What is Managed Hosting Server?

Dedicated Managed Server Hosting

Today, digital agencies are attempting to run their businesses much leaner. Designers and developers want the freedom to focus more on their core business. They want to create, not administer the infrastructure or manage the technology and data. That’s not what gives them passion and it’s not why they are in business. But hosting and infrastructure are what Liquid Web does best.

What is Managed Hosting?

Those in the digital space are familiar with Managed Hosting in one way or another.

This is a business model where a service provider leases hardware to a single customer. The service provider also provides management of the servers, software, and networks necessary for hosting for the customer.

If an issue arises, a managed hosting provider is there to help pinpoint the problem and rectify it.

Fully Managed Dedicated Server Hosting is an isolated hosting environment where the provider handles the setup, administration, management, and support of the server or platform application. The resources are specific to the user ensuring that your data alone is hosted in your environment without being affected by the issues that arise from sharing resources.

Shared Hosting

Shared hosting is the most popular example of multi-tenancy. This is where many sites or applications exist on the same server. Quite often, shared hosting divides the server resources among customers. This would include storage and bandwidth and in some cases RAM and CPU cores.

Think of shared hosting as a home with renters all sharing the same living space.

Managed Dedicated Server Hosting

Dedicated hosting would be an example of single-tenancy. With this type of environment, a single customer hosts their site(s) or application(s). With managed dedicated server environments, the server hardware and resources for that hardware belong to that single customer.

To continue with the above analogy, think of dedicated hosting as a home with one occupant. This avoids “noisy neighbors” encroaching on your space, disrupting your space and the space of those visiting your site.

Fully Managed Dedicated Hosting

Managed Dedicated server is an optimal alternative for organizations with resource-intensive applications, sensitive data, and high-traffic online presence requirements. We provide client complete control over the subscribed dedicated server, including all the resources and underlying hardware.

Go4hosting offers flexible, resilient Managed dedicated server to meet unique specifications of organizations spanning across diverse verticals. Regardless of the configurations you currently employ, our experts can customize a solution that swiftly aligns with your business processes and policies. Our dedicated hosting service help enterprises eliminate the unwanted intricacies and expenses that comes with procuring IT components and managing staff. Our experts manage everything so that you can better concentrate on new market opportunities and grow.

Our managed dedicated servers includes software configuration, operating system installation, application maintenance, management, monitoring, and problem-resolution support on a 24*7 basis.

• Redundant and high speed network connectivity
• 24 hour server monitoring & transparency
• Comprehensive RDP/SSH access
• High-end disaster recovery & security modules
• Guaranteed uptime & high-performance standards
• Standalone, Tier III data center facilities
• Best-in-class storage technology & management
• Server updates, patches and management
• Daily backups & effective disaster recovery planning
• State-of-the-art firewall protection & blocking capabilities
• Premium 24*7 dedicated technical support

What is wireless LAN driver?

In 1991, the Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN), based upon IEEE 802.11 technology standards, was introduced to wirelessly link devices to the Internet. Wireless LAN drivers facilitate communication between the wireless LAN hub or router and the peripheral, such as a personal computer, game console, printer, fax machine, mobile phone, PDA, or MP3 player.

Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)

When one of these devices is within the reach of the wireless LAN, they can connect to the Internet. Wireless LANs are popular in homes, communities, hospitals, college campuses, coffee shops, libraries, malls and other businesses where having multiple devices, such as laptop computers, link to the Internet at the same time would be important. New York City has even begun a program to link all 5 boroughs of the city via wireless internet through WLAN.

In order to connect to the internet, each device must have a Wireless Network Interface Card (WNIC) installed into their device or laptop. Depending upon the type of wireless network interface card that your device contains, will dictate what type of Wireless LAN driver is necessary to communicate with the router in the area in which the user needs Internet access. Most wireless NICs will be compatible with any network that are established so there typically will not be any connectivity issues in most instances.

A Wireless Distribution System is the system that enables the wireless interconnection of access points in a Wireless LAN network. Access Points (AP), normally routers or hubs, are the base stations for the wireless network. Routers or hubs transmit and receive radio frequencies for wireless enabled devices to detect other wireless devices or clients to communicate with.

