer systems are running smoothly and efficiently. The compute support technician performs various tasks, such as setting up, maintaining, and repairing computers, routers, and other devices for the company's employees.
They also update the existing systems and fix any issues with the hardware. They train the company's staff to operate the software and hardware.
Furthermore, a compute support technician takes care of all the terminals and peripherals, such as printers, modems, PCs, and data communication machines.
What does a computer support technician do?
If you have a problem with your computer or network, you can count on a computer support technician to help you out. A computer support technician is an expert in finding and fixing the cause of any glitches and making sure that everything works smoothly and fast.
Other than that, a computer support technician takes care of all the computer devices and parts and helps you install new ones if needed. They also monitor the budget and suggest the best options for replacing faulty items. The computer support technicians also write easy-to-follow guides for solving common issues and ensure you follow the rules when using the network.
As a computer support technician, you will have the following responsibilities:
- Ensure the safety and availability of company data and servers by managing backups, replications, and disaster recovery plans.
- Use and learn LINUX network file system and operating system for data recovery and other tasks.
- Support and troubleshoot various VPN, Internet, email, browser, and OS issues.
- Network troubleshooting (proxy setting, TCP/IP configuration, DNS servers, etc.)
- Install and configure new office computers to connect to the office network and the Internet via TCP/IP.
- Provide remote assistance to clients using compatible software.
- Support all computer-related hardware, including cabling, installing, and relocating terminals and PCs.
- Configure new workstations and interrelate hardware and software using SCCM for onboarding support.
- Contact appropriate agencies for patients with potential domestic issues while respecting privacy and confidentiality policies.
- Prepare documentation and technical guides for end-user staff using Microsoft SharePoint.
- Develop and administer SharePoint websites and security groups for FSDE and subordinate offices.
- Configure wireless routers and network connections, enable wireless encryption, and troubleshoot connectivity issues.
As a computer support technician, you will need the following skills:
- Provide excellent customer service and technical support to various clients and users.
- Design, program, and analyze computer applications and data systems.
- Troubleshoot and resolve VPN, Internet, email, browser, and OS issues.
- Repair and support Mac hardware and software products.
- Communicate effectively with end-users via telephone or in person to provide computer help desk support.
- Repair desktop computer systems and install software in a Microsoft environment.
How to become a computer support technician?
If you are interested in becoming a computer support technician, here are some steps you can follow to achieve your goal:
- Earn a bachelor's degree in computer science, computer information systems, or a related field.
- Gain hands-on experience in related fields, such as computer technician, technical support specialist, or customer service representative.
- Get a computer support technician certification, such as the Security 5 Certification.
- Apply for computer support technician jobs that match your qualifications and interests.
- Complete the job training provided by your employer.
Best certification to become a computer support technician
Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT)
The Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT) is the most popular certification, validating your skills and knowledge to work in entry-level network support jobs.
You should know how to set up, run and fix a small branch network for a business and how to protect it from security threats. The CCENT certification is the first step to getting the CCNA certification, which covers bigger and more complex branch networks for businesses.
Security 5 Certification
The Security 5 certification is a well-known and widely respected certification for various job roles offered by the EC-Council. When it comes to computer support technicians, it shows you have the basic knowledge and skills in computer networking and security.
The Security 5 certification is designed for beginners who want to learn networking and security fundamentals, such as network devices, protocols, topologies, security concepts, encryption, firewalls, and more.
Computer Service Technician (CST)
The Computer Service Technician (CST) certification is again one of the most popular computer support technician certifications. With CST certification, you, as a computer service technician, can service personal computers' hardware and systems software.
To perform such a job, the technician needs to know and be able to do the following things:
- How to assemble and disassemble computers.
- How different motherboards, buses, system resources, processors, memory, secondary storage devices, peripheral devices, I/O ports, power concepts and power supplies work.
- How to understand and use basic networking concepts.
- How to deal with portables.
- How to apply digital concepts.
- How to troubleshoot and maintain computers.
- How to use current operating systems and manage files.
- How to follow safety procedures and handle equipment.
Dell Certified Systems Expert (DCSE)
The Dell Certified Systems Expert (DCSE) certification program validates your hardware maintenance skills to independent service technicians or companies. The DCSE certification program helps them to provide their maintenance services.
To earn the Dell Certified Systems Expert (DCSE) certification, technicians must pass a test on client systems (such as laptops, desktops and workstations) or servers.
Master Certified Electronics Technician (CETma)
The ETA Master Certified Electronics Technician (CETma) certification is for technicians with at least six years of combined work and electronics training.
It can show their skills in various fields of electronics. To get the Master's certification, you need to have the Associate level certification and six more certifications from different areas of specialization, with no more than two from the same category. The Master certification is offered by ETA.
Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT)
The Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) certification program helps pharmacy technicians work better with pharmacists to provide safe and effective patient care and service.
You can get certified by meeting certain eligibility criteria and passing the PTCE, a written exam that tests your pharmacy knowledge. The NCCA, an organization that accredits certification programs, has accredited the PTCB certification program.
Certified Network Computer Technician (CNCT)
The Certified Network Computer Technician (CNCT) certification is another of the best computer support technician credentials. The CNCT certification shows your computer electronics, Internet, and networking technology proficiency.
It is offered by ETA, a non-profit organization that provides various certifications in electronics and communications. You can get the CNCT certification by passing a written exam covering different computer industry aspects.
The bottom line
A computer support technician is a professional who provides technical assistance and troubleshooting to users who face computer, software, or hardware problems. A computer support technician can work in various settings, such as IT departments, help desks, call centers, or independent contractors, making it a highly sought-after career option.
If you want to become a computer support technician and are looking for a reliable proxy exam center to help you pass the exam on your first attempt, look no further than CBT Proxy. CBT Proxy has been there for over a decade, helping IT professionals achieve their desired certification goals.
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