In the modern world, support workers who have the ability to mend networks and PC's, and give constant advice to users, are vital in every part of the economy. The world's desire for such qualified and commercially astute individuals is consistently on the grow, as everywhere we work becomes vastly more computer dependent.

You have to make sure that all your qualifications are current and also valid commercially - don't even consider programmes which provide certificates that are worthless because they're 'in-house'. To an employer, only the major heavyweights such as Microsoft, CompTIA, Adobe or Cisco (to give some examples) will get you into the interview seat. Anything less just doesn't cut the mustard.

Many trainers provide a shelf full of reference manuals. Learning like this is dull and repetitive and not really conducive to achieving retention. Long-term memory is enhanced when multiple senses are involved - learning experts have been saying this for years now.

Programs are now found via DVD-ROM discs, where everything is taught on your PC. Using video-streaming, you can sit back and watch the teachers showing you precisely how something is done, followed by your chance to practice - in an interactive lab. It's imperative to see some example materials from any company that you may want to train through. They have to utilise video, demonstrations and various interactive elements.

It is generally unwise to choose training that is only available online. With highly variable reliability and quality from your average broadband company, make sure you get actual CD or DVD ROM's.