Top 5 Computer Hardware Skills To Help You Succeed

Computer technicians work with either computer software or computer hardware – and frequently both – for individuals or businesses in a variety of industries. They must understand how computer technology works and how to troubleshoot computer problems that are beyond the capabilities of the common user.

While many technicians are self-taught and have an innate ability to solve complicated problems, the position often involves some type of computer hardware course. Because computers have a diverse range of components when you start to learn computer hardware, technicians are likely to specialize in certain areas and may lack knowledge in others.

In this blog, we will talk about the skills that you need to become a good computer technician.

Job Description for a Hardware Technician

The basic responsibilities of the hardware technician are to help, maintain, and monitor the company's computer systems. They must keep track of all hardware failures, installation, repair, and replacement documentation. Additionally, the technician will create network capacity expansion strategies that take current and future hardware requirements into account.

Additionally, the technician executes and maintains new computer projects and hardware installations. They must be familiar with modern hardware equipment and IT-related responsibilities. This individual is responsible for the assembly and configuration of all network components. Additionally, they interact with other departments to ease the acquisition and deployment of hardware.

Apart from assembling and maintaining hardware, the technician examines new computer products for organizational implementation. They will conduct research and make recommendations for hardware purchases, as well as provide all technical specifications for networking hardware and software products. They keep track of and schedule:

• Routine maintenance
• Upgrades
• Repairs

The job profile requires the acquisition and deployment of hardware, as well as coordination of all ancillary services. Additionally, the computer support technician must train staff on how to handle crisis situations. They are accountable for all aspects of the hardware that supports:

• Staff workstations
• Networked peripheral devices
• Other networking hardware.

Additionally, the role of the Hardware Technician includes assisting seniors or specialists in resolving any critical issues. Professionals are responsible for determining whether the IT department is equipped to resolve issues. Additionally, they should verify and file warranty claims as necessary.

Top Skills You Must Have As A Computer Hardware Technician

1. Technical Expertise

Technical expertise is one of the most sought-after skills of a computer technician. Computer technicians must have a thorough understanding of how a computer works.

On the software side, they require proficiency in the use of antivirus software and tools for the virus, spyware, and another malware removal, as well as the ability to distinguish between good and bad files.

With hardware, technicians must be able to easily assemble and disassemble a computer, understanding how each component, such as graphics cards and motherboard slots, fits together. Technicians must understand which software packages are compatible with particular hardware, as well as the RAM and hard-drive space requirements.

2. Repair and Troubleshooting

Because troubleshooting is such a large part of what computer technicians do, they must be competent at resolving any type of computer problem. With so many models, brands, and programs, it's impossible to know everything right away, which is why the technician must be able to quickly identify solutions.

A computer technician may be required to fix actual computer components, such as circuit boards. They must be able to determine which components or programs are causing issues and perform repairs safely and accurately.

3. Configuration and Maintenance

Another required computer technician skill is the ability to configure and manage software and hardware connections, which entails the capacity to connect various peripherals so that they work in unison.

Installing software applications or drivers, configuring computer or printer networks, or configuring wireless routers all require the technician to perceive and intuitively comprehend how one component of the computer system connects to another. Additionally, technicians are responsible for maintaining network systems to ensure proper operation.

1. Ability to communicate

A computer technician's necessary abilities also include interpersonal skills. Computer technicians must be adept at communicating with their clients or coworkers in an uncomplicated and straightforward manner, both over the phone and in person, and in some cases, online.

They must interpret complicated computer jargon and terminology into simple, user-friendly language, repeating information as necessary.

Technicians must have excellent listening skills in order to determine a client's needs.

Technicians must be able to demonstrate empathy for customers who are annoyed by computer problems and patience for those who lack knowledge. They must be adept in instilling confidence in the computer user they are assisting so that the individual feels confident that their computer issue has been fixed.

1. Configure drivers and components

Along with a computer, you may have external computer devices that require separate connections to a computer. Printers, scanners, and external hard drives are all examples of these computer gadgets.

Before these devices can work in conjunction with one another on your computer, the computer must be configured for them. This is accomplished mostly through driver installations in the modern era. Each computer device maker distributes these drivers via a CD (along with the computer device) or a free web download.

Additionally, a computer technician must become familiar with the methods by which these computer devices communicate with the computer. Certain printers, for example, require a USB cable to connect, while others connect wirelessly. Ethernet, VGA, HDMI, and Lightning are additional connection types (Apple devices).

Salary

Computer technicians with less than a year of experience can expect to earn an average total salary of Rs. 365k. As a new hire, a Computer Technician with 1-4 years of experience earns an average total salary of Rs. 350,000.

Conclusion

Career prospects for someone working in IT hardware or networking remain as favorable as they were a decade ago. Regardless of how technology advances, these components will always be essential. However, each role requires the person to keep current on technological advancements. Certain businesses demand periodic certification or recertification to guarantee that their employees remain current.

Overall employment growth is not likely to be spectacular, but it should remain consistent with the decade-long trend. Perhaps unsurprisingly, technicians are predicted to have the fastest employment growth as the workforce grows in size.

Rahul has been working as a content writer for over two years now. He has worked with brands like American Home Solutions, Adt, Terminix and oversaw the email creatives content and design department.