Top 12 Desktop Support Skills to Put on Your Resume

In today's rapidly evolving tech landscape, desktop support professionals are the unsung heroes keeping business operations smooth and efficient. A well-crafted resume highlighting a robust set of desktop support skills can significantly elevate your marketability, positioning you as a vital asset to potential employers in this competitive field.

Desktop Support Skills

1. Windows 10/11
2. Active Directory
3. Office 365
4. MacOS
5. Linux
6. VMware
7. PowerShell
8. Networking
9. SCCM
10. Citrix
11. ITIL
12. JIRA

1. Windows 10/11

Windows 10 and Windows 11 are operating systems developed by Microsoft for use on personal computers, including home and business desktops, laptops, and tablets. Windows 10, released in July 2015, focuses on unifying the Windows experience across multiple devices, whereas Windows 11, launched in October 2021, introduces a refreshed interface and enhanced performance and multitasking features. Both provide critical functionalities such as system security, application support, and user interface innovations, essential for desktop support professionals to manage, troubleshoot, and ensure smooth operation of computer systems.

Why It's Important

Windows 10/11 is crucial for Desktop Support because it is the most widely used operating system, ensuring compatibility with the vast majority of software and hardware, providing robust security features, and offering extensive support resources for troubleshooting and maintenance.

How to Improve Windows 10/11 Skills

Improving Windows 10/11 for Desktop Support involves optimizing performance, ensuring security, and enhancing usability. Here are concise strategies with inline links for further guidance:

1. Update and Upgrade: Regularly check for and install Windows updates. Windows 10 Update | Windows 11 Update

2. Optimize Startup: Disable unnecessary startup programs for faster boot times. Startup Apps

3. Disk Cleanup and Optimization: Use built-in tools to clean up files and optimize drives. Disk Cleanup | Optimize Drives

4. Security and Antivirus: Ensure Windows Defender or another antivirus program is active and up to date. Windows Security

5. Privacy Settings: Review and adjust privacy settings to protect user data. Privacy Settings | Windows 11 Privacy

6. System File Checker (SFC): Use SFC to repair corrupted system files. SFC Scan

7. Power Settings: Optimize power settings for performance or energy savings. Power Plans

8. Task Manager: Monitor and manage running applications and system processes. Task Manager

9. Update Drivers: Ensure all device drivers are up to date for optimal performance. Update Drivers

10. User Training and Support: Provide training resources and support for users to help them navigate and utilize Windows efficiently.

Implementing these practices can significantly improve the performance and usability of Windows 10/11 for Desktop Support.

How to Display Windows 10/11 Skills on Your Resume

2. Active Directory

Active Directory (AD) is a Microsoft technology used for managing computers and other devices on a network. It allows for centralized domain management, including user and group authentication, authorization, and the enforcement of security policies. For Desktop Support, AD is crucial for managing user accounts, granting access permissions, and deploying software and updates to computers within a network.

Why It's Important

Active Directory (AD) is crucial for Desktop Support because it centralizes user and computer management, streamlines authentication and access control, and enhances network security, thereby simplifying administrative tasks and improving operational efficiency.

How to Improve Active Directory Skills

Improving Active Directory (AD) performance and security can significantly impact your organization's IT health. Here's a concise guide for Desktop Support professionals:

1. Regularly Update and Patch: Ensure Active Directory and Windows Server are always up to date with the latest patches to fix vulnerabilities and performance issues. Microsoft's Update Guide.

2. Implement Strong Password Policies: Enforce complex passwords and regular changes to enhance security. NIST Password Guidelines.

3. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Adding an additional layer of security helps protect against unauthorized access. AD MFA Setup Guide.

4. Regularly Audit and Review AD Permissions: Ensure only necessary permissions are granted and perform regular audits to detect any anomalies. AD Permissions Best Practices.

5. Backup Active Directory Regularly: Regular backups can help quickly restore AD in case of corruption or attack. AD Backup and Restore Guide.

