Computer Networking Jobs

Computers have entered every industry and most homes across the globe. This has created a large need for people who understand technology and can make network systems work efficiently and safely. The people who do these kinds of jobs work in the networking industry.
 
Networking jobs, especially information technology careers, are hot right now. People in this field tend to make good money and have many different options for advancement. Here is the information you need to know about jobs in the networking technical field.

What is Networking

Networking involves connecting homes’ and businesses’ computers together so that they can communicate. Networking jobs also focus on:
  • information technology (IT)
  • installing software
  • managing network security
  • Web development
  • wireless networking.
People in the networking fields are very hands-on, detail-oriented and proficient at troubleshooting. They also generally enjoy configuring hardware and installing software.

A New Focus on Specialties in Networking

Networking jobs focus on new areas as technology progresses. For example, while networking jobs formerly focused on traditional routing and switching, they are now typically geared toward overall breadth and applications of computer systems. This includes mobility, security and unified communications.
 
Other skills that networking jobs focus on are:
  • application acceleration
  • video over IP (transmitting video via an Internet connection)
  • VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol, a technology that allows you to make calls over a broadband Internet connection, instead of by phone).
A large number of jobs are available to those with video knowledge and experience. In fact, a study done by Cisco Technologies suggested that, in 2007, video traffic on the Internet was more than the total amount of Internet traffic in 2000. The study also found that video entails 40 to 50 percent of all network traffic.
 
This means that there is a growing need for those with video skills and training, including:
  • conferencing to the desktop
  • digital signage
  • IP video
  • streaming broadcast
  • surveillance
  • telepresence
  • videoconferencing.

Networking Career Training

Most network training and certification can be done online, though many brick-and-mortar colleges offer networking courses and related information technology degrees. The courses generally teach students the technical abilities required to do most computer networking jobs, including:
  • communication skills
  • creative skills
  • critical thinking skills
  • networking how to and troubleshooting applications
  • technical knowledge.
These courses range in cost from $800 to $2,000, depending on the course and school.
 
Many people in the networking industry continue to take courses and read about new technologies after their formal training to stay competitive in their field. Those who do not constantly learn fall behind and find themselves out of a job. Not surprisingly, anyone wanting to work in this field must make a commitment to on-going learning.

Getting a Job in Networking

After course training is completed, most people will need a CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert) certification of their skills. The school at which students earned their information technology degree should be able to help them to earn this certification as well.
 
After training and certification is complete, a graduate can usually network to find a good job. Attending a reputable, accredited college or university is a great way to go about networking for jobs in the industry. Many times, companies will contact schools when they have openings for networking positions. Instructors will recommend students who have done well in the program for job placement.
 
Networking jobs are on the rise with no signs of slowing down. For those who have the skill, networking is a very profitable and stable job choice.
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