Are you interested in taking the CompTIA certification exams but not sure what they are used for? If you are interested in becoming an IT specialist, then you will want to have some CompTIA certifications on your resume. CompTIA certifications provide your employer with the knowledge that you take your craft seriously and that you have the knowledge needed to pass CompTIA certification exams. One role in IT that is in demand is network engineer. So, what does a network engineer do?
What Does a Network Engineer Do?
What does a network engineer do over the course of an average day? A network engineer’s duties can be divided into three main categories. These involve working with hardware, software, and people. Though it’s quite common for all these elements to come together within the context of a single project.
Network Hardware
A network engineer’s duties will involve a full range of computer and networking hardware. These include servers, desktop systems, routers, and switches. Network engineers will need to install or uninstall hardware to meet their employer’s needs. And part of a network engineer’s role includes performing regular maintenance and upkeep on hardware to ensure everything is working smoothly.
Network Software
Network engineers also need to understand different software systems. This includes all desktop and mobile operating systems used on company hardware. However, network engineers should also have a firm grasp of all operating systems and software suites found in professional environments.
Both networking hardware and software come together under the larger banner of system security. Many organizations will have a dedicated position or even a department related to network security. However, network engineers should also have an understanding of network security. Network engineers need to plan for security concerns when first designing and implementing a new network, and this interest in security will continue through real-time network monitoring and data analysis of network activity. Network engineers should also understand the common security risks within desktop systems and how to protect against them.
People Management
Finally, network engineers will often educate coworkers about issues related to the company’s network. This can range from discussion of new security policies to writing or explaining network documentation. A network engineer will not only need to design and maintain a network but also explain aspects of it to non-technical coworkers.
What is CompTIA Certification Used For?
CompTIA is a non-profit organization that tests and certifies IT professional’s mastery of a wide range of IT-related subjects. The organization is well known for the strictness and comprehensiveness of its certification exams.
CompTIA certification demonstrates that the holder has fully mastered the subjects covered within it. This makes CompTIA certifications an incredibly important tool for employers. When someone sees an applicant with CompTIA certification it’s clear that they have both the skills needed to earn the certification and the drive to complete the process. Likewise, it’s an important way for job applicants to distinguish themselves from the competition.
How Do You Become a Network Engineer?
At this point, it’s clear that you need to master many skills to work as a network engineer. And one of the best ways to highlight that mastery to potential employers is through CompTIA certification. However, there’s still a question of exactly how to go about gaining those skills. Most professionals agree that attending a technical school is an easier way to meet all those criteria and prepare for CompTIA certification exams.
What CompTIA Certification Exams Does a Technical School Prepare You For?
Technical schools can provide an in-depth education in many areas of IT. This makes it a good match for the skills required for a network engineer position. A network engineer program at a technical school will prepare you for the following CompTIA certifications:
CompTIA A+
A+ is one of the foundational certifications provided by CompTIA. It covers the fundamental elements of IT. This includes desktop, server, and even mobile devices. It also covers basic aspects of networking and network security.
Network+
The CompTIA Network+ certification moves beyond the basic networking covered on the A+ exam. The Network+ certification prepares you for more advanced network design. It also provides a deeper look into networking hardware and virtualization. You’ll also find a more in-depth look at network security.
Security+
The CompTIA Security+ certification has some overlap with the networking security covered in Network+. However, Security+ goes into even more depth on the subject to provide advanced techniques to harden networks and proactively protect them from threats. It also covers more exotic platforms such as hybrid environments, the Internet of Things, and cloud systems. Additionally, Security+ covers real-time network monitoring to analyze and neutralize threats the moment they appear.
Server+
CompTIA Server+ certification incorporates many of the concepts presented in the previous certifications. However, it also introduces topics specific to the typical server environment. This includes issues like server installation, management, and administration. These topics cover both a server’s hardware and software-based components.
Linux+
Network engineers leverage CompTIA Linux+ related skills to work with a server’s operating system. The Server+ certification covers the full range of popular operating systems used in enterprise-level servers. However, Linux+ puts additional emphasis on one of the most popular operating systems used in both traditional and cloud-based servers. This includes working with Linux kernel modules, shell scripting, automation, and the use of git for code management.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know what a CompTIA certification is used for, it is time to learn more about CyberTex’s Network Engineer Program. If you have a passion for information technology and an ability to problem solve then becoming a network engineer may be the right career path for you.
Want to Learn More?
Ready to learn more about becoming a network engineer? The Network Engineer Program at CyberTex prepares you for advanced computer networking jobs. CyberTex offers IT training for 10+ certifications in the Network Engineer program, including Microsoft Azure, AWS, and other CompTIA and Microsoft certifications. Contact us today to learn more.