Computer Network, Systems, and Database Administrators Are in Demand

If you're looking for a fast-paced career that combines technology with creativity, check out the field of computer network, systems, and database administration. This dynamic career path reflects the increasing number of computer networks in business today.

In the workplace, computers and computer networks have become an integral part of everyday life. Nearly everyone who works in an office has a computer, and big companies may have thousands of workstations, each with a computer terminal. These computers don't just sit on desks like little islands; they need to be linked together into one seamless operating system. The ways that computers are linked together include local-area networks (LAN), wide-area networks (WAN), network segments, and Internet and intranet systems. Networks can be very complex, and creating a network of computers is a task that must be performed by highly qualified personnel.

Network and computer systems administrators design, install, and support an organization's computer network systems. Network and computer systems administrators work in a wide variety of organizations including professional offices, government organizations, small businesses, and large corporations. They analyze problems, maintain a company's network hardware and software, and monitor networks to ensure their functionality. Administrators may plan, coordinate, and implement network security measures, and they may gather data to identify customer needs and then use the information to identify, interpret, and evaluate system and network requirements.

Systems administrators ensure that the design of an organization's computer system allows all of the components, including the network, the computers, and software, to work properly together. They are often responsible for maintaining the network's efficiency, and they monitor and adjust the network's performance. They continually survey the current computer system to determine future network needs, troubleshoot problems reported by users and by automated network monitoring systems, and make recommendations for future system upgrades.

When the computers in the sales office crash, or when the finance people can't access their networked spreadsheets, or when the warehouse cannot access the intranet to track a shipment, the company can become paralyzed. A network systems administrator is the person who can, and must, resolve these network issues. It's an important position.

Education and training are key. A bachelor's degree is required for many network and computer systems administrator positions. In addition, many employers will demand that applicants have specialized computer network training of the type that may be offered by a career college. The best way to explore your career training opportunities is to log onto a reputable online college directory and compare computer training programs. Choose the ones that are right for you and request free information from the schools. This will allow you to make the best choice for your career education.

Here are some of the program areas that are key to this career field:

? Computers and electronics - Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.

? English language - Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

? Mathematics - Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

? Administration and management - Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.

The career outlook is excellent. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), in the current decade from 2008 to 2018 employment of computer network, systems, and database administrators is expected to increase by 30 percent, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. Demand for computer network administrators is expected to increase as companies continue to invest in new technologies.

Compensation can be generous. According to the BLS, as of May of 2006, the median annual earnings of wage-and-salary network and computer systems administrators was $62,130. Not bad!

If you're looking for a challenging and rewarding career, check out computer network systems career training. It may open a new door to a bright future.

Thinking about training for a new career in computer network, systems, and database administration? To make the best decision, you need the right information. Log onto http://www.Education-For-Careers.com and compare colleges. Get information about career training programs, degrees, online education, financial aid opportunities, job placement services, and much more.

Connecting Lines - Computer Networking Explained

In a nutshell, computer networking is basically a cluster of computers linked together in a way that it can transmit data and share resources. These sets of connections do not necessitate that the computers bear the same operating systems (OS); it does not even require that similar types of gadgets be used. A perfect example is a personal data assistant (PDA). One may connect a PDA to a laptop over a network. Even kitchen appliances like the internet enabled refrigerator uses networking to activate its surfing functions.

How Is Networking Done?

There are various methods to link computers and other gadgets to a network. And among the plethora of ways and means, the most common networking method is the use of cables. The market provides an assortment of cables from copper-wired to fiber optics each with its advantages and disadvantages.

Copper Wire: Unshielded Twisted Pair Cable (UTP)

The UTP is one of the frequently utilized cables for a local area network (LAN) connection, which is essentially linking a few computers within a small geographical area (thus the name, LAN). Going back to the UTP, this is composed of two unshielded and insulated copper wires coiled and twisted together to diminish electrical interference. This type of cable is often opted due to its flexibility, easy maintenance and low cost. The downside, it can (and will) possibly receive severe blows from electrical interference.

Fiber Optics

Data is exchanged by sending voltages along the wire. But for fiber optics, the data is transmitted through light pulses. While the UTP has copper, fiber optics has threadlike strands of glass, or silica. The process goes like this: the laser translates digital signals into pulses of light and conveys it down the series of glass strands. Fiber optics offer rapid data correspondence, though this speed comes with a price, a pocket burning price. With that said, this kind of connection is often seen being utilized by huge internet service providers (ISP) and data centers, not in office or home networks.

Network Topology: Bus Network

Simply put, network topology is the physical formation of the network. And the bus network is the most straightforward among the various network topologies. Let us begin with the bus. All the machines link up to a linear transmission channel, or the bus.

