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Best network support technician certifications
Network support technician certifications allow job seekers to demonstrate their competency as an network support technician to employers. However, not all network support technician certifications provide the same value for job seekers.
The best certifications for a network support technician are CompTIA Network+, Network 5 Certification, and Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA).
Below is a list of the best network support technician certifications. Obtaining an network support technician certification will give you a leg up when you apply for jobs and increase your potential salary.
10 best certifications for network support technicians
| Rank | Network support technician certification | Organization |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | CompTIA Network+ | CompTIA |
| 2 | Network 5 Certification | EC-Council |
| 3 | Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) | Global Knowle... |
| 4 | Security 5 Certification | EC-Council |
| 5 | Certified Network Computer Technician (CNCT) | ETA |
| 6 | Cisco Certified Network Associate Security (CCNA) | Cisco |
| 7 | Master Certified Electronics Technician (CETma) | ETA |
| 8 | CCNP Service Provider Operations (CCNP) | Cisco |
| 9 | Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT) | Cisco |
| 10 | Computer Service Technician (CST) | ETA |
10 best network support technician certifications
1. CompTIA Network+
The CompTIA Network+ certification is the sign of a qualified networking professional.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
2. Network 5 Certification
Technology today is 'networked' - even in the literal sense. Networks have become an integral part of mundane existence. It is inconceivable to think of communications exclusive of networks. Network 5 serves to expose the learner to basic networking concepts.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required?
3. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
CCNA certification is the first level of Cisco Career certification and indicates a foundation in and apprentice knowledge of networking. CCNA certified professionals can install, configure, and operate LAN, WAN, and dial access services for small networks (100 nodes or fewer), including but not limited to use of these protocols: IP, IGRP, Serial, Frame Relay, IP RIP, VLANs, RIP, Ethernet, Access Lists.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
4. Security 5 Certification
The Security5 Certification is the entry level for anyone interested in learning computer networking and security basics. The Security5 program gives individuals basic networking literacy skills to begin high-end IT programs.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
5. Certified Network Computer Technician (CNCT)
Certified Network Computer Technicians are expected to obtain knowledge of computer electronics basic concepts, Internet and networking technology applicable to various areas of the computer industry. Once the CNCT has acquired these skills, abilities and knowledge, he or she will be able to enter employment in any part of the computer industry. With minimal training in areas unique to the specific products, the CNCT should become a profitable and efficient part of the computer industry workforce.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 4 year(s)
6. Cisco Certified Network Associate Security (CCNA)
Cisco Certified Network Associate Security (CCNA Security) validates associate-level knowledge and skills required to secure Cisco networks. With a CCNA Security certification, a network professional demonstrates the skills required to develop a security infrastructure, recognize threats and vulnerabilities to networks, and mitigate security threats.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required?
7. Master Certified Electronics Technician (CETma)
A technician with six or more years combined work and electronics training may be eligible for the ETA Master Certified Electronics Technician (CETma) certification. The Master certification was created to showcase those technicians who are able to demonstrate proficiency in the many fields of electronics. In addition to the Associate level certification, one must successfully obtain six other certifications, with no more than two originating from the same specialized category, in order to qualify.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 1 year(s)
8. CCNP Service Provider Operations (CCNP)
The Cisco Certified Network Professional in Service Provider Operations (CCNP SP Operations) validates knowledge and skills required (of a Tier II or Tier III support engineer) to troubleshoot and maintain service provider IP NGN core (PE-PE and PE-CE) network infrastructures. With a CCNP SP Operations certification, a network professional demonstrates knowledge and skills required to isolate network performance problems, implement proactive fault measures using operations management processes, frameworks, and network management systems.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
9. Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT)
The Cisco CCENT (Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician) certification validates the skills required for entry-level network support positions, the starting point for many successful careers in networking. Candidates should have the knowledge and skill to install, operate and troubleshoot a small enterprise branch network, including basic network security. CCENT certification is the first step toward achieving CCNA, which covers medium size enterprise branch networks with more complex connections.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
10. Computer Service Technician (CST)
The following can be expected to identify the major areas of training-study-knowledge and skills which the Computer Service Technician needs in order to perform the job of servicing the hardware and the systems software for personal computers: Computer Assembly-Disassembly; Motherboards; Buses; System Resources, Processor Characteristics; Memory Characteristics (Physical & Electronic); Secondary Storage Devices; Peripheral Devices; I/O Ports; Power Concepts and Power Supplies; Basic Networking Concepts; Portables; Digital Concepts; Troubleshooting/Preventive Maintenance; current Operating Systems; File Management; Safety Procedures/Handling; and Workplace Practices.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 4 year(s)
What is the best certification for a network support technician?
