How to become a network engineer

Network maintenance is a vital function for organizations of all sizes and goals, possibly the most vital function. According to the research company Gartner, the average expense of network downtime is approximately $5,600 per minute. Thus, it is clear that network engineers have a crucial part to play in guaranteeing that an organization's computer networks remain operational and operate efficiently. However, the question is, how does one become a network engineer?

What is a network engineer

A network engineer is a professional who designs, implements, maintains, and troubleshoots computer networks. Computer networks are the backbone of modern information technology systems and allow devices such as computers, servers, routers, switches, and other network devices to communicate with each other. Network engineers are responsible for designing and implementing network infrastructure, such as LANs, WANs, and wireless networks, that meet the performance, security, and availability requirements of their organizations. They also configure and maintain network devices, monitor network performance, and troubleshoot network issues as they arise. In addition to technical skills, network engineers must possess strong communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills, as they often work collaboratively with other IT professionals and end-users to design and maintain network systems that meet business needs. Network engineers can work in a variety of industries, including healthcare, finance, government, and technology, among others.

What is the job of a network engineer

The job of a network engineer involves designing, implementing, maintaining, and troubleshooting computer networks. Some of the specific responsibilities of a network engineer include;

Network design: Creating network architecture and topology that meets the performance, security, and scalability requirements of the organization.
Network implementation: Installing, configuring, and deploying network hardware and software components such as routers, switches, firewalls, wireless access points, and network servers.
Network maintenance: Monitoring and maintaining network performance, security, and availability by applying software updates, configuring network devices, and troubleshooting issues.
Network security: Configuring firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems, and other security measures to protect the network from cyber-attacks.
Network documentation: Maintaining detailed documentation of the network infrastructure, including network diagrams, IP address allocation, and configuration settings.
Collaboration: Collaborating with other IT professionals, such as software developers, database administrators, and system administrators, to ensure that the network infrastructure meets the needs of the organization.
Training: Providing training and support to end-users and other IT professionals on network technologies and best practices.

Job market outlook

The job market outlook for network engineers is positive. As businesses continue to rely on technology for their operations, the demand for network engineers is expected to remain steady or even increase.The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects network architects and a 3% growth rate for network and computer systems administrators between 2021 and 2031, which includes network engineer position. The BLS also notes that the increasing adoption of cloud computing and virtualization technologies will likely create new job opportunities for network engineers with experience in these areas. Moreover, the demand for network engineers is not limited to any specific industry. Almost every organization needs network engineers to design, build, and maintain their computer networks. The growing adoption of internet-connected devices in the workplace, such as smartphones and IoT devices, is also expected to create new opportunities for network engineers.

Steps to become a network engineer

Becoming a network engineer involves the following steps;

Obtain a degree or certification in a relevant field: Many network engineers hold a degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Alternatively, some professionals obtain certifications, such as CompTIA Network+ or Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise.
Gain experience: It's important to gain hands-on experience in networking. You can start by working in an entry-level IT position, such as a help desk or technical support role, and gradually work your way up to a network engineering position.
Develop technical skills: Network engineers need to have a strong foundation in networking principles, protocols, and technologies. It's essential to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field, such as software-defined networking (SDN) and network virtualization.
Build a network: Networking is a critical aspect of any IT career. Attend networking events and conferences to meet other professionals in the field, and build relationships with mentors who can provide guidance and support.
Obtain certifications: Many network engineers hold industry-standard certifications, such as CCNA, CCNP, or Juniper Networks Certified Internet Associate (JNCIA), to demonstrate their expertise and knowledge.
Consider a specialization: As you gain experience, consider specializing in a particular area of networking, such as security, wireless networking, or cloud networking.
Keep learning: Technology is constantly evolving, so it's essential to stay current with new developments and emerging trends in the field. Continue to learn and stay engaged in the community to stay relevant as a network engineer.

What is the salary of a network engineer

The salary of a network engineer can vary depending on several factors, including experience, location, industry, and employer. However, according to the data from the BLS, the median annual wage for network and computer systems administrators, which includes network engineers, was $80,600. The lowest 10 percent of network and computer systems administrators earned less than $52,810 per year, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $135,900 per year. For example, network engineers working in the information technology and finance industries tend to earn higher salaries compared to those in other industries. Overall, network engineering can be a lucrative field with opportunities for advancement and salary growth with experience and expertise.

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What are the academic qualifications to become a network engineer

The academic qualifications required to become a network engineer can vary depending on the organization and the specific position. However, in general, a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field is often preferred by employers. In addition to a bachelor's degree, employers may also require or prefer candidates with relevant certifications such as CompTIA Network+, Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). These certifications demonstrate that the candidate has a strong understanding of networking technologies and best practices and can be an important factor in securing a job as a network engineer. Some employers may also consider candidates with an associate's degree or relevant technical training or certifications, particularly for entry-level positions. However, having a bachelor's degree in a related field can help candidates stand out and may lead to more advanced positions and higher salaries over time.

