Networking
What is it?
Networking means just what the name implies: linking technology to facilitate the exchange of information. But the simple definition masks the importance of this powerful specialty. It's computer networking that enables computer systems or computers and other equipment to communicate with each other so that data, such as documents, email, pictures, or movies, can be exchanged electronically - a function that's critical to business success every day. Essentially computer systems that communicate constitute a network. These networks generally involve at least two devices capable of being networked with at least one usually being a computer. The devices can be separated by a few feet, such as in an office, or thousands of kilometers, such as with the Internet.
Is it right for you?
Networking has two components: the hardware required to connect the devices, which can be cable, routers and switches or a wireless device, and the software required for the devices to recognize and talk to each other. Wireless communication is the most current technology being implemented, but because of security reasons many industries and governments are still relying on hard-wired networks. In other words, if you are interested in both the hardware and software management of computers, a career in networking may be the perfect choice.
Certifications Available
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
- Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE)
- Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA)
- CompTIA Network +
What kind of jobs can I get?
- Network Administrator
- Systems Engineer
- Network Support Technician
- Network Analyst
- Systems Analyst
How much is it worth?
According to Certification Magazine, the average annual salary for Network Managers is $72,000 a year.
Get started!
- View the schedule of classes for Networking
- Or, learn more about gaining certification.