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Behind every IT infrastructure is a network engineer. Network engineers are experts who can apply a range of technologies to connect, secure, and automate complex networks, and it’s a critical role in companies from every industry.

Become a network engineer

Behind every IT infrastructure is a network engineer. Network engineers are experts who can apply a range of technologies to connect, secure, and automate complex networks, and it’s a critical role in companies from every industry.

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What does a network engineer do?

Design and build

Network engineers design, build, and automate physical and wireless networks. Their goal is to ensure connectivity between phones, computers, routers, intranets, extranets, and more.

Optimize

Network engineers look for ways to improve infrastructure. For example, they implement solutions to automate rote tasks, and work with vendors and colleagues to integrate new technologies into existing networks.

Monitor

Network engineers observe and troubleshoot their systems to keep them running smoothly. They analyze network performance, test network functionality, and more.

Top network engineering tasks

Network configuration

Network maintenance

Performance optimization

Troubleshooting networks

Why become a network engineer?

Network engineers are in-demand — plain and simple. Every organization with a complex IT infrastructure needs a network engineer, and the field is growing rapidly to match the pace of technological innovation.

It might be the role for you if . . .

You enjoy:

  • Teaching others about technology
  • Collaborative problem solving
  • Researching and learning new technologies

You excel at:

  • Analytical thinking
  • Communication
  • Time management

How much does a network engineer make?

Entry level

$ 55,000

Average salary

$ 79,700

Expert level

$ 128,000

Popular certifications for network engineers

CCNA certification

The CCNA covers a broad range of fundamentals based on the latest networking technologies, software development skills and job roles. These skills and knowledge can springboard your career aspirations.

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CCNP Enterprise certification

The CCNP Enterprise certification can help you prove your skills in the ever-changing landscape of the enterprise network technologies. The certification covers core technologies and an enterprise focus area of your choice.

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Let’s build the bridge to possible

Explore the CCNA certification community

Not sure where to begin? The CCNA Certification Community is where you can ask questions, share ideas, and connect with other members as you prepare for your certification exams.

Join the CCNA certification community

Explore the Enterprise certifications community

The Enterprise certifications community is buzzing with learning tools, training resources, preparation material, and industry guidance to help you build an IT career through Cisco certifications.

Join the Enterprise certifications community