How to Become a Network Cable Technician

There are several ways that you can become a network cable technician. You can get this instruction at a typical college or technical school in your area. You can also get training to become a network cable technician through online classes. You will need to acquire general electrical training, as well as undergo specialized instruction on installing, maintaining and repairing network cables.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Associate's degree (recommended)
• Courses in mathematics, physics and electronics

1. Make yourself more marketable by studying basic electronics. Learn about the nature of electrons and how they flow through cable lines. You also need to be able to use the basic units of electrical measurement in order to become a network cable technician.

2. Take basic and intermediate mathematics. In order to install, monitor and repair cable networks, you will need to understand concepts such as positive and negative numbers, decimals and fractions, and basic equations.

3. Enroll in a physics class to learn about magnetism and electromagnetism. Knowing both the history and the applications of electromagnetism will help you understand why the tasks you perform as a cable technician work.

4. Stay in shape. Network technicians are often required to carry heavy loads of electronic components into the field. Some employers require that you be able to lift at least 50 lbs.

5. Apply to a 2-year technical school to get advanced training in electronics. Classes in DC (direct current) circuitry and in basic networking will teach you how cable networks are constructed by engineers. You will need to be familiar with the main components of a network, such as the central processing unit (CPU), computer memory and operating systems.

6. Gain hands-on experience. Use your knowledge of Ethernet network systems (which are the most frequently used methods for creating a cabled network) to set up a simple LAN in your home. You can then list this work as experience on your resume.

7. Start out as a cable installer. You can get direct experience with network systems, which can serve as the experience many employers seek when hiring network technicians.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider joining a hands-on laboratory group if you study at a traditional college or university. A lab group can provide you with the opportunity to construct a small WAN. This can help you secure employment in the future, as many employers like to see both practical and academic training.