Top 12 PC Support Technician Skills to Put on Your Resume

In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, PC support technicians stand as pivotal figures, ensuring the seamless operation of computer systems. Highlighting the top 12 skills for a PC support technician on your resume can significantly elevate your appeal to potential employers, showcasing your readiness to tackle diverse technical challenges.

PC Support Technician Skills

1. Windows 10/11
2. Linux
3. MacOS
4. Active Directory
5. PowerShell
6. Networking (TCP/IP)
7. VMware
8. Hardware Troubleshooting
9. Office 365
10. Remote Support Tools
11. Cybersecurity Fundamentals
12. Mobile Device Management

1. Windows 10/11

Windows 10 and Windows 11 are operating systems developed by Microsoft for personal computers, including desktops, laptops, and tablets. They provide a graphical user interface for managing files, running applications, and configuring system settings. Windows 10, released in July 2015, focuses on flexibility and user choice, while Windows 11, released in October 2021, offers a refreshed interface and improved performance and security features. Both are widely used in various computing environments, requiring PC Support Technicians to be familiar with their installation, configuration, troubleshooting, and maintenance.

Why It's Important

Windows 10/11 is important for a PC Support Technician because it is the most widely used operating system in corporate and personal environments, requiring expertise in its troubleshooting, maintenance, and security features to ensure optimal performance and protect against vulnerabilities.

How to Improve Windows 10/11 Skills

Improving Windows 10/11 performance involves a blend of system optimization, updates, and maintenance routines. Here for a PC Support Technician, are succinct steps and resources:

1. Update Windows: Ensure the latest updates for Windows and device drivers are installed. Windows Update

2. Optimize Startup: Disable unnecessary startup programs via Task Manager > Startup tab.

3. Increase Storage Space: Use Disk Cleanup tool to remove temporary files and system files. Disk Cleanup

4. Defragment and Optimize Drives: Regularly defragment HDDs and optimize SSDs. Defragment and Optimize Drives

5. Check for Malware: Use Windows Defender or other reputable antivirus software to scan for malware. Windows Security

6. Adjust Performance Options: Optimize for performance over appearance via System Properties > Advanced system settings > Performance Settings. Adjust Performance

7. Manage Power Plan: Select a High Performance power plan if not on battery. Power Plans

8. Update Hardware Drivers: Keep all hardware drivers up to date for optimal performance.

9. Network Performance: Optimize network settings for better online performance. Optimize Network

10. Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance tasks like disk checks and backup.

Implementing these steps can significantly improve the performance and reliability of Windows 10/11 systems. For PC Support Technicians, staying informed about the latest Windows updates and tools is crucial for optimizing and troubleshooting systems effectively.

How to Display Windows 10/11 Skills on Your Resume

2. Linux

Linux is an open-source, Unix-like operating system kernel that, when combined with other software components, forms a complete operating system used in various computing environments, including PCs, servers, and embedded systems. It is known for its stability, security, and flexibility, allowing PC Support Technicians to customize and configure systems to meet specific needs.

Why It's Important

Linux is important for a PC Support Technician due to its stability, security, and flexibility, enabling efficient troubleshooting, system management, and customization for a wide range of computing environments.

How to Improve Linux Skills

Improving Linux for a PC Support Technician involves enhancing system stability, security, and performance. Focus on the following areas:

1. System Updates: Regularly update your system to ensure you have the latest security patches and software improvements. Use your distribution's package manager (e.g., apt for Debian/Ubuntu, dnf for Fedora) for streamlined updates. Linux System Update Guide

2. Hardware Compatibility: Ensure drivers for your hardware are up to date. Utilize proprietary drivers if necessary for better performance, especially for graphics cards. Tools like ubuntu-drivers can help identify and install drivers. Ubuntu Drivers Management

3. System Monitoring: Use tools like htop, iotop, or nmon to monitor system resources and identify processes that are using excessive resources. System Monitoring Tools

4. Security Enhancements: Implement firewall solutions like ufw or firewalld and use tools like fail2ban to protect against unauthorized access. Regularly scan your system for vulnerabilities with tools like ClamAV and Lynis. Linux Security Tools

