You've always been the person friends and family call when their computer breaks. You've fixed Wi-Fi issues, recovered lost files, and explained technology to people who "just don't get it." Now you want to turn that skill into a career—ideally one where you don't have to commute.
Here's the good news: remote IT support is one of the most accessible entry points into tech. Unlike software engineering, you don't need to code. Unlike data science, you don't need advanced math. What you need is patience, problem-solving skills, and a willingness to learn.
At Remote Job Assistant, we track thousands of tech job postings monthly—and IT support consistently offers more entry-level remote opportunities than almost any other tech category. The barrier to entry is low, but the career ceiling is surprisingly high.
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Remote IT support jobs pay $48,000-$72,000 for most roles, with senior positions reaching $85,000+. You don't need a degree—CompTIA A+ certification ($500-600 total) is often enough to get hired. Most entry-level help desk roles require 0-2 years of experience, and the path from Tier 1 support to systems administrator typically takes 3-5 years.
Ready to browse current openings? Check out remote tech jobs on our job board. But if you want to understand what it takes to break in and advance—keep reading.
What Remote IT Support Actually Pays
Let's cut through the vague salary ranges you see elsewhere. According to Glassdoor's January 2026 data, here's what remote IT support professionals actually earn:
| Role | Typical Range | Top Earners (90th %) |
|---|---|---|
| Help Desk Technician | $48,600 - $72,800 | $87,000+ |
| IT Support Specialist | $56,500 - $89,200 | $109,000+ |
| Technical Support Specialist | $57,100 - $92,100 | $114,000+ |
| IT Service Desk Specialist | $53,400 - $84,500 | $104,000+ |
The median IT Support Specialist salary is $70,736 per year—significantly higher than many entry-level office jobs, and you can reach it within 1-2 years of starting.
Remote IT support roles often pay 5-10% more than on-site equivalents because companies are competing for talent nationally rather than locally. The trade-off: you need to demonstrate you can work independently without in-person supervision.
For those targeting higher salaries, positions in aerospace, defense, and financial services pay the most—with median salaries reaching $87,000+ for IT support specialists at companies like Chevron, Morgan Stanley, and Lockheed Martin.
Is Remote IT Support Right for You?
Remote IT support isn't for everyone. Being honest about fit now saves you months of frustration later.
You're Ready for Remote IT Support If:
You're naturally curious about how technology works. You don't just use computers—you want to understand why things break and how to fix them. You've probably already watched YouTube videos about building PCs or troubleshooting network issues.
You're patient with frustrated people. Half of IT support is technical; the other half is helping stressed users who don't understand what went wrong. If you get irritated explaining things multiple times, this isn't your path.
You communicate clearly in writing. Remote support relies heavily on email, chat, and documentation. You need to explain technical concepts to non-technical users without jargon—and write clear notes so the next person can understand what you did.
You can work independently. No one will be watching over your shoulder. You need self-discipline to stay focused, manage your ticket queue, and meet response time targets without constant supervision.
Consider a Different Path If:
You want to code. IT support involves some scripting, but it's not programming. If you want to build software, look at remote software engineer jobs instead.
You need immediate high income. Entry-level IT support pays $40,000-$55,000. If you need $80,000+ right away, you'll need to skill up first or consider sales or finance roles.
You hate repetitive tasks. Many help desk tickets are the same issues over and over: password resets, VPN problems, printer issues. If repetition drives you crazy, you'll burn out quickly.
You dislike being interrupted. Support work is reactive—you respond to problems as they come in. If you need long blocks of uninterrupted focus time, this role will frustrate you.
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The IT Support Career Ladder
One of the best things about IT support: there's a clear progression path. Here's how careers typically unfold:
Tier 1 Help Desk (0-2 years)
Salary: $40,000 - $55,000
Your first role. You handle the "front line"—password resets, software installation, basic troubleshooting. You'll learn ticketing systems (ServiceNow, Zendesk, Jira) and develop your troubleshooting methodology. Most issues you'll escalate to Tier 2, but you'll build the foundation for everything that comes next.
