Computer Network Support Specialists
Analyze, test, troubleshoot, and evaluate existing network systems, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), cloud networks, servers, and other data communications networks. Perform network maintenance to ensure networks operate correctly with minimal interruption.
Also called: Cloud Engineer, Cloud Support Specialist, Computer Network Analyst, Computer Network Specialist, Computer Network Support Specialist, Computer Networker
Median pay
$76,220
per year, U.S.
Pay range (10th–90th)
$47,120 – $127,780
People employed
146,190
Holland code
CIR
Conventional · Investigative · Realistic
Updated October 2026 · Data: O*NET 31.0 and BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
Is this career right for you?
These are the things that stand out in this job compared with other U.S. jobs (O*NET 31.0 work context). Answer honestly.
- 1.Are you happy talking and working with people most of the day?
- 2.Are you OK repeating the same tasks most of the day?
The hard parts
- Tight deadlines are common
Computer Network Support Specialists pay by state
Highest-paying states
Annual median pay by state (47 states and DC with published data). Source: BLS OEWS May 2025.
Computer Network Support Specialists salary in every state →
What computer network support specialists do
- 01Back up network data.
- 02Configure security settings or access permissions for groups or individuals.
- 03Analyze and report computer network security breaches or attempted breaches.
- 04Identify the causes of networking problems, using diagnostic testing software and equipment.
- 05Document network support activities.
- 06Configure wide area network (WAN) or local area network (LAN) routers or related equipment.
Skills that matter most
- Critical Thinking
- Active Listening
- Reading Comprehension
- Active Learning
- Monitoring
- Speaking
Knowledge
- Computers and Electronics
- Telecommunications
- Customer and Personal Service
- Engineering and Technology
- English Language
Work styles that stand out
- Dependability
- Attention to Detail
- Integrity
- Cautiousness
- Intellectual Curiosity
Education and first steps
Share of workers by required education, as reported to O*NET.
How people get started
- Usually needs a bachelor's degree (O*NET Job Zone 4).
- Related work experience: over 4 years, up to and including 6 years.
- On-the-job training: over 6 months, up to and including 1 year.
Most common answers from O*NET 31.0 Education, Training and Experience.
Interest fit (Holland code)
O*NET occupational interest scores, scale 1–7. Take the Free Career Test to compare with your own.
Career changes
Change from computer network support specialists
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians72% · +3%
- Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment69% · −3%
- Radio Frequency Identification Device Specialists69% · group pay
- Photonics Technicians68% · group pay
- Computer Hardware Engineers67% · +112%
Change into computer network support specialists
Jobs whose skills carry over best (skill match, their median pay).
- Broadcast Technicians68% · $59,570
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians66% · $78,190
- Robotics Engineers64% · $122,930
- Audio and Video Technicians63% · $58,100
Majors that lead here
- Computer Programming/Programmer, General
- Computer Systems Analysis/Analyst
- Computer Science
- Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications
- Cloud Computing
- Network and System Administration/Administrator
- System, Networking, and LAN/WAN Management/Manager
- Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance
- Computer Support Specialist
From the NCES CIP 2020 to SOC 2018 crosswalk.