Learn about job duties and salaries for a variety of roles at the entry level and beyond.
Microcomputer and Networking Systems Technology (LEA.3V) A.C.S.
Learn how to install, maintain, optimize, and protect computer networks. Prepare for essential certifications, including CompTIA and CCNA. Get real work experience with a 12-week internship.
This program leads to an Attestation of Collegial Studies (ACS) recognized by the Minister of Education and Higher Education of Quebec.
Herzing College Montreal is a post-secondary institution recognized by the Ministry of Education and Higher Learning (permit number 749758) and a secondary vocational studies institution (permit number 534501)
What is Your Role as a Network Administrator?
Network administrators are hired by organizations and IT companies to install and maintain computer networks.
This work includes performing regular maintenance, optimization, network security, troubleshooting, upgrades, and disaster recovery operations.
Network administrators are responsible for:
- Troubleshooting hardware, software, connectivity, and server issues
- Performing back-up operations
- Configuring cloud services
- Installing and configuring individual workstations
- Training users on how to use hardware or software
- Monitoring network security
- Maintaining network documentation
Microcomputer and Networking Systems Technology Program
This intensive program fully prepares students for entry-level jobs in network administration and technical support. We deliver the practical networking skills and real work experience you need to get hired.
- 15.5-month accelerated diploma program
- 25 class hours per week
- Intensive 12-week internship
- Multiple program start-dates throughout the year
- Financial assistance may be available to those who qualify
- Career support to help you find your first networking job
What Computer Networking Skills Will You Learn?
The Microcomputer & Networking Systems Technology program provides a very strong foundation in network installation, optimization, and troubleshooting skills.
You will learn how to:
- Build a microcomputer from parts, install operating systems and utilities, and troubleshoot problems
- Install and troubleshoot peripheral devices (disk drives, memory, printers, network cards, scanners, etc.)
- Install Windows server 2012/2016/2019
- Implement network connections, optimize system performance, manage security
- Install, configure, and manage Windows and Linux operating systems
- Connect, configure, and troubleshoot Cisco routers and switches
- Resolve hardware and software problems, network performance and security issues
- Assemble a functional network using desktop virtualization, network servers, and clients
- Set up and use cloud applications
Included Certifications
We prepare students to work in the IT field upon completion of their studies, and to write certification exams while participating in the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTia). Since certifications are a reality in the PC industry, our program contains course material for Microsoft Role Based Certifications which has replaced MCSA, Cisco CCNA, CompTia A+ and Network+, CompTia Cloud Fundamentals and CompTia Linux+ certifications.
This program includes the following certifications:
CompTia Certifications:
- CompTia A+ Certification Exam 220-701 (A+ Essentials)
- CompTia A+ Certification Exam 220-702 (Practical Applications)
- Network+ Certification Exam N10-004
- CompTia Cloud Essentials Exam CLO-001
- CompTia Linux+ Powered by LPI Exam LX0-101
- CompTia Linux+ Powered by LPI Exam LX0-102
Microsoft Role-Based Certifications:
- Microsoft 365 Certified: Modern Desktop Administrator Associate
- Microsoft 365 Certified: Messaging Administrator Associate
- Microsoft 365 Certified: Teamwork Administrator Associate
- Microsoft 365 Certified: Security Administrator Associate
- Configuring Windows 10
CISCO CCNA Certification:
- CCNA – Implementing and Administering Cisco Solutions (200-301 CCNA)
CCNA certification
This certification covers a breadth of topics, including
- Network fundamentals
- Network access
- IP connectivity
- IP services
- Security fundamentals
- Automation and programmability
Becoming a Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
Herzing’s Computer Networking program includes preparation for the CCNA certification exam.
Note: Taking the exam is optional and not required to graduate from the program.
However, becoming a CCNA can open up more and better paid jobs in network administration. Certification proves your skills and knowledge in the following areas:
- Network fundamentals
- Network access
- IP connectivity
- IP services
- Security fundamentals
- Automation and programmability
Career Outlook
There is good demand and steady employment growth for computer networking professionals across Canada. Successful graduates will find career opportunities at:
- Computer networking services/support companies
- Private enterprises
- Healthcare organization
- Educational institutions
- Government agencies
Typical job titles in this field:
- Technical Support Specialist
- Network Specialist
- Network Technician
- Network Operations Analyst
- Network Administrator
Who Hires Herzing Graduates?
