So, you want to become a network engineer, but don’t know where to start?
Here’s the good news – As the world continues to depend more on the digital environment, network engineers are in high demand. Many, if not most, of today’s businesses, depend on a network to function properly. When this network creates an issue, all tasks are held, resulting in a complete halt in productivity.
For example, if a business requires VoIP communication across clients. When the network goes down, they could potentially lose their business.
This is where Network engineers come to the rescue. They oversee the ins and outs of all the network applications to ensure that there’s no delay in the network and that it runs smoothly without affecting productivity. This guide will explain the following:
- What is a network engineer?
- How to become a network engineer?
- What is the career path of a network engineer?
What is a Network Engineer?
A network engineer or an architect is responsible for constructing, planning, and managing a network to ensure it stays functional and well-optimized as per the company’s policy.
As a network engineer, you’re responsible to lay the foundation of an organization’s IT system (or manage it if already established).
While network technicians or different IT administrators are also there for the job, a network engineer’s daily task is to troubleshoot all the problems and provide a secure environment for the rest of the employees to work.
Depending on the company, you’ll be implementing physical or virtual networks, here are some of the common responsibilities of a network engineer.
- Implementing new hardware and software
- Building a computer network: LAN, WAN, MAN, VLAN, etc
- Maintaining and updating systems and networks
- Installing necessary equipment, network schedule, routers, or servers
- Managing security systems like virus protection, data storage, and firewalls
- Optimize services for the best interest
- Deliver technical expertise to the employees
- Ensuring network performance for high productivity
- Troubleshooting when required
This role of networking is usually not entry-level. It requires extensive skills and often has to manage a team of other IT members. Consequently, soft skills also play an important role, such as team management, great communication, collaboration, patience, and leadership.
Read More: 8 Ways To Improve Your Cloud Security For Business
How to Become a Network Engineer?
If you’re looking to break into this field, here’s how to get started.
- Get a Networking Degree
Companies typically look for a bachelor’s degree when you apply for a networking job. It can be anything from computer science, computer engineering, or information systems. Depending on the role, some organizations will also ask for a postgraduate or a Masters’s degree.
- Earn relevant Experience
The next thing that gets your foot on the door is relevant experience. As mentioned previously, becoming a network engineer is not an entry-level job. Because you’ll be responsible for the company’s data security, HR will require relevant experience to consider your resume.
For this, first, you need to build a strong networking foundation. A help desk or entry-level job is a great way to get started. Get creative when choosing to gain experience. Volunteer for small businesses or take internships in a networking department. Build your own full-stack network, install security protocols, and mention it in your portfolio.
Once you gain the relevant skills and have basic experience, look for more relevant networking positions. Working as a network analyst or junior network engineer can help you gain relevant experience. You’ll be assisting your seniors and helping them to build your skillset.
- Identify your path
Once you’ve gained entry-level networking experience, now is the time to take this to the next level. Networking positions vary widely depending on the company, technology, and industry.
If you’re starting out, here’s a list of the networking jobs available:
- Network Analyst
- Network Administrator
- Network Manager
- Network Solution Architect
- Network Technician
- Network Engineer
- Get the right certifications
There are plenty of certifications, each followed by different industries and applications that will look great on your resume. A certification will help you harness the right skills to excel in your career as a network engineer. Here are some of the few certifications to consider:
- CompTIASecurity+
- CompTIANetwork+
- CompTIAA+
- ITIL Foundation Certification
- Master specific skills
Another great tip about landing a perfect job is to find a skill that best suits your expertise and master it. For example, some companies may require you to be experienced in using Huawei products. So you need to get familiar with these products better than anyone.
Some vendors also allow you to get certifications specifically for their products, which is a great idea when looking for a networking job. For instance, Microsoft, Cisco, Amazon, and Linux all offer brand certifications.
Also Read: Top Cybersecurity Skills In High Demand
Network Engineer Jobs and Salaries
After completing the necessary certifications and education required to pursue your networking career, it is finally time to hunt for some jobs. Be sure to include all the skills, certifications, and relevant experience on your resume before you apply for a job.
Now, in terms of salaries – The average will vary depending on your role and location. They also depend on the products you’re using and the industry you’re in.
Being a network engineer doesn’t mean you’re only confined to one type of business. You will work with legal, enterprise, finance, education, and many other fields as well.
Bureau of Labor Statistics data reveals that a median computer network architecture earns between $85,000 to $116,000 per year. Network administrators make around $80,000 to $85,000 per year.
What’s Next?
Network engineering is a challenging, fun, and exciting field – Just like any other career. But you can’t get there on your own, you require an extensive skill set and relevant experience. Whether you’re looking for an IT certification or just want to complete a few network courses, remember they will always pay out.
Xcscope consultant provides one of the largest IT staffing solutions trusted by our partner R.A.D security. No matter if you’re looking for Network administrators or cybersecurity experts, we can help you find the best talent.