How to Escape Your Entry-Level IT Role

Since you will work with open-source networking tools, you should also consider learning Linux and Bash. Most hiring companies require job applicants to at least have a bachelor’s degree. A degree in computer science or a similar topic is a good option. You can also pursue further education with a Master’s Degree in Computer Science. If you want to learn one skill at a time, an online course can help. They are shorter, more immersive options that can give you a certificate in a specific skill or topic. Network engineering online courses are popular among professionals in the field who want to upskill.

You’ll likely assist senior engineers with networking tasks and work on a variety of projects. Multiple application deadlines make it easy to grow in your current networking career or launch a new one in just 20 months. This certification can prove that you are a problem solver in today’s core technologies. It is one of the most common certifications in network and cyber security.

Network Engineering Degrees

The only way to improve your hands-on skill is to actually be involved in designing or managing different kinds of networks. Because maintenance and upgrades are often down after hours, you’re likely to work late hours of the day and sometimes over the weekend. You can also expand your network by joining forums and signing how to become a help desk engineer up with professional associations in your region. Having a strong network will not only help keep you updated on emerging trends, it will also expand your visibility to possible job openings. After one or more years of working as a technician, you’d have gained enough experience to decide your ideal career path.

Don’t allow the experiences of a select few male you think something that largely is not true. But, also keep in mind the importance of understanding the big picture of the IT industry. However, when you break into an entry-level role (whether it’s the helpdesk or something along the same lines), you need to figure out how to move up ASAP. A successful networking expert needs strong interpersonal skills.

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Some companies, for example, use Cisco products, and others exclusively work with Microsoft software. IT certifications, coding bootcamps, and online courses are great resources to help you specialize. It is critical to make sure your network is secure, especially if it contains sensitive company data. Although most organizations have a dedicated security officer, everyone on an IT team has a role to play in network security, including the network engineer. Network engineers are in charge of designing, developing, and maintaining the network infrastructure.

However, network administrators are the ones who look after the network systems within a company. Once the network has been developed, it is the responsibility of the network administrator to maintain it. A network technician is everything we’ve discussed so far.

Specialize your networking role.

For network engineering and security professionals looking for a Cisco or vendor-agnostic experience. I also know someone who went from being totally broke to becoming a senior network engineer with a 6-figure salary within 24 months. That guy went on to become a systems engineer for some of the top tech giants of the world. Basically, everyone in IT goes through the helpdesk or a similar entry-level position. However, some people stay stuck in entry-level roles for what seems like a lifetime and others go on to become systems engineers at top tech companies in just a few years. Once you have reached your goal of becoming a professional network engineer, you will be glad you put in the time and effort. Bootcamps and certification programs can help you get jobs faster and easier.

• However, many people get stuck in entry-level positions for years!
• Let’s look at a few of their main responsibilities in greater detail.
• Yet another option is to specialize in the field of security, working your way up the ranks to become a Security Director or CISO .
• That doesn’t mean the network engineer is in danger of losing their place in the IT landscape.