CIW: Network Technology Associate Certification

Career Smarter

Certification of Completion

Digital certificate - Included

CIW: Network Technology Associate Exam

£200

The CIW Network Technology Associate certification is a comprehensive, entry-level course designed to provide learners with a solid foundation in networking and Internet technologies. As the first step in the CIW certification pathway, it equips students with the essential skills required to understand, manage, and support today’s increasingly connected digital environments.

What You Will Learn:

Throughout this course, learners will explore how networks function, how data travels across the Internet, and how various devices communicate using standard protocols and hardware. The curriculum covers:

• Network architecture and client/server models

• Wired and wireless communication technologies

• IP addressing, sub-netting, and Internet protocols

• Security fundamentals and threat mitigation

• Cloud computing, virtualisation, and mobile integration

• Diagnostic tools like ping, tracert, iopconfig, and netstat.

Through interactive and practical learning, students will build confidence in diagnosing issues and providing first-line support—key capabilities in many IT support and help desk roles.

This certification is particularly beneficial for:

• Aspiring IT professionals, network technicians, or help desk assistants

• Students preparing for more advanced certifications or degrees

• Career changers entering the tech industry

• Businesses and organisations aiming to upskill junior technical staff

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

• Understand and explain the components and architecture of computer networks

• Identify common protocols and how they facilitate data exchange across networks

• Recognise and mitigate basic network threats using standard security practices

• Set up and configure wireless networks with an awareness of best-practice security

• Explain cloud and virtualisation technologies and their role in modern IT environments

• Diagnose and resolve basic connectivity issues using standard network tools

• Demonstrate readiness for entry-level IT support or networking roles

This qualification is also recognised as a strong starting point for academic pathways in computer science, network engineering, or cybersecurity degrees, making it a valuable asset for both professionals and students.

Pathway and Progression:

This certification serves as a launchpad for further education and certification, including:

• CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+

• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

• Undergraduate degrees in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or Network Engineering

It also provides a recognised credential for CVs and job applications, enhancing employability for roles in technical support, IT administration, or infrastructure operations.

The CIW Network Technology Associate course is ideal for a wide range of learners who are beginning or transitioning into a career in IT.

This Course is particularly suited to:

Aspiring IT Professionals - Individuals looking to enter the tech industry with no prior experience will gain the foundational knowledge needed to pursue roles such as IT support technician, help desk assistant, or junior network technician.

Students and School Leavers - Students preparing for further education or technical certifications (e.g., CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA) can use this course as a stepping stone to build core networking knowledge that supports both academic and practical learning.

Career Changers - Professionals from non-technical backgrounds who wish to transition into IT or cybersecurity roles will find this course a highly accessible entry point into the field, with real-world skills they can apply immediately.

Organisations and Employers - Businesses aiming to upskill entry-level staff or onboard junior IT personnel can use this course as part of an internal training programme to ensure technical competence and confidence in networking fundamentals.

Certification Seekers - Those planning to pursue more advanced certifications will benefit from the strong theoretical and practical base this course provides, improving exam readiness and learning efficiency for future qualifications.

The CIW Network Technology Associate course is designed to be accessible to beginners, so formal qualifications are not strictly required.

Entry-Level (£20,000 - £28,000)

• IT Support Technician
• Help Desk Analyst
• Network Support Assistant
• Junior IT Technician

Mid-Level (£30,000 - £45,000)

• Network Administrator
• Systems Support Analyst
• IT Field Engineer
• Security Support Technician

Senior-Level (£50,000 - £70,000+)

• Senior Network Engineer
• IT Infrastructure Manager
• Cybersecurity Analyst
• Cloud Network Specialist
• IT Operations Lead