IT support is a special type of technical service that deals mainly with computer hardware and other related tools and products. IT support usually consists of troubleshooting and fixing problems with computer software. One of the important roles of IT help desk is giving direct customer support to an individual who has bought a particular product and has a problem with it. The IT help desk personnel must be well versed with the product he is explaining to them and also with the particular operating systems that the hardware comes with. There are many advantages of hiring IT help desk services. They include:
Many companies hire computer repair technicians, IT technicians and software designers on a permanent basis. IT help desk professionals need to obtain a master’s degree in computer science before they can start working. A computer science internship can help them acquire their required licenses and make them more attractive to potential employers.
Computer technicians need to understand and learn different things in order to become effective. A company may want to appoint a technician who can fix some of its more basic software problems than a technician who can solve more complex problems. Some organizations assign computer repair technicians to work as an independent consultant. This will enable the technician to apply his IT skills like troubleshooting, system analysis, software installation and maintenance. The consultant will be paid according to the hours he works.
There are three IT technician support tiers. These are the associate technician, the certified technician and the professional technician. A graduate, having a bachelor’s degree is eligible for the first two tiers; while a junior technician with a high school diploma or GED is eligible for the third. There are certain national qualifications recognized by computer repair companies that have to be met by all IT technicians irrespective of their educational qualifications.
It is important to note that some IT support jobs require additional certifications. For example, Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) is a specialized certification obtained after completion of a particular course. On the other hand, certain organizations demand MCTS certification in addition to other skills like troubleshooting or computer repair technicians are hired. A technician support specialist who is hired after achieving MCTS certification has a clear understanding of computer repair systems. A certified technician support specialist, on the other hand, can provide hands-on training to computer users on various technologies.
Students who have completed their bachelor’s degrees can apply to several internship programs run by technical colleges or companies offering IT technical support. Upon completion, students will be able to assess their IT knowledge and be eligible for entry-level positions in IT departments. The most common IT support job for eligible candidates is as a computer repair technician. A candidate seeking entry level positions must possess a basic knowledge of computer science, including math, logic, science and technology. It is common for some IT support technicians to also be good at computer programming.
IT support positions are also available for those with experience in troubleshooting personal computers. Companies may hire a temporary IT professional or an experienced engineer to resolve laptop or desktop problems. Some organizations also offer paid internships to IT professionals on condition they complete a set number of hours working with them. IT computer science interns can also choose to work directly for a company provided by the employer or apply to work for an IT recruitment agency. A computer science internship can help a young professional learn more about the inner workings of different computer technologies.
IT technical support professionals can also opt to work as consultants. There are many companies that need assistance with computer repairs, including small office-based companies and larger corporations. A consultant can help the organization assess its IT needs and develop a strategy for addressing those needs. The consultant also helps customize IT solutions based on the organization’s specific needs. Consultants typically receive training in information technology policies and procedures. Upon completion of the training, an IT professional can apply to work in the field as a computer repair technician, technical specialist, or business analyst.