IT Support, otherwise known as Computer Support, is a great career choice; everyone needs IT help, it's much easier to get into than coding, and it can open doors to high-paying tech roles. IT support can be a financially rewarding career, particularly for those in high-demand locations or industries and for those who continuously develop their skills and expertise in the ever-evolving world of technology. If you're interested in pursuing a career in IT support and want to find classes near you, Dreambound can help connect you with relevant courses and resources to kickstart your journey. Wondering if Dreambound can help you reach your goals? Listen to students who have firsthand success stories with their support.

• "Dreambound had classes available in my area, and the information they provided was easy to understand. I got the hang of each class without any trouble." — Martesha Kelley
• "I wasn't sure where to find my options, but then I came across Dreambound. They showed me a lot of possibilities, and I'm excited to start my new career with them." — Maricela Enriquez
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Learn more about the Computer Support Specialist certification

What is IT Support?

IT support, short for Information Technology support, or customer support specialist, refers to the services provided to users of technology products or services. These services aim to assist users in resolving technical issues, troubleshooting problems, and maintaining the functionality of their IT systems and equipment.

IT support can encompass a wide range of activities, including:

1. Technical assistance: Providing help and guidance to users encountering problems with hardware, software, networks, or other IT-related issues.
2. Troubleshooting: Identifying and resolving technical problems and errors that occur within IT systems, applications, or devices.
3. Installation and configuration: Assisting with the setup, installation, and configuration of software, hardware, and network components.
4. Maintenance and updates: Performing routine maintenance tasks, such as software updates, security patches, and system optimizations, to ensure the reliability and security of IT infrastructure.
5. Training and education: Offering training sessions or educational materials to help users better understand and utilize technology effectively.
6. Remote support: Providing assistance to users remotely via phone, email, chat, or remote desktop software, allowing support technicians to troubleshoot issues without being physically present.
7. Hardware repair: Repairing or replacing faulty hardware components such as computers, printers, or networking equipment.
8. Data backup and recovery: Implementing backup solutions to safeguard critical data and assisting with data recovery in case of data loss or system failure.
9. Security support: Implementing security measures to protect IT systems from cyber threats, as well as providing guidance on security best practices to users.
10. Documentation and reporting: Maintaining documentation of IT systems, procedures, and support interactions, as well as generating reports to track and analyze support activities and trends.

IT Support jobs

There are many different jobs you can get with the IT Support certification. Here are just a few:

• Help Desk Technician: Often the first line of support, these technicians address immediate user issues, such as software glitches, hardware malfunctions, and user queries. They require excellent communication skills and a broad knowledge of common computer problems.
• Network Support Specialist: These specialists focus on the health of network systems, ensuring connectivity and security across an organization. They might install network hardware, monitor system performance, and troubleshoot issues as they arise.
• Desktop Support Technician: Working more closely with the physical components of computer systems, desktop support technicians assist users with hardware-related issues, from installing new equipment to repairing or upgrading existing machines.
• Technical Support Engineer: A role that often requires more specialized knowledge, these engineers solve complex problems, often working with specific software, hardware, or systems. They may also be involved in developing documentation and support processes.
• IT Support Analyst: These analysts use their understanding of computer systems and software to resolve technical issues while also analyzing data to improve system functionality and efficiency.

While you don't strictly need to get certified in order to get the job, certifications help build credibility. Plus, you need to actually learn the material, so you want to make sure your class that you sign up for is teaching industry best material! The most common certification you can get is one of the CompTIA certifications. Some of the most popular CompTIA certifications include CompTIA A+ for entry-level IT technicians, CompTIA Network+ for networking professionals, CompTIA Security+ for security specialists, and several others catering to more specific or advanced IT skills.

Where can an IT Support Specialist work?

IT Support Specialists can work in various settings, including corporate offices, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and technology companies. They may also work remotely or as freelancers, providing technical support to clients on a contract basis. Their responsibilities include maintaining computer systems, ensuring data security, assisting users with technology needs, and supporting specialized software in specific industries.

How Much Does an IT Support Specialist Make?

According to the BLS report, IT support specialists fall under the category of Computer Support Specialists. The median annual wage for computer network support specialists was $68,050 in May 2022. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $42,440, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $115,220. This can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and industry.

IT Support classes

On Dreambound, there are 15 computer support specialist programs, and the average class length is 3 months. Find the Cheapest and Fastest IT Support Programs, as well as Online Computer Support Specialist classes that suit your needs!

Curious about degree options? Dreambound presents choices such as an Associate's in Information Technology or a Bachelor's in Information Technology.

If you're open to considering other courses, here are some others to consider:

• Find Cybersecurity certification training here
• Find Network Administration training here
• Find Software Development training here
• Find Data Analytics training here

Exploration of Computer Support Specialist Versus Other Programs

Considering other programs? Read our guides on Computer Support Specialist versus other similar programs in field, providing a comprehensive overview to assist you in making the right choice for your career path.

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• Computer Support Specialist vs Mechatronics
• Computer Support Specialist vs App Developer
• Computer Support Specialist vs PC Technician