Network engineer

Career path and progression

With experience, you could:

• specialise in cyber security, data analysis or software development
• become a network manager, business analyst or technical architect
• set up your own business and work as a freelance consultant

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• analytical thinking skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to work well with others
• to be flexible and open to change
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• the ability to monitor your own performance and that of your colleagues
• to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

Related subjects

Most relevant

• Computer Science - Network engineers work deeply with computer systems, designing and configuring how devices communicate across networks. Understanding networking protocols, data structures, operating systems, and how software interacts with hardware is fundamental to building and troubleshooting network infrastructure.
• Mathematics - Network engineers use maths when calculating bandwidth, subnetting IP addresses, and analysing network performance data. Logical thinking and working with binary and hexadecimal number systems are everyday parts of configuring and optimising networks.
• Physics - Network engineers need to understand how electrical signals and electromagnetic waves travel through cables and wireless systems. Knowledge of electricity, signal processing, and the physical properties of transmission media helps when designing reliable network infrastructure.
• Electronics - Network engineers work with routers, switches, servers, and cabling – all of which are electronic systems. Understanding how electronic components and circuits function helps when installing hardware, diagnosing faults, and building control panels for network infrastructure.

Also relevant

• Engineering - Network engineers apply engineering principles when designing network systems that need to be reliable, scalable, and efficient. Planning infrastructure, solving technical problems, and upgrading systems to meet new demands all draw on an engineering mindset.
• Business - Network engineers often work with clients to understand their organisational needs and design systems that fit their budget and goals. Those who progress into freelance consulting or set up their own business also need to manage finances, clients, and projects.
• Design and Technology - Network engineers read technical diagrams, plan physical cable layouts, and solve practical installation problems. Understanding how to design systems, work with tools, and think through how components fit together is useful when setting up network hardware in buildings.