Network Engineer: Job Duties, Skills and Salary 2025

What You’ll Learn About Network Engineers

What Does a Network Engineer Do?
Key Duties & Responsibilities
How to Become a Network Engineer
Network Engineer Salary Guide
How to Advance Your Career
Typical Work Environment

What Does a Network Engineer do?

A Network Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, managing, and troubleshooting computer networks that support voice, data, video, and wireless services.

They ensure that an organization’s network infrastructure is robust, secure, and scalable to meet current and future demands. Network Engineers work with a range of networking technologies, including routers, switches, firewalls, and wireless access points, to create efficient and reliable networks. They also monitor network performance, address issues proactively, and ensure the security of network systems through firewalls, VPNs, and other protective measures.

Their work is essential in maintaining uninterrupted network services, enabling smooth communication, data transfer, and connectivity across an organization.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

Network Engineers in the IT & Development field handle essential tasks and contribute significantly to achieving team and organizational goals. Here are some of their primary responsibilities:

Design and implement network configurations, including LANs, WANs, and wireless networks.
Monitor network performance and troubleshoot issues to ensure optimal functionality.
Install, configure, and maintain networking hardware and software, such as routers, switches, and firewalls.
Implement and manage network security measures, including firewalls, VPNs, and intrusion detection systems.
Collaborate with other IT staff to plan and execute network upgrades and expansions.
Conduct network performance tests and optimize network operations to meet business needs.
Document network configurations, processes, and troubleshooting procedures for reference and compliance.
Provide technical support and training to users and IT staff on network-related issues.

How to Become a Network Engineer

Launching a career as a Network Engineer requires a specific education. We outline the essential qualifications, skills, and steps to enter this field.

Qualification

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.
Experience in network design, implementation, and troubleshooting.
Proficiency with networking protocols, including TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, and VPNs.
Strong understanding of networking hardware, such as routers, switches, and firewalls.
Relevant certifications, such as Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), CompTIA Network+, or Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), are highly advantageous.

Requirements & Skills

Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills to troubleshoot and optimize network systems.
Strong communication skills for collaborating with IT teams and providing support to users.
Attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high standards of network security and performance.
Ability to manage multiple projects and tasks simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
Continuous learning mindset to stay updated with the latest networking technologies and industry trends.

Network Engineer Salary Guide

Wondering what Network Engineers earn? Explore salary ranges by experience, and career tips to maximize your earning potential.

Job	Branch	Avg. US Salary
Network Engineer	IT & Development	85,000 USD

The average salary for a Network Engineer in the U.S. is approximately $85,000 per year and can vary from entry-level to senior positions. Network Engineers may receive a wide range of benefits.

Network Engineer Salary Career Steps

Level	Experience	Avg. Salary per Year
Veteran	20+ years	$106,250
Senior	11+ years	$93,500
Experienced	6-10 years	$85,000
Mid Level	3-5 years	$76,500
Entry Level	0-2 years	$63,750

To explore more detailed salary information, including specific salary estimates in your country, visit the Network Engineer Salary Country Overview.

How to Advance Your Career

Network Engineers can advance to roles such as Senior Network Engineer, Network Architect, or IT Manager. With additional experience and certifications, they may specialize in areas like network security, cloud networking, or wireless networking. Continuing education and professional development in advanced networking technologies, cybersecurity, and IT management can lead to leadership positions within IT departments or opportunities in consulting and network design.

Typical Work Environment

Network Engineers typically work in office settings within IT departments of large organizations, technology companies, or managed service providers. The role may involve both on-site work and remote monitoring of network systems. Network Engineers often collaborate with other IT professionals and may be required to work outside regular business hours to perform maintenance or resolve network issues. The work environment is dynamic, requiring adaptability and the ability to manage complex network infrastructures.