Networking

What is a Network Engineer?

What is a Network Engineer?

The demands of the job require a level of education that qualifies you to specify the technical requirements for the networks that you plan and design. Analytical skills help you determine the locations in a building where users need access to electronic services.

The Cisco Learning Network cites traffic congestion, necessary upgrades to infrastructure, the introduction of new products, customer concerns and preventative maintenance as considerations that you face on the job. Excellent communication and presentation skills prepare you to explain your concepts to an executive team. A current understanding of the latest technological advances in the industry can help you identify the hardware and wiring for your networks.

A primary characteristic of your position as a senior network engineer is its technical instead of administrative nature. You get to plan and design while a systems administrator provides day-to-day network operation support.

Network Engineer vs Network Administrator

The two roles are similar but not identical. A network engineer has a technical background and may specialize in one area of networking (such as wireless networks). In contrast, a network administrator has a business management background and may focus on another networking aspect (such as security).

Network engineers are responsible for designing and building networks, whereas network administrators operate and maintain them. Both roles require strong technical skills, but network engineers tend to focus more on the technical aspects of networking, while network administrators tend to focus more on operational network issues.

Network engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, electrical engineering, or telecommunications, whereas network administrators usually hold a bachelor’s degree in business administration or information systems.

Is Network Engineer Same as Network Architect

No, they are different positions. Network architects are responsible for the overall architecture of a network, including the physical layout, logical structure and protocols used. They also develop policies and procedures for managing the network.

Network engineers work closely with network architectures to ensure that all components of the network function properly. They may be involved in developing standards for network technology.

What Does a Network Engineer Do?

Network Engineers are responsible for designing, installing and maintaining networks. They must be aware of new technologies and trends in order to maintain a competitive edge. They also need to understand the requirements of different types of clients. Their primary goal is to provide reliable and secure connections between people, data and systems. Network engineers may be involved in any aspect of networking, such as planning, designing, implementing, testing, debugging, documenting, training, managing and supporting the network.

How Do I Get a Network Engineer Degree?

The complex field of career in network engineering requires preparation that starts with a college degree. On-the-job experience, training courses and certifications help hone your skills as you advance in seniority and responsibility, but a bachelor’s degree is the first step. Areas of study that teach you the technical knowledge and understanding that can qualify you to work in the industry include information technology, computer science, engineering, programming or a major that relates closely. Some companies may require you to have more than a bachelor’s degree for entry level network positions, and they may prefer applicants who hold a master’s in information systems. Hands-on Experience in field work with network administration or IT systems may favorably impress potential employers.

What are Essential Skills to Become a Network Engineer?

Some of your characteristics may contribute to your potential for success as a network engineer. The job requires you to pay attention to the minutest detail in creating blueprints for a corporate network to make sure that its components work together. Patience and the ability to take the time that you need to develop a plan allow you to enjoy the job.
As a team leader, you need the ability to encourage others to like your plan and want to help you implement it. Analytical skills can help you detect flaws in a complex network system or an alternative design that improves it. Your organizational abilities give you an advantage in planning layouts, and they let you cohesively present your talents and skills.

Network Engineer Certification Training Courses and Programs:

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA): A certification offered by Cisco Systems Inc., this course prepares students for the CCNA exam. Students learn how to install, configure, troubleshoot, maintain, and secure networks using various networking technologies including Ethernet, IP, wireless LAN, Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), security, and quality of service. The CCNA curriculum includes hands-on labs, lectures, and practice tests. The most popular certifications are CCNA, CCNP, CCIE, VCP-NV, and CCT. These certifications are generally required for entry-level networking positions.

What will be Network Engineer Salary?

The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs for network engineers to increase at about the same rate as other occupations at about 6 percent. As businesses expand their communication capabilities, engineers can earn salaries that reflect the complexity of the job. At the low end of the pay scale, network engineers salary range from less than $55,610 but more than $158,590 in the upper range. The average salary for a network engineer makes $70,147.

What are the Job Responsibilities of a Network Engineer?

The extensive and wide-ranging duties of a network engineer require the ability to plan, design and test the components of a communication system’s infrastructure, including these among others:

• clustering solutions
• DHCP servers
• DNS servers
• firewalls
• gateways
• routers
• switches
• suitable

A network engineer jobs has the responsibility to establish a productive communications environment by designing a plan, directing its installation, preparing documentation and enforcing compliance with system standards. Network Engineer responsibilities extend to developing solutions to make an existing system work better by responding to the results of troubleshooting. The reliability of the network depends on continuously monitoring the network performance of firewalls that protect a company’s security. The job requires frequent communication with users at all levels and a prompt response to reports of problems to ensure the uninterrupted flow of communications.

What is Network Engineers Job Outlook?

The future of jobs for network design engineers offers a positive outlook for applicants who have the appropriate qualifications. Statistics from BLS show that the job outlook for all computer jobs reflects an increase of 13 percent and 6 percent for network engineering positions in the years leading up to 2026. The demand for network security jobs comes from a range of employers:

• business
• emergency services
• government agencies
• hospitals
• industry
• retail
• schools and colleges
• transportation

The need for engineers who can upgrade existing networks or design and build new ones provides access to a challenging and financially rewarding career. A contributing factor to the growth of jobs in the industry is the expansion of healthcare information. The reliance of business, government and industry on connectivity points to a promising future for engineers. The service that Field Engineer offers to freelancers and job seekers provides convenient access to the employment market.