Some of the networks have no base allowing the stations to communicate directly or peer to peer (P2P). This is an ad-hoc network that utilizes the Independent Basic Service Set (IBSS).

A bridge can also be used to as a connection point to the wireless LAN. The bridge can connect devices on a wired Ethernet network to a wireless internet network.

How do I become an IT security specialist?

Essential Information

Information security specialists assist businesses and organizations in maintaining computer security by preventing hacks, viruses and unauthorized user access. To achieve this, they design, implement and maintain various computer programs and applications. The minimum education requirement for this occupation is typically an undergraduate degree or work experience combined with certification.

Required Education	Bachelor's degree
Other Requirements	Voluntary certification
Projected Job Growth (2018-2028)	32%*
Average Salary (2018)	$102,470*

Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Education Requirements

Although a bachelor's degree is not required for all information security specialist positions, it is required by some employers. Degree programs in computer science, information systems or information technology can provide the necessary training for this position. A typical bachelor's degree in one of these majors will take four years to complete.

Coursework offered in these degree programs might include mathematics, computer engineering, programming and operating systems. Students might need to complete prerequisite courses in math and computer fundamentals to be accepted into a program.

There are several technical and community colleges that offer shorter certificate programs for aspiring information security specialists. This training teaches individuals how to identify and remedy security issues, as well as plan and implement network applications.

Professional Certification

Some employers will accept certification along with work experience in lieu of a bachelor's degree. Certification is typically offered through industry groups and associations, training institutions and product vendors as validation of an individual's demonstrated understanding of an area of expertise.

Some such credentials are offered by the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC2), a leading accreditation organization for information security professionals. Other options include the CompTIA Security+ and Network+ certifications.

Career Information

Information security specialists create and execute security applications to maintain network security and safety. They accomplish this by setting up firewalls to prevent hacking and computer virus attacks, as well as initiating password protocols to control user access. An individual in this position must be able to perceive security threats and take all precautions to prevent and eliminate them.

Individuals who have acquired expertise in this field often seek promotion to supervisory and management-level positions. They also might transfer into related fields or pursue work as independent computer security consultants.

Job Outlook and Salary

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment growth for information security specialists was projected to be favorable. Overall employment in this field was expected to increase 32% from 2018-2028, which is much faster than average. The rising problems of cyber-attacks will likely increase the demand for information security specialists. Additionally, reliance on the Internet, including its use to transmit sensitive data, could improve opportunities for individuals in this occupation. The average salary among information security analysts was $102,470 in 2018, per the BLS.

Employers generally require information security specialist candidates to hold bachelor's degrees in fields related to computer sciences or information security. Beyond education, professionals may need to be certified in the use of specific technology, programming, and/or professional information security practices. Demand for these professionals will remain high, per the BLS, as the majority of our data is stored digitally, which requires employing more information security specialists to keep it safe.

What are the best entry level IT jobs?

Information technology (IT) is a sector with abundant opportunities for tech graduates to earn a substantial income and develop a satisfying career. Which are the best jobs for entry-level candidates ready to launch their IT careers?

There are many job opportunities that offer both high earnings and a strong employment outlook.

TEKsystems surveyed 250 hiring managers and asked them which entry-level roles within the industry provided the best opportunities for recent college graduates.1 The following jobs were most frequently recommended by hiring managers.

Top 7 Entry-Level IT Jobs

1. Applications Developer

Applications developers create software or applications for computers and mobile devices to enable users to process information efficiently. They analyze the needs of users and incorporate feedback from tests to modify applications.

Salary: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), applications developers earned a median annual wage of $103,620 in May 2018. The lowest 10% of software developers earned $61,660, and the highest 10% earned more than $166,960.

Employment Outlook: The BLS estimates that opportunities for application developers will grow by 26% from 2018 to 2028, much faster than for other occupations.

2. Technical Support Specialist

Technical support specialists resolve problems that end users and customers have while operating computer systems and software. They train users to utilize computer software, hardware, and systems and provide updates on system enhancements. Technical support specialists maintain networking and internet systems, troubleshoot problems, and make necessary repairs.

