Computer Networking Technology (4230)

This certificate trains you to design, install, configure, troubleshoot and matina networks. In addition, this certificate is valuable for individuals, who are currently working in the field of information technology and wish to advance.

Computer networking is a broad field that covers a wide range of jobs and job titles. After graduating from our certificate, you may find positions as:

• Network support technicians
• Network administrators
• Network planning analysts
• Systems analysts
• Network coordinators
• Telecommunications specialist
• Information technology specialists
• Consultants, market representatives and related information technologist positions

Our Computer Networking Technology certificate may be an ideal fit if you have:

• Strong analytical skills. Administrators need to evaluate network and system performance and determine how changes in the environment will affect it.
• Excellent communication skills. Administrators oversee the connections of many different types of computer equipment and, therefore, must ensure that they all properly work together.
• Good multi-tasking skills. Administrators may have to work on many problems and tasks at the same time.
• Strong problem-solving skills. Administrators must be able to quickly resolve any problems that arise with computer networks.

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You will be trained to design, install, configure, troubleshoot and maintain networks. If you’re just beginning in the industry, you’ll learn the foundations you need to begin working in an entry-level position. If you're currently working in the field and wish to advance, this program will help you accomplish your goals.

This program is neutral to vendors and is coordinated with the national standards from the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA).

During the program, you’ll study:

• Cabling
• Cable testers
• Data communications
• Information security fundamentals
• Network analyzers
• Network connections
• Network Interface Controllers (NIC's), hubs, bridges, switches and routers
• PC repair
• TCP/IP
• Telecommunications
• Terminations
• Windows and Linux Server administration

You also will have the opportunity to take elective courses to learn about specialized topics. These include information security fundamentals, virtualization and cloud computing or wireless administration.

After completing our certificate, you’ll be able to: 

• Configure, manage, maintain and troubleshoot network infrastructure components such as routers, switches and firewalls
• Configure, manage, maintain and troubleshoot Windows and Linux server operating systems and common napplications such as Active Directory, Web, Domain Name and database services
• Demonstrate network protocol knowledge from physical to application layers including TCP/IP protocols and common application layer protocols
• Provide end-user hardware and software technical support
• Utilize security tools and common best practices to implement a secure network architecture

• View summaries of every course at HACC by browsing our class schedules database.

• Review our program guide (pdf) to view a list of required courses, recommended course sequencing and program competencies.

The certificate is designed to guide the person into the workforce. However, if you’re interested in continuing your education, we will work with you to help you pursue your associate degree in computer networking technology. From there, credits earned from your associate degree will transfer to a four-year college or university. 

You may complete our certificate at our Harrisburg Campus through various modalities (e.g., on-campus/in-person instruction, hybrid, synchronous remote instruction and/or asynchronous instruction).

Yes! We offer many scholarships through the HACC Foundation. Each scholarship has specific eligibility requirements. To learn how to apply, please visit hacc.edu/Scholarships.

We offer classes in the spring, summer and fall. We invite you to apply anytime online. When you submit your application, please include program code 4230 to ensure you apply to the correct program.

Future students, we are excited to connect with you and answer your questions. Please choose the option that works best for you to meet with us.

Current HACC students, please contact our Advising Department with any questions.