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    Networking Career Paths
    03 November 21

    Networking Career Paths

    Posted byINE
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    When we talk about networking, we have to establish that we aren’t talking about the social connection; we’re talking about software interconnectivity. Have you ever wondered about how servers talk to each other and how that communication impacts your business assets or who is managing the network operations?

    We’ll be bringing you career path blogs for all of our Information Technology focus areas, and to start us off, we’re taking a deep dive into what Networking career paths are available to you.

    What does a Networking career entail?

    Networking is an all-encompassing role that focuses on computer communications between software and hardware devices. The network, servers, and systems are what allow businesses to function normally. Without them, cash registers won’t work, emails won’t load, and everyday work functions can’t take place, which could result in business failure.

    The role of networking specialists typically includes IP addressing and subnetting, network automation, and deep understanding as well as the ability to report on firewall technologies. Additionally, they have been known to implement and optimize border gateway protocols, finding areas for design improvement and executing the developed configurations to fit the company needs.

    Networkers provide balanced and reliable connections which enable companies to protect their data and asset communications, so it’s important to have a wide array of experience. The ultimate goal in networking is to keep the systems working smoothly and efficiently so the organization can continue carrying out standard operations.

    What are some Networking career options?

    Highly-trained networking professionals have been increasing in demand over the past decade with about 5% increases each year in networking career opportunities. There are a wide variety of job opportunities in this field, all of which provide great starting salaries and opportunities for career development.

    Network Administrator

    This is a common entry-level role for professionals starting out in computer networking. These administrators are typically in charge of software and hardware system upkeep. Their primary focus will be the company network components and management/implementation of network assignments and protocols. Common certifications associated with this position include the basic CCNA, CCNP, or CompTIA Security+ certification.

    Wireless Network Engineer

    Wireless engineers design, implement, and optimize the wireless LAN and other wireless technology in a company. This role typically requires a CCIE Enterprise Wireless certification but also has a higher average salary as it is more advanced than its entry-level Network Administrator counterpart and is a part of the networking career growth path.

    Networking Security Engineer

    This role solves existing security issues, tests systems for vulnerabilities, and maintains virtual private networks (very popular in the growing remote work culture), firewalls, email security, and general web protocols. Expected certifications for this role include CCNA Cyber Ops, CCNP Security, CCIE Security, and/or Google Cloud Security Engineer.

    Network Architect

    Considered the most advanced role in Networking, a Network Architect is responsible for designing and reviewing network requirements and capabilities. Professionals in this role often have the following certifications: CCNA Cisco Certified Network Associate, CCNP Cisco Certified Network Professional, or CCDE Cisco Certified Design Expert.

    How does INE help?

    INE provides hands-on labs and training material that allow you and your team to practice working in various enterprise networks in a risk-free setting. Our in-depth solutions give you a chance to try out your network automation skills before you need to execute in business critical scenarios.

    You can work through our Networking Learning Paths in addition to virtual, interactive labs and quizzes. Learning Paths are designed to help you keep track of your course progress and see what is left to master while covering various fundamentals of infrastructure implementation and routing techniques. Regardless of the topic you choose to focus on, our experts have carefully designed the information to ensure clarity and an engaging experience.

    Our virtual labs, quizzes, and instructor-led training videos have been designed with your success in mind and will help you master the keys to network automation, virtual infrastructures, as well as implementation and optimization techniques for a well-rounded training experience. 

    Learn more about INE Networking training today!

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