How to Become a Network Engineer: The Roadmap for Success

What is Network Engineering, and Why Choose this Career?

Network engineering involves maintaining computer networks, including VPNs, mainframes, routers, and other physical hardware. It also involves configuring and installing network equipment, creating firewalls, and updating data security systems and virus protection software.

You can become a network engineer because people in this field can learn and grow exponentially while mastering new cybersecurity strategies and technologies. Such engineers also need to diagnose and resolve network issues of any kind. At the same time, there is an incredibly high salary potential in the field, job satisfaction and the ability to work remotely.

Essential Skills Needed for a Network Engineering Career

Generally, one may need a wide range of skills and the ability to solve technical problems to become a network engineer. At the same time, the specific skills depend on the organization that is hiring for the role. Here are some skills that may help you become a network engineer.

• Computer Infrastructure
• Data Analysis
• Firewall Installation
• Information Architecture
• Malware Protection

Relevant Read: Essential Network Engineer Skills for 2025 Success! 📖

Certifications to Boost Your Network Engineering Journey

Boost your journey to becoming a network engineer by getting some necessary certifications. There are some beginner to even mid-level certifications provided by different organizations. And having vendor-specific certifications can highlight you among the other aspiring network engineers. Here are some certifications you could have to get this job role.

• Simplilearn: Explore these cybersecurity courses from Simplilearn to navigate the path of becoming a network engineer expert!

• Microsoft: The company offers Microsoft Certified Azure Administrator Associate and Microsoft 365 Certified Security Administrator Associate certifications for those looking to become a network engineer.
• Cisco: Cisco provides multiple certifications for network professions, including the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE), and the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP).

Did You Know? 🔍

Network engineering jobs are expected to grow by 10.1% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) from $43.7 billion in 2021, it is expected to reach $111.7 billion by 2031.

How to Become Network Engineer: Step-by-Step Guide

Here is how you can become a successful network engineer in any industry.

Step 1: Complete the Educational Requirements

Once you have completed high school, you can enroll in a Bachelor of Science degree, a Bachelor of Engineering, or even a Bachelor of Technology. Getting a formal degree will help you start your career in the field.

Step 2: Get Some Certifications

Some suitable certifications will help you get hands-on learning and give you a better edge over other aspirants. You can pick a certificate that is in demand and will impact value over the long run.

Step 3: Learn the Relevant Skills

Skills are an incredibly crucial part of any job. They will help you get your foot through the door in the industry. So, go over the list of skills above and focus on mastering each. However, you should also remember that every company may ask for different skills depending on their needs and preferences.

Step 4: Learn the Right Programming Languages

This is another learning curve of how to become a network engineer. Become a strong candidate for this role by learning some programming languages that will help you do your job effectively. Different organizations have individual preferences for these languages, but some popular ones include Perl, Python, Golang, and Bash. However, knowing how to code as a network professional is sometimes necessary.

Step 5: Start Looking for Jobs

Once you have mastered the certifications, skills, and everything else required for your role as a network engineer, you can start looking for positions that fit your experience and skill level. You can begin by preparing for interviews, getting an entry-level role for starters, and climbing your way up.

Networking Tools and Technologies You Must Master

As an aspiring network engineer, you should master several tools and technologies depending on their purpose. Some of these tools include the following:

• Troubleshooting Tools: If you want to troubleshoot some issues related to network conditions, then master Ping, Tracert, Traceroute, nslookup, etc.
• Device Management: Some of the client tools for device management include Bitvise, SecureCRT, SolarWinds, and WinSCP.
• Cloud Networking: Familiarize yourself with cloud service providers like Google Cloud, AWS, and Microsoft Azure.

Building a Standout Resume for Network Engineering Roles

Having a good resume is the key to stand out before hiring managers. Here is a glimpse of how you can make a great resume, especially for network engineering roles.

• Start by reviewing the job description and seeing what it needs.
• Jot down the key requirements, and add the relevant ones to your resume. They will serve as your keywords and help you get past ATS.
• Add your contact information at the top of your resume.
• Next, include a professional summary with a quick overview of your competencies and skills.
• Highlight your relevant work experience and list your relevant skills.
• Include key certifications and degrees.
• Ultimately, ensure that all your information is correct and put in a neat order.

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Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Some of the common challenges faced by people once they have learned how to become network engineers include the following:

Keeping up with the Technology

One significant challenge faced by network engineers is staying up-to-date with the latest standards and technologies. This field and technology as a whole are constantly evolving, and it can be challenging to keep up with all the rapid changes. One can cope with the challenge by dedicating some resources and time to professional development. For instance, one can consider reading books and blogs, taking online courses, or attending conferences and webinars.

Ensuring Security and Compliance

As a network engineer, it can be incredibly challenging to ensure compliance and security of the network. This is because constant concerns about the network being exposed to threats like malware, cyberattacks, data breaches, unauthorized access, and human errors exist. One can cope with these challenges by being informed about the present and upcoming security risks and practices that can help combat them. Conduct frequent security assessments and audits to ensure the network is always protected.

Career Advancement Tips for Aspiring Network Engineers

Here are some tips to help you answer the question, “How can I become a network engineer?”

• Learn New Technologies: One key to becoming an efficient network professional and advancing in your career is constantly learning new technologies. This will not only keep you updated with all the latest information but also give you an incredible edge in the job market.
• Network With Others: Networking is essential to professional life, no matter what you choose to be. Talking to different people will help build connections in the industry you want to work in. It will also help you find new opportunities and expand your knowledge.

Conclusion

With a thorough understanding of how to become a network engineer, it’s time to take the next step in your career. To gather advanced knowledge and skills needed to excel in the industry, consider the CompTIA Security+ (Plus) Certification - SY0-701 program. It validates essential IT security skills and is trusted globally for setting IT security best practices. Learn network security and risk management, boosting prospects in network security, penetration testing, and cloud security.

FAQs

1. How long does it take to become a network engineer? 

Becoming a successful network engineer can take anywhere between three and seven years, depending on the certifications, education, skill development, and practical experience. However, there is no fixed duration for becoming a network professional since it is also about how much experience you want to gain.

2. Do I need a degree to work in network engineering?

Yes, in most cases, you need at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field to be considered for the position. It is even better if you have a master’s and several certifications.

3. Which programming languages are useful for network engineers?

Programming languages like Python, Java, Perl, Bash, and others are useful for network engineers.

4. What is the average salary for a network engineer?

The average salary for a network engineer depends on which country you want to work in. For instance, the average annual salary is Rs. 500,000 in India, which is $95,823 in the USA.

5. Is network engineering a good career choice in 2025 and beyond?

Network engineering is a good career choice in 2025 and beyond since it is expected to grow at least till the next decade. It is an incredibly lucrative career that is always in high demand due to the need for cybersecurity, network maintenance, and other things. So organizations will always hire network engineers even in the future.