5. Optimize Startup and Services: Disable unnecessary startup applications and services to improve boot times and system performance. Tools like systemd-analyze can help diagnose slow boot issues. Optimize System Startup

6. Backup and Recovery Plans: Implement a robust backup solution using tools like rsync, Bacula, or Amanda to protect data against loss. Ensure you have a disaster recovery plan in place. Linux Backup Solutions

7. Networking Optimization: Use tools like iftop or nethogs to monitor network usage and ethtool to diagnose and improve network interface card settings. Networking Tools for Linux

8. File System Maintenance: Regularly check and optimize your file systems with tools like fsck and tune2fs. Consider using more efficient file systems like XFS or Btrfs for specific use cases. File System Maintenance Guide

9. Learning and Community Support: Stay informed about the latest Linux developments and solutions by participating in forums like Reddit Linux, Stack Exchange, and distribution-specific forums.

10. Automation and Scripting: Learn shell scripting to automate routine tasks and improve efficiency. Tools like cron for scheduling tasks can significantly enhance productivity. Shell Scripting Tutorial

By focusing on these areas, a PC Support Technician can significantly improve the performance, security, and reliability of Linux systems.

How to Display Linux Skills on Your Resume

3. MacOS

macOS is the operating system developed by Apple Inc. for their Mac line of personal computers, offering a graphical user interface and designed for ease of use and advanced security features.

Why It's Important

As a PC Support Technician, macOS is important because it expands your service capabilities to a significant portion of users who prefer Apple's ecosystem for its stability, security features, and seamless integration with other Apple devices, thus enhancing your versatility and marketability in the tech support field.

How to Improve MacOS Skills

Improving macOS performance and user experience can be achieved through several straightforward steps. As a PC Support Technician, you can apply these strategies to optimize a Mac system effectively:

1. Update macOS: Keep the operating system up-to-date to ensure the best performance, security, and access to new features. Apple's guide to updating macOS provides a straightforward approach.

2. Manage Startup Items: Limit the number of applications that automatically open upon startup to reduce boot times. This can be adjusted in System Preferences under Users & Groups. Manage startup programs.

3. Increase Disk Space: Clean up the hard drive by deleting unnecessary files or using built-in tools like Optimize Storage. Apple's advice on freeing up storage space can be helpful.

4. Add More RAM: If the Mac is slow and it's a model that allows for memory upgrades, consider adding more RAM. This is model-specific, so reference Apple’s memory upgrade instructions for details.

5. Perform Regular Maintenance: Use Disk Utility to repair disk permissions and verify the disk’s integrity. Disk Utility guide explains the process.

6. Reduce Visual Effects: Minimize the use of animations and visual effects to save on system resources. System Preferences > Accessibility offers options to reduce motion and transparency.

7. Check for Malware: Although less common on macOS, malware can affect performance. Consider running a malware scan with a trusted tool like Malwarebytes. Malwarebytes for Mac.

8. Monitor System Performance: Use Activity Monitor to identify apps that are using significant resources. This can guide you in making adjustments or closing unnecessary applications. Using Activity Monitor.

By applying these tips, you can significantly improve the performance and usability of macOS systems.

How to Display MacOS Skills on Your Resume

4. Active Directory

Active Directory (AD) is a directory service developed by Microsoft for Windows domain networks. It stores information about objects on the network and makes this information easy for administrators and users to find and use. AD is used for authentication and authorization, managing users, computers, and other devices within a network domain. For a PC Support Technician, it's essential for managing user access, enforcing security policies, and supporting networked resources.

Why It's Important

Active Directory (AD) is crucial for a PC Support Technician because it centralizes and streamlines access management, allowing for efficient user authentication, authorization, and administration across networked systems, significantly enhancing security and productivity.

How to Improve Active Directory Skills

Improving Active Directory (AD) efficiency and security is crucial for any PC Support Technician. Here are concise strategies:

1. Regularly Update and Patch: Ensure your AD servers are always up-to-date with the latest patches and security updates. Microsoft's Update Catalog is a valuable resource.

2. Implement Strong Password Policies: Enforce complex passwords and periodic changes. NIST's Guidelines provide modern recommendations.

3. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): MFA adds an extra layer of security. Microsoft's MFA Guide outlines how to implement it in AD environments.

4. Regularly Audit and Review Access Permissions: Ensure users have only the access they need. Microsoft's Access Management Guide offers insights into managing permissions effectively.

5. Use Group Policy Objects (GPOs) Wisely: GPOs help enforce security settings across your network. Microsoft's Group Policy Overview explains how to use them effectively.

6. Educate Users: Training users on security best practices reduces risks. Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency's Tips can be incorporated into training programs.

7. Backup AD Regularly: Ensure you have up-to-date backups to recover from data loss or corruption. Microsoft's AD Backup and Recovery Guide provides a roadmap.

By following these steps, you can enhance the security and efficiency of your Active Directory environment, keeping your network safe and optimized.

How to Display Active Directory Skills on Your Resume

5. PowerShell

PowerShell is a task automation and configuration management framework from Microsoft, consisting of a command-line shell and scripting language. It enables PC Support Technicians to automate administrative tasks, manage system configurations, and access a wide range of system and network functions through its cmdlets and scripting capabilities.

Why It's Important

PowerShell is crucial for a PC Support Technician as it enables advanced automation of administrative tasks, efficient system management, and troubleshooting through powerful scripting capabilities, significantly enhancing productivity and operational effectiveness.

How to Improve PowerShell Skills

To improve your PowerShell skills as a PC Support Technician, focus on the following concise strategies:

1. Learn the Basics: Start with understanding the core concepts, cmdlets, and the PowerShell pipeline. Microsoft's official documentation is an excellent place to begin.

2. Practice Regularly: Apply your learning by automating daily tasks. Experiment with scripts to solve real-world problems you encounter in your role.

3. Use PowerShell ISE: The Integrated Scripting Environment (ISE) enhances scripting with syntax highlighting, tab completion, and debugging tools. Explore its features to write more efficient scripts. More about ISE can be found on Microsoft's official guide.

4. Join Communities: Engage with PowerShell communities on platforms like Reddit or Stack Overflow to exchange knowledge, scripts, and troubleshoot issues.

5. Follow Blogs and Tutorials: Keep up with PowerShell blogs and tutorials by experts. Websites like PowerShell.org offer valuable resources for learning and staying updated.

6. Master PowerShell Remoting: Learn to use PowerShell for managing remote systems, crucial for support technicians managing multiple machines. Microsoft provides a comprehensive guide on PowerShell remoting.

By focusing on these areas and utilizing the provided resources, you'll significantly improve your PowerShell skills, making your job as a PC Support Technician more efficient and effective.

How to Display PowerShell Skills on Your Resume

6. Networking (TCP/IP)

Networking (TCP/IP) is a standard communication protocol suite for interconnecting devices on the internet, enabling data exchange between computers in a network. It is crucial for a PC Support Technician to diagnose and troubleshoot connectivity issues, configure network settings, and ensure secure and efficient data transfer between devices.

Why It's Important

Networking (TCP/IP) is crucial for a PC Support Technician because it enables the interconnection and communication of devices across diverse networks, facilitating internet access, file sharing, network resource utilization, and troubleshooting connectivity issues, essential for maintaining operational efficiency and support in modern computing environments.

How to Improve Networking (TCP/IP) Skills

Improving TCP/IP networking for a PC Support Technician involves optimizing configurations, understanding protocols, and troubleshooting efficiently. Here’s a concise guide:

1. Understand TCP/IP Fundamentals: Grasp the basics of TCP/IP, including how data packets are transmitted across networks. A solid foundation is crucial for troubleshooting and optimizing network performance. TCP/IP Fundamentals

2. Configure Network Settings Optimally: Ensure that network settings such as IP addresses, subnet masks, and DNS servers are correctly configured for optimal communication within and outside the network. Network Configuration

3. Update Network Drivers and Firmware: Keep network interface cards (NICs) and routers updated with the latest drivers and firmware to enhance performance and security. Updating Drivers

4. Implement Quality of Service (QoS): Prioritize traffic to ensure that critical applications receive the bandwidth they need, improving the overall network performance. Quality of Service Explained

5. Use Network Monitoring Tools: Monitor network traffic and performance to identify bottlenecks or unusual activity that may indicate issues. Tools like Wireshark can be invaluable. Wireshark

6. Practice Good Security Hygiene: Secure networks by implementing firewalls, using VPNs for remote access, and educating users on phishing and other common cyber threats. Network Security Best Practices

7. Stay Informed and Educated: Networking technology evolves rapidly. Stay informed about new technologies and best practices through continuous learning and professional development. Cisco Networking Academy

Implementing these steps will significantly improve the performance and reliability of TCP/IP networking for a PC Support Technician.

