Network engineers play an important role in the modern digital world by ensuring communication networks are connected and secure. In an era where organizations rely heavily on the internet, a well-designed and maintained network infrastructure is essential for efficiency and security. Network engineers design, implement, and troubleshoot complex systems that support data transfer, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies. Their expertise keeps organizations running smoothly, prevents costly downtime, and safeguards sensitive information, making their role vital to the success of an organization.
What Does a Network Engineer Do?
In today’s interconnected world, entry-level network engineers design, implement, maintain, and troubleshoot complex systems that connect businesses and individuals. A network engineer begins by designing networks that align with an organization’s needs. This involves selecting the right architecture, ensuring scalability, and integrating security measures to protect against cyber threats. Once the design is finalized, they configure and deploy hardware such as routers, switches, and firewalls.
Once a network is up and running, ongoing maintenance is needed to prevent disruptions. Network engineers continuously monitor systems, identifying potential issues before they escalate into major problems. If an issue arises, troubleshooting becomes a top priority—analyzing network performance, diagnosing problems, and implementing solutions to restore normal operations as quickly as possible.
Beyond technical responsibilities, network engineers also play a crucial role in educating colleagues. They guide network best practices, cybersecurity protocols, and the proper use of network resources to improve an organization’s efficiency and security.
With technology evolving rapidly, continuous learning is a necessity for network engineers. Keeping up with advancements in cloud computing, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence ensures they remain ahead of the curve.
How Do You Become a Network Engineer?
Becoming a network engineer requires education, hands-on training, and industry certifications. If you’re interested in a networking career that involves designing, implementing, maintaining, and securing computer networks, here’s a step-by-step guide.
Complete a Network Engineer Program
Enrolling in a Network Engineer Degree program at CyberTex is a great way to start your journey. Our program provides foundational knowledge in networking, cybersecurity, hardware, and software configurations. Plus, hands-on training will teach you how to set up and troubleshoot networks, work with routers and switches, and implement security protocols.
Gain Practical Experience
CyberTex’s program includes practical lab exercises that simulate real-world networking environments. Additionally, internships or entry-level IT positions, such as help desk support or IT technician roles, can help you gain experience while you continue learning.
Continue Learning and Specializing
Technology evolves rapidly, so continuous learning is essential. Many network engineers advance their careers by specializing in cloud computing, cybersecurity, or network automation.
By completing the CyberTex Network Engineer program, gaining hands-on experience, and earning certifications, you’ll be well-prepared to launch a rewarding career in networking.
Why CyberTex’s Network Engineer Program?
If you’re looking to start a career in networking, CyberTex provides the education, training, and certification preparation needed to succeed in this fast-growing field. Here’s why CyberTex stands out:
Comprehensive Curriculum
CyberTex offers a complete curriculum covering information technology from networking fundamentals to advanced troubleshooting and security. You learn how to design, implement, and maintain network systems while gaining essential skills in configuring routers, switches, firewalls, and wireless networks. The program also introduces cloud computing and cybersecurity concepts, ensuring you are well-prepared for your new career.
High-Quality Equipment and Training Facilities
Learning networking concepts is most effective when combined with hands-on experience. CyberTex provides access to state-of-the-art labs and industry-standard equipment, allowing you to practice with real networking hardware and software. This hands-on approach helps you build confidence and familiarity with the tools used in real-world IT environments.
Hands-On Training for Real-World Skills
CyberTex focuses on practical, skill-based training. Through lab exercises, simulations, and troubleshooting scenarios, you gain the experience to handle real-world networking challenges. This hands-on approach ensures you are job-ready from day one.
What Do You Learn During the Network Engineer Program at CyberTex?
CyberTex provides you with the essential skills and hands-on experience needed to succeed in IT. During this program you will learn various topics related to network infrastructures. Here’s what you’ll learn:
Connecting and Managing Microsoft & Linux Networks
You gain hands-on experience setting up, configuring, and maintaining Microsoft Windows and Linux networks. This includes managing IT infrastructures, ensuring seamless connectivity, and troubleshooting common issues across different operating systems.
Implementing and Maintaining Microsoft Windows Platforms
CyberTex’s curriculum covers the latest Microsoft Windows desktop and server technologies, teaching you how to implement, lead, administer, and maintain advanced Microsoft environments. This is crucial for businesses that rely on Microsoft-based IT infrastructures.
Troubleshooting, Configuring, and Managing Network Devices
This course provides in-depth training on networking hardware, including routers, switches, and firewalls. You will learn how to configure, optimize, and troubleshoot these devices for secure and efficient network operations.
Building Network Architecture & Maintaining Documentation
Understanding network design and architecture is a key part of the program. During this course, you will learn how to build and maintain scalable network infrastructures while documenting configurations and changes for effective network management.
Enterprise Network Topologies & IT Security Analysis
The program offers insight into enterprise-level networking, covering topics like network topology, cybersecurity, and risk assessment. You will learn to analyze security threats, implement protective measures, and ensure compliance with industry standards.
What Certifications Does the Network Engineer Program Prepare You For?
The Network Engineer Program at CyberTex equips you with the technical knowledge and hands-on experience needed to earn industry-recognized certifications. These certifications validate your skills and enhance networking, cybersecurity, and IT infrastructure job opportunities.
Core Certifications
CompTIA A+ – Covers fundamental IT support, hardware, software, and troubleshooting skills.
CompTIA Network+ – Focuses on networking concepts, protocols, and security best practices.
CompTIA Security+ – Provides a strong cybersecurity, risk management, and network security foundation.