Salary: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), technical support specialists for computer networks earned a median annual wage of $62,770, while technical support specialists for users earned $50,980 in May 2018.

Employment Outlook: The BLS estimates that opportunities for technical support specialists will grow by 10% from 2018 to 2028, faster than for other occupations.

3. Business/Systems Analyst

Business/systems analysts consult with managers and staff to assess an organization's need for IT systems. They evaluate emerging technology and review options to optimize information processing. Business/systems analysts recommend new systems and oversee their implementation.

Salary: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), business/systems analysts earned a median annual wage of $88,740 in May 2018. The lowest 10% earned $54,360, and the highest 10% earned more than $142,220.

Employment Outlook: The BLS estimates that opportunities for business/systems analysts will grow by 9% from 2018 to 2028, faster than average for other occupations.

4. Web Developer

Web developers communicate with management and end users to determine their needs for web-based technology. They create websites with an eye toward speed, functionality, appearance, and relevance to organizational missions. Web developers collaborate with other IT staff to integrate other applications into websites; they also address and resolve website user issues.

Salary: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), web developers earned a median annual wage of $69,430 in May 2018. The lowest 10% earned $37,930, and the highest 10% earned more than $124,480.

Employment Outlook: The BLS estimates that opportunities for web developers will grow by 13% from 2018 to 2028, much faster than for other occupations.

5. Network/System Administrator

Network/system administrators recommend, install, and maintain local area networks, intranets, and organizational communications systems. They resolve network problems and take measures to optimize network performance. Network/system administrators also evaluate threats to systems and establish security protocols.

Salary: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), network/system administrators earned a median annual wage of $82,050 in May 2018. The lowest 10% earned $50,990, and the highest 10% earned more than $130,720.

Employment Outlook: The BLS estimates that opportunities for network/system administrators will grow by 5% from 2018 - 2028, about as fast as other occupations.

6. Database Administrator

Database administrators oversee the implementation and maintenance of software to organize records and data needed by staff to carry out their duties. They modify databases to reflect user needs as they emerge. Database administrators ensure the security of organizational databases from threats.

Salary: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), database administrators earned a median annual wage of $90,070 in May 2018. The lowest 10% earned $50,340, and the highest 10% earned more than $138,320.

Employment Outlook: The BLS estimates that opportunities for database administrators will grow by 9% from 2018 to 2028, faster than for other occupations.

7. Systems Engineer

System engineers are responsible for creating or modifying computer systems for their clients or employers based on their specifications, and they work extensively with hardware engineers, software engineers, system administrators, hardware technicians, programmers, and product development staff. In addition to developing computer systems, system engineers may also customize computer systems, which are purchased from vendors.

Salary: According to Payscale, systems engineers earn a median annual wage of $77,875. The lowest 10% earned $57,000, and the highest 10% earned more than $122,000.

HOW TO BECOME A SECURITY SPECIALIST

Everyone and most every thing needs some type of protection. You protect your home with locks or alarm systems; you protect your car with insurance, and you protect your health by going to the doctor. A major corporation or organization uses a security specialist to protect their software and network security system. A security specialist is smart career path to take to begin your career in cyber security, as you'll be the go-to person responsible for the overall safety of your employer's data.

SECURITY SPECIALIST JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

It is possible for a security specialist's job responsibilities to vary depending upon place of employment. Here are some of the most common duties:

• Keep up to date with security updates and improvements
• Monitor the security administrations
• Protect the system against damage, changes or illegal access
• Ensure accurate security tools are running properly, including anti-virus software and firewalls
• Implement training to colleagues
• Develop system specialized security requirements

CAREER PATH AS A SECURITY SPECIALIST

Since a security specialist is essentially an entry level position in the large world of cyber security, there are positions you can start out in at first and then, you can work your way up the ladder into a management role. It is a great career to enter as there are several roads to travel toward executive-level roles.

WHAT DOES IT security specialist do?

IT Security Specialists Defend an Organization's Information Systems. ... IT security specialists leverage an in-depth understanding of cyber security threats, technologies and countermeasures to ensure secure computer systems.

IT Security Specialists Defend an Organization’s Information Systems.

