How Do I Become a Network Engineer?

Network engineers do important work in creating the computer infrastructure of a company. A network engineer may have the task of choosing the computer system that stores all of the data for a company. He or she may manage the way in which employee information is stored in a computer. The network engineer may also suggest virus protection options for a company. He or she may be responsible for choosing software that a network depends upon for avoiding viruses. One of the other important roles of a network engineer is to consult with companies about how to improve an existing e-mail system. There are many companies that created an e-mail system for their employees in the 90s and now need to update it in order to improve its performance. You may be called upon to consult with companies about choosing a better e-mail system. Maybe you have wondered, “How do I become a network engineer?” When you want to become a network engineer, you should try to pursue an internship in the IT department of a company.

What’s it like to be a network engineer?

As a network engineer, you will probably handle multiple projects dealing with a company’s infrastructure at once. You will need to figure out ways to improve the functioning of a company’s computer system. You may need to research ways that you can improve the efficiency of a company’s computer system. It may also be imperative for you to resolve any virus issues that a company currently faces. You will need to get rid of viruses that may be impeding the functioning of a system. Employees may consult with you about accessing certain records in the company’s computer system. You may need to figure out the best system of organization for a company’s computer files.

Education Requirements

To become a network engineer, it is helpful to pursue a bachelor’s degree in computer science or network security. Companies are increasingly seeking out individuals who understand computer coding languages. It is important for you to understand how to translate computer coding language in creating a new website for a company. You should also have a strong understanding of cyber-attacks and how to protect a company from them. If you have a degree in network security, then companies will be more likely to hire you. Having additional degrees can also make you a more competitive candidate in this field. If you have a master’s degree, then you may also be able to negotiate a better starting salary for a position as a network engineer.

Salary & How to Get a Job

The starting salary for a network engineer is about $70,000 a year. The BLS reports that there will be a large increase in the demand for network engineers in the future. As more companies create websites for retail purposes, they require the assistance of network engineers to maintain those websites. To obtain a position in this field, network engineers should simply look for available positions at large corporations. A person may also be able to obtain a position as a network engineer by simply accepting an entry-level IT tech position with a company. When you establish yourself as an IT expert within a company, a supervisor will be persuaded that you have the skills necessary to become a network engineer.

References:
1. http://www.ehow.com/how_2071007_become-network-engineer.html