Most people on the planet now use some form of communications network as part of their daily lives. We are so accustomed having our phones, computers and many other devices connected to the outside world, when something goes wrong with the network, it can cause a lot of disruption.

When communications networks go wrong, it often creates international news, such as when the telecoms network run by Australian firm Optus went down for almost 12 hours in November 2023. Such outages are rare, but in a connected world, being unable to place phone calls, use the internet, make card payments, use public transport or call the emergency services can be almost disastrous.

Which is why regular network maintenance and fault-finding is an essential task for telecommunications and network engineers. Skilled engineers are able to constantly be aware of potential issues before they arise, work on preventative maintenance and swiftly identify faults and rectify them as they occur.

PTT has two updated online courses covering this topic that are essential for those responsible for the installation and maintenance of telecommunications, local and wide area networks.

The “Telecoms testing and fault finding” course describes how to follow a structured approach to fault finding and maintenance, and the role and significance of the various tests employed on telecommunications networks and broadband connections.

“Network testing and fault-finding” also explains the benefits and methods of following a structured approach to fault-finding and maintenance, and describes the role of the various tests employed on Ethernet/IP networks and their use in fault finding and measuring network performance.

These online courses can either be studied as a standalone course of study by anybody working in the industry or can become part of a structured programme such as an apprenticeship. In the UK, these courses can fulfil certain knowledge objectives in a number of digital apprenticeships, including:
Level 2 Telecoms Field Operative (K9, K10)
Level 3 Information Communications Technician – Network Technician (K3, K9, K25, K28)
Level 3 Information Communications Technician – Digital Communications Technician (K3, K9, K43)
Level 4 Network Engineer (K1, K4, K5, K6, K15, K17)

If you want to discuss this subject with us further, or any training needs, please contact us.