Tier 2 Support / Desktop Support (1-3 years)
Salary: $55,000 - $72,000
You handle what Tier 1 can't solve. Deeper troubleshooting, system configurations, network issues. You start specializing—maybe Windows environments, or Mac support, or specific enterprise applications. This is where you prove you can solve real problems, not just follow scripts.
Systems Administrator / IT Specialist (3-5 years)
Salary: $70,000 - $95,000
You've graduated from reactive support to proactive management. You maintain servers, manage user accounts, configure networks, and implement security policies. Many sysadmins still handle escalated support tickets, but the focus shifts to keeping systems running smoothly.
Senior Roles (5+ years)
Salary: $90,000 - $130,000+
From here, you choose your path: Senior Systems Administrator, IT Manager, Network Engineer, or pivot into DevOps or cloud infrastructure. The skills you built in support—troubleshooting, documentation, user communication—remain valuable at every level.
Some IT support professionals skip the traditional ladder entirely. By specializing early in cloud platforms (AWS, Azure) or security, you can accelerate into higher-paying roles within 2-3 years. The key is intentional skill-building, not just waiting for promotions.
Certifications That Actually Matter
Let's be direct: you don't need a degree for most remote IT support roles. What you do need is proof that you know your stuff. Certifications provide that proof.
CompTIA A+ (The Entry Ticket)
According to CompTIA's own data, A+ is the most recognized entry-level IT certification. Here's what you need to know:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Exams Required | 2 (Core 1 and Core 2) |
| Cost per Exam | $253 USD |
| Total Exam Cost | $506 USD |
| Prep Time | 2-4 months (self-study) |
| Validity | 3 years (renewable) |
| What It Covers | Hardware, networking, OS, security, troubleshooting |
Total investment: $600-$1,200 including study materials. Budget learners can pass for under $700 using free resources like Professor Messer's videos. Premium paths with bootcamps run $1,500-$2,000.
Yes—for most beginners. 96% of HR managers use certifications as hiring criteria, according to CompTIA's workforce data. A+ certified professionals earn $7,000-$10,000 more annually than non-certified peers in similar roles. The payback period? 1-3 months after landing your first job.
After A+: Your Next Steps
Once you're employed, strategic certification stacking accelerates your career:
Network+ ($369) — Required for network-focused roles. Opens doors to network technician and junior network administrator positions. Average salary boost: $8,000-$12,000.
Security+ ($404) — The gateway to cybersecurity. Many government and defense contractors require it. Opens cybersecurity career paths with starting salaries of $75,000+.
Cloud Certifications — AWS Cloud Practitioner or Azure Fundamentals signal you're ready for modern infrastructure. Increasingly required as companies migrate to cloud environments.
Skills Employers Actually Want
Certifications get you interviews. Skills get you hired. Here's what separates candidates who get offers from those who don't.
Technical Foundations
Operating Systems — Windows 10/11 troubleshooting is essential. Mac support is increasingly valuable. Linux basics open doors to server administration.
Networking Fundamentals — TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VPN configuration. You don't need to be a network engineer, but you must understand why someone can't connect.
Active Directory — User management, group policies, permissions. This is the backbone of most enterprise Windows environments.
Ticketing Systems — ServiceNow, Zendesk, Jira Service Management, Freshdesk. Learn one deeply; the others follow similar patterns.
Remote Support Tools — TeamViewer, AnyDesk, Remote Desktop, Dameware. You'll live in these applications.
Remote-Specific Skills
Technical knowledge isn't enough for remote work. Employers filter for these signals:
Written Communication — Can you explain a complex issue clearly in an email? Can you document a solution so someone else can follow it six months later? Poor writing kills remote IT careers.
Self-Direction — Remote managers can't micromanage your ticket queue. You need to prioritize, manage your time, and know when to escalate versus when to dig deeper.