In summary, a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field, along with relevant certifications, can help prepare individuals for a career as a network engineer.

What are the certifications necessary to become a network engineer

There are several certifications available that can be beneficial for individuals interested in becoming network engineers. These certifications can demonstrate your knowledge and skills in the field, making you a more competitive candidate for network engineering roles. Here are a few of the most common certifications for network engineers;

CompTIA Network+: A foundational certification that covers basic networking concepts, including network design, installation, and troubleshooting.
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA): A certification program that covers a wide range of networking concepts, including network security, routing and switching, and wireless networking.
Juniper Networks Certified Internet Associate (JNCIA): A certification program that focuses on Juniper Networks products and technologies, including network automation, routing, and switching.
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): A certification program that focuses on network security, including access control, cryptography, and incident response.
Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate: A certification program that focuses on network engineering in a Microsoft Azure cloud environment.

These certifications are just a few examples of the many options available for network engineers. The specific certifications most beneficial will depend on your interests, career goals, and the industry in which you plan to work.

What licenses are essential to become a network engineer

In general, there are no specific licenses required to become a network engineer. However, some network engineers may be required to hold certain licenses or certifications depending on the nature of their work or the industry they are working in. For example:

Professional Engineer (PE) license: In some states, network engineers may be required to hold a PE license if their work involves designing and implementing large-scale network infrastructure projects.
Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) license: This is a certification program that validates the skills and expertise of network engineers in designing, implementing, and troubleshooting Cisco networking technologies. While it is not a license in the traditional sense, it is highly regarded in the industry and can be beneficial for network engineers working with Cisco networking technologies.
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) license: Network engineers who work with radio and wireless technologies may be required to hold an FCC license, such as a General Radiotelephone Operator License (GROL) which certifies their knowledge and ability to operate and maintain radio and wireless equipment.

It's important to note that licensing requirements can vary by state and industry, so it's essential to research the specific requirements for your field and location.

How to get an entry-level job as a network engineer

Getting an entry-level job as a network engineer requires a combination of education, technical skills, and relevant experience. Here are some steps you can take to increase your chances of getting an entry-level job as a network engineer;

Obtain relevant education and certifications: A degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field can help demonstrate your knowledge and skills in the field. Additionally, certifications like CompTIA Network+ or Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT) can demonstrate your technical proficiency and make you a more competitive candidate.
Gain hands-on experience: Look for internships or part-time positions that can provide you with practical experience in networking technologies. You can also set up your home network and practice configuring and troubleshooting network devices.
Build a portfolio: Create a portfolio that showcases your skills and projects you have worked on. This can include case studies, network diagrams, and examples of configurations you have created.
Apply for entry-level positions: Look for entry-level positions, such as network support technician, help desk technician, or junior network engineer. Be prepared to start in a support role and work your way up to a network engineer position.
Network and attend events: Attend industry events and networking events to meet professionals in the field and learn about job opportunities. Building relationships with professionals in the field can help you learn about job openings and get referrals.
Be willing to learn: Be open to learning new technologies and be willing to take on new challenges. Network engineering is a constantly evolving field and staying up-to-date on the latest technologies and trends can help you stand out to employers.

What are the various network engineer job positions with salaries

There are several job positions for network engineers, each with varying levels of responsibility and corresponding salaries. Here are some of the network engineer job positions with salaries;

Network Support Engineer: This position typically requires providing technical support for the company's network infrastructure, troubleshooting network issues, and maintaining network devices. The salary range for this position is usually around $50,000 to $80,000 per year.
Network Administrator: This role typically involves configuring and maintaining the company's network infrastructure, managing network security, and ensuring network uptime. The salary range for this position is typically around $60,000 to $100,000 per year.
Network Engineer: This role typically involves designing, implementing, and maintaining complex network architectures, including routers, switches, and firewalls. The salary range for this position is usually around $80,000 to $120,000 per year.
Network Architect: This position typically requires designing and implementing large-scale network infrastructure solutions, including data center networking, cloud-based networking, and software-defined networking. The salary range for this position is usually around $120,000 to $200,000 per year.

Network engineer job description

A network engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, maintaining, and troubleshooting an organization's computer networks. They work with a variety of technologies, including routers, switches, firewalls, and other networking equipment, to ensure that data is transmitted efficiently and securely.

Some specific job responsibilities of a network engineer may include:

Developing network architecture and design specifications
Configuring network hardware and software, including routers, switches, firewalls, and virtual private networks (VPNs)
Installing and maintaining network cabling and other physical components
Monitoring network performance and troubleshooting problems as they arise
Implementing network security measures to protect against unauthorized access and data breaches
Collaborating with other IT professionals, such as system administrators and software developers, to ensure that network systems are integrated effectively
Staying up-to-date with new technologies and industry trends to ensure that the network is operating at peak efficiency