In today's era of rapidly escalating threats and sophisticated cyber warfare, organizations need to be vigilant in combating attackers and protecting information assets. IT security specialists leverage an in-depth understanding of cyber security threats, technologies and countermeasures to ensure secure computer systems. This often includes tasks like installing and configuring security software to prevent attacks, educating employees on data security, monitoring and protecting against network breaches, and responding to cyber attacks with the appropriate countermeasures.

Workforce demand for computer security specialists is high across all organizational structures and verticals, including corporations, schools, medical practices, and government agencies. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the IT security specialist job market will grow by 32% from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the 5% average for all occupations, placing it among the nation's fastest growing career paths.

Accredited universities and private computer schools offer college degrees, courses, and certificates in modern information security tools and technologies. Compare top-reviewed IT security training programs in the U.S., Canada and online.

a.k.a. IT Security Analyst | Information Security Professional | Cyber Security Analyst | Computer Security Specialist.

IT Security Specialist Skills & Responsibilities

Typical day-to-day duties and marketable cyber security skill sets include the following. IT security specialists:

• Develop plans to safeguard computer files against unauthorized modification, destruction or disclosure.
• Choose, implement, monitor and upgrade computer anti-virus and malware protection systems.
• Encrypt data transmissions and erect firewalls to conceal confidential information during transmit.
• Implement password authentication to keep unauthorized users from accessing sensitive data files.
• Modify security files to incorporate new software, correct errors, and change user access status.
• Perform risk assessments and tests on running data processing activities and security measures.
• Educate workers about computer security and promote security awareness and security protocols.
• Keep accurate and current backup files of all important data on the shared corporate network.
• IT security pros who specialize in computer forensics gather evidence for prosecuting cyber crimes.
• Computer forensics specialists can set up & operate an investigator’s lab, and process computer crime scenes.

Read this post from information security curriculum designer, Jason Nufryk, for a deeper look at marketable cyber security skills.

System Security Technician Job Description

This system security technician sample job description can assist in your creating a job application that will attract job candidates who are qualified for the job. Feel free to revise this job description to meet your specific job duties and job requirements.

System Security Technician Job Responsibilities:

Protects computer assets by establishing and documenting access; maintaining files.
 

System Security Technician Job Duties:

• Establishes system access by issuing IDs; coaching client on password construction and usage.
• Documents access by logging, sorting, counting, and filing requests, recording terminations and transfers.
• Monitors access by looking-up ID status; verifying owner identity.
• Maintains security files by receiving, processing, and filing computer security forms; documents, and agreements.
• Provides information by collecting, analyzing, and summarizing data and trends.
• Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities.
• Accomplishes information systems and organization mission by completing related results as needed.

System Security Technician Skills and Qualifications:

Information Security Policies, Network Security, Firewall Administration, Statistical Analysis, Reporting Research Results, Attention to Detail, Organization, System Administration, On-Call, Network Protocols, Routers, Hubs, and Switches

Network Security Specialist: Job Description and Requirements

Network security specialist require a moderate amount of formal education. Learn about the education, job duties and certifications to see if this is the right career for you.

Keeping criminals out of computer systems requires network security specialists to monitor systems and upgrade security measures. Network security specialists have a wide range of job duties, depending on the security needs and protocols of the organizations where the work. These professionals must be ingenious enough to anticipate potential problems, and they must use analytical skills to fix problems and maintain system security at all times.

Essential Information

Network security specialists detect, prevent and resolve security threats to computer networks. They also play an important role in maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of a company's data and information systems. Employers prefer to hire candidates with a bachelor's degree and industry certification.

Job Description of a Network Security Specialist

Network security specialists monitor computer networks for security threats or unauthorized users. They may identify compromised machines and report on security measures taken to address threats. Network security specialists also analyze security risks and develop response procedures. Additional duties may include developing and testing software deployment tools, firewalls and intrusion detection systems.

Some network security workers research, evaluate, recommend and implement other security devices as well. This may include installing computer security software, conducting regular security audits, preparing security status reports, educating users on computer security, creating security documentation for users, assisting in disaster recovery and gathering evidence regarding cybercrimes.