6. Monitor AD with SIEM Tools: Use Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) tools for real-time monitoring and alerting on suspicious activities. Introduction to SIEM.

7. Educate Users: Training users on recognizing phishing attempts and following best security practices can reduce the risk of compromised credentials. Cybersecurity Training Tips.

By following these steps and leveraging the resources provided, Desktop Support professionals can play a crucial role in enhancing the performance and security of Active Directory.

How to Display Active Directory Skills on Your Resume

3. Office 365

Office 365, now known as Microsoft 365, is a subscription-based service offering access to various Microsoft applications like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, along with cloud storage (OneDrive) and collaboration tools. For Desktop Support, it involves installation, troubleshooting, and updating these applications on users' devices, ensuring seamless connectivity and productivity.

Why It's Important

Office 365 is important for Desktop Support because it provides a unified, cloud-based suite of productivity tools that facilitates seamless collaboration, remote work, and real-time assistance, while also simplifying software installation, updates, and security management.

How to Improve Office 365 Skills

Improving Office 365 in a Desktop Support role involves enhancing performance, security, and user experience. Here are concise strategies:

1. Update Regularly: Ensure Office 365 and Windows are always updated for the latest features and security patches. Microsoft's Update Guide.

2. Optimize Performance: Use the Office 365 Support and Recovery Assistant to troubleshoot and optimize Office apps. Support and Recovery Assistant.

3. Educate Users: Provide training resources to users for leveraging Office 365 features effectively. Microsoft Training Center.

4. Implement Security Best Practices: Enable multi-factor authentication and use Secure Score to review and improve security. Office 365 Secure Score.

5. Manage with PowerShell: Automate repetitive tasks and manage Office 365 efficiently using PowerShell. PowerShell for Office 365.

6. Monitor Service Health: Regularly check Office 365 Service Health to preemptively address outages or issues. Office 365 Service Health.

By focusing on these key areas, Desktop Support can significantly enhance the Office 365 experience for users.

How to Display Office 365 Skills on Your Resume

4. MacOS

macOS is the operating system developed by Apple Inc. for their Mac computer line, providing the software foundation for desktop and laptop devices to run applications and manage hardware components.

Why It's Important

macOS is important for Desktop Support because it offers a stable, user-friendly environment with robust security features, ensuring efficient troubleshooting and support for users within diverse computing environments.

How to Improve MacOS Skills

Improving MacOS for Desktop Support can involve several steps aimed at enhancing performance, security, and user experience. Here's a concise guide:

1. Keep MacOS Updated: Regularly check for and install macOS updates to fix bugs, improve performance, and enhance security. Apple Support provides guidance on how to update your Mac.

2. Manage Startup Items: Reduce startup time by managing applications that automatically launch at startup. Go to System Preferences > Users & Groups > Login Items to adjust these settings.

3. Optimize Storage: Use the built-in Optimized Storage features to free up space. Access it by clicking Apple menu > About This Mac > Storage > Manage. Apple's guide offers detailed instructions.

4. Create a Standard Account for Daily Use: Using a non-admin account for daily activities can enhance security. Create a new user account in System Preferences > Users & Groups. For more, visit Apple Support.

5. Regular Backups with Time Machine: Ensure data integrity by setting up Time Machine for regular backups. Connect an external drive and select it as your backup disk through System Preferences > Time Machine. Learn more about setting up Time Machine.

6. Disk Utility for Maintenance: Use Disk Utility to repair disk permissions and check for disk errors. You can find Disk Utility in the Utilities folder within the Applications folder. This Apple Support article provides additional details.

7. Enable Firewall and FileVault: Enhance security by enabling the built-in firewall and FileVault for disk encryption. Access these options in System Preferences > Security & Privacy. Firewall guidance and FileVault information can be found on Apple's website.

8. Utilize Activity Monitor: Keep an eye on system resource usage and terminate processes that significantly impact performance. Open Activity Monitor from the Utilities folder to monitor system resources.

By following these steps, you can ensure a more secure, efficient, and reliable MacOS environment for Desktop Support.

