Is Network Engineering a Dying Field?

Is Network Engineering a Dying Field? An In-Depth Analysis

Let me just say that Network Engineering is near and dear to my heart. It’s the only IT specialty I’ve ever done (the only thing I’m half decently good at) and so I’ll try and keep my own bias out of this article (you’ve been warned). Without further adieu, here we go!

The rapid evolution of technology continually reshapes the landscape of various professions, and network engineering is no exception. As automation, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence (AI) advance, many wonder if network engineering is becoming obsolete. In this blog, we delve into the arguments for and against this perspective, providing a comprehensive analysis of the future of network engineering.

The Case for Network Engineering as a Dying Field

1. Rise of Automation and AI

Automation and AI are increasingly capable of performing tasks traditionally handled by network engineers. Automated network configuration, management, and monitoring tools can reduce the need for manual intervention, potentially diminishing the demand for network engineering roles.

2. Cloud Computing

The shift to cloud computing has led many organizations to outsource their networking needs to cloud service providers like AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure or as I like to call them, “the big 3”. These providers handle much of the network infrastructure, reducing the need for in-house network engineers. Although, depending on your environment, you may need to fit the company's needs into the cloud environment and some nuance does come into play.

3. Software-Defined Networking (SDN)

Software-defined networking abstracts the control plane from the data plane, allowing network administrators to manage network services through software. This reduces the complexity of network management and may decrease the need for specialized network engineers. As some of you may know, years ago MPLS was the “darling” of the industry and was the preferred WAN connectivity for many years. SDN seems to be the new “champion” in this space, especially with SDWAN being so commonplace and effectively replacing MPLS.

4. Edge Computing

Edge computing decentralizes data processing to the edge of the network, closer to the source of data. While this creates new networking challenges, it also means that traditional network engineering roles focused on centralized data centers may see reduced demand.

The Case Against Network Engineering as a Dying Field

1. Growing Network Complexity

Despite advancements in automation and cloud services, the complexity of modern networks continues to grow. The proliferation of IoT devices, the expansion of 5G networks, and the need for robust cybersecurity measures create new challenges that require skilled network engineers to address.

2. Hybrid Cloud Environments

Many organizations adopt hybrid cloud environments, combining on-premises infrastructure with cloud services. This approach requires network engineers to design, implement, and manage seamless connectivity between different environments, ensuring optimal performance and security. In today’s infrastructure, this seems to be an ongoing battle that isn’t slowing down anytime soon.

3. Cybersecurity Needs

As cyber threats become more sophisticated, the need for network engineers with expertise in security is more critical than ever. Network engineers play a vital role in designing and maintaining secure networks, implementing firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and other security measures. This goes back to point number 1 and the rise in complex networks, as the need for security becomes more and more paramount, complexity rises. Also, as companies get closer to a zero-trust environment, crank up the complexity!

4. Emerging Technologies

Emerging technologies such as IoT, 5G, and edge computing introduce new networking requirements and challenges. Network engineers must adapt to these changes, ensuring that networks can support the increased demand for low latency, high bandwidth, and reliable connectivity.

5. Human Oversight and Problem-Solving

While automation and AI can handle routine tasks, complex problem-solving, and strategic planning still require human expertise. I am all about “automating the boring stuff” but network engineers bring critical thinking, creativity, and experience to troubleshoot issues, optimize performance, and plan for future growth.

Conclusion: The Future of Network Engineering

Network engineering is not a dying field but rather a field in transition. The role of network engineers is evolving as they adapt to new technologies and changing business needs. While automation, cloud computing, and AI transform certain aspects of network management, the increasing complexity of modern networks, cybersecurity needs, and the rise of emerging technologies ensure that skilled network engineers will continue to be in demand.

To thrive in this evolving landscape, network engineers must embrace continuous learning and stay updated with the latest technological advancements. By doing so, they can position themselves as indispensable assets to their organizations, ready to tackle the challenges of the future.

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