FAQ
Network Technician FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a network technician.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a network technician: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about network technicians
Do network technicians need a degree?
An associate degree is common, but certifications and experience also work.
Which certification first?
CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA.
Is network support a good career?
Yes. It leads to network administration and engineering.
How much does a network technician make?
The median annual wage for network technicians was $76,220 ($36.64 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $47,120 and the highest 10% earned more than $127,780.
How long does it take to become a network technician?
Most people need about 6 months–2 years of training. An associate degree in networking or IT is typical, though many technicians enter with certifications and help desk experience.
Do you need a degree to be a network technician?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
Is network technician a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +1.2% from 2025–35 (slower than average), with about 9,000 openings each year. Upsides include associate degree or certification entry; a common challenge is that after-hours maintenance.
What skills does a network technician need?
Key technical skills include tcp/ip networking, switch and router configuration, wireless networking, and cabling and testing. Employers also value problem solving, communication, and patience.
What certifications are available for network technicians?
Common credentials include CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, CompTIA A+, and BICSI Installer. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Network Technician fit quiz, compare with IT Support Specialist, or explore Network Technician training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 15-1231 (Computer network support specialists).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Computer network support specialists (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.