Network Engineer
On this page
- What's it like to be a Network Engineer?
- How to become a Network Engineer
- Latest Network Engineer jobs
- Top skills and experience for Network Engineers
- Network Engineer role reviews
What's it like to be a Network Engineer?
Network Engineers are Information Technology (IT) professionals who work with businesses and organisations to plan, install, maintain, and troubleshoot communication networks. These networks might be hardware- or software-based, or a combination of the two. Network Engineers must have good, up-to-date knowledge of computer systems and software and the ability to anticipate and fix problems. They may need to work with a team of IT professionals, as well as other employees who need help working with the networks.
Tasks and duties
- Installing, configuring, testing and maintaining new networks and related applications, servers and workstations.
- Troubleshooting network problems.
- Ensuring network firewalls and security are up to date.
- Preparing and maintaining procedures and documentation related to computer networks.
- Providing network programming in support of business needs.
How to become a Network Engineer
There isn’t one single path to becoming a Network Engineer, but qualifications and experience with computers, software, and IT are important.
Complete a diploma or bachelor degree in a related field, such as computer science or information systems. A degree typically takes three years of full-time study, while a diploma takes one-to-two years.
Learn on the job. Many Network Engineers learn what they need to know while working.
Consider completing extra industry-specific courses with organisations such as Microsoft or Oracle, to gain specific knowledge. Network Engineers need up-to-date knowledge of systems and software and must regularly complete further professional development to maintain their employability.
