iv ■ diff erentiate between and apply various data recovery techniques ■ discuss the benefi ts of a computer network and diff erentiate between common network devices ■ comprehend the communication process between networks and identify network media and tools ■ manage administration functions of a network ■ understand WAN operation ■ design and install a SOHO network ■ apply communication, professionalism, and customer-support skills ■ actively and effi ciently prepare for and pass the CompTIA A+ Certifi cation Exam and ■ understand employment options and requirements for a PC technician. Computer systems today are essentially reliable, and problems encountered 30 years ago caused by failing components are seldom found today. Computers still do occasionally fail because of faulty components, but the majority of failures are due to software problems or caused by the computer users themselves. Today, only a small percentage of computer failures require component replacement. Th e workplace now demands skilled technicians who can diagnose a software- or user-generated problem and reach a solution quickly without compromising data integrity or user productivity. Th is is the job of an IT support technician. About the Author Richard M. Roberts has designed curriculum taught electricity, electronics, and computer technology and supervised technical teachers for 45 years. He has ex- perience as the systems administrator for Novell Netware, Microsoft NT, amd IBM token ring networking systems. He is currently an adjunct instructor at South Florida Community College. His time is divided between consulting, teaching students and instructors, and writing instructional materials. He also coauthored the Networking Fundamentals and Electricity and Electronics textbooks. He holds active CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+ certifi cations.