Networks keep the digital world connected — learn how networks work and gain the employable skills to start your tech career as a Network Support Technician.
Networking technology powers the Internet and makes possible everything from social media and streaming services to ride-hailing, online shopping, and more. Networks are critical for every industry, which is why demand for networking skills keeps rising. The Network Technician Career Path prepares you for the entry-level Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) Networking certification and entry-level roles such as Network Support Technician, Entry-Level Help Desk Technician, or IT Support Specialist. You will learn how networks operate — including the devices, media, and protocols that enable network communication — and develop key skills for basic troubleshooting using effective methodologies and help desk best practices. All courses are online and free.
Career Path Outline
- Course 1 — Networking Basics
Learn the basics of computer networking and discover how networks operate. - Course 2 — Networking Devices and Initial Configuration
Continue learning networking essentials and build your foundational skills. - Course 3 — Network Addressing and Basic Troubleshooting
Take your networking foundation deeper and explore next steps towards a career in tech. - Course 4 — Network Support and Security
Develop your network troubleshooting and user access control skills to begin your career in technology. - Exam — Network Technician Career Path Exam
Test your knowledge on content from the entire Network Technician Career Path and earn a digital badge to verify your skills.
Recommended Preparation
Although not mandatory, a basic knowledge of computer hardware and operating systems (Windows, Linux, and mobile) is recommended as a foundation for this career path. Gain this knowledge through the Computer Hardware Basics and Operating Systems Basics courses.
Career Path Details
Time: 70 Hours
Level: Beginner
Cost: Free
Format: Self-paced online
Available Languages
Arabic, English, Spanish, French, Portuguese
Certification & Career
Earn a digital badge upon completing the career path, then take the Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) Networking certification exam to earn an industry-recognised credential for your résumé. Target roles include Network Support Technician, Help Desk Technician, and IT Support Specialist.
Exam code: 100-150 CCST
Duration: 50 minutes
Price: US$125
Languages: English, Arabic, Chinese, Spanish, French, Japanese, Portuguese
Next step: CCNA certification
Achievements & Badges
Successfully complete the Network Technician Career Path to earn a Cisco Networking Academy digital badge verifying your knowledge. Then sit the CCST Networking (100-150) certification exam to earn an industry-recognised credential. Share your achievements on LinkedIn, your CV, or professional profile.
What Cisco verifies: The Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) Networking (100-150) certification validates foundational knowledge and skills of entry-level networking concepts including how networks operate, the devices, media, and protocols that enable network communications. The 50-minute exam costs US$125 and is available in English, Arabic, Chinese, Spanish, French, Japanese, and Portuguese. View exam topics →