Our Microcomputer & Networking Systems Technology graduates have been hired by:
- Group Access
- DMS Consulting
- Michael Kors
- JP Metal
- Arinc
- Jesta I.S.
Study Topics
Study topics for the Computer Networking program include technical support, Linux operating systems, network operating systems, managing an enterprise network, Microsoft based systems, and cloud environments.
Click to see detailed course descriptions:
This course introduces basic use of Windows operating system. The objective of this course is to make you familiar with the environment of the Windows operating system.
- Topics include navigation, file management
- Local Printer & shared printer
- Configuring and customizing Windows
- User & group management,
- Security and share permissions
- Setting up hard drives & storage
- Configuring user home folder and roaming profile
This course introduces students to microcomputer hardware components such as:
- Microprocessor (CPU),
- Memory modules(RAM), SRAM, DRAM, DDR-RAM
- Bus structures,
- IRQ, I/O, bus architectures
- System recovery techniques
- Chipsets, BIOS / UEFI , Power Supplies,
- Troubleshooting Hardware
- Expansion slots
Students will assemble computer hardware parts, configure operating systems and utilities, and troubleshoot problems.
In this course students learn to install, configure, and troubleshoot microcomputer peripheral devices such as:
- HDD, SSD, RAM,
- SCSI Devices
- Sound Cards, memory
- NIC (Network Interface Card)
- Video Card
- Cabling (RJ-45 & Fibers optics)
This course introduces the following:
- Concepts of electronic, digital & SSD, Circuits
- Theory and working model of network topologies
- OSI/TCPIP Models, IP Subnetting
- Switches, Routers, Gateways
- Access Methods, Modems, ISDN.
- Network architectures such as Ethernet.
- Boolean algebra
This course corresponds in part to the CompTia Network+ exam.
- Wireless technologies, theory & working models
- VPN (tunneling protocols)
- VLSM
- LAN, MAN, WAN connectivity
- Semester Project (Lab and Hardware practice)
The focal point of this course is to learn and practice Windows 10 and Windows Server 2016/19.
The following topics are covered:
- Plan and perform an installation of Windows 10 and Server 2016/19.
- Configure Windows Utility Tools and Setting.
- Configure computers to run Windows 10 in a Windows networking environment.
The second part of the course provides instruction in Windows Server 2016/19.
- Server 2016/19 Installation, Managing, Troubleshooting & Conducting administration of resources.
- Monitoring and optimizing performance and reliability.
- Installation/Managing ADDS (Active Directory Domain Services), Creating/Managing AD Forest.
- User Management, OU (Organizational Units), Configuring User Home Directory on Network, Roaming Profile, Logon Scripts.
- RODC (Read Only Domain Controller), Child Domain, Member Server.
- GPO (Group Policies), Auditing, Domain Controller & Default Domain Policy
- Sharing Resources within a network
- Sharing Printers (priority, permissions, managing & troubleshooting)
- Setting up hard drive RAID systems
- Server Backup/Restore
The focal point of this course is to give understanding of computer mathematics as it relates to operations on binary and hexadecimal numbers, and logic functions. In addition, the course covers the concepts to implement, manage, and maintain a Microsoft Windows Server™ 2012/16/19 network infrastructure.
- All topics below include IPv4 & IPv6
- DNS (Primary, Secondary, Stub-zone, forwarder)
- DHCP (configuring options, reservation, Allow/Deny client), DHCP Relay Agent
- Routing (Static, Dynamic, Persistence)
- Subnetting
- Registry
- Remote Desktop Connection
- Active Directory Sites (links & replication)
The focal point of this course is to learn and practice Microsoft Internet Information Services (IIS)
- IIS
- Web Server : Authentication, Redirection, SSL, etc
- FTP : Authentication, Redirection, SSL, etc
- Internet Printing : File and Print server
- DFS
- NAT server
- Proxy Server (Squid latest version)
- VPN
- Firewall
- Network polices
In this course learn knowledge and skills necessary to select, connect, configure, and troubleshoot the various Cisco networking devices.
