Which two core IT skills are critical for IT2 advancement?

• A. Software development and database design
• B. Cybersecurity policy development
• C. Customer service and help desk etiquette
• D. Networking and System administration

Answer: (D)

Proficiency in networking and system administration is what enables an IT2 to both keep the infrastructure connected and make it work reliably. Networking skills let you design, configure, and troubleshoot the pathways data travels—understanding IP addressing, routing, switching, basic wireless, and essential security controls—so devices and users can communicate and access resources. System administration covers deploying and managing servers and workstations, applying updates, configuring services, managing user accounts and permissions, monitoring performance, and handling backups and recovery. Together, these areas give you the hands-on capability to set up, maintain, and secure the IT environment that supports daily operations, quickly diagnose problems, and keep services available. While other options touch on important areas, they’re either more specialized (like software development or database design), policy-oriented, or focused on user interaction rather than the core technical foundation needed for advancing to IT2.