Breaking Into Network Engineering: A Guide for Aspiring Network Engineers
Are you passionate about technology, curious about how networks work, and interested in a career as a network engineer? The path to becoming a successful network engineer can be challenging, but with the right guidance and preparation, you can break into the field and land your first role. In this blog, we’ll explore what aspiring network engineers should study, key certifications to pursue, and practical tips for getting your foot in the door.
What is a Network Engineer?
A network engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, managing, and troubleshooting network systems that allow organizations to communicate and share data efficiently. Whether you’re building internal networks, connecting multiple sites, or managing cloud infrastructure, network engineers ensure that data flows securely and smoothly across devices.
What Should an Aspiring Network Engineer Study?
Understand Networking Fundamentals
Before diving into complex networking concepts, it’s essential to build a strong foundation in networking basics. You should study topics like:
OSI Model: Learn about the seven layers of the OSI model and how data moves through them. (Where are my ‘Please Do Not Throw Sausage Pizza Away’ people at?!)
IP Addressing and Subnetting: Understand how IP addresses work and the concept of subnetting.
TCP/IP Protocol Suite: Study the core protocols (TCP, UDP, IP, ICMP) that enable device communication.
DNS and DHCP: Learn how DNS resolves domain names and how DHCP assigns IP addresses.
Recommended Resources:
Books: Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach by Kurose & Ross
Online courses: Cisco’s Networking Basics or CompTIA’s Network+
Gain Hands-on Experience with Hardware and Software
Start working with real networking hardware, like switches and routers, or use network simulators to practice configuration. Platforms like Cisco Packet Tracer, GNS3, or Eve-NG allow you to build virtual networks and simulate real-world scenarios without needing physical devices.
Focus Areas:
Routing and Switching: Practice configuring routers and switches for traffic management.
VLANs and VPNs: Learn how to segment networks using VLANs and create secure connections with VPNs.
Firewalls and Security: Study the basics of securing a network with firewalls and access control lists (ACLs).
Master Network Automation
Network engineering is evolving rapidly, with automation becoming an essential skill. Learn scripting languages like Python and explore tools like Ansible or Terraform that automate network configurations. Familiarity with automation will set you apart in the competitive job market.
Recommended Resources:
Courses: Python for Network Engineers (by David Bombal), Network Automation with Ansible (Cisco DevNet)
Study Cloud Networking
Cloud networking is a critical skill as more companies adopt AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud for hybrid and multi-cloud environments. Learn how virtual private clouds (VPCs), subnets, and gateways work in these platforms, and understand how to integrate cloud networks with on-premise infrastructure.
Recommended Certifications:
Certifications to Jumpstart Your Career
We did a whole blog on this alone but felt it was worth re-mentioning this as part of a larger topic. If you’d like to check it out, you can do so here. Certifications are essential to demonstrate your knowledge and make your resume stand out. Here are the top certifications that will give you a strong start in the network engineering field:
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
The CCNA certification is one of the most recognized credentials for aspiring network engineers. It covers networking fundamentals, IP connectivity, security basics, and automation concepts. Earning your CCNA shows that you have a solid understanding of essential networking topics.Preparation Tips: Take practice exams, and use tools like Cisco’s Packet Tracer to simulate network environments.
CompTIA Network+
Network+ is a vendor-neutral certification that provides a broad introduction to networking concepts. It covers everything from IP addressing and routing to network security and wireless technologies, making it a great starting point if you're new to networking. Our opinion is, if you’re aiming to be in the networking field, we feel the CCNA holds more weight (and will get you better money/more looks from companies). If you’re looking to go into another field and want an understanding of basic networking, Net+ is a great option.Cisco Certified DevNet Associate
With network automation gaining traction, the Cisco DevNet Associate certification focuses on programming and automation using Cisco platforms. This certification is ideal for those who want to integrate software development with networking.AWS Certified Advanced Networking
For aspiring network engineers interested in cloud networking, this certification is a great choice. It validates your ability to design and manage complex networking tasks using AWS technologies.
How to Break Into Your First Network Engineering Role
Build a Home Lab or Use Virtual Labs
Setting up your own home lab or using virtual labs is one of the best ways to gain hands-on experience. Use tools like GNS3, Cisco Packet Tracer, or Eve-NG to build complex networks, test configurations, and troubleshoot issues.
Document your lab work. When you apply for jobs, you can showcase your practical experience with real-world configurations and troubleshooting scenarios.
Start Small: Internships or Entry-Level IT Jobs
Many network engineers start with helpdesk or technical support roles. These positions expose you to basic networking tasks like configuring routers, troubleshooting connectivity issues, and supporting end-users.
Look for internships or entry-level jobs that allow you to assist with networking projects. Internships are invaluable in gaining practical experience and building industry connections.
Network with Industry Professionals
Join professional organizations like CompTIA or Cisco Networking Academy to network with other IT professionals. Attend industry events, join forums, and engage with networking communities on platforms like LinkedIn and Reddit.
Networking (the social kind!) can lead to valuable opportunities and mentorship that will help you land your first job.
Leverage Online Communities
Participate in online communities such as Spiceworks, Network Engineering Stack Exchange, and Reddit's r/networking. These communities provide great opportunities to ask questions, solve problems, and demonstrate your expertise.
Sharing your own knowledge and contributing to these communities also helps you build credibility in the field.
Create a Personal Portfolio or Blog
Showcase your skills by building a personal portfolio or tech blog (hey! like this one!). Document your learning journey, lab setups, and solutions to real-world networking problems. A blog can serve as a valuable asset when applying for jobs, as it demonstrates your dedication to learning and your ability to communicate technical concepts clearly.
Tools like GitHub can be used to share your scripts or automation projects, which will be especially useful if you’re applying for roles focused on network automation.
Prepare for Technical Interviews
Once you’ve landed an interview, expect technical questions. Familiarize yourself with networking scenarios, subnetting problems, routing protocols, and common troubleshooting steps.
Use platforms like LeetCode or NetworkLessons.com to practice interview questions related to network configuration, routing, and automation.
Final Thoughts
Breaking into the network engineering field requires a solid foundation in networking fundamentals, hands-on experience, and certifications that validate your skills. By studying topics like IP networking, automation, and cloud platforms, and actively participating in communities and internships, you can gain the experience needed to land your first role.
Remember, network engineering is a constantly evolving field, so stay curious and committed to learning. With the right preparation, dedication, and networking (both social and technical), you'll be well on your way to a successful career in network engineering.