How to Display Networking (TCP/IP) Skills on Your Resume

7. VMware

VMware is a software company that provides cloud computing and virtualization software and services, enabling users to run multiple operating systems and applications on a single physical machine by creating virtual machines (VMs). For a PC Support Technician, VMware tools are essential for managing and supporting virtual environments, testing software in controlled scenarios, and ensuring efficient resource use and enhanced disaster recovery processes.

Why It's Important

VMware is important for a PC Support Technician because it allows for the creation and management of virtual machines, enabling the testing of different operating systems, applications, and configurations in isolated environments without risking the primary system, thereby improving efficiency and reducing hardware costs.

How to Improve VMware Skills

To improve VMware performance as a PC Support Technician, consider the following concise steps:

1. Upgrade VMware Tools: Ensure the latest version of VMware Tools is installed on your virtual machines (VMs) for improved performance and functionality. VMware Tools

2. Allocate Resources Wisely: Assign sufficient CPU and memory resources to your VMs based on their workload requirements, avoiding over-allocation. Resource Management Best Practices

3. Use VMXNET3 Network Adapter: Switch to the VMXNET3 network adapter for better network performance over the default E1000 adapter. Choosing a network adapter for your virtual machine

4. Enable Paravirtualization: Use paravirtual SCSI (PVSCSI) adapters for data-intensive applications to enhance disk I/O performance. Configuring Paravirtual SCSI Controllers

5. Optimize Power Settings: Set the power management policy to "High Performance" in both the host BIOS and within VMware settings to ensure maximum performance. Performance Best Practices for VMware vSphere (PDF)

6. Keep VMware and Guest OS Updated: Regularly update both VMware and the operating systems of your VMs to benefit from the latest performance enhancements and security patches.

7. Defragment Virtual Disks: Periodically defragment VM disks and the host's physical disks if they are HDDs to improve disk I/O performance. Note: This is generally not necessary for SSDs. Defragmenting virtual disks

8. Use SSDs for Storage: Whenever possible, use SSDs for storage to dramatically improve access times and overall VM performance compared to traditional HDDs.

9. Review and Optimize Configurations Regularly: Periodically review VM configurations, VMware settings, and resource allocations to ensure they are optimized for current workloads.

Focusing on these areas will help enhance the performance of your VMware environment. Always consider the specific needs and workloads of your VMs when applying these optimizations.

How to Display VMware Skills on Your Resume

8. Hardware Troubleshooting

Hardware troubleshooting is the systematic process a PC Support Technician follows to diagnose and identify the cause of issues or malfunctions within computer hardware components, and determine the appropriate repair or replacement solutions.

Why It's Important

Hardware troubleshooting is essential for a PC Support Technician as it enables the identification and resolution of physical component issues, ensuring the optimal functioning of computers, minimizing downtime, and enhancing user productivity and satisfaction.

How to Improve Hardware Troubleshooting Skills

Improving hardware troubleshooting skills as a PC Support Technician involves a combination of theoretical knowledge, practical experience, and continuous learning. Here are concise steps to enhance these skills:

1. Understand Computer Hardware: Start with a solid foundation in computer hardware components. Websites like Computer Hope offer comprehensive guides on various hardware parts and their functionalities.

2. Learn from Manuals: Always refer to the manufacturer's manuals for specific hardware troubleshooting steps and specifications.

3. Use Diagnostic Tools: Familiarize yourself with diagnostic software and tools that help identify hardware issues. Tools like HWiNFO provide detailed hardware analysis.

