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What is a desktop support analyst and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025
4 min read
Quoted expert
Kate Marek Ph.D.
introduction image

Desktop support analysts are trained IT support professionals who resolve technical issues relating to an organization's computer system, telecommunications network, LANs and WANs, and desktop computers. They help to resolve technical problems on desktop hardware and applications for all users of technology. Sometimes, they participate in the design, testing, and implementation of new products or services. Also, they perform routine inspections, troubleshoot encountered errors, and maintain inventories on all applications. Additionally, they develop strategies and systems to improve and coordinate desktop support efforts.

An associate's degree in computer technology, management information systems, or a similar field is required for this role. Applicants must have at least two years of work experience in a related field. This particular profession requires communication skills, customer service skills, computer literacy, and professional IT training.

Desktop support analyst makes about $45,596 per year which is $21.92 per hour. It ranges between $35,000 and $59,000.

What general advice would you give to a desktop support analyst?

Kate Marek Ph.D.Kate Marek Ph.D. LinkedIn profile

Director and Professor, Dominican University

Choose an organization in tune with one's values. Look for a job in growth areas, such as data asset management, data analysis, etc.
ScoreDesktop Support AnalystUS Average
Salary
3.8

Avg. Salary $48,674

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability level
6.7

Growth rate 10%

Growth rate 0.3%

Diversity
6.3
Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.41%

Asian 12.33%

Black or African American 11.59%

Hispanic or Latino 15.67%

Unknown 5.34%

White 54.66%

Gender

female 12.05%

male 87.95%

Age - 41
Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 41
Stress level
6.7

Stress level is high

7.1 - high

Complexity level
6.6

Complexity level is challenging

7 - challenging

Work life balance
7.4

Work life balance is good

6.4 - fair

Desktop support analyst career paths

Key steps to become a desktop support analyst

  1. Explore desktop support analyst education requirements

    Most common desktop support analyst degrees

    Bachelor's

    49.7 %

    Associate

    34.5 %

    Master's

    4.8 %
  2. Start to develop specific desktop support analyst skills

    SkillsPercentages
    Desktop Support10.98%
    Customer Service9.53%
    Computer System8.34%
    Software Issues6.98%
    Technical Problems6.11%
  3. Complete relevant desktop support analyst training and internships

    Accountants spend an average of 3-6 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New desktop support analysts learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a desktop support analyst based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real desktop support analyst resumes.
  4. Gain additional desktop support analyst certifications

    Desktop support analyst certifications can show employers you have a baseline of knowledge expected for the position. Certifications can also make you a more competitive candidate. Even if employers don't require a specific desktop support analyst certification, having one may help you stand out relative to other applicants.

    The most common certifications for desktop support analysts include Certified Network Computer Technician (CNCT) and Security 5 Certification.

    More About Certifications
  5. Research desktop support analyst duties and responsibilities

    • Manage LAN infrastructure configuring and maintaining all network hardware devices.
    • Provide hardware and software support, coordinate and implement high volume workstation deployments, troubleshoot and administrate IEC production workstations.
    • Configure several software applications for use in CITRIX XenApp.
    • Maintain current patch levels for desktop OS and applications issues to isolate problem, then resolve or escalate as needed.
  6. Prepare your desktop support analyst resume

    When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your desktop support analyst resume.

    You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a desktop support analyst resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

    Choose from 10+ customizable desktop support analyst resume templates

    Build a professional desktop support analyst resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your desktop support analyst resume.
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    Desktop Support Analyst Resume
  7. Apply for desktop support analyst jobs

    Now it's time to start searching for a desktop support analyst job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

    1. Browse job boards for relevant postings
    2. Consult your professional network
    3. Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
    4. Watch out for job scams

How did you land your first desktop support analyst job

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Are you a desktop support analyst?

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Average desktop support analyst salary

The average desktop support analyst salary in the United States is $48,674 per year or $23 per hour. Desktop support analyst salaries range between $36,000 and $65,000 per year.

Average desktop support analyst salary
$48,674 Yearly
$23.40 hourly

What am I worth?

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How do desktop support analysts rate their job?

-/5

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Desktop support analyst reviews

profile
A zippia user wrote a review on Nov 2023
Pros

You get to help a lot of people in many different ways as well as learning new things about technology

Cons

I have aids now due to the painfulness of sitting down all day


profile
A zippia user wrote a review on Jan 2022
Pros

Working with The people

Cons

There was nothing to like. Everyone was polite an hard workers


profile
A zippia user wrote a review on Jul 2020
Pros

I decided to go to technical support because I've been fascinated by technology all my life and I love working with the people as well. I want to use my technical know-how to solve directly the problems that customers have. I want to be the person who makes life easier and more enjoyable for people who have had a problem. This is what I like most as a technical Support.

Cons

I don't like sitting around being inactive. So I'll keep my self always busy


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Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Research Team
Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

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