Proactive Communication — Don't wait for someone to ask for updates. Send status reports. Flag blockers early. Over-communication beats silence every time in remote work.
Documentation Discipline — Every solution you find should be documented. Knowledge bases save future you (and your teammates) hours of repeated troubleshooting.
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Companies That Hire Remote IT Support
These companies regularly post remote IT support positions:
Large Outsourcing & BPO Companies
TTEC — One of the largest remote IT/tech support employers. Year-round hiring, paid training, benefits after 90 days. Pay: $15-$28/hour depending on role and experience.
Concentrix — Global leader in customer experience, including technical support. Strong internal promotion (80% of managers promoted from within). Pay: $16-$21/hour for entry-level.
Teleperformance — Entry-level friendly with fast onboarding. High call volumes but steady work. Good for building experience quickly.
Foundever (formerly Sitel/Sykes) — Operates across telecommunications, retail, and travel. Remote positions available across customer and technical support.
Tech Companies & Enterprises
Dell — Technical support and customer service roles. 66% of positions are remote. Strong work-life balance focus.
Apple (At-Home Advisors) — Support for Apple products. Competitive pay, equipment provided, access to Apple employee benefits.
Amazon — Wide range of technical support roles. Fast onboarding, especially for seasonal positions. Pay: $35,000-$45,000+ for tech specialists.
Managed Service Providers (MSPs)
MSPs provide IT services to multiple client companies—a great way to get diverse experience:
Support Adventure — Specializes in placing remote IT technicians with MSP clients worldwide. Good for those seeking international remote work.
Various Regional MSPs — Search "MSP remote help desk" on job boards. Many smaller MSPs hire remote technicians to support their client base.
Some "IT support" job postings are actually sales roles in disguise, or require you to purchase equipment upfront. Legitimate employers provide equipment or reimburse you. Never pay to start a job.
How to Get Hired Without Experience
The catch-22 of IT: you need experience to get hired, but you need a job to get experience. Here's how to break through.
Build a Home Lab
Nothing proves technical skills like hands-on experience. Set up:
- An old PC running Windows 10/11 that you troubleshoot regularly
- A virtual machine environment (VirtualBox is free) to practice OS installations
- A basic home network you configure and maintain
- Linux installations (Ubuntu is beginner-friendly) to expand your OS knowledge
Document everything you build and fix. This becomes portfolio material.
Get Certified Strategically
CompTIA A+ signals baseline competence. Combine it with one of:
- Google IT Support Professional Certificate (Coursera, ~$300)
- Microsoft 365 Certified: Fundamentals (free learning, $165 exam)
- AWS Cloud Practitioner (~$100 exam)
Multiple certifications show commitment and breadth.
Volunteer Your Skills
- Offer tech support at local nonprofits, schools, or religious organizations
- Help family and friends—document the issues you solve
- Contribute to tech forums (Reddit's r/techsupport, Spiceworks community)
Start Adjacent
Can't land IT support directly? Start with:
- Customer service roles at tech companies (easier entry, proves communication skills)
- Data entry positions that involve technical systems
- Internal IT helpdesk at your current employer, even if it's not your main job
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The Remote IT Support Interview
Once you get an interview, here's what to expect.
Technical Scenarios
Be ready to troubleshoot out loud:
- "A user can't connect to the VPN from home. Walk me through your troubleshooting steps."
- "Someone's computer is running slowly. What do you check first?"
- "A printer isn't working. How do you diagnose the issue remotely?"
The key: Show your methodology, not just answers. Interviewers want to see how you think through problems.
Behavioral Questions
Remote employers probe for independence and communication:
- "Tell me about a time you had to explain something technical to a non-technical person."
- "How do you prioritize when you have 10 tickets and they all seem urgent?"
- "Describe a situation where you had to work independently with minimal supervision."
Remote-Specific Signals
They're evaluating whether you can succeed remotely:
- Do you have a quiet, professional workspace?
