Certified WAN Professional
Introduction
A certified WAN professional is an expert who deals with wide area networking technology for the business. They supervise the installation, maintenance, and of a wide area network and associated computer hardware and software.
Wide area network (WAN) is a data network, typically used for linking computers, that spans a wide topographical area. WANs can be used to connect cities, states, or even international boundaries. WANs are often utilized by bigger corporations or organizations to facilitate the interchange of data, and in a wide range of corporations with facilities at multiple locations have embraced WANs.
Gradually, however, even small businesses are using WANs as a way of increasing their communications competencies.
Though WANs serve a purpose related to that of local area networks (LANs), WANs are organized and activated quite differently. The consumer segment of a WAN generally does not own the communications lines that connect the remote computer systems; instead, the customer subscribes to a wide network service through a telecom provider.
Unlike LANs, WANs normally do not link individual computers, rather are used to link LANs. WANs also transfer data at slower speeds than LANs. WANs are also architecturally similar to metropolitan area networks (MANs) but facilitate communications links for distances more than fifty kilometers range
In terms of networking WANs are either point-to-point, including a direct assembly between two locations, or function across packet-switched networks, in which data are transferred in packets over shared circuits. Point-to-point WAN service may include analog dial-up lines, in which a modem is involved to attach the computer to the telephone line, or a committed leased telephone lines, also called a private connection.
Analog connections may be either part of a public-switched telephone network or leased lines, are appropriate for batch data communications, such as general order entry and point-of-sale dealings. The devoted digital phone lines allow constant, secure data communication at fixed budgets.
Point-to-point WAN service suppliers involve both local phone businesses and long-distance carriers. The packet-switched network facilities are usually preferred by enterprises which have lesser volumes of data, for which multiple devoted lines would be a burden in terms of cost.
Based on the service, WANs can be functional for nearly any data-sharing purpose for which LANs can be utilized. Slower communication speeds, however, may make some requests less functional for WANs. The basic usage of WANs are for electronic mail and file transmission; however, WANs can also allow operators at the remote location to access and enter data on a central unit’s database. Such as instant refreshing accounting files.
Network-based software that enables productivity and production trailing, such as groupware and workflow automation software, can also be utilized over WANs. By using specialized tracking software, workers at different locations can more easily work together on projects from any location. The WANs also provides remote offices permission to a central processing team with the required data meant for communications services.
Job Description & Responsibilities
Following are the job responsibilities depending upon client requirement for networking:
- To plan and apply wide area networks including network servers, hubs, routers, and other outer devices
- To install and organize wide area network servers for email, internet, and proxy
- To align all essential telecom devices
- They should know to operate and maintain wide area networks cabling including the wireless technology, tracks significant issues, monitor their performance, and completes upgrade to hardware and software as needed
- They install or changes existing fittings of networked system hardware, software, and other machinery
- To contribute to extended and local area’s technology planning
- To provide training for the technical team to follow appropriate operating procedures essential to maintain the network uptime.
- To maintain the documentation concerning network outlines, operating procedures, and service records for network hardware and software
- To support in developing training for staff in the proper operation of the wide and local area networks
Education & Certification
If you are considering a WAN as a career, consider obtaining a degree in computer science, information technology (IT), or a related field essential. To get a better foothold in the meantime, consider earning a certification in this field as well, which will make you stand out in the global marketplace. Below are the some of the list for certifications
The networking pros skilled in several areas of networking technologies are always in high demand in today’s freelance marketplaces as well.
Those who are serious about their occupations should consider one or more of these best-of-breed networking accreditations to fix themselves apart from the noncertified ones.
The Top certifications for WAN professionals are as follows:
- Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE)
- Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)
- Juniper Networks Certified Enterprise Routing and Switching Expert JNCIE-ENT
- CompTIA Network+
- Wireshark Certified Network Analyst- WCNA (Wireshark)
Skills & Job Outlook
In addition the general understanding of networks and detailed knowledge about the LAN or WAN in your organization, you will also require quite a few other skills in order to operate as a network expert. The most WAN professionals work with a department, making personal and public skills essential. Working on a time limit is another significant talent, along with being detail-oriented.
One should have the WAN network knowledge which requires brilliant problem solving and critical thinking expertise in order to fix the matters and figure out how to avoid difficulties from happening in the upcoming time. While leading a team of the technician and other technical staff you should be skillful to manage them under you, the governance skills will also be required in order to keep the team’s work well in quest of best network performance.
Salary
As per Payscale, the average salary of certified WAN professional is around $64,806 per annum or more depending on experiences in the United States. However, freelance work can also be rewarding and beneficial towards progressing your career. Those interested in working on a freelance basis should visit FieldEngineer.com for the best opportunities.
How Field Engineer Can Help you
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Are you on the lookout to get associated in an on-demand marketplace? Wait no more to get in the telecom project management; we indeed encourage you to sign up at FieldEngineer.com. Field Engineer helps you connect with the platform who are seeking individuals with similar valuable skills. Field Engineer has already gathered more than 40,000 engineers from 180 countries around the world.