In operation, when a computer sends off data through the bus, all connected machines can see the data, otherwise known as packet. These packets possess pieces of information tagged as packet headers. And these headers, in turn, reflect the recipient or to which computer or machine the data is intended for. The bus inspects the header: if it is for that computer then the whole packet is recognized and received, but if it is not, it will be merely ignored.

The Downside: One at a Time

Unfortunately, the bus can only handle a single data at any given time. In here, two is a crowd. Imagine what could happen if three computers in the network simultaneously transmit data. Well, you will certainly have a few network problems if this collision happens. Speaking of collision, if and when two computers concurrently send data, the main computer (or the first one that notices the collision) will transmit a blocking sign onto the bus. This will trigger a standstill among the linked computers preventing any further data exchange.

Network Interface Cards (NIC)

NICs usually control the 'to and fro' or the transmission of packets across the wires bridging the computers in a single network. It also provides a venue of communication among the computers.

Hub

Hub is intended for small-scale computer networking. The problem with this is that it does not sort packets, meaning the data may be sent to the wrong recipient. Another is that the data will be open for everyone in the network. Security wise, this is not the way to go.

Router

To speed things up, this is a network device that diffuses data packets between two networks bearing different protocols. Yes, it is that blinking box that allows you to connect to the web.

There you go. This is simply scratching the surface of networking. You may opt to scour the internet for more information.

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Computer Network Overview

Computer networking or data communication is a most important part of the information technology. Today every business in the world needs a computer network for smooth operations, flexibly, instant communication and data access. Just imagine if there is no network communication in the university campuses, hospitals, multinational organizations and educational institutes then how difficult are to communicate with each other. In this article you will learn the basic overview of a computer network. The targeted audience of this article is the people who want to know about the network communication system, network standards and types.

A computer network is comprised of connectivity devices and components. To share data and resources between two or more computers is known as networking. There are different types of a computer network such as LAN, MAN, WAN and wireless network. The key devices involved that make the infrastructure of a computer network are Hub, Switch, Router, Modem, Access point, LAN card and network cables.

LAN stands for local area network and a network in a room, in a building or a network over small distance is known as a LAN. MAN stands for Metropolitan area network and it covers the networking between two offices within the city. WAN stands for wide area network and it cover the networking between two or more computers between two cities, two countries or two continents.

There are different topologies of a computer network. A topology defines the physical layout or a design of a network. These topologies are star topology, bus topology, mesh topology, star bus topology etc. In a star topology each computer in a network is directly connected with a centralized device known as hub or switch. If any computer gets problematic in star topology then it does not affect the other computers in a network.

There are different standards and devices in computer network. The most commonly used standard for a local area network is Ethernet. Key devices in a computer network are hub, switch, router, modem and access point etc. A router is used to connect two logically and physical different networks. All the communication on the internet is based on the router. Hub/Switch is used to connect the computers in local area network.

Hopefully, in this article you may have learnt that what a computer network is, how important it is in our lives, what are different network devices, standards, topologies and communication types.

B. Bashir manages this website Networking Tutorials and regularly writes articles on various topics such as Computer Networking, Network Troubleshooting Tips Wireless Networking, Computer Hardware, Certifications, How Tos, Network Security Guide and computer tips.

Computer Networking Schools Produce Qualified Technicians

A penchant for computers and acquired technical abilities are desirable attributes for future computer networking technicians. Computer networking schools offer an education in the hands-on processes of computer networking. Students learn to configure routers and switches, and install wiring, as well as skills in maintenance and network diagnostics.

Computer networking schools offer professional training at many levels. Entry-level students can opt for a computer networking certification or a career diploma; they may further their education and obtain an associate's degree. For the computer networking professional, a bachelor's degree or master's degree can greatly improve employment outlook.

A good computer networking college will cover all aspects of computer technology to prepare students to compete in the vast world of informational technology. Potential employment opportunities for graduates include positions in computer science, computer information systems, network administration, network systems engineering, network service technology, network analysis and programming, network information systems management, electrical and computer engineering, communications, telecommunications, and many other computer-related areas.

Computer networking has become one of the major career fields in today's modern business world, and there is a constant need for qualified computer networking professionals. If you like working with computers and are you seeking a career in computers, a computer networking school is the right choice for you!

To learn more about the exciting and promising field of Computer Networking, and to choose the right Computer Networking School for you, look for more in-depth information and resources on our website.

DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERAL OVERVIEW and may or may not reflect specific practices, courses and/or services associated with ANY ONE particular school(s) that is or is not advertised on SchoolsGalore.com

Copyright 2006 - All Rights Reserved

Michael Bustamante, in association with Media Positive Communications, Inc. for SchoolsGalore.com

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The Critical Nature of Professional Computer Network Security

In a world of ever-evolving and increasingly sophisticated Internet threats, computer network security has become an unmanageable necessity for many small businesses and homeowners.

It is more important now than it has ever been to put the needs of one's network into the hands of a highly skilled and experienced professional.

Even the small home network can benefit and save money by turning to a PC technician who has the proper software and tools for the job.

Proper computer network security takes the burden off our shoulders, and protects our small business and home networks from all threats.

Consider that these threats can expend far more energy attacking our systems than we can spend defending them.

When one considers the ever-expanding array of network threats, it is clear that we must allow specialists to manage our defense.

How else can we have confidence that all of our precious information is secure?

Consider the following evolving Internet-based threats:

Worms & Viruses

In addition to being the original form of malware and predating the Internet, viruses are still the most common and dangerous form of security threat.

Once they gain access to the network, they begin to spread until the network is disabled, compromised or both.

The fortunate aspect of worms and viruses are that they require user intervention in order to introduce themselves to the systems.

This means that with proper and professional security and protocols in place, a business can provide themselves with invulnerability to these types of attacks.

Phishing

Phishing is a criminally fraudulent process of attempting to acquire sensitive information, such as credit card information, usernames and passwords.

Phishing attacks generally target individuals, but this does not mean that our businesses are safe from this type of threat.

Our employees are more mobile, and more connected to our business networks than ever.

A phishing attack that compromises the employee can lead to a compromise of the business' entire computer network security.

This is why it is critical that we use professional measures to protect our employees and, in turn, protect ourselves.

Packet Sniffers

Packet sniffers capture network data streams, thus allowing them to seize a business' sensitive information.

Packet sniffers are very difficult to detect, and they can gain access to the network through legitimate connection means.

In order to secure a network from this type of threat, every point within the network must have proper security protocols, and be able to transmit and receive encrypted communication.

A business must employ a network security specialist in order to implement a system such as this.

Securing All Components of Network Access Control

The common small business owner or homeowner does not appreciate the complexity of fully securing a network.

There are four primary phases:

? Authentication

? Enforcement

? Endpoint Security

? Management

Defend your business from all computer network security threats by hiring a network security consultant that will properly secure and define protocols for each of these phases. Network security is like a house of cards. If just one of these broad aspects fails, the entire structure falls apart.

Security is very important when it comes to saving your business computer network.

This is why it is very important to find a computer technology specialist to manage your company's computer network.

Setting Up a Small Business Computer Network

How to Set Up a Computer Network for Your Small Business

Small business computer networking has become common practice in the current business world that relies so heavily on evolving technology. While it may seem like a daunting task, setting up network technology has become a do-it-yourself project that doesn't require hiring a techie or specialist. With the following information you can acquire the tools to set up your own business computer network.

The advantages of networking computers center on the concept of efficiency. A network allows you to make optimal use of your computers and tech devices, perhaps in ways you weren't even aware of. Networks promote the sharing of resources, whether those resources are files and software or even physical devices such as printers. The Internet connection itself is also shared by the range of computers employed. Setting up a network is one of the best small business ideas for improving productivity by creating a sense of community among both technology and employees.

The debate of wired versus wireless comes down to personal preference. Wireless equipment has become more popular due to lower prices and ease of use. The wireless approach allows a greater degree of freedom in the fact that you don't have to rely on cables or having your technical equipment in a certain area. That's not to say Ethernet (wired) networking is obsolete. Wired connections tend to more reliable and speedier than wireless, meanwhile remaining untouched by variables that tend to impact wireless connections.

The starting point of small business computer networking comes in your choice of operating system. Again, this has a great deal to do with personal preference. Windows 7/Vista/XP and Apple OS X are the standards and should serve you well, especially if you're already familiar with them. Each has built-in networking abilities that are easy to manage from a laptop to desktop computer. Outside of actual computers, you'll need some equipment. This includes a router (possibly two or more if setting up over a large area) and a few Ethernet cables. Wireless networks will require a cable to link your router to a central computer that will represent the server. This will link the router to your Internet connection, allowing external computers with wireless capabilities to connect to your LAN (local area network).

How do you keep your computer wireless network safe? Implementing a password may be a basic first step which will help weed out those attempting to illegally access your server. WEP and encryption software for businesses also serve as a further step for keeping outsiders from getting into your network. Much of this can be set up within the operating system. Additionally, you can use your browser security settings to prevent attacks on your server. Small business computer networking has become commonplace and should be embraced by those looking to make their business more efficient in a time where business and technology go hand in hand.