what is a network engineer?

As a network engineer, you maintain the connectivity of networks in organisations. You ensure data, calls, videos, voice, and wireless network services are always available. The role involves formulating, executing and implementing entire computer networks in a company. You ensure all the network systems are functioning correctly. You also provide quality network infrastructure, performance and security to end users.

Aside from installing and implementing network systems, you monitor the existing networks. You assess any network problems and devise solutions to improve connectivity. You also perform routine maintenance on critical systems. That involves evaluating performance and diagnosing and repairing network issues. Regular maintenance enhances network security for end users.

Successful network engineers rely on their technical skills to configure and maintain network architectures, including cloud computing, programming and cybersecurity. There are numerous specialised fields to explore in network engineering. For instance, you can become a network security specialist or a network architect. You also require soft skills —like analytical and problem-solving abilities— to diagnose and troubleshoot issues in the computer networks. A meticulous eye for detail is also valuable in the role.

Would working as a network engineer suit your programming skills and problem-solving ability? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in a network engineer role.

network engineer jobs
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average network engineer salary

According to the Economic Research Institute, network engineers in Greece earn an average salary of €49,900 per year. Many companies also pay annual bonuses, so you could get an average bonus of €1,900. Your compensation package depends on various factors, including academic qualifications, experience and the complexity of your duties. For instance, in an entry-level network engineer position, you start with a lower salary of €34,300 yearly due to your minimal experience. When you have sufficient experience and can handle complex duties, your earning potential increases to over €61,000 annually.

what factors affect the salary of a network engineer?

Your earnings are influenced by work experience and educational qualifications. That’s why entry-level network engineers earn a lower salary. As you gain more experience, you can perform complex duties for the company. Your area of specialism also influences your earnings. For example, working as a network security expert requires additional experience and specialised skills in order to identify and detect cyber security threats.

The size of the company you work for also influences your earnings. Working for a large company boosts your earning potential due to the complexity of the duties in the role. Large organisations also have more resources and can afford to pay higher network engineer salaries.

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types of network engineers

Some of the specialisations for network engineers include:

man at work using a desktop computer
man at work using a desktop computer
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working as a network engineer

As a network engineer, you install and maintain company network systems. Read on to learn about the duties, tasks, work environments and career opportunities of a network engineer.

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network engineer skills and education

Here are the qualifications you require to become a network engineer:

  • Education: to work as a network engineer, complete a bachelor’s degree course in computer science. You can also pursue relevant courses in computer systems engineering, network security or information technology. These courses prepare you for the role, as you will learn how to troubleshoot network issues. If you want to improve your career prospects as a network engineer, consider getting a master’s degree in computer science.
  • Certifications and work experience: gain relevant work experience through internships and other entry-level networking roles. To remain competitive in the field, you require constant training to keep up with new technologies. For additional training, you can pursue IT network certifications, such as Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), CompTIA Network+ or Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP).

competencies and characteristics of network engineers

Some of the qualities that will help you excel as a network engineer include:

  • Problem-solving skills: you require problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities to resolve network connectivity issues. Your diagnostic skills help you identify and evaluate problems in network systems to ensure they operate optimally.
  • Time management: you require good time management skills to resolve network connectivity issues quickly and minimise downtimes. Planning your tasks carefully and ensuring you complete installations within the expected deadline is essential.
  • Project management: as a network engineer, you coordinate several aspects of a project. You take care of the network selection process to the final implementation and configuration. Your job is to coordinate the installation process while ensuring minimal network disruptions and downtimes.
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FAQs

Here, you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about the profession of a network engineer.

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