4. Hands-On Practice: Nothing beats practical experience. Disassemble and reassemble computers to get comfortable with hardware. Volunteer to fix friends' or family members' computers for more practice.

5. Follow Online Forums and Tutorials: Platforms like Tom's Hardware Forums and YouTube have vast communities where professionals share troubleshooting tips and tutorials.

6. Stay Updated: Hardware evolves rapidly. Follow tech news on sites like AnandTech to stay informed about the latest developments.

7. Certifications: Consider obtaining certifications like CompTIA A+; they validate your skills and often provide excellent study materials focused on troubleshooting. Visit CompTIA for more information.

8. Problem-Solving Skills: Enhance your logical and analytical skills. Approach each troubleshooting scenario methodically, using elimination processes to narrow down causes.

Remember, patience and persistence are key. Troubleshooting can be a process of trial and error, and improving your skills is a continuous journey.

How to Display Hardware Troubleshooting Skills on Your Resume

9. Office 365

Office 365, now known as Microsoft 365, is a subscription-based service that provides users with access to a suite of Microsoft applications including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, along with cloud storage on OneDrive and various collaboration tools. It ensures users always have the latest versions of the applications and offers different plans tailored to the needs of individuals, businesses, and enterprises.

Why It's Important

Office 365 is crucial for a PC Support Technician because it provides a comprehensive suite of cloud-based productivity tools and applications that facilitate efficient troubleshooting, remote assistance, collaboration with teams, and secure access to essential data and services from any device, enhancing overall support efficiency and user satisfaction.

How to Improve Office 365 Skills

To improve Office 365 as a PC Support Technician, focus on these key areas:

• Stay Updated: Regularly check the Office 365 Roadmap for new features and updates. Implementing these can enhance performance and security.

• Training and Resources: Utilize the Microsoft Learn platform for up-to-date training materials. Educating yourself and your users can significantly improve efficiency and productivity.

• Optimize Configuration: Follow best practices for Office 365 configuration by consulting the Office 365 optimization guide. Proper configuration can reduce issues and improve user experience.

• Security Improvements: Implement recommended security measures from the Office 365 security roadmap. Keeping security tight is crucial.

• Troubleshooting Tools: Use Microsoft’s Support and Recovery Assistant for diagnosing and fixing common issues automatically.

• Feedback and Support: Regularly provide feedback through the Office 365 admin portal and participate in the Microsoft Tech Community to stay informed on common issues and solutions.

By focusing on these areas, you can ensure that Office 365 runs efficiently and securely within your organization.

How to Display Office 365 Skills on Your Resume

10. Remote Support Tools

Remote support tools are software applications that allow PC Support Technicians to access, control, troubleshoot, and fix computers or devices over a network or internet connection, without being physically present at the device's location.

Why It's Important

Remote support tools are crucial for PC Support Technicians as they enable efficient troubleshooting and resolution of computer issues without the need for physical presence, significantly reducing downtime and enhancing productivity for users.

How to Improve Remote Support Tools Skills

Improving remote support tools for a PC Support Technician involves enhancing efficiency, security, and user experience. Here are concise strategies:

1. Enhance Security: Implement robust encryption standards and multi-factor authentication to protect data and connections. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) provides guidelines on cybersecurity.

2. Improve Connectivity: Optimize tool performance for low-bandwidth situations to ensure smooth operation in any network condition. TeamViewer and AnyDesk offer settings for varying Internet speeds.

3. Simplify User Interface: Design an intuitive interface that is easy for both technicians and clients to navigate, reducing training time and improving efficiency. Nielsen Norman Group offers insights on user-friendly design.

4. Expand Platform Support: Ensure your tool is compatible with a wide range of devices and operating systems. Check Microsoft's Windows Compatibility Center and Apple's Compatibility Page for guidelines.

5. Automate Routine Tasks: Integrate features that allow for the automation of repetitive tasks, such as software updates and system diagnostics, to save time. PowerShell scripts can automate Windows tasks.

6. Enhance Remote Control Features: Implement advanced remote control features like session recording, file transfer, and system reboot without disconnecting. LogMeIn provides robust control options.

7. Ensure Scalability: Choose tools that can easily scale with your business, supporting an increasing number of clients and devices without loss of performance. Cisco Webex offers scalable solutions for businesses of all sizes.

