What Is a Computer Support Specialist? 2024 Career Guide

Working in information technology (IT) and with computers is a popular career choice with excellent salaries and a positive job outlook. In this technology-driven world, understanding how computers work is a useful skill. To succeed in this role, you’ll need an excellent understanding of how computer systems work and how to troubleshoot any problems. 

If you're interested in becoming a computer support specialist, read on to learn more about the role, what they do, and how to become one.

Read more: Computer Support Specialist Salary: Guide

What is a computer support specialist?

A computer support specialist provides technical support to users regarding computers, networks, software, and hardware. Almost every business uses computers, so a computer support specialist is necessary to troubleshoot and fix any issues regarding the computers and networks. 

In this role, you’ll need to know how to install, test, and upgrade computer systems, hardware, and software, as well as maintain it.

Types of computer support specialist

Computer support specialists fall into three categories, with slightly different job roles. Here is a breakdown of each:

• Help desk technician: In this role, you usually work via telephone, chat, or email, listening to user problems, diagnosing them, and talking users through processes to solve the issue.

• Network support specialist: You’ll work on troubleshooting and maintaining local area networks (LAN).

• Technical support specialist You’ll oversee technical support with hardware and software for customers or users in an organization.

Tasks and responsibilities

No matter which category your role falls into, the tasks and responsibilities are the same, but for each, some additional specifics can vary. General tasks and responsibilities include the following: 

• Analyze computer and network issues

• Diagnose problems and find the best solution

• Guide users through a troubleshooting process

• Maintain computer equipment

• Train users on new programs, software, and equipment

Reasons to choose this career

As technology develops and automation tools advance, professionals with technical know-how will be needed. This gives a range of employment options, including remote opportunities. You might also be able to advance to more senior positions or specific technical roles, allowing you to learn and earn a higher salary.

If you’re looking for a job with untraditional working hours, a computer support specialist position could meet your needs. Since users may need support anytime, many computer support specialists work nights or weekends.

Where do computer support specialists work?

A variety of businesses and organizations hire computer support specialists. These often include technology companies where specialists work with customers, but you might work in any sector either directly with customers or with computer users within an organization. Generally, computer support specialists work on-site, but you may also find remote opportunities. 

Computer support specialist salary and job outlook

IT and computer professionals generally have above-average salaries and a good job outlook. A computer user support specialist in the US earns an average salary of $63,345, while computer network support specialists make $78,131.72, according to Lightcast [1, 2]. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the field will grow by 5 percent between 2022 and 2032, which exceeds the average across all jobs [3]. Keep in mind that factors like location, industry, and experience level can influence your earning potential. 

How to become a computer support specialist 

Computer support specialist roles don’t have a set route to enter the field. Some study for degrees and certifications as a starting point, while others move into the role from similar positions.  The following discusses possible education, skills, and certifications that may help you get started as a computer support specialist.

Education

To become a computer support specialist, it’s important to determine the level of education you’ll need for the role. Some employers require an associate degree, while others prefer a bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject, especially for more technical or senior roles. 

If you’re looking to maximize your earning potential, it’s important to consider the degree level you obtain. The following shows average computer support specialist salaries based on education, according to Zippia [4]:

• Associate: $60,776

• Bachelor’s: $67,190

• Master’s: $78,737

Technical skills

As a computer support specialist, it’s important to have technical skills required to perform specific tasks. Some technical skills include the following: 

• Cybersecurity

• Troubleshooting

• Technical support

• Hardware setup

• Software installation

• Upgrading hardware and software

• Computer systems

• Operating systems

• Virus removal

• Windows 

• Linux

Read more: Technology Skills: What They Are and How to Improve Them

Workplace skills

Along with technical skills, you’ll need some specific workplace skills, too. This type of skill contributes to how productive you are in a work environment. These include:

• Problem-solving

• Communication

• Attention to detail

• Patience

• Listening

• Creative thinking

• Customer service

Certifications

Certifications can show that you have the relevant knowledge and experience for a role. In the case of computer support roles, where a degree is optional, certifications are useful to demonstrate your expertise. Even if you have a degree, adding certifications to your resume may help you to stand out among candidates and show your specialties. 

Some relevant certifications include:

• CompTIA A+

• Microsoft Certified IT Professional

• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

• ITIL 4 Foundation

• CISCO CCNA

In addition to certifications, certificates and online courses are useful ways to demonstrate knowledge and skills to employers and keep up with developments. Many organizations offer in-house training to staff to ensure everyone’s technical skills remain sharp. 

Get started in computer support

Computer support specialists work in various positions, supporting external and internal users with technical issues and problems. If you're interested in this role, consider the Google IT Support Professional Certificate on Coursera to teach you the skills you need to be ready for an entry-level job in six months or less. You'll have the opportunity to develop the skills needed to provide comprehensive customer support, explore common tasks, and learn how to use binary code, command-line interface, Linux, and other systems.