Employment Outlook and Salary Information

Network security specialists can also be called information security analysts, and the employment outlook in this profession is favorable. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports the field of information security analysts should see an 32% increase in demand, adding over 35,500 jobs between 2018 and 2028. The average salary for information security analysts was $ 98,350 in May of 2018.

Requirements to Become a Network Security Specialist

According to the BLS, employers often require network security specialists to have a bachelor's degree in a computer-related field. Relevant degree programs include computer science, information technology and management information systems. Some employers may be willing to hire applicants who don't have a degree as long as they have the equivalent experience.

Employers may prefer applicants who have years of experience working in networking systems, network security or information technology, according to multiple job listings found on Monster.com in October 2010. Areas that aspiring network security specialists should be knowledgeable in include network access control (NAC) systems, firewalls, routers, incident response techniques, intrusion prevention systems, information security methodologies, authentication protocols and different attack types.

What Is a Security Specialist?

Any computer connected to the internet is vulnerable to cyber attacks. Cyber security, or IT security, is the technique used to protect computers and networks from criminal intrusion. Specialists in cyber security are among the most sought-after professionals in the tech sector as businesses and governments seek to fight off an increasingly daring and ruthless cohort of global cyber criminals and hackers. Skilled and dedicated security specialists work in this field that demands a mix of artistry and technical expertise. They need to be constantly one step ahead of the hackers and organised criminals behind a new crime wave.

There is increased potential for career progression, especially in larger organisations and financial service providers. There is also scope for experienced security professionals to go into business for themselves as consultants. You can find out more about cyber security as an area of work, from an industry expert, here.

Typical duties include:

seeking to build in security during the development stages of software systems, networks and data centres
looking for vulnerabilities and risks in hardware and software
finding the best way to secure the IT infrastructure of an organisation
building firewalls into network infrastructures
constantly monitoring for attacks and intrusions
when the cyber security specialist finds a potential threat or attempted breach, closing off the security vulnerability
identifying the perpetrator and liaising with the police if necessary

For More About Security Specialist

ITSpecialist Job Description

Information security analysts design and implement security systems to protect a company or organization’s computer networks from cyber attacks, and help set and maintain security standards.

Information Security Analyst Job Description Template

We are hiring an Information Security Analyst to work in our growing IT Security team. You will monitor our computer networks for security issues, install security software, and document any security issues or breaches you find. To do well in this role you should have a bachelor's degree in computer science and experience in the information security field.

Information Security Analyst Responsibilities:

Monitor computer networks for security issues.

Investigate security breaches and other cyber security incidents.

Install security measures and operate software to protect systems and information infrastructure, including firewalls and data encryption programs.

Document security breaches and assess the damage they cause.

Work with security team to perform tests and uncover network vulnerabilities.

Fix detected vulnerabilities to maintain a high-security standard.

Stay current on IT security trends and news.

Develop company-wide best practices for IT security.

Perform penetration testing.

Help colleagues install security software and understand information security management.

Research security enhancements and make recommendations to management.

Stay up-to-date on information technology trends and security standards.

Information Security Analyst Requirements:

Bachelor's degree in computer science or related field.

MBA in information systems.

Experience in information security or related field.

Experience with computer network penetration testing and techniques.

Understanding of firewalls, proxies, SIEM, antivirus, and IDPS concepts.

Ability to identify and mitigate network vulnerabilities and explain how to avoid them.

Understanding of patch management with the ability to deploy patches in a timely manner while understanding business impact.

Cyber Security Analyst Job Description

Cyber security analysts assess, plan, and enact security measures to help protect an organization from security breaches and attacks on its computer networks and systems. This job involves simulating attacks to identify vulnerabilities, testing new software to help protect the company’s data, and helping users adhere to new regulations and processes to ensure the network stays safe. Cyber security analysts usually work as part of an IT department for various organizations and typically work a full-time schedule. This job is best suited to people with excellent knowledge of and experience using computers and security software who enjoy thinking critically to find new ways to resolve issues.

Cyber security analysts take on a range of different tasks that depend on the organization they work for. Based on job listings we analyzed, a cyber security analyst’s duties typically involve:

Monitor Computer Networks

Cyber security analysts monitor the organization’s computer networks and systems to identify any violations and security breaches that need to be resolved.

