TABANGAO INTEGRATED SCHOOL TLE-CSS 10 WEEK 8

CAREERS and JOBS related to networking

What Does a Computer Networking Specialist Do?

The priority of the computer networking specialist is the day-to-day support that keeps the network functioning. The

computer networking specialist maintains the software and hardware, monitors the system for potential disturbances,

analyzes problems, and develops plans for potential solutions. Networking specialists must anticipate problems and develop

plans to prevent them, or at least to minimize their effects when they do happen.

In some systems, the computer-networking specialist also oversees the security system for the network. Computer crime is a

growing problem, and networking specialists are constantly being challenged to find new ways to thwart potential information

thieves. They must understand the nature of the information being protected, the type of software and hardware being used,

and the myriad possible ways to breach its security.

Before deciding on a career in computer networking, you might consider whether you have the personal characteristics that

would benefit you in this line of work. Problem-solving is by far the No. 1 activity for computer networking specialists, and the

ability to solve problems quickly and creatively is essential.

The job also requires the ability to work well under stress. Computer networks are the communications backbone of large and

small businesses, and production stops for these businesses once the system goes down. That puts immediate pressure on the

computer networking specialist to respond swiftly and to find a solution, which may mean working late at night or on

weekends. In addition, many routine upgrades and maintenance checks on the network must be done outside of normal office

hours while computers are not in use.

What Can You Do with a College Degree in Computer Networking?

Computer networks can be found in nearly every large and small business. They can be in startup companies or established

industry leaders. The requirements and equipment available to the networking specialist vary accordingly. Not all of the jobs

should be limited to computer networking. In fact, those who work in various computer fields often work their way from one

specialty to another. The following are some computer networking specialties, although many of the skills and assignments

might overlap.

Network Administrators

Network administrators are responsible for keeping a network up and running--like an auto mechanic for the network. They

create user accounts and manage the folders and other resources on computers in the network. They correct problems with

network communications, resource access, printers, and the computers. They also must address issues about system
TABANGAO INTEGRATED SCHOOL TLE-CSS 10 WEEK 8
expansion. Depending on the organization's size, number of locations and users, geographic reach, and purpose, a network

administrator's job can include a wide variety of responsibilities.

Here are some basic tasks for which a network administrator may be responsible:

• Setting up and configuring network hardware and software

• Installing and configuring network media and connections
• Connecting user nodes and peripherals of all kinds to the network
• Adding users to and removing users from the network
• Managing user accounts, such as passwords, storage space, and file-access privileges
• Creating and maintaining a system for backing up data and program files
• Ensuring the security of the network
• Managing the organization's e-mail system
• Managing users' ability to access the Internet via the network
• Training users to utilize the network's resources
•
Network Engineer

A network engineer designs and manages the groups of computers networked together. The network engineer performs tasks

such as installing and configuring communication hardware, setting up of the network communication link, installing and

configuring application software, troubleshooting operations to ensure continuous network availability, and offering technical

support and assistance.

Network Analyst

Network analysts support the computer network and the overall computer infrastructure. Job duties might involve installing

network software and training the user in new applications. The analyst might be responsible for coordinating system

enhancements between the software and hardware, documenting procedures, and producing policies and procedures.

Information Systems Administrator

Information systems administrators assist with the design, delivery, and maintenance of an information technology

infrastructure within the organization. The person assists in strategic planning and in evaluating and recommending services,

products, and projects. The job involves assisting in the planning, development, implementation, and maintenance of the

information platform. The information platform might include Web servers and services, technological applications, and

interactive applications. Administrators also supply instruction, user aids, and assistance in problem solving for library IT

applications.

Network Technician

The network technician generally services network computers and troubleshoots for potential problems. Network technicians

often work the help-desk services to repair or upgrade computers. Technicians need to be familiar with the different

operating systems such as Microsoft, Novell, and Unix, as well as the basics of computer networking.

Companies of all sizes have networks and need knowledgeable individuals to manage those networks, but those companies

that cannot afford, or do not require a full-time administrator, might contract with a computer company that offers
TABANGAO INTEGRATED SCHOOL TLE-CSS 10 WEEK 8
administrative services. Computer networking presents an outstanding opportunity for the skilled professional or

entrepreneur to work with a variety of companies to set up or possibly maintain a network.

Computer Networking Instructor

The increasing use of computer networks has created a need for more instructors who have a solid networking background

and can teach those skills to students. Unlike in some other academic fields, one need not have a doctoral degree in computer

networking to be a computer networking instructor. Although community colleges and four-year schools might prefer

instructors to have a master's degree, for-profit and certification schools usually only require substantial experience in the

profession. It is also a way to remain a working professional while supplementing an income and contributing to the growth of

the profession.

More Computer Networking Career

Some other computer-related specialties that involve networking skills are:

• Computer Programmer Computer Engineer

• Database Administrator Web Master

• Computer-Operations Researcher Computer Repair Specialist

• Systems Analyst

TASK 1. I FILL YOU. Fill in the blanks with the appropriate words/phrase. Write your answers on a separate sheet
of paper.
1. The topic of this lesson is all about ______________________________________.
2. I have learned through this lesson that ___________________________________.
3. The terms / ideas I found hard to understand are ___________________________.
4. I enjoyed learning the terms / ideas about ________________________________.
5. I am having difficulty with ____________________________________________.

END of WEEK 8

REFERENCE

Guide to Computer Networking Major, Jobs, and Careers (worldwidelearn.com)