An information technology (IT) specialist assists companies and organizations with managing hardware, software, networking, and solving technical problems. They go by titles like computer programmer, network administrator, computer engineer, and web developer. While some IT specialists have professional certifications, most have a bachelor's degree in fields like computer science or information science. Their responsibilities include overseeing daily computer system performance, answering user questions, installing and repairing equipment, and investigating and resolving technical issues. Strong skills in areas like critical thinking, active listening, and problem solving are important for IT specialists.

1. Page 1 of 6
Quick Review in
Information Technology
Nescot College
How to become IT specialist
Done by: Maher Doubiane

2. Page 2 of 6
Introduction:
Definitely each company and organization has its own infrastructure, and how
successful this company or organization is? Depends on bunch of terms. And the
information technology infrastructure is one of these terms.
In each company or organization, we should find:
- Data storage / servers (documents with references)
- IP telephony systems.
- Email servers (domain, website, emails)
- Network connections (routers, switches, firewalls)
- Users, each having his own security and permissions
- Photocopiers (network scanning, network printers, shared folders)
- ERP system. (Procurement, contracts, cost control modules…)
- And so on.
What is informationtechnology specialist?
Information technology is the application of computers and telecommunications
equipment to store, retrieve, transmit and manipulate data.
Eventually, Information technology (IT) refers to anything related to computing
technology, such as networking, hardware, software, the Internet, or the people that
work with these technologies. Many companies now have IT departments for managing
the computers, networks, and other technical areas of their businesses.
An information technology (IT) specialist is a computer support and security
administrator who assists companies and organizations with managing hardware,
software, networking and solving problems.
These professionals go by a range of titles:
- computer programmer
- network administrator
- computer engineer
- Web developers
- technical support (helpdesk support)
- And many other related occupations.
Since we live in the "information age," information technology has become a part of our
everyday lives and Most of these professionals keep full-time schedules, and many work
overtime on a regular basis.

3. Page 3 of 6
Education:
Education requirements vary depending on the IT specialty. While some IT specialists
work their way up with professional certifications, most experts begin their careers with
an information technology degree at the associate or bachelor level. IT certifications are
useful for building specialist expertise and staying up to date on the latest advances in a
specific area of information technology.
The career path requirementsfor IT specialist is:
Degree Level
A bachelor's degree is common; some employers prefer master's
degrees
Degree Field Computer science, information science or a related field
Certification
Certification in software products is voluntary but common
(CCNA,MCSE,ITIL)
Experience
At least 3 years of IT experience; 5-10 years of experience for
upper-level positions
Key Skills
Analytical, organizational, leadership, communication and decision-
making skills
Computer Skills
Project management software(primavera, Microsoft project
professional,…), customer management software, server operating
systems, Web platform development software and language
platforms like Microsoft SQL, C++ and Perl
Technical Skills
Computer equipment such as servers and network analyzers
(routers, switches, firewalls...)
Additional
Requirements
Long and irregular hours may be required to solve unexpected
computer issues

4. Page 4 of 6
Tips:
Take advantage of computer laboratory resources. Institutions that offer computer
science programs may also offer sophisticated computer labs for students. Students
should take advantage of these resources and the opportunity to get hands-on
experience with the programs and software that are taught in classes and used in the
day-to-day operations of an IT specialist.
Consider Earning a Master's Degree. A bachelor's degree may be the most common
level of education required to become an IT specialist, but some employers prefer to
hire applicants who have earned master's degrees in computer science or related areas.
Students in master's degree programs build on the knowledge that they have accrued
during their undergraduate education and explore computer science theory and
practice more extensively. They may take courses in computer graphics, algorithms,
artificial intelligence, computational modeling and computer vision. Independent study
and research in computer science, as well as a thesis, may also be required.
Complete an internship. Since experience is an important part of finding employment in
this profession, entry-level IT specialists may have trouble finding work. Students can
gain some practical experience and make professional contacts in the field by
completing an internship with a local IT firm or the IT department of a company
Obtain certification. Though certification is not required to enter this profession, it may
help demonstrate skill and experience to employers. Additionally, employers often
require IT specialists to have expertise with specific products. Vendors like Cisco, Oracle
and Microsoft offer certification in their software products. Third-party organizations,
like CompTIA (computing technology industry association), also administer certification
for multiple vendors. Certification prerequisites and requirements vary by organization,
though certification is usually awarded upon successful passage of an exam.

5. Page 5 of 6
Tasks:
 Oversee the daily performance of computer systems.
 Answer user inquiries regarding computer software or hardware operation to
resolve problems.
 Enter commands and observe system functioning to verify correct operations
and detect errors.
 Set up equipment for employee use, performing or ensuring proper installation
of cables, operating systems, or appropriate software.
 Install and perform minor repairs to hardware, software, or peripheral
equipment, following design or installation specifications.
 Maintain records of daily data communication transactions, problems and
remedial actions taken, or installation activities.
 Read technical manuals, confer with users, or conduct computer diagnostics to
investigate and resolve problems or to provide technical assistance and support.
 Refer major hardware or software problems or defective products to vendors or
technicians for service.
 Develop training materials and procedures, or train users in the proper use of
hardware or software.
 Confer with staff, users, and management to establish requirements for new
systems or modifications.
Technology usedin this occupation:
Hard disk arrays — Redundant array of independent disks RAID systems
Backup or archival software — Backup and archival software; Disaster recovery
software; Microsoft Volume Shadow Copy Service; Symantec LiveState
Configuration management software — Automated installation software; Deployment
software; Patch management software
Database user interface and query software — Database software; IPro software; Lucid
IQ; Software asset management SAM software
Desktop communications software — CrossTec NetOp Remote Control; Remote control
software; Stac Software ReachOut; Symantec pcAnywhere

6. Page 6 of 6
Operating system software — Event log monitor software; Microsoft Windows Pre-
installation Environment; Operating systemmonitoring software
Skills:
Active Listening — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to
understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not
interrupting at inappropriate times.
Speaking — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Reading Comprehension — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work
related documents.
Critical Thinking — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses
of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Writing — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the
audience.
Complex Problem Solving — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related
information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Time Management — Managing one's own time and the time of others.
Active Learning — Understanding the implications of new information for both current
and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Instructing — Teaching others how to do something.
Judgment and Decision Making — Considering the relative costs and benefits of
potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.