- CISCO (all topics below include IPv4 & iPv6)
- DHCP
- DNS
- BACKUP, Password Recovery
- Routing Protocol (RIP, EIGRP, OSPF)
- Standard & Extended ACL
- VLAN
- Telnet
- SSH
- Network Topology
- OSI-TCP/IP Models
- Web/FTP server
- CDP
This course provides the knowledge and skills that are needed to set up and support a reliable, secure messaging infrastructure based on Microsoft Exchange Server in a medium-sized to large-sized messaging environment.
- Exchange server 2016/19
- Shared Mail Box, Public Folder
- Email Quota
- Email Address Policy
- Email Rules
- Send/receive mail between two different domains.
This is a course on the installation and use of the LINUX operating system. Students should acquire a basic knowledge of the LINUX operating system.
- Installation CentOs7/8 GUI and CLI
- User & Group Management
- HDD Management
- File management
- Rsync, crontab
- Scripts
- User rights and permissions
- Printer management
The focal point of this course is to manage LINUX Server operating system (CentOS). Topics include:
- DNS (Master, Slave, Forwarder)
- DHCP
- FTP (Multiple sites, virtual hosting)
- SFTP
- Telnet, SSH, SCP
- Routing
- Samba (file & printer sharing with Linux & Windows)
This course relates to advanced networking topics as well as virtualization and cloud computing. Students will learn and practice Apache server, internet proxy based on the Linux operating system and coverage of cloud computing.
- Web server
- FTP
- Proxy
- Cloud (cloud technologies and security threats), virtualization, data processing, cloud service offerings (IaaS, PaaS and SaaS)
- Selinux Rules (FTP, Web server, Samba)
This course provides additional training in enterprise level networking. Students will learn to install and configure :
- Email (Postfix, sendmail, dovecot) in different domains
- Block email, redirect, alias email, quota, etc
- With routing
- Firewall rules
- Selinux Rules
- Owncloud (cloud application)
- RoundCube (cloud)
- Virtual machines on Microsoft Azure (cloud)
In this project, students will put together a functional network using desktop virtualization, network servers and clients from a set of specifications. The project consists of core requirements and advanced options to choose from, and provides the students with an excellent opportunity to put their knowledge into practice while improving their technical and troubleshooting skills. Students will be required to submit a report of their work.
The Project will include requirements from latest industry updates at the time. See examples below:
- Kerberos configuration
- Roundcube email between two different domains.
- Transparent/Reverse Proxy
- Additional topics
After completing the program students will apply the knowledge and skills acquired in school during their internship. Internships are 12 weeks in duration and take place within the industry. Students will reinforce computer and networking concepts learned in school; learn new technologies, learn time management, build a professional and positive attitude, learn to work independently as well as in a team and build rapport with colleagues and customers. Students will be expected to document their work and submit it for evaluation.
Instructors
InstructorsDaniel Dubreuil has been teaching at the college since 1999. His list of courses includes; the AEC courses in computer networking, DEP in computer support, the DEP in accounting and the course Business administration.
He began his teaching career in 1982 at CEGEP. As a teacher, he was responsible for the sales and financial mathematics courses. He has 30 years of experience in sales and marketing.
His passion for the IT field began with his first computer in 1985. He discovered the advantages of using this new technology with the field of sales and marketing.
After 38 years of career, he is still as passionate about teaching as he was when he started out. The contact he maintains with his students serves as a guide for improving and updating his classes for new cohorts.
I have been teaching at the Microcomputers & Networking department of Herzing College Montreal since 1989. The subjects that I teach include Microsoft Windows servers & clients, Linux (CentOS), cloud computing, web services, electronic mail, Cisco routers and microcomputer hardware. This industry is about constant change, an exciting and challenging environment in which one has to continuously learn new skills to stay up to date with technology.
I like working with students eager to learn new skills, helping them overcome their weaknesses, supporting them and motivating them in their learning process. It is very rewarding for me to hear from former students who successfully start a career in networking and within a few years get promoted to leading positions in their companies. As for my education and technical background, I hold a M.Sc. degree in electrical engineering, and over the years I have upgraded my computer skills by attending short courses and seminars, and through self-study.
