Starting a new role as a network support technician requires a structured approach to quickly gain proficiency in managing and troubleshooting network infrastructure. This 30-60-90 day plan outlines a clear path to help new technicians build foundational knowledge, develop hands-on skills, and contribute effectively to network operations.
Our 30-60-90 day onboarding plan enables you to:
- Set targeted technical and operational goals aligned with your team's objectives
- Track progress on mastering network tools, protocols, and support workflows
- Identify key competencies such as problem-solving, documentation, and communication skills
Whether you are joining a large enterprise IT department or a managed service provider, this customizable plan provides the framework to ensure a successful transition into your network support technician role.
Benefits of a 30-60-90 Day Plan for Network Support Technicians
Implementing a structured 30-60-90 day plan helps new network support technicians by:
- Providing a clear roadmap to acquire essential networking knowledge and certifications
- Facilitating early engagement with team members and cross-functional IT staff
- Establishing measurable milestones to demonstrate growing technical proficiency
- Encouraging proactive learning and ownership of network support responsibilities
Main Elements of the Network Support Technician 30-60-90 Day Plan
This plan is divided into three focused phases, each with specific objectives, tasks, and success indicators:
First 30 Days: Orientation and Fundamentals
During the initial month, the focus is on understanding the organization's network environment, tools, and support processes. Key activities include:
- Completing orientation sessions on company policies, IT security standards, and network architecture
- Familiarizing with network monitoring and ticketing systems such as SolarWinds, Nagios, or ServiceNow
- Shadowing experienced technicians to observe troubleshooting and escalation procedures
- Reviewing documentation on network devices, configurations, and common issues
- Setting up access credentials and configuring workstations with necessary software
Next 30 Days (Days 31-60): Skill Development and Independent Support
In the second phase, the technician begins to take on active support tasks with guidance, including:
- Responding to routine network incidents and service requests under supervision
- Performing basic network device configurations and firmware updates
- Participating in network performance analysis and reporting
- Engaging in training modules for protocols like TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, and VPNs
- Documenting troubleshooting steps and resolutions for knowledge base contributions
Final 30 Days (Days 61-90): Proficiency and Contribution
The final phase emphasizes independent problem-solving and proactive network maintenance:
- Handling escalated support tickets and collaborating with network engineers
- Conducting network audits and recommending improvements for reliability and security
- Leading small projects such as network segment upgrades or equipment replacements
- Preparing reports on network health and support metrics for management review
- Continuing professional development through certifications like CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA
This structured approach ensures that new network support technicians build confidence, technical expertise, and effective teamwork skills, positioning them for long-term success within the IT department.
