Computer & Mathematical
Computer Network Support Specialists
Also called: Computer Network Specialist, IT Consultant (Information Technology Consultant), Network Specialist, Network Support Specialist
US median pay
$76,220
per year, 2025
Job growth 2025–35
+1.2%
about average or slower
Openings a year (US)
9,000
152,500 employed
Typical entry education
Associate's degree
Preparation 4/5 · Considerable preparation
What this job is
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.
What they do day to day
- 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.
- Provide telephone support related to networking or connectivity issues.
- Evaluate local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN) performance data to ensure sufficient availability or speed, to identify network problems, or for disaster recovery purposes.
Skills and knowledge that matter most
Skills
- Judgment and Decision Making3.4/5
- Complex Problem Solving3.2/5
- Troubleshooting3.1/5
- Systems Analysis3.1/5
- Time Management3.0/5
- Systems Evaluation3.0/5
- Operations Monitoring3.0/5
- Social Perceptiveness2.9/5
Knowledge
- Computers and Electronics5.0/5
- Telecommunications3.8/5
- Customer and Personal Service3.5/5
- Engineering and Technology3.4/5
- English Language3.3/5
- Administration and Management3.1/5
Importance rated by people working in the job (1 = not important, 5 = extremely important).
Education and preparation
Preparation level 4 of 5 — Considerable preparation. Usually a bachelor's degree and several years of related experience.
Typical entry education (BLS): Associate's degree.
Highest education of people in this job:
- Bachelor's degree47%
- Associate's degree22%
- Some college14%
Who this job suits
Mostly Conventional
Organising data, details and procedures
Investigative
Ideas, research and solving problems
Realistic
Hands-on work with tools, machines, plants or animals
Based on the Holland (RIASEC) interest profile for this occupation.