Computer networking is an extremely popular field these days. Experts claim that there is a shortage of capable people to fill these positions. Unfortunately, this field is also very competitive. You will need to be willing to work hard in order to prove yourself. If you want to try a computer networks career, there are several options available. You can find work as a Network Administrator, Network Engineer, Network Technician, or Network Programmer. Each of these positions can be a potentially rewarding career for those who do not mind the competition and are not afraid of hard work.

A Network Administrator manages and configures both LANs (Local Area Networks) and WANs (Wide Area Networks). As a Network Administrator, you will also be responsible for maintaining network security, configuring routers, assisting customers, evaluating third-party tools, and making sure that firewalls and switches work properly. This isn't a job for someone new to the field! If you want to begin your computer networks career, you might want to look for an easier position. If you do not mind learning as you go, however, this position can be suitable for beginners. Of course, the company will have to accept your inexperience before you can start the position!

A Network Engineer's duties are similar to those of a Network Administrator. In fact, some companies use these terms interchangeably. A Network Engineer differs from a Network Administrator in that he or she is responsible for system upgrades, security testing, and evaluating vendor products. You will need to be willing to work at odd hours if you are interested in this computer networks career. Most companies have their Network Engineers work on the computers after everyone has gone home for the evening. You might also be called in if the company experiences sudden technical issues.

Network Technicians generally focus on specific products or hardware rather than being responsible for a whole computer system. A Network Technician might also be called a Service Technician, but the duties are the same. You might work on-site for a given company, but you will probably need to travel every day to fix other company's problems. As with Network Engineers, you might need to be on call in order to fix sudden issues, perform upgrades, or provide customer support. Some companies expect their Network Engineers to act as technicians.

A Network Programmer will be responsible for writing scripts or programs that analyze the network. These include monitoring or diagnostics utilities. Like Network Engineers, Programmers will spend time evaluating third-party products. If you choose this computer networks career, you will also be responsible for integrating new products or building a new environment. All of the above jobs will work under a Network Manager (also called an Information Systems Manager) who focuses on strategy and long-range planning. As you can see, these careers will demand an extensive knowledge of computer systems and programs, a good work ethic, customer service skills, and problem-solving ability. This is not a career for the faint of heart. Those who choose a computer networking career, however, often find their jobs rewarding.