Install Software

Cyber security analysts are responsible for installing and utilizing software, such as firewalls and data encryption programs, to help protect the company’s data and sensitive information.

Conduct Tests on Systems

Cyber security analysts carry out regular tests to simulate attacks so they can identify areas where the company is vulnerable and ways in which its systems might be exploited by hackers and viruses.

Develop Processes and Standards

Cyber security analysts develop processes and regulations to ensure the company’s systems stay as safe as possible, in addition to developing security standards for all employees to adhere to. This involves researching the latest information technology security trends and software to help prevent any issues.

Prepare Reports

Cyber security analysts prepare and create regular reports to document any process implementation, improvements made, and security breaches that caused damage to the company.

Information Security Specialist Responsibilities

Security Specialist is a catchall description for a wide variety of entry- to intermediate-level IT security jobs. In the majority of cases, you will be responsible for designing, testing, implementing and monitoring security measures for your company’s systems. You’ll see a fair amount of crossover in this role with Security Analysts, but junior-level specialists usually have to deal with a lot more administrative tasks.

In addition, Security Specialists tend to be all-rounders. You’ll know how to configure firewalls and implement compliance measures. But you’ll also be adept in pen testing, auditing, and post-incident analysis. In some cases, you may be the one responsible for developing an infosec strategy, recommending security products, and even training other employees.

Security Specialist Job Responsibilities

As part of your day-to-day tasks, you could be required to:

• Analyze and establish security requirements for your systems/networks
• Defend systems against unauthorized access, modification and/or destruction
• Configure and support security tools such as firewalls, anti-virus software, patch management systems, etc.
• Define access privileges, control structures and resources
• Perform vulnerability testing, risk analyses and security assessments
• Identify abnormalities and report violations
• Oversee and monitor routine security administration
• Develop and update business continuity and disaster recovery protocols
• Train fellow employees in security awareness, protocols and procedures
• Design and conduct security audits to ensure operational security
• Respond immediately to security incidents and provide post-incident analysis
• Research and recommend security upgrades
• Provide technical advice to colleagues

What makes a great problem solver?

Good problem solvers are good thinkers. They have less drama and problems to begin with and don't get overly emotional when faced with a problem. They usually see problems as challenges and life experiences and try to stand above them, objectively.

Good problem solvers use a combination of intuition and logic to come up with their solutions. Intuition has more to do with the emotional and instinctive side of us and logic is more related to our cognition and thinking. Good problem solvers use both of these forces to get as much information as they can to come up with the best possible solution. In addition, they are reasonably open minded but logically skeptical.

For Computer Troubleshooter Jobs

Some of the general characteristics of good problem solvers are:

1. They don't need to be right all the time: They focus on finding the right solution rather than wanting to prove they are right at all costs.

2. They go beyond their own conditioning: They go beyond a fixated mind set and open up to new ways of thinking and can explore options.

3. They look for opportunity within the problem: They see problems as challenges and try to learn from them.

4. They know the difference between complex and simple thinking: They know when to do a systematic and complex thinking and when to go through short cuts and find an easy solution.

5. They have clear definition of what the problem is: They can specifically identity the problem.

6. They use the power of words to connect with people: They are socially well developed and find ways to connect with people and try to find happy-middle solutions.

7. They don't create problems for others: They understand that to have their problem solved they can't create problems for others. Good problems solvers who create fair solutions make a conscious effort not to harm others for a self-interest intention. They know such acts will have long term consequences even if the problem is temporarily solved.

8. They do prevention more than intervention: Good problem solvers have a number of skills to prevent problems from happening in the first place. They usually face less drama, conflict, and stressful situations since they have clear boundaries, don't let their rights violated and do not violate other people's rights. They are more of a positive thinker so naturally they are surrounded with more positivity and have more energy to be productive.

9. They explore their options: They see more than one solution to a problem and find new and productive ways to deal with new problems as they arise. They also have a backup plan if the first solution does not work and can ask for support and advise when needed.

10. They have reasonable expectations: Good problem solvers have reasonable expectations as to what the solution would be. They understand that there are many elements effecting a situation and that idealistic ways of thinking and going about solving a problem will be counterproductive. At the end, good problem solvers do not have too many irrational fears when dealing with problems. They can visualize the worst case scenario, work their way out of it and let go of the fear attached to it. Fear can make your logic and intuition shady and your decisions unproductive.

