A network engineer sets up computer networks and related systems for businesses, performs routine maintenance, and solves problems quickly. Certification is required, and the job involves technical knowledge, creative thinking, and problem-solving skills. Network engineers can work internally or externally for companies of all sizes.
A network engineer is responsible for setting up computer networks, Internet connections in an office, and any related computer systems a business might need. The network engineer can do routine maintenance to make sure everything is working properly and be on call if a problem occurs. Those interested in a career in network engineering will need to learn about how computers work and how various computer systems work together. Companies require multiple computers to use the same network and may have a separate Internet connection, known as an Intranet, used only by company users.
When a problem occurs, the network engineer must find a solution quickly so that employees can get back to work. Work schedules are often hectic, as a problem can occur at any time of the day or night. Even routine maintenance is usually performed early in the morning or late at night, when few people are using the computers or the network.
Certification typically takes about two years, but most training takes place on the job. With technology changing rapidly, much of what is learned will be out of date by the time the network engineer lands their first job. Certification is still required for most jobs and teaches basic skills essential to becoming a network engineer.
The job of a network engineer can also be thought of as one of information technology. Depending on the type of work, the engineer may also design the systems he plans to use. Instead of just configuring one computer, he must figure out how all the computers and other equipment that use the same network can work in harmony simultaneously. It involves creative thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as technical knowledge of how everything works.
Those working in this field can work internally or externally. In-house engineers are hired by a company and work to configure new systems and maintain old ones. Larger companies need people to work part or full time and these companies often have enough work that the job is not simply a temporary position.
Smaller companies may hire someone to work in-house, but the position may be temporary. Engineers who do not work permanently for a company can work on call for companies. This is known as working externally. When a business without an engineer on staff has a problem, it calls in a new network engineer to fix it. The engineer may or may not have configured the company’s current computer system.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
