OUR NETWORK SUPPORT SPECIALIST PROGRAM

The Vantage Colelge Network Support Specialist program prepares students to manage, maintain, troubleshoot, install, operate and configure basic network infrastructure, describe networking technologies, basic design principles, and adhere to wiring standards and use testing tools. Students also learn to analyze, test, troubleshoot, and evaluate existing network systems, such as local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), and Internet systems or a segment of a network system. Students also perform network maintenance to ensure networks operate correctly with minimal interruption.

The program is designed to prepare individuals for junior-level jobs as a network support technician. During the course of the program, our students take the CompTIA’s NETWORK+ Certification exam, included with tuition.

Once a student completes training, our full time Career Services staff offers job placement assistance. Our staff also offers students guidance, support and employment assistance even after completion of the program. Vantage graduates will complete school knowing that they have the skills to obtain a job, perform well, and advance in the career that they have chosen to become a valued member of the workforce. Vantage College also provides services such as flexible tutoring schedules, class-related field trips, guest speakers, and interview preparation. 

WHAT DOES A NETWORK SUPPORT SPECIALIST DO?

Computer network support specialists usually work in their organization’s IT department. They help IT staff analyze, troubleshoot, and evaluate computer network problems. They play an important role in the daily upkeep of their organization’s networks by finding solutions to problems as they occur. Solving an IT problem in a timely manner is important because organizations depend on their computer systems. Technical support specialists may provide assistance to the organization’s computer users through phone, email, or in-person visits. They often work under network and computer systems administrators, who handle more complex tasks.

Network Support Specialists typically do the following:

• Analyze network data to determine network usage, disk space availability, or server function.
• Configure and define parameters for installation or testing of local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), hubs, routers, switches, controllers, multiplexers, or related networking equipment.
• Configure security settings or access permissions for groups or individuals.
• Configure wide area network (WAN) or local area network (LAN) routers or related equipment.
• Document network support activities.
• 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.
• Identify the causes of networking problems, using diagnostic testing software and equipment.
• Install and configure wireless networking equipment.
• Install network software, including security or firewall software.
• Install new hardware or software systems or components, ensuring integration with existing network systems

PROGRAM FEATURES

Duration: The NSS program takes approximately 2.5 months (240 clock hours) to complete.

Core Topics:

• Fundamentals of Computer Networking
• Network Configuration and Topologies
• Network Management and Security
• NETWORK+ Cert. Lab. - Supporting Users and Troubleshooting Networks
• Microsoft MTA - Windows Server Administration 

Graduates from this program:

• Provide technical assistance to computer system users
• Answer questions or resolve network and computer problems for clients in person, via telephone or from remote location
• Provide assistance concerning the use of computer, printers, and other resources in a network environment

Certifications: