• Security: Individuals focus on the upkeep and safety of an organization's network of security systems.
• Network Management: Professionals in network management provide maintenance and oversee the regular activities on Local Area Networks (LAN) and Wide Area Networks (WAN).
• Voice Access: Workers in this department program and manage data/voice integration systems.
• Database Development: The primary objective for these professionals is to design and maintain database systems.
• System Upgrading: These individuals specialize in enhancing existing systems to better serve clientele.

• Certificate: 9 months - 1 year to complete
• Associate's Degree: 2 years to complete
• Bachelor's Degree: 4 years to complete
• Master's Degree: 2 years to complete
• Doctorate Degree: 3-4 years to complete

There are a number of ways to become skilled in the industry of repairs and tech support. One particular method involves extensive on-the-job training that may last up to one year, depending on the organization. However, many employers are starting to prefer hiring recent graduates of computer-related degree programs to reduce company costs and take a chance on formally trained individuals. Online degree programs in this field may be accredited by the Distance Education and Training Council. Other institutes may offer programs that are recognized by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology. Individuals who pursue higher education should generally excel in mathematics and science courses.

Several community or junior colleges offer two-year computer-related associate degrees. Students explore rudimentary concepts in computer technology or computer science. Depending on the area of specialty, introductory classes often address topics in troubleshooting, programming, database management, network systems, information processing, and digital systems.

Many associate degree holders further their education by pursuing a bachelor's degree in a computer-related field, such as network administrations, computer system support, computer networking, computers and telecommunications, information systems, or computer engineering. Programs normally require four years of full-time study at a private or public institution. Students develop their knowledge in these areas and learn how to put theory into practice. Core classes may include, but are not limited to, operating systems, theory of computation, databases, data communication, software engineering, multimedia, numerical computation, computer graphics and human-computer interaction.

A computer-related master's degree mainly interests those with existing roles in the workforce who want to expand their careers. The programs typically last for about two years and provide individuals with in-depth awareness of the specialty they choose to study through advanced courses. The degrees are prerequisites for those who want to pursue a doctoral degree, which may take an additional three to four years to complete.  These high-level programs require strenuous research and conclude with an originally crafted dissertation. PhD graduates typically become college-level professors or independent researchers.

Although certification is voluntary, not being certified can limit an individual's chances for employment in repairs and tech support. Most companies perceive the accomplishment as a demonstration of a professional's capabilities. Associations, such as the Institute for Certification of Computing Professionals, certify workers in this field.

Many employers in the repairs and tech support industry consider those with minimal to no formal education. According to Salary.com, entry-level workers, or associate and bachelor degree holders, in this field earn a median income of about $49,000 yearly. Master's degree graduates may land positions ranging from intermediate level specialists to managers and typically an average salary between $50,000 and $70,000 yearly. PhD recipients who become professors in computer-related disciplines earn between $71,000 and $78,000 annually.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that job prospects are better than average. Employment opportunities should grow by 14 percent between 2008 and 2018. The most popular specialized professions for individuals in this realm include data processing, management, and software publishing. Computer-related jobs are also expected to be high in demand in the healthcare industry among other fields. (BLS)

Like repair and tech support specialists, engineering professionals delve into computer technology on a regular basis in order to be successful in their careers. Both individuals are responsible for the operation of machines and ensure quality control, although engineering careers generally require research, as well.

Many careers in business also relate to the repairs and tech support industry. Both avenues generate management-level careers. Business professionals, however, tend to focus more on broad issues affecting companies, while repairs and tech support specialists deal with more detailed aspects regarding computer systems.

Telecommunications technicians are similar to professionals in repairs and tech support because they are responsible for managing and improving information systems. The main difference is that they primarily deal with digital communications.