Are you interested in becoming a network engineer but not sure if it is an IT job? Information technology covers many aspects of computers and networks, and also encompasses network engineer. Whether you are interested in how computers and networks work or are a great problem solver, becoming a network engineer may be the job for you. So, what is information technology?
What is Information Technology?
Information Technology involves the use of computers, networks, software, and other technologies to store, process, and communicate data and information. IT covers many technologies, including systems and services and the people that design, develop, maintain, and support those technologies.
What Does a Network Engineer Do?
A network engineer deploys and maintains business applications, services, and infrastructure. They monitor, organize, and troubleshoot application performance. A network engineer will also be tasked with overseeing the security of applications, services, and infrastructure.
According to TechTarget, a network engineer focuses on several key areas:
Administration – the day-to-day deployment, operation and monitoring of IT systems, networks, and applications. A network engineer admin will implement software upgrades, complete user training, administer software licenses, implement security protocols, manage data, and make sure employees adhere to compliance requirements.
Support – A network engineer that answers questions, gathers information and troubleshoots hardware and software.
Compliance – a network engineer in this role will make sure the company adheres to government and industry specific regulatory requirements. This may include prevention, detection, investigation and reporting of network breaches.
Is Network Engineer an IT Job?
Yes, network engineer is part of the over all Information Technology department. A network engineer focuses mostly on computer network design and data management. Some network engineers work directly with physical servers while others manage data communications in the cloud. Ultimately, the network engineer is responsible for planning, implementing, and monitoring computer networks. This can be completed through configuring, maintaining, optimizing, and securing network infrastructure.
What Are Some IT Jobs Available to Network Engineer Graduates?
There are many IT jobs to choose from when you graduate from a Network Engineer program. These jobs include:
Systems Administrator – supports, troubleshoots, and maintains computer networks and IT stacks. They are normally the first point of contact when an employee has a technical problem. For example, someone that has problem accessing the Internet will contact the systems administrator for guidance. The system administrator will gather information from the user to define and fix the network problem. A systems administrator may also install and upgrade computer components and software.
Network Administrator – according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, network administrators are responsible for the day-to-day operation of the network infrastructure. They may organize, install and support an organization’s network including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), network segments, intranets and other data communication systems. They identify the needs of the organization and install network hardware and software. Network administrators may also maintain the network’s security and system performance.
Network Engineer – an IT role that sets up and maintains networks by installing, configuring, and supporting network equipment. Some of the network equipment includes:
- Routers – a device that forwards data packets across computer networks. Routers allow users to access the Internet, transfer files, share printers and secure the network.
- Proxy Servers – a computer system that acts as an intermediary between a client and server. It provides security, anonymity, and privacy for users on the Internet.
- Switches – a device that connects different devices to a network to help those devices to communicate together.
- WAN accelerators – a type of hardware device or software solution that improves the performance and speed of a WAN connection.
- DNS – Domain Name System enables the translation of domain names into associated IP addresses. The network DNS finds the corresponding IP address and directs the user to the appropriate website.
- DHCP – Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol used to configure network devices on a network. It does this by assigning an IP address to a device on the network.
Technical Support Representative – this role provides technical assistance to resolve issues with computers, networks, and other devices. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, a technical support representative tests and evaluates existing network systems. They perform network and computer maintenance to ensure networks operate properly. They may also troubleshoot local area networks, wide area networks and internet systems.
How Do You Become a Network Engineer?
A great way to become a network engineer is by attending a Network Engineer program at CyberTex. Did you know that you can complete this program in as little as 45 weeks? This program offers information technology training and IT skills that will prepare you for a role as a network engineer.
This program focuses on 13 IT certifications that include:
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Microsoft 365 Certification
- CompTIA Server+
- AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals Certification
- CompTIA Linux+
- CompTIA Operations Specialist
- CompTIA Systems Support Specialist
- CompTIA Network Infrastructure Professional
- CompTIA Linux Network Professional
- CompTIA Secure Infrastructure Specialist
Final Thoughts
Are you ready to start a network engineer job in the IT industry? CyberTex is here to help you get started in your new IT career. Take the first step and contact us to learn more about the Network Engineer program at CyberTex.
Want to Learn More?
IT careers have become essential not just in Austin but globally, and there is no better time to pick up than now. In 2019 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? Network Engineer Program at CyberTex prepares you for advanced computer networking & security jobs. The course prepares you in the most advanced networking certifications and software available including Windows 10, Windows 2012R2 Server and multiple CompTIA offerings. You will learn the skills and abilities necessary to setup, install, configure, repair, and manage modern computer networks and their security.
