What is a Network Engineer? (And How to Become One in 2026)

Key Takeaways

• Network engineers are responsible for planning, implementing, and monitoring a company's computer network, which can range from a connection between a couple of offices to an intricate cloud infrastructure.

• At smaller companies, network engineers may be responsible for both architecture and cybersecurity, while larger companies often involve specializing in one area.

• You can start building relevant experience through entry-level IT roles such as systems administration or desktop support.

Read on to learn more about what a network engineer does and how you can get started in the field. If you're ready to start preparing for a role right away, consider enrolling in the Azure Network Engineer: AZ-700 Exam Prep & Certification Specialization on Coursera. In as little as four months, you could master critical skills like design, implementation, and securing of robust network architectures using Azure's network services. By the end, you'll not only have earned a certificate for your study, but prepared for the AZ-700 certification exam.

What is a network engineer?

Computer network architects and engineers design and build data communication networks and monitor network systems. These could range in size from a connection between a couple of offices to an intricate cloud infrastructure serving a multinational company. Network engineers are often also responsible for protecting these networks from all sorts of external threats—from phishing schemes to ransomware to denial-of-service attacks—with a process known as network security. 

At smaller companies, you may be responsible for both architecture and security. Working in larger companies often means specializing in one area of network engineering, such as architecture, security, or administration.

Network engineer salary

As of April 2026, the average base salary for a network engineer in the US is $123,000 [1]. The amount you earn depends on factors like industry, company, location, and experience.

What does a network engineer do?

A network engineer is an information technology (IT) professional who provides computer network support to businesses and organizations, whether developing new networks or maintaining existing ones. These networks often include intranets, extranets, phone systems, wide area networks (WANs), or local area networks (LANs).  Network engineers spend their days monitoring networks for performance, troubleshooting issues, and completing regular maintenance. They are also responsible for network security, ensuring that virus protection software and other security tools are updated consistently. Network engineers design networks that can simultaneously support hundreds, if not thousands, of users. Day-to-day tasks may include:

• Planning and implementing computer network systems

• Monitoring network performance and infrastructure

• Protecting networks from external threats such as phishing schemes, ransomware, and denial-of-service attacks

• Designing and optimizing networks in cloud environments

• Specializing in areas like network architecture, security, or administration

Whether working at a small company or a large multinational organization, network engineers play a critical role in keeping business systems running smoothly and securely.

5 network engineer jobs to consider

Network engineering is a broad field with opportunities at every level of experience, from entry-level IT support roles to senior architecture positions. As you build your skills and expertise, you'll find that job titles and responsibilities can vary across organizations and specializations. The following sections provide an overview of network engineering positions across specializations and expertise levels.

1. Network administrator

Often an entry point into the field, network administrators handle the day-to-day management of an organization's network infrastructure. This includes configuring hardware, troubleshooting connectivity issues, and ensuring systems stay online and running smoothly.

2. Network security engineer

Focused on protecting an organization's network from threats, security engineers design and implement firewalls, monitor for vulnerabilities, and respond to incidents like breaches or attacks. This specialization is increasingly in demand as cybersecurity threats grow more sophisticated.

3. Network architect

A more senior role, network architects focus on big-picture views, designing the overall structure of an organization's communication networks. This includes planning for scalability, redundancy, and long-term infrastructure needs.

4. Cloud network engineer

As businesses migrate to cloud environments, cloud network engineers specialize in designing and managing networks built on platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud. This role blends traditional networking knowledge with cloud-specific tools and architecture.

5. Network engineering manager

At the highest levels, network engineers may oversee teams, set technical strategy, and work cross-functionally with leadership. These roles combine deep technical expertise with project management and organizational leadership.

Is a network engineer an IT job?

Yes, network engineers work in information technology (IT). In this role, you’ll oversee the operation and functionality of your organization’s IT systems, providing troubleshooting for hardware and software when needed. By monitoring computer systems daily, you’ll work to improve your organization’s network performance, making you a key player on the IT team.

Network engineer skills

Network engineers use a combination of technical and workplace skills to succeed in their roles. Some of these skills include the following:

Technical skills

• Analytical skills

• Network fundamentals, such as switching, routing, and public cloud

• Network devices and configurations

• Firewalls and cybersecurity

• Network design and implementation

• Automation and scripting

• Network monitoring and analytics

Workplace skills

• Communication skills

• Project management

• Adaptability

• Collaboration

• Written communication

Read more: Network Certification: 6 Options for Your IT Career in 2026

How to become a network engineer

If you enjoy working with computers and solving problems, then a career in network engineering could be a good fit. To become a network engineer, you must have a robust educational and experiential background that provides expertise in hardware, network protocols, and analytical and technical skills. Typically, that means earning a degree, gaining experience in the field, and/or obtaining an IT certification. This role also requires continuous learning as technological advancements change the landscape.

