IT support refers to support offered by entities to customers of particular technology-based products or services. It is a comprehensive discipline of computer sciences that entails support for operating systems, database management, software, hardware, firmware and security. In basic terms, IT support provides assistance regarding specific technical issues with a particular technology product or service, instead of providing customized training, distribution or modification of that product, or any other support services specifically provided. The ultimate aim of an IT support service is to resolve technical difficulties faced by end-users who are utilizing IT systems. This help can be in the form of advice on specific security measures, configuration issues or maintenance procedures. This helps businesses minimize the chances of possible network or computer attack, recovery of data from unexpected circumstances, or fixing or updating software applications.
Today, computer software and hardware upgrades and repairs are fast becoming essential for businesses that have expanded their operations to include the use of IT or web based applications
. Hence, IT support specialists are very vital for such companies. IT support specialist services involve a wide variety of tasks, such as assisting customers in the installation of new hardware or software, testing the new software or hardware, and migrating existing systems to the latest versions. Some of the IT support specialist tasks may include the provision of patches for security vulnerabilities or introducing new programs into a client’s computer network. In other words, the IT support specialist not only helps a company improve its current infrastructure but also promotes the implementation of new business procedures and policies.
There are several types of IT support specialists who can help clients handle their computer software and hardware needs. These include network support specialists, network specialists, troubleshootes, recovery technicians, and network administrators. Network support specialists are those who provide assistance to network users, such as those who connect to Internet servers in order to conduct business. Network support specialists are also responsible for ensuring that the correct protocols and security levels are in place on the networks of clients. Troubleshootes are IT support specialists who troubleshoot hardware and software problems in order to fix potential issues.
Computer repair technicians are IT support specialists who perform tasks that involve repairs, modifications, installations, upgrades, backups, conversions, and repairs on computer systems.
In order to become a computer repair technician, a person needs at least a bachelor’s degree in information technology and three years of experience using that technology. Those who wish to become computer repair technicians may require additional training.
A computer software consultant is an IT support team that is hired by a service provider to assist them in maintaining and operating their computer software systems. A computer systems consultant performs tasks that include the installation of computer software, configuration of hardware, and troubleshooting any technical issues that may arise. Computer consultants may require additional training after they gain their certification.
A help desk specialist is an IT support specialist that provides assistance to customers in need of advice or assistance with their computer systems. A help desk specialist can perform tasks that include helping customers solve problems on their computers, helping customers resolve software issues, and assisting the customer when the system does not function correctly. Most help desk specialists require at least a bachelor’s degree and two years of experience using computer systems that support the Internet. Like computer support specialists, those needing help with their systems may need additional training after they obtain certification.
An Information Technology Security Professional (ITSP) is an IT support professional who works to resolve issues that may arise from installing, configuring, troubleshooting, and protecting a computer network. An ITSP can perform tasks in different areas of IT. Some ITSPs can work as generalists providing technical support for basic computer systems, while others may work as consultants helping organizations define their IT security needs. Individuals who wish to become an ITSP need at least a bachelor’s degree in information technology with some related coursework. While most ITSPs work in the industry, some choose to work in different fields such as finance, insurance, and law.
The customer support specialist is a type of technical support specialist that can provide assistance with computer-related issues and can also offer advice about how to best use technology in the workplace.
- This type of technical support specialist may be employed by a company to work as an online support representative or can work in a store or retail location providing services to customers on hand.
- These individuals may require more education than most IT support specialists who work in offices though most technical support positions do not require any form of formal training.
- Most IT support positions do require that candidates have at least a bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, and a related field. In order to become one, an individual may require certification in addition to training and working experience.