Career library · Computers and technology

Computer and network technician

Repairing computers and keeping networks running

What people in this work actually do

Assemble and repair computers, install operating systems and software, diagnose hardware and network faults, set up routers and printers, recover data, and support the people using the equipment.

This may suit you if…

You like opening things up to see how they work, you are methodical about faults, and you are patient with people who are frustrated with technology.

The hard parts

Technology changes constantly, so learning never stops. Customers expect immediate fixes. Self-employed repair work is competitive and price-sensitive.

We show these because nobody else will.

What people get wrong about this

That you need a degree. Hardware and networking certificates are widely accepted, and demonstrated ability matters more than a certificate in this field.

What this looks like in a smaller town

Schools, offices, banks and internet centres in every block town need equipment kept running, and a technician with a reputation can serve a whole area.

Ways into this work

There is almost always more than one route, and the cheapest is often perfectly respected.

ITI computer hardware and networking

ITI trade course · Starts from Class Classes 9 and 10

An ITI trade in computer hardware and network maintenance.

How long
2 years
What it costs
Not yet verified
Available near you?
In district towns

How to do it
Check whether your nearest government ITI offers a computer hardware or network trade this year.

Polytechnic diploma in computer engineering

Polytechnic diploma · Starts from Class Classes 9 and 10

A three-year diploma after Class 10.

How long
3 years
What it costs
Not yet verified
Available near you?
In district towns

How to do it
Note your state polytechnic admission notice month and the eligibility for direct entry after Class 10.

Hardware and networking certificate

Short skill course · Starts from Class Classes 11 and 12

A six to twelve month certificate from a training institute.

How long
1 year
What it costs
Not yet verified
Available near you?
In district towns

How to do it
Ask a working technician in your town where they trained, and whether it was worth the fee.

Skills that matter here

Essential

Using a computer

Switching on, finding files, and not being afraid of the machine.

Essential

Staying safe online

Spotting a fraud, protecting a password, not sharing what you should not.

Essential

Using hand tools

Holding and using tools safely and accurately.

Useful

Serving people

Being patient and helpful with someone who is not.

See whether this fits your family

School is one of five parts of growing up. See how your child is doing across all five, what to try next at their age, and what it would honestly cost in your area.

Start free

Sources

Related work

Computer operator Software developer