Technology
Network Technician
Network technicians are detail-oriented, problem-solving people who enjoy working with technology and keeping computer systems connected. This role suits those who like learning new tech, troubleshooting issues, and supporting teams or businesses. You should be patient, organized, and good at logical thinking. No college degree is always required. It’s a great fit for job seekers wanting stable, growing work in the tech field with good pay and future opportunities.
Median wage
$36.64/hr
Physical demands
low
Drug test
No
National wages & job outlook
National figures for Computer Network Support Specialists, shown as published by the source below.
Entry (10th–25th pct)
$22.65–$28/hr
Median
$36.64/hr
Experienced (75th–90th pct)
$47.48–$61.43/hr
Projected openings / year
9,600
+2% growth, 2024–2034
Wage data: 2025. National figures; local pay varies.
Source: CareerOneStop (careeronestop.org), sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment & Training Administration (DOLETA), and the Minnesota Department of Employment & Economic Development (DEED).
Starting requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Basic computer and math skills
- Strong problem-solving ability
- Willingness to earn certifications (like CompTIA Network+)
- Clean background check
Training structure
Training can be completed in 6 to 18 months through certificate programs, community colleges, or online courses. You learn networking basics, hardware, troubleshooting, and security. Many employers offer on-the-job training and help with industry certifications to get you started quickly.
Top credentials
- CompTIA Network+
- Cisco CCNA
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Security+
Licenses & certifications
Licenses are state-specific and certifications vary by specialty. Look up the exact ones for this path in your state.
Open the license & certification finderAdvancement path
Entry: Network technician or support specialist
Mid-Level: Senior network technician or administrator
Advanced: Network engineer, systems administrator, or IT manager
Certifications and experience can open doors to higher pay and more advanced roles.
Typical employers
Managed service providers, corporate IT, telecoms, data centers
A day in the life
You start by checking system status and responding to help tickets. Your day includes setting up network equipment, troubleshooting connectivity issues, running cables, and performing maintenance. The work mixes office tasks with hands-on technical work in a team setting. You end the day knowing you helped keep businesses and users connected smoothly.