Just what is computer networking? It’s the practice of connecting devices to share information. And it’s one of the hottest fields around.

Companies have long relied on computer networking experts to design, build, secure, maintain, and support the digital information systems that link employees and customers. But with the enormous shift to remote work during the pandemic, the demand for networking professionals really took off.

As companies implemented work-from-home policies or a hybrid office structure, employees who were once connected to in-office setups had to learn remote practices. That often involved using new sharing software, connecting to a company-wide VPN, or other tactics. As a result, the need for those experienced in computer networking has grown dramatically.

As in any field, computer networking jobs have various levels. To succeed and move up, you need to demonstrate good problem-solving, communication, prioritizing, and teamwork skills. You also need to keep up with rapidly changing technology.

So where could you start out as a total beginner, and what opportunities are there to advance your career?

Keep reading to explore seven different computer networking jobs, from entry-level roles to the most senior positions.

Updated January 2023

You might not guess this from looking at job postings, but network administration and systems administration are separate specialties within IT.

It gets confusing because the two functions are closely related and are often combined, especially in smaller organizations. The job title alone isn’t enough to go on; you need to read the description carefully to understand exactly what’s involved.

So what is the difference between a network and systems administrator?

The short answer is that a network administrator manages the actual network, while a systems administrator maintains the systems on the network (servers, desktop/laptop computers, and applications).

The two roles do share some similarities, however.

In this post, we explain how network administrators and systems administrators compare in terms of job tasks, skills, salaries, and training paths.

Here’s what you need to know.

Updated December 2022

It’s an excellent time to launch a career in computer networking. The Government of Canada Job Bank estimates that network techs and administrators will see strong demand in most areas of the country over the next few years.

Hoping to take advantage of that trend? One of the best ways to catch an employer’s attention is by earning relevant certifications.

A September 2021 report found that 72 per cent of hiring managers were more inclined to hire candidates with certifications—a significant jump from 52 per cent in 2020.

So which certifications are most requested by employers right now? We analyzed dozens of network administrator job postings to get the answer.

Based on our findings, these are the top networking certifications that can help you begin and advance your career.

Updated December 2022

What exactly is computer networking? The term itself is broad because it is used to describe a number of devices and systems in various configurations and sizes.

The industry also includes many different career paths. 

Organizations of all kinds rely on computer networks, from schools and hospitals to businesses and government agencies.

In this post, we’ll explore typical jobs in this field, pros and cons of a career in computer networking, and the latest job outlook and salary information for networking professionals in Canada.

By the end, you’ll know what computer networking is all about and whether it’s a good career choice for you.

Updated January 2023

Computer networking is all about linking devices and systems to share information. Professionals in this field focus on building and maintaining the networks that allow people to communicate, transfer data, and stay connected.

Those are prized skills in today’s digital world, especially in the wake of a global pandemic that forced a huge chunk of the workforce to go remote.

But demand alone should not dictate your career choice. There are plenty of other factors to think about.

So why should you consider a computer networking career? Here are the eight best reasons.

The field of computer networking has evolved tremendously over the past 20 years, from the dawn of the internet to the increasingly complex information systems we use today.

Sergio Gonzalez has been working in the field since those early days, graduating from his first technical engineering program in 1998.

Since then, he's earned degrees in information technology and education, and accumulated over 20 years of experience in networking and IT security roles.

Sergio's passion for teaching brought him to Herzing College, where he's recently become an instructor for the Computer Networking Technology program.

This week, we chatted with Sergio to learn more about his fascinating background and get an inside look at the program.

Meet the instructor, learn about networking careers, and find out what to expect in class.

Photo: Karnig Kazandjian, networking department head and program instructor at Herzing College Montreal