What qualifications do you need to become a network engineer?
Who is a Network Engineer?
Before we examine the qualifications needed to become a network engineer, who exactly is a network engineer? In the current era of digital transformation, network engineering is considered one of the best skills needed to facilitate business operations. A Network Engineer is an IT professional who oversees a computer network and works with the latest technologies to connect the companies to the outside world. They are responsible for ensuring that the company’s computer systems and network hardware operate efficiently.
Network concepts are incredibly complex, especially within large infrastructures. Therefore, instead of hiring people to focus on each area of IT, companies are increasingly seeking professionals with multi-functional skills. Full-stack network engineers are currently trained in all areas of IT, including routing, wireless connections, data security, data center operations, automation, cloud and Voice-over-IP (VoIP) technologies.
The demand for network engineers is steadily increasing as digital innovations continue to multiply. Therefore, many large and medium-sized companies are looking for qualified network engineers, and this blog will help you understand how to become a network engineer.
Qualifications Needed for a Network Engineering Career
Let’s discuss the essential qualifications to become a network engineer:
Good understanding of the basics of networking:
To create a solid career path as a network engineer, you need to develop the basics of networking and become familiar with concepts such as client-server operations, network device layouts, IP address assignment, security protocols, etc. While pursuing a degree is a formal qualification, several other avenues exist to gain the qualifications necessary to launch a network engineering career.
Practical experience:
Once you have a solid foundation, there is a high percentage of success in your career. After you start your career as an aspiring network engineer, you’ll get more out of the industry. You can gain advanced hands-on experience with industry-level projects, including mentorship from experienced professionals.
Industry Certifications†
With hands-on, technical experience, industry certifications are critical tools to showcase your expertise to a hiring manager who wants to determine your level of knowledge. There are several industry certifications for Network Engineering professionals; however, most organizations recognize Full-Stack Network Associate (FSNA), Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) 200-301, and Microsoft Certified Azure Administrator Associate.
You can differentiate your career from Full-stack Network Engineer (FSNE) to specialized areas such as cloud computing or network security. After earning basic industry certifications, you have options to pursue additional qualifications specific to the business. Most companies offer vendor-specific certifications because they prefer their employees to be qualified for their existing products.
Many popular certifications focus more on cybersecurity, cloud computing, and network project management, as the future of your project depends on them. In addition, you need to update with the latest technologies. That would help design and develop a robust and secure solution for your customer.
Acquire soft skills – last but not least†
Having technical skills for the network would not be enough, just like with any career. When targeting a soft skills set, you need to improve your analytical skills with a continuous problem-solving mindset – being flexible will support you in adapting to any work environment. In addition, a suitable leadership qualification will help you to overcome any problems, in addition to a good scalable and robust plan.
Network engineering is an exciting, challenging field. But you can’t get there on your own. Whether you’re looking to get an IT certification or take a few networking courses, NexGenT training can help you develop networking skills to boost your career. As the world’s largest independent IT training company, we provide the most comprehensive and up-to-date network training available. With flexible, self-paced or instructor-led training options, you’ll have access to real experts and resources to confidently advance your networking career in no time.
