John asks…

Putting together a Network Technician Toolkit?

I'm putting a network/pc repair toolkit together and I am finding that usually I am one if not more tools short for the jobs in question. The work is mainly standard Computer repair on hardware faults, resolution of software related problems on multiple platforms and networking/security support (on site).

Currently the kit I bring with me usually is as follows:

Bag
Netbook (dual boot windows/linux)
2 x wireless dongles (atheros and ralink)
All workstation Windows OS' and others
Software Diagnostic pack
50 piece toolkit including earthing strap etc
Portable SSD (128gb) hard drive
4x USB flash drives (8gb)
4x Video Adapters (vga->dvi etc)
Wireless mouse/soft-keyboard/headset
Usb DVD drive
Various cables (networking/AV)

I doubt ill be doing any 100 node roll-outs anytime soon, but I'm looking for an experience tech who can tell me about the vital items im missing if possible,

Thanks

dave answers:

If possible, try to include a cable tester. Simply hooking up an ethernet cable to the netbook will indeed tell you if the connection is solid, but, if it isn't, then you need a tool that can not only tell you if there's a problem with the cable, but where it is (distance-wise from the tester itself). Otherwise, it looks like you have a pretty good set of tools.

I've found (for network troubleshooting anyway) that BackTrack Linux can do a LOT of penetration testing and network security auditing, especially for wireless networking. Consider using it if you are serious about network security troubleshooting and testing.

Also think about bringing a multimeter with you. You'd be surprised how many computers have issues due to a bad/failing/failed power supply.

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