A network engineer maintains computer network infrastructure so that users can consistently access the necessary resources and information to perform their jobs. You should study network engineering, information systems, IT, computing engineering, or a related field in order to become an entry-level network engineer. In addition to taking traditional classroom courses, you will also get practical training working with computers in labs.
A bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology or a similar field is required by most employers. These programs focus on the theoretical and mathematical aspects of computer systems; common courses include computer programming languages, the theory of computing and computer architecture. Students can learn how to design and use operating systems, computer algorithms and programming languages. Network engineers may also pursue different paths within the networking field. Network analysts, for example, specialize in the installation and maintenance of networks and often cross over between the technical and business sides of an organization. Network managers fill a similar role but must train and direct network technicians.
Do You Need a Degree to be a Network Engineer?
An attention to detail and the ability to problem-solve are also important. A networking research and development specialist has excellent communication skills. This type of specialist works with internal and external clients, vendors, and other information technology professionals and is required to communicate in both technical and non-technical language.
Before diving headfirst into the exciting world of network engineering, take a minute to think about what you actually want to do in the field. Network engineering encompasses many specialties, so choosing your area of interest helps you take a more targeted approach to developing your skills. For IT professionals interested in configuring, implementing, and maintaining systems, network engineer jobs can be as fulfilling as they are lucrative. We’ll break down the must-know information you should consider before pursuing a career as a network engineer.
Example of a typical network engineer job description
Other certifications like Linux+ cover specific platforms within enterprise-level networks. However, the Network+ certification is focused on network design, physical connections, and the process of actually deploying a network after it’s been designed. Network engineer classes also cover employee training and writing documentation.
- Network engineers need at least a bachelor’s degree in fields such as information systems, IT, network security management, computer science, or computer or network engineering.
- In addition to technical areas, the certification also covers pricing models and methods to properly scale AWS for growing businesses.
- Businesses rely on network engineers to maintain the computer networks that allow users to share resources and work efficiently.
- The chance to network with classmates and instructors can provide professional contacts that will become useful when it’s time to enter into the industry.
- A network engineer and a network architect both specialize in optimizing efficiency by establishing and maintaining high-performing networks.
- For many engineers, additional qualifications and training are closely tied to the Cisco engineering certification program, which offers several levels of career training.
- The Server+ certification covers most aspects of server installation, maintenance, security, and troubleshooting.
This includes all the skills needed to offer general support within a professional environment. It’s especially useful for network engineers that act as a liaison to less technically oriented departments within a company. The Secure Infrastructure Specialist stackable path requires not just one, but three, CompTIA certifications.
What Skills Do You Learn in a Network Engineer Program?
Some companies require network engineers to have certifications in Cisco technologies ().You could earn this credential by taking the Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT) exam. After three years, you will have to take another CCENT exam to maintain certification. One year of professional experience qualifies you take the Certified Network Professional (CNP) exams for CNP certification. With the increase in the complexity of the networks, managing data centers has become an ongoing challenge. The role of a data center networking specialist is to manage the infrastructure in a way that ensures the business is agile and reliable.
Can I be a network engineer without CCNA?
No matter how much a candidate yearns to become a Network Engineer, the Cisco CCNA level knowledge is still required. Accordingly, one can not become a Network Engineer without Cisco CCNA Certification.
The Windows Server Administration Fundamentals certification has some overlap with the GUI-oriented aspects of the Windows Operating System Fundamentals certification. However, as the name suggests, this certification focuses on server-specific aspects of Microsoft’s operating systems. This includes Active Directory, server maintenance, and all aspects of installation and backup. Network engineers can also teach themselves or pursue other training to learn the trade. However, you’ll likely need significant on-the-job technical experience before landing a job as a network engineer.
Next Generation Of Network Engineer Skillset
It’s equally important for you to create an internal educational foundation that can keep a network running smoothly. You need to have a firm grasp on the larger enterprise-level network topology and offer insight based on that understanding. After you get your degree, you can prepare for professional certification. Microsoft offers the Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MSCE) designation to those who pass seven rigorous exams (). If your degree program did not fully prepare you for all the sections on the exams, you could enroll in training courses through Microsoft. Another Microsoft certification you can earn is the Microsoft Certified IT (information technology) Professional (MCITP)-Enterprise Administrator designation.
Is Network Certification hard?
The exam covers a range of topics, including networking concepts, infrastructure, protocols and services, network security, and network troubleshooting. While the difficulty level of the exam may vary for each individual, it’s generally considered to be challenging.
Once network engineers have the necessary skills under their belts, they often become major assets to all kinds of organizations. Here are some career opportunities available to qualified network engineers. Below are some key qualifications and skills typically needed to land a network engineering role.
Average Amount Of Time At Training
The career path for a network engineer involves jobs as a data architect, design engineer, and network engineer. The career path for a network engineer involves specific education, training, professional experience, certifications, windows network engineer and skills. It also has many on-and-off ramps to a variety of other career paths in the tech field. Network technology is rapidly changing, which requires network engineers to be consistently learning and changing.