CompTIA Server+ – Covers server administration, storage, and troubleshooting in data centers.
Cloud & Microsoft Certifications
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner – Introduces cloud computing fundamentals, including AWS services and cloud security.
Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals – Provides knowledge of Microsoft Azure cloud services and solutions.
Advanced Networking & Cybersecurity Certifications
CompTIA Linux+ – Focuses on Linux system administration, networking, and security.
CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) – Covers threat detection, security analytics, and proactive defense strategies.
CompTIA Stackable Certifications
These stackable certifications demonstrate expertise in specialized IT areas by combining multiple certifications:
CompTIA Security Analytics Professional (Security+ / CySA+) – Validates cybersecurity and threat analysis expertise.
CompTIA IT Operations Specialist (A+ / Network+) – Demonstrates IT support and networking fundamentals skills.
CompTIA Systems Support Specialist (A+ / Linux+) – Combines IT support and Linux administration skills.
CompTIA Network Infrastructure Professional (Network+ / Server+) – Recognizes network and server infrastructure expertise.
CompTIA Linux Network Professional (Network+ / Linux+) – Focuses on Linux networking and security.
CompTIA Secure Infrastructure Specialist (A+ / Network+ / Security+) – Demonstrates well-rounded IT, networking, and security knowledge.
By completing the Network Engineer Program, you receive expert training and preparation for these certifications, making you highly competitive in the IT job market.
50 Network Engineer Terms to Know
As an introduction to networking, here are 50 networking terms you should know:
IP Address – A unique identifier assigned to a device on a network for communication.
Subnet Mask – A number that defines network and host portions of an IP address.
Gateway – A network device that routes traffic from a local network to other networks.
Router – A device that forwards data packets between different networks.
Switch – A network device that connects devices within the same network and directs data efficiently.
Firewall – A security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic.
MAC Address – A unique hardware identifier assigned to network interfaces for communication on a local network.
DNS (Domain Name System) – A system that translates domain names (e.g., google.com) into IP addresses.
DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) – A protocol that automatically assigns IP addresses to devices on a network.
VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) – A network segmentation method that separates devices within the same physical network.
LAN (Local Area Network) – A network that connects devices in a limited area, such as a home or office.
WAN (Wide Area Network) – A network that connects multiple LANs over large geographic areas.
SSID (Service Set Identifier) – The name of a wireless network.
Encryption – The process of converting data into a secure format to prevent unauthorized access.
Port Number – A numerical identifier for specific network services (e.g., HTTP uses port 80).
TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) – The fundamental protocol suite for internet communication.
UDP (User Datagram Protocol) – A fast, connectionless protocol used for streaming and real-time applications.
Ping – A network tool used to test connectivity between devices.
Traceroute – A diagnostic tool that shows the path data takes to reach a destination.
Packet – A unit of data transmitted over a network.
Bandwidth – The maximum data transfer rate of a network connection.
Latency – The delay in data transmission between source and destination.
Throughput – The actual data transfer rate over a network.
QoS (Quality of Service) – A technique used to manage network traffic and prioritize certain types of data.
VPN (Virtual Private Network) – A secure connection that encrypts data over the internet.
Proxy Server – A server that acts as an intermediary between a user and the internet.
Load Balancer – A device or software that distributes network traffic across multiple servers.
NAT (Network Address Translation) – A technique that allows multiple devices to share a single public IP address.
PoE (Power over Ethernet) – A technology that allows network cables to carry electrical power.
DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) – A network area that provides controlled access between internal and external networks.
802.11 – A family of wireless networking standards (e.g., Wi-Fi).
SSO (Single Sign-On) – A system that allows users to log in once and access multiple applications.
RADIUS (Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service) – A protocol used for network authentication.
LDAP (Lightweight Directory Access Protocol) – A protocol used to access and manage directory services.
Intrusion Detection System (IDS) – A security tool that monitors network traffic for suspicious activity.
Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) – A system that actively blocks detected threats on a network.
IPv4 (Internet Protocol Version 4) – The most widely used IP addressing system, using 32-bit addresses.
IPv6 (Internet Protocol Version 6) – A newer IP addressing system that uses 128-bit addresses for more capacity.
Ethernet – A wired networking standard used for LAN connections.
Mesh Network – A network topology where devices interconnect directly for redundancy and coverage.
Star Network – A topology where all devices connect to a central switch or hub.
Bus Network – A topology where all devices share a common communication line.
Ring Network – A topology where devices are connected in a circular path.
Hybrid Network – A combination of two or more network topologies.
MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) – A high-performance routing technique used in enterprise and service provider networks.
BGP (Border Gateway Protocol) – The protocol used to exchange routing information between different networks on the internet.
OSPF (Open Shortest Path First) – A routing protocol used to find the best path for data in an IP network.
Zero Trust Security – A security model that assumes no device or user is automatically trusted within a network.
Syslog – A protocol used for logging system messages in network devices.
SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) – A protocol used to monitor and manage network devices.
Want to Learn More?
Ready to become a network engineer? IT careers have become essential not just in Austin but globally, and there is no better time to pick up than now. In 2021, Austin was ranked #1 in Best Tech City for IT jobs by CompTIA, and the demand is only growing.
Ready to start a rewarding and challenging career in IT as a network engineer? The Network Engineer Program at CyberTex prepares you for advanced computer networking & security jobs. You will learn the skills and abilities to set up, install, configure, repair, and manage modern computer networks and their security.
Contact us today to learn more about our Network Engineer program.
