How to become a Network Engineer?

Among the many domains in the world of computer technology in the modern era is Network Engineering. This field requires professionals to develop, execute, maintain, and troubleshoot computer networks in an organization. In the ever-evolving digital era, network engineering is truly the backbone of the closely interconnected world that we live in. Network engineers are experts who ensure the effortless transfer of all data and communication across different devices in different locations. The career path for these experts is rather lucrative, promising hefty pay packages. This blog further explores the steps to becoming a Network Engineer, including the skills and educational qualifications required. 

What does a Network Engineer do?

Network engineers in any organization are primarily responsible for setting up the computer network, overseeing its regular maintenance, and troubleshooting issues, if and when they arise. Explained below are some of the everyday tasks and responsibilities of Network Engineers:

• Creating blueprints of network design: This includes assessing and understanding the organizational needs and choosing the right components of hardware and software.

• Setting up the network: After creating the final network design, the next responsibility of Network Engineers is to configure the network devices. These include switches, routers, and other devices per specifications.

• Troubleshooting: Network Engineers are the first point of defense in case of any troubleshooting need in the network. They use a host of tools for monitoring the network on a day-to-day basis, identify the root of the issue, and take corrective measures to restore normal functioning and prevent future problems.

• Maintaining networks: Networks need regular upkeep for smooth functioning within the organization. Network Engineers are assigned the task of applying software patches, updates, and security fixes to ensure that the network is regularly updated and secure.

• Monitoring network performance: Regular monitoring can help meet challenges more adequately and also prevent any major sudden disruptions that can cause damage to the overall working of the organization. Network Engineers ensure that the organizational network meets the overall performance goals from time to time.

Steps to become a Network Engineer  

Let us now look at the career pathway of network engineers. Detailed below are the steps to become a Network Engineer to help make your journey easier:

1. Get the right qualification: The right education is the first step on this career path. After completing the 10+2 in Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Math) from a recognized board with at least 50% aggregate, you may pursue a Bachelor’s degree in the relevant field. These may include a BSc in Computer Science, a B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering, or a Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA).

2. Move to the advanced level of knowledge: After obtaining an undergraduate degree in any of the relevant disciplines above, you may continue with advanced studies in the field. Master of Computer Applications (MCA) is the most relevant degree program for advanced learning in Network Engineering. You may also take up M.Tech in CS or Engineering, or MSc in CS. 

3. Gain Network Engineering certifications: These can help broaden your knowledge base and skill sets in the domain of network engineering. You can pursue short-term Network Engineering certifications online either during your Bachelor’s degree or after its completion. Some of the most popular certification courses include Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), CompTIA Network+, and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), among others.     

4. Build your resume: This is one of the key steps on the Network Engineer career path. Your resume provides an overview of your educational and other achievements. It is important to do this step well because a good resume can increase your chances of job success. Make sure to include your qualifications, work experience, if any, skills, projects, and certification courses in the resume.

5. Seek internship opportunities: This helps gain the necessary practical experience required to become a Network Engineer. It also helps build more knowledge and specialized skills in the domain and adds value to your resume.

Skills for network engineering

Professionals on the Network Engineer career path must possess some specialized skills in addition to the knowledge and certifications obtained. Some of the top skills for Network Engineering are outlined below:

• Problem-solving ability
• Analytical skills
• Time management
• Effective written and verbal communication
• Troubleshooting 
• Teamwork 

Network Engineer career path

 With the right knowledge and skills for Network Engineering, graduates in the field can tread toward a host of career options available in varied relevant sectors and industries. You can start by applying for entry-level Network Engineer jobs as a fresher and gradually move up the career ladder as you gain more experience and expertise in the domain.

Some of the top job roles that open up for Network Engineers are listed below. These include both entry-level Network Engineer jobs as well as senior roles that become available with career progression: 

• Network Analyst
• Senior Network Engineer
• Network Security Engineer
• Network Manager
• Network Consultant

Network Engineer salary in India

As outlined above, the Network Engineering career path includes both entry-level Network Engineer jobs and senior managerial positions. The pay packages therefore increase corresponding to each role. 

The average annual salary of a Network Engineer in India is estimated in the range of INR 3 lakh – INR 8 lakh per annum. This is likely to vary depending on the company, its location, the candidate’s qualification, work experience, age, Network Engineering certifications, etc.

Conclusion

Network Engineers are highly skilled and the most in-demand professionals in the IT world. They perform the crucial role of configuring, maintaining, and troubleshooting any network bugs or issues, ensuring that the network functions smoothly across devices. They also ensure that the interconnectedness between individuals and organizations in today’s digital age is not disrupted.

The right qualification is the first step to becoming a Networking Engineer. Sikkim Manipal University offers an online MCA degree that lays the perfect foundation for Network Engineering, preparing students for a rewarding career in the field.