- Is your internet connection reliable?
- Can you communicate clearly on video?
- Do you ask good questions (showing you won't just sit confused)?
A Day in the Life
What does remote IT support actually look like? Here's a typical day:
8:00 AM — Log in, check overnight tickets, prioritize queue based on SLAs and urgency
8:30 AM — Daily standup (15-minute video call with team to review priorities)
9:00 AM — Work through Tier 1 tickets: password resets, software installation requests, VPN troubleshooting
11:00 AM — Escalated ticket from yesterday—user's laptop keeps crashing. Remote into their machine, run diagnostics, identify failing driver
12:00 PM — Lunch break (actual break, not eating at your desk)
1:00 PM — Update knowledge base article on the driver issue you just solved
2:00 PM — Handle incoming calls/chats for live support queue
4:00 PM — Follow up on tickets awaiting user response, document resolutions
5:00 PM — Review tomorrow's scheduled work, hand off urgent items to next shift
The mix of tickets, calls, and documentation varies by company. Some roles are phone-heavy; others are mostly ticket-based. Ask about this in interviews—it significantly affects your daily experience.
Decode Any Job Posting
Paste a job description and get instant insights: what they really want, red flags to watch, and how to stand out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a degree for remote IT support jobs?
Not usually. Most entry-level help desk positions require a high school diploma plus certifications (CompTIA A+) or equivalent experience. Some employers accept experience and demonstrated skills in lieu of any formal credential. However, having an associate's or bachelor's degree can accelerate promotions and is sometimes required for government positions.
How long does it take to get CompTIA A+ certified?
Most people spend 2-4 months studying, depending on their existing knowledge and study schedule. If you're already comfortable with computers, you might pass in 6-8 weeks of focused preparation. Complete beginners should budget 3-4 months.
Can I do remote IT support part-time?
Yes, but options are more limited. Some MSPs and outsourcing companies offer part-time shifts. Contract work through platforms is another option. However, most fully remote IT support roles are full-time with set schedules due to coverage requirements.
What equipment do I need to work from home in IT support?
Most employers provide or reimburse: a computer (often a laptop), headset, and sometimes a second monitor. You'll need reliable high-speed internet (50+ Mbps recommended) and a quiet workspace. Some companies require a hardwired ethernet connection for reliability.
Is IT support a dead-end career?
Absolutely not. IT support is an entry point, not a destination. From help desk, you can advance to systems administration, network engineering, cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity, or IT management. Many CIOs started in support roles. The key is intentional skill-building, not passive time-serving.
How competitive are remote IT support jobs?
Moderately competitive. Entry-level roles receive many applications, but demand is strong—the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 6% growth for computer support specialists through 2032. Having certifications, a home lab, and strong communication skills significantly improves your odds.
What's the typical response time expectation for remote IT support?
Most companies have Service Level Agreements (SLAs) defining response times. Critical issues (system down) might require 15-30 minute response. Standard tickets typically need acknowledgment within 4-8 hours and resolution within 24-72 hours. You'll be measured on these metrics.
Start Your IT Support Career
Remote IT support offers something rare: a legitimate path into tech that doesn't require coding, a degree, or years of unpaid internships. The skills you build—troubleshooting, communication, systems thinking—transfer to almost any technical career you might pursue later.
The path forward is clear:
- Get CompTIA A+ certified (2-4 months, ~$600-1,200)
- Build a home lab and document your projects
- Apply to entry-level help desk roles at companies that hire remote
- Stack additional certifications as you work
- Advance to Tier 2, sysadmin, or specialize within 2-4 years
Ready to start? Browse remote tech positions on our job board, or explore entry-level opportunities for those just starting out. If you're interested in the technical side of IT without the support focus, check out our guide to remote DevOps jobs or remote QA engineer jobs.
Your first IT job is closer than you think. The only question is whether you'll start today or keep wondering "what if."
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