The job of those working in computer networking
is changing as technological advancements are made. As such, professionals
trained in computer networking — field service representatives, network
technicians, network technical support specialists, help desk support and
technical support — are responsible for maintaining the integrity and security
of a company’s network and the systems connected to it. As such, they are required
to have knowledge of network connectivity, protocols, network security devices,
network types, including wireless, fiber optic or Cat5, and common operating
systems, such as Windows and UNIX. Those just entering the field may be
responsible for: responding to troubleshooting calls and e-mails from users of
the network; diagnosing and offering repair instructions remotely, as well as
in person; monitoring network access for bottlenecks, security threats or
problems with connectivity; configuring and maintaining security devices to
ensure the safety of company software, systems and data.
Centennial College offers its Computer Systems Technician – Networking undertaking to applicants who have
completed an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or have
mature student status (19 years or older); English Grade 12 C or U, or
equivalent (minimum grade required) or are willing to take the Centennial
College English Skills Assessment for Admission and Mathematics Grade 11 M or
U, or 12 C or U, or equivalent (minimum grade required) or are willing to take
a Centennial College Engineering Math Skills Assessment for Admission.
Because
the program is facilitated from Progress Campus, which is outfitted with a
range of classrooms and smart classrooms, students get the benefit of a heavy
emphasis on hands-on labs and technical problem solving. As a result, they
actually get to go into PC hardware and into the details of operating systems
to learn how to have full human control of the computing and communicating
technology. Throughout their studies, students learn to put together and
maintain systems that will empower users in their creative, business and
communication activities.
Specific
courses within this offering include: Technical Writing with MS Office 2010 and
Visio, PC Operating Systems, Customer Skills, Introduction to Unix/Linux,
Network Devices, The Physical Layer, Network Services, Network Security, Data Communications
and more. Incorporated into each courses is the latest in computer systems and
network technology. This ensures that the lessons students gain reflect the
ever-growing innovations of the digital revolution.
Computer
Systems Technician grads have two options. Firstly, they may head into the
field and seek entry-level in technical support from the growing mesh of
Internet, intranet, extranet and telecom networks. Past grads have had success
with companies such as StorageTek, Toronto Hydro and Transport Canada, among
others. Secondly, students who are deemed eligible may transfer to the
three-year technology advanced diploma program.