How to Display MacOS Skills on Your Resume

5. Linux

Linux is a free, open-source operating system widely used for computers, servers, and embedded systems, known for its stability, security, and customization capabilities. In a desktop support context, it involves assisting users with installation, configuration, troubleshooting, and maintenance of Linux-based desktop environments.

Why It's Important

Linux is important for Desktop Support because it offers a highly stable, secure, and customizable operating system, reducing downtime and vulnerability to malware, while also providing extensive support for a wide range of hardware and software.

How to Improve Linux Skills

Improving Linux for Desktop Support focuses on enhancing user experience, system stability, and compatibility. Here's a concise guide:

1. Update Regularly: Keep your system and applications up-to-date for security and performance. Use your distribution's package manager (e.g., sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade for Debian-based systems).

2. Choose the Right Desktop Environment: Select a desktop environment that fits your performance and aesthetic needs. GNOME and KDE Plasma are feature-rich, while XFCE and LXDE are lightweight. GNOME | KDE Plasma | XFCE | LXDE

3. Install Proprietary Drivers: For better hardware compatibility and performance, especially for graphics and Wi-Fi, consider installing proprietary drivers if open-source ones aren't sufficient. NVIDIA Drivers | AMD Drivers

4. Use Compatibility Layers and Emulators: Tools like Wine or Proton for gaming and running Windows applications, and emulators for other platforms, improve software compatibility. WineHQ | Proton

5. Optimize System Resources: Use system tools and utilities to monitor and manage system resources. Consider preload to speed up application launch times, and TLP for battery life management. Preload | TLP

6. Customize for Productivity: Customize your desktop environment and use keyboard shortcuts to improve productivity. Each desktop environment has its own customization tools.

7. Enhance Security: Employ firewalls (e.g., UFW) and regularly audit your system for vulnerabilities. Keep encrypted backups. UFW | ClamAV

8. Seek Community Support: Join Linux forums and Q&A sites for help and to stay informed about new developments. Ask Ubuntu | Arch Linux Forums

9. Documentation and Learning: Familiarize yourself with the official documentation of your Linux distribution and use command-line tools efficiently. The Linux Documentation Project

10. Hardware Compatibility: Before installing or upgrading, check hardware compatibility lists (HCLs) for your distribution to ensure the best experience. Ubuntu HCL | Fedora HCL

Improving Linux as a desktop system is an ongoing process that benefits significantly from community engagement, continuous learning, and adapting the system to fit personal or organizational needs.

How to Display Linux Skills on Your Resume

6. VMware

VMware is a virtualization and cloud computing software provider that enables users to run multiple operating systems and applications on a single physical computer, enhancing resource efficiency and simplifying IT management, particularly useful for desktop support in managing and deploying virtual desktop environments.

Why It's Important

VMware is important for Desktop Support because it allows for the creation and management of virtual machines, enabling efficient testing, deployment, and troubleshooting of multiple operating systems and applications on a single physical machine, thus reducing hardware costs and improving IT responsiveness and flexibility.

How to Improve VMware Skills

Improving VMware performance for a Desktop Support role involves optimizing both the host and guest operating systems, managing resources efficiently, and keeping VMware tools up to date. Here are concise steps with external resources:

1. Optimize Host System: Ensure the host system is running optimally by regularly updating drivers and operating system, and by defragmenting its hard drives. VMware Optimization Guide

2. Allocate Resources Wisely: Assign sufficient and not excessive memory, CPU, and storage to the VMs considering the host's capacity. Use VMware's recommendations for allocation. Resource Management Guide

3. Install VMware Tools: VMware Tools improves the performance and interaction between the host and guest operating system. Ensure it's installed and up to date on all VMs. VMware Tools Documentation

4. Enable 3D Graphics and Hardware Acceleration: If your VMs are running graphical applications, enabling hardware graphics acceleration can significantly improve performance. Configuring 3D Graphics

5. Clean Up VM Disk Space: Regularly clean up unnecessary files within your VMs and utilize VMware's disk cleanup tools. Virtual Disk Management

6. Defragment Virtual Disks: Over time, VM disk files can become fragmented. Use VMware's built-in defragmentation tool to improve disk performance. Defragmenting Virtual Disks

7. Network Optimization: For VMs that require significant network resources, consider using VMXNET3 over the default e1000 network adapter for better performance. Choosing a Network Adapter for Your VM

Follow these steps to ensure an efficient, responsive VMware environment suitable for a Desktop Support role.

