To become a network engineer, you need knowledge of setting up, maintaining, and securing computer networks, configuring software and hardware, and passing a drug test. A degree in computer science or IT is recommended, along with professional certification. Hands-on experience is crucial, and knowledge of network security and Linux is valuable. Working full-time in an IT department is common, and training should reflect real-world tasks. Courses in business administration, marketing, or entrepreneurship can be helpful for those interested in starting their own business.
To become a network engineer, you’ll need to have a solid, in-depth understanding of how to set up, maintain, and secure computer networks of all sizes and types. You will also need to understand how to install, uninstall, update and configure the software; know how to configure computer servers; and have an above average knowledge of how to configure the hardware. If you plan to work in the United States, you will need to have a clean criminal record and be able to pass a drug test, as most employers have these requirements. Some employers require you to have at least one year of experience, especially if you don’t have a college degree. There are several ways to gain experience, such as volunteering with a non-profit organization if you are a recent graduate or don’t plan on graduating.
If you decide to earn a college degree as part of your preparation to become a network engineer, it’s best to major in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Majors in these disciplines are usually only available at four-year colleges and universities in the United States. However, there are two-year colleges, often called community colleges, that offer degree programs in network administration, engineering, and information systems management. You might also strongly consider getting professional certification to boost your career prospects. Internationally respected certifications are offered by Cisco, and the CompTIA Network+ certification is also highly valuable.
Network engineering includes knowledge of how to select the type of cables needed for wired networks and how to install, terminate, and test them. A strong understanding of network security is very important, particularly when setting up a publicly accessible wireless network such as those found in many coffee shops. Whether you earn a college degree or teach yourself, your studies must include hands-on experience, which can be difficult for the self-taught student. Equipment such as network routers, switches, and bridges can be too expensive to purchase for practical computer networking. Working with them, however, will be an integral part of your professional duties.
While it is possible to communicate as a network administrator, these positions are somewhat uncommon. Typically, you work full-time in the information technology department of a company or organization. The course work you complete in your training to become a network engineer should closely reflect the most common tasks you will be expected to perform in the real world. Among the functions a network engineer should know are how to subnet, how to supernet, and how to program routers and switches.
Experts recommend that degree programs or independent study for a career in this field include training in at least basic UNIX administration, because many companies have deployed Linux as a server. Linux is an open source UNIX-like operating system, so a good knowledge of that operating system will automatically give you familiarity with what it’s like to work from the command line in Linux. In your training, you might also consider taking courses in business administration, marketing or entrepreneurship if you are interested in establishing your own business, setting up computer networks or working as an independent consultant.
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