The best network support technician certification is CompTIA Network+. The CompTIA Network+ is awarded by the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA). This certification is great to have as it shows an improvement in your competency to perform your role. You can earn this certification at the beginning of your career, as it often doesn't require a minimum education level and work experience.
Here's a bit more background on how to obtain this network support technician certification:
- To become a certified CompTIA Network+, you need to pass the exam.
- Lucky you - certification doesn't require more than two years of work experience.
- Renew certification every 3 year.
What certifications can impact a network support technician career and salary?
The CompTIA Network+ certification will help you to secure a network administrator position, which will increase your pay and career trajectory. A network administrator's average salary is $66,701 whereas network support technicians make an average salary of $48,622.
The most common combination of network support technician certifications include: CompTIA Network+, Network 5 Certification, and Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA).
Online courses for network support technicians to earn certifications
1. Network Support Fundamentals
Dive into the realm of network support with the Network Support Fundamentals course. This online course is meticulously designed to introduce you to the essential skills needed for supporting enterprise networks - one of the most in-demand skill sets in the digital landscape. By the end of this course you will be able to explain network security basics, monitor network performance, and provide essential professional support. Ideal for beginners aiming for an entry-level IT career or current IT...
2. Introduction to Technical Support
Technical Support professionals are in great demand! This is the first course in the IBM IT Support Professional Certificate program, designed to prepare you for a rewarding career in technical support. You will begin this self-paced course by learning what Informational Technology (IT) support is all about. You'll find out the roles and responsibilities of Technical Support professionals and become familiar with all the different career paths you can take in Technical Support. You will also...
3. Computer Network Fundamentals- IT Helpdesk & Desktop Support
Learn the basic fundamentals of computer networking & OSI model for desktop support and IT service desk technicians...
4. Computer Hardware, Operating System and Networking
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5. IBM IT Support
Prepare for an in-demand career in Information Technology (IT). In this program, you’ll develop a strong foundation in IT fundamentals, networking, cybersecurity, and cloud computing to get job-ready in as little as 3 months, with no prior experience or degree needed to get started.\n\nAlmost every organization, business, or individual relies on technology. A career in IT Support is about providing technological assistance to better optimize organizational efficiency. This can include...
6. Network Security Support Fundamentals
Explore network security with the Network Security Support Fundamentals online course. Designed to offer a comprehensive understanding of network security, this course is crucial in today's digital world. By the end of this course, you will be able to describe the role of enterprise networks, explain enterprise network security basics, and understand network security operations. Perfect for beginners aiming for a cybersecurity career or professionals looking to enhance their skill set, this...
7. Basic Computer Course - Windows 7/10 - IT & Desktop Support
Basic computer course with troubleshooting skills -computer hardware and computer networking, for IT support technicians...
8. IT Support Technical Skills Bootcamp
Hands-on Technical skills for IT Support Professionals...
9. IT/Desktop Computer Support- Troubleshooting for Technicians
Learn how to troubleshoot desktop computer issues as an IT Support Technician on real-world organisational networks...
10. Desktop IT Support Level 1 & 2 in real life (Troubleshooting
Learn everything in real life Troubleshooting for IT Help Desk , Helpdesk , IT Support , System Administration and IT...
11. Advanced IT Troubleshooting for Helpdesk Support Technicians
Learn some of the less common IT troubleshooting techniques for Windows computers...
12. IT Support Technical Skills Helpdesk
Hands-on Technical skills for IT Support Learners...
13. Windows Server 2019: Active Directory, GPO, R. Server Access
Training For Beginners - Become a Network Administrator in Microsoft Windows Server 2019 with Remote Server Access!...
14. Active Directory & Group Policy Administration for IT Techs
Active Directory & Group Policy Administration Basics for Helpdesk and Desktop / IT Support Technicians...
15. Networking Essentials
Gain the essential knowledge and skills required to configure, troubleshoot, manage and protect a data network...
16. Computer Network: Networking fundamentals + Wireshark Basics
Learn Computer Networks fundamentals and Wireshark Basics; Build Strong, Successful Foundation in Computer Networking...
17. Java Network Programming - TCP/IP Socket Programming
Learn how to write powerful network applications...
18. Mastering Modbus TCP/IP Network Communication
Learn how to design, build and troubleshoot Modbus TCP/IP client-server networks...
19. Microsoft Networking Fundamentals
Learn Windows-based networking, network management tools, DNS, TCP/IP, network protocols and much more!...
20. Computer Networking Fundamentals
Learn all about the basics of computer networking fundamental concepts and network security concepts...