Becoming A Network Architect: What You Need To Know

If a career in network engineering (network architecture) interests you, then you have come to the right place. Here we have put together a simple guide to how you can become a network engineer, for more information keep reading below:

First things first, what is a network engineer? Obviously, you will probably know this, but for anyone who doesn’t, here is a quick definition. A network engineer is someone who handles all the equipment that makes up a company’s network. The network is what links all of the company’s computers and servers together, as well as linking internet access, wireless, and links to remote sites.

If network engineering interests you, the big question is, how can you get your foot in the door and become a network engineer?

Here is our guide to becoming a network engineer:

Build your experience
The most common route into network engineering is by starting off as a junior engineer. However, before you have any hope of landing a junior engineer job, you will first need to get some experience.

The best way to build up experience is either by interning or shadowing a network engineer or by simply practicing at home. If you fancy practicing at home, have a look online for some second-hand switches and put them together at home. What this entails is using the internet to teach yourself a basic knowledge at home, before going out into the real world.

Get some professional training
The next step is to get yourself some professional training and qualifications. Although you can learn a lot from practicing and watching YouTube tutorials, for a career in network engineering, you need professional training.

The best way to get professional training is via online self-learning, like the CCNP routing and switching qualification. The best thing about doing an online qualification is that you can do it at a time that suits your current job and other commitments.

Keep practicing in your spare time
Even if you don’t get a job straight away, make sure that you keep practicing in your spare time. The more skills you learn and the more practice you get, the better you will get at network engineering.

Look for any local companies that could do with some network engineering help. Business startups are always a good place to start. While you are still learning, offer to work for free. And then as you develop your skills and gain more experience, there may be the possibility of a paid role.

Look for jobs
There are thousands of network engineering jobs available, so make sure to keep looking at job sites for the perfect role. Once you have got all your qualifications and have spent some time working for free at a small business startup, you can start applying for jobs.

Make sure to put your qualifications, experience and key skills on your resume. Only apply for junior engineering roles to begin with, and then after a couple of years you can apply for more advanced roles.

While network engineering can be hard to get into, if you put in the time and get the relevant qualifications and experience, finding a role shouldn’t be too tricky.

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