Networking & Systems Administration Qualifications
Nationally recognised training
Build a career in IT infrastructure with a nationally recognised qualification. Study a Certificate IV in Information Technology in the Networking or Systems Administration Support stream, or step up to the Diploma of Information Technology (Advanced Networking). 100% online, self-paced, no exams.
Certificate IV vs Diploma: which level do you need?
A Certificate IV in Information Technology suits people starting or formalising an IT infrastructure career, with a choice of Networking or Systems Administration Support streams. The Diploma of Information Technology (Advanced Networking) suits experienced IT workers moving into advanced network design and administration.
| Certificate IV | Diploma | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Starting or formalising an infrastructure career | Advanced networking and senior infrastructure work |
| Streams | Networking, or Systems Administration Support | Advanced Networking |
| Typical duration | Self-paced, typically up to 12 months | Self-paced, typically 12 to 18 months |
| Pathway | Diploma of IT (Advanced Networking) | Highest level offered |
What makes a qualification different from a short course?
A nationally recognised qualification is an AQF credential with a national code, delivered by a Registered Training Organisation and recognised by employers across Australia. Non-accredited short courses and bootcamps teach a specific tool or skill and award a certificate of completion instead. If your goal is a formal credential for a career move, a qualification such as the Certificate IV in Information Technology (Networking) (ICT40120) is the product built for it.
Join over 42,000 Aussies who have had success with Upskilled
I had a great experience navigating through the modules. The quality of the study material including the LinkedIn and Pluralsight videos is indeed beneficial. Special mention to Russell James, who tirelessly guided me with in-depth knowledge of networking. The weekly catchups with him this year were useful in the timely completion of the course. The very high standards of grading continuously pushed the envelope for me thereby, giving me a lot of confidence in the varied topics covered on a day-to-day basis on a professional front. I can easily vouch for Upskilled the best online training organisation in Australia.
The skills and knowledge I have attained through this certificate have helped me professionally and grow both my confidence and knowledge in IT Matthew, Russell and the teaching staff are always ready to help and answer any questions. The feedback i have recieved from assessments have been very valuable.
I would recommend Upskilled to anyone, the flexibility, the teaching and support staff are there just to make sure you get the best out of your course.
Product Review
I recently studied a Diploma of Information Technology with Advanced Networking. I have gained amazing knowledge that is applicable to the real world. The teachers enabled and supported me with any questions that I had to get though my course. The online learning material made it easy to learn on the fly, and work on assignments when it best suited.
I am incredibly impressed with the quality of the program. The course is well-structured, covering a wide range of topics from fundamental IT concepts to advanced topics like cloud computing, cybersecurity, and ICT support etc. Thankful to Matthew Roderick sir who was my program trainer. He is very kind and knowledgeable, approachable, always ready to clarify doubts and provide practical insights. The blend of theoretical lessons and hands-on exercises ensured that I could apply what I learned in real-world scenarios.
Overall, this course exceeded my expectations, equipping me with the technical expertise and problem-solving skills necessary for a career in IT. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to enhance their knowledge and take their IT skills to the next level.
FAQs
Yes. Every qualification on this page is nationally recognised training under the Australian Qualifications Framework, delivered online by Upskilled (RTO 40374). The Certificate IV in Information Technology (Networking), Certificate IV in Information Technology (Systems Administration Support) and Diploma of Information Technology (Advanced Networking) carry the national codes ICT40120 and ICT50220.
Both streams share the ICT40120 code and price; they differ in focus. The Certificate IV in Information Technology (Networking) centres on how devices connect: installing, configuring and supporting business networks. The Certificate IV in Information Technology (Systems Administration Support) centres on keeping systems running: servers, operating environments and user support.
All three are online and self-paced, so duration depends on your study hours per week. As a guide, Certificate IV qualifications typically take up to 12 months and Diplomas 12 to 18 months, and self-paced students often finish faster by studying more hours per week.
The Certificate IV streams are designed for people starting or formalising an IT infrastructure career, and some computing familiarity helps. The Diploma of Information Technology (Advanced Networking) is designed for people with existing IT knowledge stepping up. An Upskilled education consultant can help you pick the right level, and the Networking for Introductory Roles Skill Set (ICTSS00137) exists as a shorter entry point if you are not ready to commit to a full qualification.
The Certificate IV streams are designed to prepare you for roles such as network support officer, systems support officer, IT support technician and junior network or systems administrator. The Diploma of Information Technology (Advanced Networking) is designed to prepare you for roles such as network administrator, systems administrator and network engineer, depending on your experience.
Arlaine Berman
Head of Vocational Education — IT, Upskilled
Arlaine leads the Technology stream at Upskilled, with several decades in the IT industry as a networking engineer and trainer. Her credentials include a BSc in Computer Science, an MBA, and Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer and Trainer certifications. She reviews Upskilled's IT and Technology course content to ensure it reflects current industry practice.
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