By focusing on these key areas, PC Support Technicians can significantly improve the effectiveness and efficiency of their remote support tools, ensuring a better experience for both technicians and their clients.

How to Display Remote Support Tools Skills on Your Resume

11. Cybersecurity Fundamentals

Cybersecurity fundamentals for a PC Support Technician involve understanding and applying basic security measures to protect computers and networks from threats such as viruses, malware, and unauthorized access. This includes installing and updating antivirus software, implementing firewalls, securing network connections, and educating users on safe computing practices.

Why It's Important

Cybersecurity fundamentals are crucial for a PC Support Technician as they form the foundation for protecting computer systems, data, and networks from digital attacks, ensuring system integrity, confidentiality, and availability. This knowledge is vital to prevent data breaches, malware infections, and to maintain user trust and regulatory compliance.

How to Improve Cybersecurity Fundamentals Skills

Improving cybersecurity fundamentals as a PC Support Technician involves several key practices to protect systems and data effectively. Here's a concise guide:

1. Regularly Update Software: Ensure all software, especially the operating system and antivirus programs, are up-to-date to protect against vulnerabilities. Microsoft's guide to Windows updates.

2. Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Encourage the use of strong, unique passwords for all accounts and implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) where possible. NIST's password guidelines.

3. Educate on Phishing Attacks: Train users to recognize phishing emails and suspicious links. Conduct regular security awareness training. Phishing.org's tips.

4. Implement Firewalls and Antivirus Software: Use reliable antivirus software and configure firewalls properly to block unauthorized access. AV-TEST's antivirus software rankings.

5. Regular Backups: Ensure regular backups of important data are made and stored securely, ideally offsite or in a cloud service. Acronis's guide to data backups.

6. Secure Wi-Fi Networks: Ensure Wi-Fi networks are secure, using strong encryption (WPA3) and hiding the network SSID. FCC's Wi-Fi network security guide.

7. Limit User Privileges: Apply the principle of least privilege, restricting user access to essential functions. Microsoft's guide on user account control.

By focusing on these fundamental practices, PC Support Technicians can significantly improve cybersecurity measures and protect against common threats.

How to Display Cybersecurity Fundamentals Skills on Your Resume

12. Mobile Device Management

Mobile Device Management (MDM) is a technology solution that allows IT administrators to securely manage and monitor mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, remotely. This includes enforcing security policies, installing and managing apps, and controlling access to corporate data. For a PC Support Technician, MDM is a tool to ensure that all mobile devices accessing the company's network are secured and compliant with company policies.

Why It's Important

Mobile Device Management (MDM) is crucial for a PC Support Technician as it enables centralized control and security over all mobile devices in an organization, ensuring data protection, compliance with IT policies, and streamlined troubleshooting and support.

How to Improve Mobile Device Management Skills

Improving Mobile Device Management (MDM) involves a multifaceted approach focusing on security, policy enforcement, and efficient management of mobile devices within an organization. As a PC Support Technician, consider these concise strategies:

1. Implement Comprehensive Security: Ensure all mobile devices are equipped with strong encryption, anti-malware tools, and regular security patches. Cisco offers insights into securing mobile devices.

2. Enforce Usage Policies: Develop and enforce clear usage policies for mobile devices, including password policies, app restrictions, and data handling procedures. Jamf provides a guide on creating effective policies.

3. Choose the Right MDM Solution: Select an MDM solution that aligns with your organization's needs, considering factors like scalability, ease of use, and compatibility with various operating systems. Gartner offers insights into choosing MDM solutions.

4. Regular Training and Awareness: Conduct regular training sessions for employees to ensure they are aware of security practices and the importance of following organizational policies. SANS Institute has resources for security awareness training.

5. Monitor and Evaluate: Continuously monitor the performance and compliance of your MDM strategy, making adjustments as necessary based on evolving threats and organizational needs. Microsoft Intune provides tools for monitoring and managing devices.

By focusing on these areas, you can enhance your organization's Mobile Device Management strategy, ensuring a secure and efficient mobile working environment.

How to Display Mobile Device Management Skills on Your Resume