Best Side Hustles for IT Support
If you're an IT support professional in Canada, there are numerous side hustle opportunities that can help you supplement your income while making use of your skills.
Whether you're troubleshooting software issues, managing networks, or helping businesses optimize their technology, IT support roles offer flexibility and earning potential. Here are some of the best side hustles you can pursue as an IT professional in Canada.
Freelance IT Support Services
Freelancing as an IT support specialist allows you to work on your own terms, offering services such as software troubleshooting, network setup, and hardware repairs to individuals and small businesses.
Income Potential:
Freelancers can earn anywhere between $25 - $100 per hour depending on the complexity of the service and the client's needs. Experienced IT professionals with specialized knowledge can command higher rates.
Tools and Resources:
- Upwork – Find IT support freelancing opportunities.
- Freelancer – A platform for freelance IT specialists to find projects.
- LinkedIn – Network and connect with potential clients.
How to Get Started:
To start offering freelance IT support, create a professional profile on platforms like Upwork or Freelancer. Highlight your skills, certifications, and past work. You can also network through LinkedIn and attend local meetups to build your client base.
Remote IT Help Desk Support
Offer remote help desk support to companies, where you assist with troubleshooting and resolving IT issues for employees working from home or in-office setups.
Income Potential:
Remote IT help desk specialists earn between $15 - $30 per hour depending on the level of service offered and the company.
Tools and Resources:
- Zendesk – A popular platform for help desk support.
- Freshdesk – An affordable help desk solution for small businesses.
- Slack – A communication tool for remote team support.
How to Get Started:
Search for remote help desk jobs on job boards like Indeed, or apply to companies offering remote IT support roles. You can also use tools like Zendesk or Freshdesk to offer your services directly to clients.
IT Consulting for Small Businesses
Small businesses often need guidance in setting up and optimizing their IT infrastructure. Offering consulting services on network management, software selection, and security protocols can be a profitable side hustle.
Income Potential:
Consultants charge an average of $50 - $150 per hour, depending on the level of expertise and the type of services provided.
Tools and Resources:
- Clarity.fm – A platform for offering consultations over the phone.
- Google Meet – A reliable tool for virtual consultations.
How to Get Started:
To start as an IT consultant, build a website that showcases your expertise and services. You can find clients through word of mouth, networking, or platforms like Clarity.fm where businesses can hire you for consultations.
Network & Security Audits
Offer security audits and network assessments to help businesses secure their IT infrastructure. With the rise of cyber threats, small and medium-sized companies are increasingly looking for professional services to enhance their security.
Income Potential:
Security auditors can charge between $75 - $250 per hour, depending on the size of the business and the complexity of the audit.
Tools and Resources:
- Wireshark – A network protocol analyzer for troubleshooting.
- Nessus – A widely used tool for vulnerability scanning.
- Kali Linux – A Linux distribution for security professionals.
How to Get Started:
To get started, become certified in network security (e.g., CISSP, CompTIA Security+). Start offering audit services through platforms like LinkedIn, or directly reach out to small businesses in your area to offer network and security evaluations.
Computer & Mobile Device Repair
If you have hardware repair skills, offering computer and mobile device repair services can be a great side hustle. This can include everything from fixing broken screens to troubleshooting hardware issues and upgrading systems.
Income Potential:
Device repair technicians earn about $20 - $75 per hour depending on the type of service. More complex repairs can command higher rates.
Tools and Resources:
- iFixit – A comprehensive guide for fixing devices.
- UBreakiFix – A network of repair centers where you can join as an independent technician.
How to Get Started:
You can start by offering repair services locally, either through word of mouth or by advertising on platforms like Kijiji. Use tools like iFixit for guides on common repairs, and consider joining a platform like uBreakiFix to gain access to a network of clients.
Create IT Support Tutorials & Content
If you have a passion for teaching, creating IT support tutorials on YouTube or blogging about IT solutions can be a rewarding side hustle. You can monetize content through ads, affiliate links, and sponsored posts.
Income Potential:
Income can vary greatly, but YouTube channels can earn anywhere from $100 to $2,000 per month, depending on views and monetization options.
Tools and Resources:
- YouTube – Platform to create and share tutorials.
- Patreon – A platform to monetize your tutorials via memberships.
- WordPress – Start a blog to share written content and tutorials.
How to Get Started:
To start creating IT content, select a niche that you're passionate about, such as software troubleshooting, network setups, or security best practices. Create a YouTube channel or start a blog on WordPress to share your tutorials, and monetize through ads or Patreon.
Final Thoughts
The IT support field in Canada offers a variety of side hustle opportunities, ranging from freelance IT support to creating educational content. By leveraging the tools and resources available, you can start earning additional income while helping individuals and businesses resolve their IT challenges. Whether you prefer working on-site or remotely, there's a side hustle that aligns with your skills and interests.
For more side hustle ideas and to find opportunities in the IT field, check out these job boards:
Happy hustling!