IT networking encompasses all tools, resources, and practices required to connect individual computer devices, allowing them to easily share data with one another. Such systems allow for flexible communications, transactions, and information access among local servers or over the internet.

Businesses relying on modern technology depend on networks for storage efficiency, greater security, and the ability to boost growth, productivity, and innovation. Much of these systems now also take place online via “cloud computing”, alleviating the need for on-site infrastructure and effectively reducing company expenses on physical equipment. Such virtual networks also have the benefit of being highly scalable – giving businesses the flexibility of only paying for what they need – and are largely adaptable to the changing needs of an organisation.

Other, more traditional networks include local area networks (LANs), in which computers are connected within a single office space or building. Wide area networks (WANs) are networks that can span entire cities or even countries, allowing stable long-distance communications. Finally, we have service network providers –companies that provide network use or capacity for a given service, such as telecommunications, mobile data, or Internet access.

IT network professionals are experts of this field, helping ensure an organisation’s network is optimised and performing according to business needs.

We have a mix of both nationally recognised courses and non-accredited training options. Nationally recognised qualifications can be identified with the Nationally Recognised Training logo.

AIICT’s networking courses will explore all foundational areas critical to the profession, with many applicable to other IT roles and specialties.

Such skills explored include:

• Network cyber security management

• Hardware installation

• Introductory programming

• Server management

• Virtual network management

• Developing incident response plans

• Developing disaster recovery and contingency plans

• IT team management and leadership

Those looking to enter the IT networking field are typically recommended to pursue formal qualifications. Being a highly technical field, equipping yourself with a certification (or a few) can help you delve into all the necessary concepts, skills areas, and practices required to succeed in the field; while verifying your skills and helping you stand out among employers in the job market. AIICT is one training provider that offers such programs, such as our ICT40120 – Certificate IV in Information Technology (Networking) and our ICT50220 – Diploma of Information Technology (Advanced Networking).

According to Labour Market Insights, plenty of workers hold vocational education and training (VET) qualifications in the industry, with 27.6%currently holding either an Advanced Diploma, Diploma, or Certificate-level qualification.

To build your on-the-job experience, it can also help to seek out the many internship opportunities available. Online job boards such as SEEK, Glassdoor, and Indeed currently advertise plenty of these positions, with LinkedIn also being a handy platform for reaching out to those in the industry.