Would you like to know more about me? Soccer is my favorite sport. I get excited about soccer every four years with the World Cup, and every single day in between World Cups as well… I also enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking, and I am particularly interested in healthy living and nutrition.
Educational Qualification:
Masters of Technology in Electronics and Communication ACE diploma in Micro-computers and Networking
Why I like Teaching:
Having a family-friendly work schedule, the variety of people who I come in contact with, facing different issues and daily research requirements to solve problems with new methods. All of these combined make teaching an interesting profession
Hobbies:
Travelling, cooking, gardening
It’s been almost 2 years since I started my job at Herzing College, as Assistant of Networking. I learned a lot of new things and was able to challenge myself to perform better with each passing month. I am now the Microcomputer and Networking Instructor. I am always willing to share my knowledge and experience.
I have obtained a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering and immediately started working in the networking field since 2009 as an IT technician. I worked for three year’s as a network administrator back in my country. I resumed my studies in Canada where I received a diploma in microcomputer and networking systems from Herzing College. Shortly, after my graduation, I started working as a teacher and have been teaching since 2018.
My passion for teaching can be traced back to my IT job, as I can explain deeply about IT technologies according to my experience in the field, and I am always looking forward to sharing my knowledge and experience.
Admission Requirements
What you need to get started.
- Quebec issued high school diploma or equivalent
- Minimum of two consecutive terms OR One school year interruption from full-time studies OR Minimum of one year post-secondary education
- Pass a general admissions entrance test
- Meet any additional program specific entrance requirements
HERZING COLLEGE MONTREAL
1616 Boulevard Rene-Levesque Ouest
Montreal, QC
H3H 1P8
Phone: (514) 935-7494
Fax: (514) 933-6182
Email: mtl-info@herzing.ca
MONTREAL EAST CAMPUS (SAINT-LÉONARD)
Leonardo de Vinci Centre
8350-8370, Boul. Lacordaire
Saint-Léonard, QC
H1R 3Y6
Phone: (514) 935-7494
Fax: (514) 933-6182
Email: mtl-info@herzing.ca
Overview
RELATED TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMS:
CAMPUS
INDUSTRY
Technology
PROGRAM LENGTH
15.5 months (25 hours/week)
OR 24 months (12 hours/week)
Includes 12 week internship
LEARNING MODALITIES/
LANGUAGE
On Campus, Online, Hybrid
English and French
EXPLORE CAREERS
TRY OUR CAREER EXPLORATION KIT
Our online kit takes 3-minutes to complete and you’ll get a personalized report. Identify your strengths and social style plus the training and positions you’re best suited for.
Program Partners
Herzing College is a Fortinet Authorized Security Academy member
Fortinet is a global leader in cybersecurity, delivering a broad, integrated and automated security fabric to enable customers to accelerate their digital journey.
As an authorized security academy member, alumni and students of Herzing’s I.T. programs have access to Fortinet curriculum, which will prepare them to take Fortinet certification exams. Eligible students and alumni can take Fortinet courses free of charge and receive 1 voucher for a Fortinet exam ($400 value).
Click to view the Fortinet brochure and contact admissions for details. Some conditions apply.
2022 Overall Graduate Employment Rate
98% of available Herzing College Montreal graduates were employed in a related field.
*statistics based on most recent available
Your Next Steps
Ready to learn more the Microcomputer and Networking Systems Technology diploma program? It’s easy to get started. It’s easy to get started. Choose from the following options:
- Fill out the form to ask questions via email
- Chat live with an Admissions Advisor to get your questions answered now
- Click Request Information to get your application started today!
- An Advisor will explain tuition costs, financial aid options, course schedules, start-dates, how to apply, and any other questions you have
Why Choose this Program?
- Accelerated program that prepares you for work in just 15.5 months
- Includes preparation for industry-standard certifications
- Learn from expert instructors with years of professional IT experience
- Study in small classes where every student gets step-by-step support
- Get a 12-week internship to kick-start your career
- Enjoy the Herzing Open Education Program (HOEP), which lets you take additional IT courses after you graduate, tuition-free!
- We have an amazing Career Development team, who helps create your resume, prepare for interviews, and apply for computer networking jobs
- Herzing has a 55-year track record of superior computer technology training
