The Role of a Network Support Engineer
- As a network support engineer, you are responsible for maintaining systems that allow you to manage internal and external communications for your organization.
- Depending on the level of responsibility, the service may include updating the company’s communications infrastructure or installing new systems. Actual projects will vary depending on the industry and the type of work they are doing. For example, in a call center, you can set up a new call management system, and your bank can improve its ATM network.
- No matter the type of work, as it supports network engineers, you will be responsible for the design, installation, and maintenance of communications, file sharing, and IT resources in general for organizations.
- It is your job to ensure that internal networks can meet business needs. This may include ensuring that everyone can access the system without a lock or that the network is capable of carrying multimedia files (some companies, such as architects’ offices, rely on it to function effectively).
Typical Daily Activities of a Network Support Engineer in Job
- Supervise the security of all systems, especially the Internet, and install antivirus protection
- Correct network errors
- Network maintenance
- Train staff on the new system
- Daily administration and monitoring of the use of the network
- Planning for future improvements, suggesting IT solutions for business problems
Monitor the help desk staff to ensure that all IT meets industry standards. If you work in a small business, you will be responsible for the network.
Input requirements
If you have basic IT skills, it is possible to work as a network support engineer by joining a learning program or completing an IT-related course at a college/university. This will give you the skills to become a network support engineer, including things like installing, upgrading, maintaining, and protecting network systems.
Examples of Appropriate Courses Include:
- City and Brotherhoods (ICT Systems Support E-Quals 7262) – IT Professionals – Diploma 2 and Advanced Diploma 3
- BTEC national certificate/diploma for IT professionals (ICT systems support)
- OCR Certification (iPRO) for IT professionals (support for ICT systems) at levels 2 and 3
- CompTIA i-Net + certificate.
If you have a relevant degree, you can complete the internship program. However, a computer degree is not required because three out of five people working in IT start with a computer degree.
Experience is often required. If you already have an IT role, such as computer support or other IT services, there may be a way to become a network support engineer.
Training
As the IT industry develops and advances very quickly, it is essential to keep your knowledge up to date. For example, you may need to stay updated on the latest changes to all equipment used. This does not mean external or internal courses. Instead, you may be asked to learn about new changes by reading the latest manuals and information provided by IT companies.
Employers are likely to support their continuing education if they find the right courses. Often, this will depend on the growing and changing needs of the business.
Here are some examples of courses you should take:
- CompTIA + Certification Network
- Novell Certified Engineer (CNE)
- Higher professional diploma in the city and guild in information management through ICT professionals or computer level 4
- Higher OCR Award (iPRO) for IT Professionals (ICT Systems Support) Level 4
- NVQs for IT professionals in Level 3 and Level 4.
Leading computer companies, such as Cisco, Oracle, and Microsoft, develop training programs to help their careers. The British Computer Society also awards professional awards considered the equivalent of a college degree.
Hours and Location
Most of the time, he is likely to work 37 to 40 hours a week. However, if you experience significant problems, such as installing a network failure or installing crucial new software, you may need to work late or on weekends. It would be necessary because, during regular office hours, IT maintenance can interrupt the activity.
You may also be on guard to cover any problems that may occur outside of regular business hours. It is often rolling and it may be possible to do this remotely from home.
It is primarily an office-based role because (thanks to modern technology) it is possible to manage technology remotely in different locations.
Average Salary
At a lower level, you would probably earn around £ 18,000 and £ 25,000 a year. By experience, this can cost up to £ 32,000.
The higher the qualification, the higher the responsibility, and the higher the salary. Your salary depends on the size, type, and location of the company where you work. For example, jobs in London may have higher average wages.
Senior engineers with 10-15 years of experience earn £ 35,000-500,000 per year.