How to Display VMware Skills on Your Resume

7. PowerShell

PowerShell is a task automation and configuration management framework from Microsoft, consisting of a command-line shell and scripting language. It helps Desktop Support professionals automate administrative tasks, manage system configurations, and troubleshoot issues on Windows environments.

Why It's Important

PowerShell is important for Desktop Support because it enables the automation of complex system administration tasks, streamlines configuration management, and provides robust tools for troubleshooting and diagnosing system issues, enhancing efficiency and productivity.

How to Improve PowerShell Skills

Improving your PowerShell skills as a Desktop Support professional involves a combination of understanding PowerShell fundamentals, practicing scripting, and utilizing resources effectively. Here's a concise guide:

1. Learn the Basics: Start with the fundamentals of PowerShell. Understand cmdlets, syntax, and basic scripting. Microsoft's PowerShell documentation is a great starting point.

2. Practice Regularly: Apply what you learn by automating routine tasks. Try modifying existing scripts to suit your needs. Websites like GitHub host numerous PowerShell scripts for different tasks.

3. Use PowerShell ISE: PowerShell Integrated Scripting Environment (ISE) is a helpful tool for writing and debugging scripts. It offers syntax highlighting, tab completion, and other features to make scripting easier.

4. Join PowerShell Communities: Engage with PowerShell communities on Reddit or TechNet forums to get help, share knowledge, and stay updated on best practices.

5. Follow Blogs and Tutorials: Websites like PowerShell.org and Adam the Automator offer tutorials, best practices, and advanced scripting techniques.

6. Learn from PowerShell Books: Books like "Learn Windows PowerShell in a Month of Lunches" provide structured learning paths and practical examples.

7. Utilize Microsoft Learn: Microsoft Learn offers interactive learning paths for PowerShell, covering various levels from beginner to advanced.

Remember, the key to improving in PowerShell is consistent practice and leveraging the wealth of resources available online.

How to Display PowerShell Skills on Your Resume

8. Networking

Networking, in the context of Desktop Support, refers to the practice of connecting computers and other devices together to share resources, such as internet access, printers, and files, facilitating communication and data exchange within a network.

Why It's Important

Networking is crucial for Desktop Support because it enables efficient problem-solving, access to shared resources, and connectivity to systems and services, ensuring smooth and effective IT support operations.

How to Improve Networking Skills

To improve networking in Desktop Support, follow these concise steps:

1. Understand the Basics: Grasp fundamental concepts such as IP addressing, subnetting, and DNS. Cisco's networking basics offer a good starting point.

2. Practice Configuration: Get hands-on experience by setting up your home network or using simulators. Packet Tracer by Cisco is an excellent tool for simulation.

3. Learn from Online Platforms: Leverage educational platforms like Udemy or Coursera for structured networking courses.

4. Stay Updated: Follow industry blogs and websites such as Network World to keep abreast of the latest trends and technologies.

5. Join Forums: Participate in forums like Reddit’s r/networking for community advice and problem-solving.

6. Obtain Certifications: Consider obtaining certifications like CompTIA Network+ or CCNA. Detailed information can be found on their official websites: CompTIA Network+ and Cisco's CCNA.

7. Practice Problem-Solving: Engage in troubleshooting exercises on platforms like Geekflare.

8. Networking Tools Familiarity: Become proficient with networking tools (e.g., Wireshark), detailed guides and downloads available at Wireshark’s official site.

By following these steps and continuously practicing, you can significantly improve your networking skills in a Desktop Support role.

