![[Featured image] An IT technician assists a fellow employee with her laptop](https://images.ctfassets.net/wp1lcwdav1p1/154CSxiCRUlMnH598J97lV/1696cae13df61d335dda41ae2d1c38a5/IT_technician.png?w=330&h=216&q=60&fit=fill&f=faces&fm=jpg&fl=progressive)
What Is an IT Technician? How to Become One
IT technicians install, troubleshoot, and fix the hardware and software in a computer system. It's often considered an entry-level position.
June 24, 2021
Article
Learn more about the skills and certifications you need for a career in IT support, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and more.
Explore popular IT courses
Skills you'll gain: Computer Networking, IT Infrastructure, Network Troubleshooting, OSI Models, Systems Administration, Network Security, Routing Protocols, Cybersecurity, Microsoft Windows, Cyber Attacks, Security Strategy, File Systems, Disaster Recovery, Lightweight Directory Access Protocols, Remote Access Systems, Linux, Technical Support, Help Desk Support, Information Technology, Software Installation
Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months
Skills you'll gain: IT Security Architecture, IT Infrastructure, Network Security, OSI Models, Systems Administration, Microsoft Windows, Information Systems Security, Package and Software Management, Technical Support, Network Troubleshooting, Computer Networking, Cloud Infrastructure, Operating Systems, TCP/IP, Disaster Recovery, Lightweight Directory Access Protocols, Cybersecurity, Desktop Support, Software Installation, Help Desk Support
Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months
Microsoft
Skills you'll gain: Microsoft 365, Network Security, Business Software, Computer Hardware, Cybersecurity, Desktop Support, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Network Troubleshooting, Technical Support, Hardware Troubleshooting, Hardware Architecture, Generative AI, Operating Systems, Network Protocols, TCP/IP, Application Security, Microsoft Teams, Productivity Software, Information Systems Security, Multi-Factor Authentication
Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months
The world of IT offers a variety of career paths in diverse industries. An IT professional can specialize in cybersecurity to keep computers and businesses safe, cloud computing to make information easier to access, or in help desk roles to assist in the everyday functions of an organization. With so many options and opportunities available, it can be tricky to know where to start. On Coursera, you'll find expert resources to support your goals, whether you're just starting out or are ready to take the next step in your career. Explore information technology topics, including:
Typically, an IT certification refers to a qualification you receive that shows your competency in a specific field of information technology (IT). To get a certification, you generally must pass an exam that tests your capabilities in the field. Read this article about 10 Essential IT Certifications.
IT courses on Coursera are structured to accommodate learners at various levels:
The skills, practices, and technologies you’ll use as a cybersecurity professional will continue to evolve along with computer and network technology. The desire to learn, ability to problem solve, and attention to detail will serve you well in this field. Other, more technical skills and technologies to learn include: