Did you know that there are projected to be 377,500 job openings in IT each year through 2032? Many roles are available to those who have graduated from an IT program. If you want to learn more about information technology and start an IT role, let Interactive College of Technology train you in our Information Technology program. So, what exactly is information technology? And which careers are available for those who graduate from Interactive College of Technology’s Information Technology program?
What is Information Technology?
Information Technology (IT) is a catch-all industry term for computers, network infrastructure, and devices that help users access information. IT includes storing, retrieving, accessing, and manipulating information.
An IT job involves the implementation, support, maintenance, repair, or protection of data or computer systems. Some of the jobs that fall under the IT umbrella include:
Help Desk Technician
At most companies, a help desk technician usually needs to be on duty to make sure the business runs smoothly. They communicate with users who are having computer problems. They will diagnose the problem, fix issues, and update hardware and software to restore access for the user. They may also help train users in new hardware and software.
Web Developer
Web developers create and maintain websites. They improve website performance and create content for the website. They develop, build, and test UX, functions, and navigation. They write code for the website using programming languages like HTML, XML, PHP, and Python. They will also monitor website traffic and give authorized users access to DNS, API, and other website functionality.
Network Architect
Network architects determine a company’s networking needs, plan network infrastructure, and install hardware and software as needed. They also manage local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), and other network infrastructure.
Cloud Engineer
The cloud is now a recommended way for companies to store their data. A cloud engineer builds and maintains cloud infrastructure. Companies use cloud servers for many applications to store data, provide communication, and enhance security.
Software Developer
Software developers write, modify, and test code and scripts that allow users to interact with applications. Applications are the programs that help with millions of different tasks, from opening the business to calculating revenues. Software developers write programs using computer languages and fix errors in faulty lines of computer code.
Cybersecurity Specialist
Cybersecurity specialists or information security analysts plan and implement security measures to protect a company’s network infrastructure and computer systems. They will monitor for breaches, implement firewalls, encrypt data, identify vulnerabilities, develop security standards, recommend enhancements, and educate users on computer security protocols.
Database Administrator
Database administrators organize and secure data, making it available to authorized users. They may build new databases, secure databases, backup and restore data, test modifications, and update user permissions.
What is Computer Networking?
Computer networking is the process of linking two or more computers or devices together to exchange information through data connections. They use a system of rules to transmit information. Computer networks are segmented into two categories: client-server architecture and peer-to-peer architecture.
Client-Server Architecture
Servers provide memory, processing power, or data to client functions that help servers and clients communicate with one another.
Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Architecture
P2P architecture allows connected computers equal access and privileges. There is no central server, and each device acts as a client or a server.
What is the Difference Between IT and Network Training?
Information Technology training includes certification in CompTIA A+, Security+, Network+, and Microsoft Azure. For example, network-specific training would focus on CompTIA A+ as a basic certification and CompTIA Network+ as an advanced certification in network management.
CompTIA A+
CompTIA’s A+ certification is an initial IT certification and is a prerequisite for more advanced CompTIA certifications. The A+ certification proves proficiency in a basic level of information technology. It is a two-part exam that validates the IT professional’s skills needed for an entry-level IT job. CompTIA A+ candidates can troubleshoot and problem-solve various networking and operating system issues.
The CompTIA A+ exam focuses on hardware, operating systems, software troubleshooting, networking, security, mobile devices, windows operating systems, and virtualization and cloud computing.
CompTIA Security+
The CompTIA Security+ certification validates an IT professional’s skills to perform core security functions. This certification provides a springboard to an intermediate-level cybersecurity job.
The CompTIA Security+ exam focuses on threats, attacks, and vulnerabilities, access management, technologies and tools, risk management, architecture and design, and cryptography and PKI.
CompTIA Network+
The CompTIA Network+ certification verifies an IT professional’s knowledge and skills in networking and IT infrastructure. These skills include troubleshooting, configuring, and managing wired and wireless networks. This exam certifies a professional-level knowledge of emerging technologies.
The CompTIA Network+ exam focuses on networking concepts and infrastructure, as well as network operations, security, troubleshooting, and tools.
Microsoft Azure
The Microsoft Azure certification validates an IT professional’s knowledge of cloud computing concepts, models, and services. This certification also shows an IT professional’s expertise in how Azure supports security, privacy, compliance, and trust.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know the difference between information technology and network training, it is time to learn more about Interactive College of Technology. In addition to preparing for industry-recognized certifications, you get real-life experience during a 135-hour externship. With our help, you can start more than a job in information technology but a lifelong IT career.
Want to Learn More?
At Information College of Technology, our information technology training program offers two different paths to choose from — an in-depth Associate of Science degree in Information Technology and a streamlined diploma program to help you get to work faster.
We’ll help you decide which path is right for you, but both information technology training programs include industry-recognized certifications employers are looking for from CompTIA and Microsoft.
Plus, after you graduate college, our Lifetime Career Placement Support program will be there to help you find work whenever you need it.
So, let’s take the first step together! Contact us now to learn more.