How to Display Networking Skills on Your Resume

9. SCCM

SCCM (System Center Configuration Manager), now part of Microsoft Endpoint Manager, is a systems management software for managing large groups of computers. For Desktop Support, it enables automated software deployment, patch management, inventory, and security policy enforcement across desktops.

Why It's Important

SCCM (System Center Configuration Manager) is important for Desktop Support because it streamlines the management of software deployment, updates, and security patches, significantly enhancing the efficiency and security of desktop environments.

How to Improve SCCM Skills

To improve System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM) for Desktop Support, consider the following steps:

1. Stay Updated: Regularly update SCCM to the latest version to access new features and security improvements. Microsoft Docs - What's new in Configuration Manager.

2. Optimize Inventory: Configure and optimize hardware and software inventory settings to reduce network load and improve performance. Manage hardware inventory in Configuration Manager.

3. Leverage Application Deployment: Use SCCM for efficient application management and deployment. Tailor deployment strategies to meet your organization's needs. Deploy applications with Configuration Manager.

4. Implement Patch Management: Efficiently manage and automate the patching process to ensure devices are up-to-date and secure. Software updates in Configuration Manager.

5. Utilize Endpoint Protection: Integrate SCCM with Windows Defender or other security tools for centralized endpoint protection. Endpoint Protection in Configuration Manager.

6. Customize User Experience: Tailor the software center to improve the user experience, making it easier for users to manage installations and updates. Software Center user guide.

7. Enhance Reporting: Use SCCM's reporting features to create detailed reports for better decision-making and compliance. Introduction to reporting in Configuration Manager.

8. Streamline OS Deployment: Implement and optimize Operating System Deployment (OSD) for efficient management of Windows images and new device setups. Introduction to operating system deployment in Configuration Manager.

9. Engage in Training and Community: Regularly participate in SCCM training sessions and community forums to stay informed about best practices and troubleshooting tips. Microsoft Tech Community - Configuration Manager.

10. Implement Role-Based Administration: Configure role-based administration to ensure that IT staff have the appropriate levels of access to perform their jobs effectively. Role-based administration in Configuration Manager.

By following these steps and leveraging SCCM's capabilities, Desktop Support teams can significantly improve management and operational efficiency.

How to Display SCCM Skills on Your Resume

10. Citrix

Citrix is a software company that provides virtualization, networking, and cloud computing services, including solutions for delivering applications and desktops virtually to any device, enabling remote access and flexible work arrangements. For Desktop Support, it primarily involves managing and troubleshooting Citrix virtual apps and desktops to ensure seamless access and performance for users.

Why It's Important

Citrix is important for Desktop Support because it enables secure, remote access to desktops and applications, facilitating flexible work arrangements and efficient IT management.

How to Improve Citrix Skills

Improving Citrix performance and user experience from a Desktop Support perspective involves several key strategies. Here's a concise guide:

1. Optimize Network Performance: Ensure a stable and fast connection. Use Quality of Service (QoS) to prioritize Citrix traffic.

   • Citrix Networking Best Practices

2. Update Citrix and Client Software: Regularly update Citrix Workspace app and Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops to the latest versions for improvements and fixes.

   • Citrix Workspace App
   • Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops

3. Optimize End-User Devices: Ensure the devices meet Citrix's recommended hardware requirements. Keep the operating system and drivers up to date.

   • System Requirements

4. Configure Citrix Policies Wisely: Use Citrix policies to manage session performance effectively. Focus on session reliability, bandwidth limits, and visual quality settings.

   • Citrix Policies Best Practices

5. Monitor and Troubleshoot: Use Citrix Director and other monitoring tools to proactively monitor performance, troubleshoot issues, and optimize the user experience.

   • Citrix Director

6. Educate Users: Provide guidance and training for end-users on how to use Citrix products efficiently and how to report issues.

   • Citrix User Adoption Services

Implementing these strategies can significantly enhance the performance and reliability of Citrix environments, leading to a better user experience.