Good Computer Troubleshooter’s Guide

Good Computer Troubleshooter’s Guide

So what makes a good troubleshooter?  What steps can you do to be better?  Well the good news is troubleshooting is something that can be learned and improved upon.  Leaving prior knowledge and understanding of the basics aside for a moment let us investigate the preliminary concepts. The first thing that any good Computer  troubleshooter job  has is the ability to correctly think and focus on what they are doing.  There has been research done on audiences listening to a lecture.  They listen for a while and drift out for a while.  The same is true with thinking and paying attention to the problem at hand.  When you are approaching a problem be ready to approach it.  Really!  Ok, let us also admit that this cannot always be true.  Sometimes we are thinking about the weekend, family issues or just plain daydreaming.  Once that happens give yourself a moment, get a drink of coffee, and then refocus your energy on the problem you are trying to solve.  You have to mentally be ready. 

Think about this thought for a moment.  The last time you or somebody you know was in the hospital every notice the doctors usually schedule surgeries early in the morning?  Why, because in the morning it is cold and patients have to get up really early and they are cranky.  No, because that is when the doctor is mentally the sharpest and most focused on the task at hand.  When the doctor is doing the procedure there is no drifting between the baseball score and the procedure, all energy is focused on the task at hand.  You need to employ the same attention to detail as well. The second rule is: you rule the problem and not the other way.  You have to approach any troubleshooting issue as yours to solve.  Don’t let the complexity of the situation overwhelm you.  Hold on loosely but do not let go to the problem.  Again you will get your behind kicked from time to time and the problem will consume you.  It has to from time to time, that is the only way to get better.  When that time does arise you must walk away think about in a new way get a better grip and jump on again.  But never loose the prospective that you are the one to solve the problem.

The third rule is: be confident in your ability.  Yes, you make lack years of experience and yes you possibly do not have all of the fundamentals, ok so what.  Your job will be harder and you know what it should be.  But there is light at the end of the tunnel.  It will take time and you too will get it.  Be confident.  There is something to be said about being confident and admitting that you cannot solve the problem without help and guidance, than to doubt yourself, make poor decisions based on lack of confidence and come up with a wrong solution.  I cannot help you when it comes to over confidence and under confidence.  You must know your personality and what makes you who you are.The fourth rule is:  know your personality.  And no I do not mean know how you feel.  No.  Know your personality.  How quickly do you become frustrated with things?  Me, I personally hate computer software.  I like hardware and things I can touch and if need be through into the trash.  But computer software is my weak spot.  You mean to tell me we put the man on the moon how many years ago and we cannot build a computer that will not crash or delete entire copies of written text?  No way can’t I believe it!  Already I feel myself getting upset.  Do not let your weakness get the better of you.  Also do not let your weakness jade your decision making away from a solution because of your weakness.

Lots of things has changed over the years especially when it comes to technology.  Think about how long the TV has been around.  Year after year new TV sets come and improvements are made.  You buy a TV and place it your family room.  After a few months it starts acting up.  Noticeably right after the warranty has expired, that will never change even as technology improves.  The dilemma is you cannot possibly know everything about all things TV.  No way there are just too many things.  But it is up to you to figure out how to at the very least determine a root problem and then determine cost of repair. A few years ago another instructor told me about a TV repair shop that used the 15 minute rule.  Generally if they could not determine the problem within 15 minutes then it was not worth the time or money to solve the problem.  That is a very good philosophy to go by.  They repair owner knew that if it took longer than 15 minutes of their time to determine the problem then it would take an even longer time to fix.  That means less money for them. With the cost of replacement usually cheaper on TVs than repair if it was not simple then it was not worth pursuing. So when you get to looking at the TV and all of its new bells and whistles ask yourself this?  What is the root problem and can it be fixed cheaply.  IF you are stumped then it probably is time for a new TV.  This rule though does not work as nicely on sophisticated things that are not as easy to replace.  For most rules there are exceptions.  You need to determine which item belongs to what category, replace or fix.