1. Consider obtaining a network engineer degree. 

Sixty-two percent of network engineers have a bachelor's degree, and 21 percent have an associate degree [2]. Relevant areas of study include computer science, information systems, engineering, and related fields. For leadership positions in network engineering, some companies may prefer candidates with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in information systems.

2. Start with an entry-level role. 

Network engineers often have several years of experience working with IT systems. To gain relevant experience and build your technical skills, consider starting with an entry-level role in IT such as help desk technician, IT support specialist, or junior systems administrator. These beginner-friendly roles can help expand your knowledge base and prepares you to advance into more complex positions.

Preparing for an entry-level network engineer job

To succeed as an entry-level network engineer, it's important to grasp different network types like LANs and WANs, and understand various topologies such as star and mesh. You should be familiar with protocols and standards like TCP/IP, which are essential for smooth network communication. Practical skills in setting up and configuring both wireless and wired devices are necessary to ensure networks run effectively and securely.

3. Learn network security. 

Network security is a critical component of network design and operation. As a network engineer, having a solid grasp of cybersecurity principles such as threat intelligence, data protection, and forensics is essential. Familiarity with key compliance standards is also vital to ensure network systems are not only secure but also meet regulatory requirements. Today, skills in artificial intelligence are increasingly important in cybersecurity, as AI can enhance threat detection and automate responses to potential breaches.

4. Get familiar with the cloud.  

As more companies move to cloud computing to meet their business needs, the demand for network engineers who can design, optimize, and manage networks in cloud environments is growing. Familiarity with cloud technologies is becoming crucial in this evolving landscape. By understanding how to work within cloud platforms and integrate them with existing systems, you can enhance your ability to support and improve network infrastructure. This knowledge will not only make you more versatile as a network engineer but also better equipped to adapt to modern industry demands.

5. Build a portfolio

A portfolio effectively displays all the hard work you’ve accomplished and the experience you’ve gained to succeed as a network engineer. Include configurations, diagrams, and explanations for your methods and any troubleshooting you’ve done. This way, employers can see what you’ve learned and how you’ve implemented that knowledge in real-world situations.

Tips for strengthening your competitiveness as a network engineer

To further enhance your competitiveness as a network engineer, focus on cultivating a combination of technical expertise and industry-specific knowledge. Gain hands-on experience through internships or lab environments, which can help in applying theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios. Networking with professionals in the field can provide insights and mentorship opportunities that can guide your career path. Additionally, consider contributing to open-source projects or engaging in continuous learning through workshops and online courses to keep your skills sharp and up to date. Effective communication and collaboration skills are also essential, as they enable you to work well in team settings and convey technical information to non-technical audiences.

Learn the right programming languages. 

It’s not always necessary that you know how to code to work as a network engineer. However, knowing certain programming languages can help you become a stronger candidate and perform your job more effectively. Different organizations have different preferences for programming languages, but popular ones to consider include Python, Perl, Bash, and Golang.

Consider earning network engineer certifications. 

Some companies require that their network engineers and architects be certified in the products the company uses. Check job descriptions for the types of positions you’d like to apply for to get an idea of what’s required. Vendor-neutral certifications can validate your skills to potential employers, and some organizations might prefer you to hold a vendor-specific certification.

Some popular options to consider include CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, and Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA).

Network engineer job outlook and career growth

Network engineer jobs exist across a wide range of industries, from private organizations to federal departments. Some industries that employ network engineers include health care, financial services, technology, education, and telecommunications. This role is in demand. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that network architect and engineer jobs will grow 12 percent between 2024 and 2034 [2].

Learn more about network engineering with Coursera's free resources

Subscribe to Career Chat, Coursera’s LinkedIn newsletter, for weekly updates on in-demand skills, tools, and certifications. Or, explore these other helpful resources:

• Watch on YouTube: Being a Network Engineer - Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking from Grow with Google

• Hear from a pro: Meet the IT Support Tech Advancing Toward a Cybersecurity Career

• Get expert tips: Reimagining Work and Learning with AI: Expert Insights from Dr. Jules White

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