How to Display Citrix Skills on Your Resume

11. ITIL

ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) is a framework of best practices for delivering efficient and effective IT support services, including desktop support. It provides guidelines for managing IT service processes, improving customer service, and aligning IT resources with business objectives.

Why It's Important

ITIL is important for Desktop Support because it provides a structured framework for managing IT services, ensuring efficient resolution of user issues, improved service delivery, and enhanced customer satisfaction.

How to Improve ITIL Skills

Improving ITIL practices for Desktop Support involves aligning IT services with the needs of the business, focusing on customer satisfaction, and constantly measuring and improving service delivery. Here are concise steps to enhance ITIL practices:

1. Adopt a Service-Oriented Mindset: Focus on how IT services support business processes and outcomes. Ensure your team understands their role in delivering value to the business and the end-users.

2. Implement Continual Service Improvement (CSI): Regularly assess and enhance the quality of service support. Use the CSI Model to identify areas for improvement, implement changes, and measure outcomes.

3. Enhance Incident Management: Develop a streamlined process for managing incidents. This includes quick identification, logging, analysis, and resolution of issues. Consider adopting tools that facilitate effective incident management.

4. Improve Knowledge Management: Create a centralized knowledge base that is easily accessible to both support staff and users. This can reduce resolution times and improve user satisfaction. Knowledge-Centered Service (KCS) practices can be particularly effective.

5. Focus on User Experience: Use surveys and feedback tools to understand user satisfaction and areas for improvement. Tools like SurveyMonkey or Google Forms can be used to gather feedback.

6. Adopt Problem Management Practices: Identify and address the root causes of incidents to prevent future occurrences. This involves a systematic approach to identifying trends and underlying issues.

7. Leverage Technology: Utilize ITSM tools that align with ITIL practices to automate processes, manage workflows, and provide better service management. Tools like ServiceNow or JIRA Service Management are popular choices.

8. Training and Certification: Ensure your team is well-versed in ITIL practices. Consider ITIL certification courses for team members. AXELOS offers various levels of ITIL certifications.

9. Regular Reviews and Audits: Conduct regular performance reviews and audits to ensure compliance with ITIL practices and identify areas for improvement.

10. Stakeholder Engagement: Engage with stakeholders regularly to understand their needs and expectations. This alignment is crucial for service improvement.

By focusing on these areas, Desktop Support teams can significantly enhance their ITIL practices, leading to improved efficiency, better service quality, and higher customer satisfaction.

How to Display ITIL Skills on Your Resume

12. JIRA

JIRA is a project management and issue tracking software designed to help teams plan, track, and manage their work and support tickets efficiently, often used in IT and technical support contexts, including desktop support, for organizing tasks, bugs, and requests.

Why It's Important

JIRA is important for Desktop Support because it facilitates efficient tracking and management of issues, tasks, and projects, ensuring timely resolution of support tickets and effective communication between teams and stakeholders.

How to Improve JIRA Skills

Improving JIRA for Desktop Support involves optimizing workflows, customizing dashboards, and integrating with relevant tools. Here's a concise guide:

1. Optimize Workflows: Tailor workflows to reflect your support process stages. Configure workflows for efficiency and clarity.

2. Customize Dashboards: Create dashboards that give a quick overview of ticket status, priority, and outstanding issues. Customize dashboards to fit the needs of the support team.

3. Integrate Tools: Use JIRA’s vast ecosystem to connect with email, chat, and remote support tools for seamless communication. Check Marketplace apps for integration options.

4. Automate Repetitive Tasks: Set up automation for common tasks like ticket assignment and updates. This automation guide provides steps to get started.

5. Use Labels and Components Wisely: Organize issues with labels and components for easier tracking and reporting. Learn about using components.

6. Educate Your Team: Ensure the team knows how to use JIRA effectively. Atlassian’s Jira Software Training offers courses for different roles.

7. Collect Feedback: Regularly gather feedback from the Desktop Support team to continually refine your JIRA setup.

By focusing on these areas, you can tailor JIRA to be more effective for Desktop Support operations.

How to Display JIRA Skills on Your Resume