James Osborn

James Osborn

Network Specialist

Professional Profile & Objective

My aim is to obtain a foothold in a networking or computer hardware career where I can strengthen my skills further and continue to learn in a more practical environment.

I have a long running knowledge of computer hardware from my own personal experience from a young age. Once I knew a great deal about consumer computers, I began to learn about the systems and networks of a large company and how they work.

From my interest in networking, I have started to investigate network security in particular. I believe security is the most important part of any IT utilised company, a choice which is appreciated by many good and respectful companies.

I'm a hard working individual currently studying at Hertfordshire Universtiy, with great abilities in organisation and planning ahead. I also enjoy taking on additional support roles outside expected roles, such as advising on anything IT related and the purchasing of IT equiptment to better utilise what we have.

Education

University of Hertfordshire

Computer Science - Networking Specialisation (Current)


My degree specialises in networking and focuses on the fundamental workings of computer networks, as well as server optimisation and software programming. My studies also include basic web design and development, business systems, as well as more advanced skills such as Database Design and Implementation, Project Planning and Computer Architecture.

North Hertfordshire College

National Diploma for IT Practitioners - Networks


The National Diploma for IT Practitioners focused on the IT side of computing, teaching basic programming languages (VB.net) on an advanced level, database skills and a lot of communication skills throughout. Networking became more present later on, and I obtained straight distinctions in Network Management, Computer Systems, Systems Security and Mathematics.

  • National Diploma for IT Practitioners - (Distinction Merit Merit)
  • Cisco IT Essentials (PC Software and Hardware) Certification
  • Cisco CCNA 1 Certification
  • CompTIA A+ Certification
  • Prince2 Project Planning Module

    • Technical Skills

    IT Hardware


    Having built my own sytems and used a wide variety of hardware, from Consumer level peripherals to Enterprise servers and switches, I feel I have extensive knowledge of hardware, and how to optimise it for the tasks your company need.

    Network Management


    Many classes in Network management and other certifications have taught me about a wide variety of networking issues. While Network management may seem like a maintenence job, it is essential to create to push a companies IT systems forward.

    IT Security


    IT Security is a large issue, and is heavily underestimated until it is needed. I find it essential that IT staff are highly competent in security, and its possible consequences on the company.

    I have learnt about IT Security from ongoing self-education, several books, Cisco Certification and University Degree.

    Work Experience

    Sep 2007 - Present

    General Retail Assistant

    WM Morrisons plc


    • Providing a high level of customer service to less than favourable customers
    • Time management and Prioritisation
    • Providing support to many different departments

    Jan 2011 - Present

    Head of IT & Web Developer

    Osborn's School of Motoring - Part Time


    • Maintain and update websites and company's social media
    • Provide a reliable network and infrastructure for Email and Online Payment
    • Monitor online advertising through webmaster tools

    Memberships

    Student Member of BCS


    I am a student member of BCS — The Chartered Institute for IT. This requires me to act under a code of conduct, and assures clients or employers that I act professionally and ethically in my work.