WAN Engineers (Wide Area Network) are the Telecom/IT professionals that set up and maintain wide area networks for businesses that need these networks to operate regularly. Besides designing WAN networks, they spend much time analyzing, testing and evaluating networks to make sure that they run properly and that they have the resources necessary for smooth functioning.
WAN engineers use their expertise in IT to interconnect network systems. They check WAN performance, capacity, security settings, and approvals. Typically, a WAN has at least two LAN’s and covers big geographical areas. Network flow maintenance is important for WAN engineers.
Job Description
WAN engineers are in charge of the smooth operation of networks. They ensure that companies can communicate internally and externally. WAN engineers are very committed to helping those experiencing technical problems. Sometimes, they instruct people on the usage of networks. Below are the duties of WAN engineers.
- Implement wide space networks, network servers, hubs, routers, and various computer peripherals.
- Set up telecommunication equipment.
- Check WAN performance and fix any problems.
- Document network configuration and hardware/software-related operating procedures.
- Back up network-based data (e.g., browser history and emails).
- Supervise computer programmers.
Key WAN Types
The five major WAN technologies are Circuit-Switched Network (CSN), High-Level Data Link Control (HDLC), Packet-Switched Network (PSN), Point-to-Point Link, and Synchronous Data Link Control(SDLC).
Required Education
A degree in computer science, information science, or networking is desirable. Some of the mandatory certificates are CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate), CompTIA Network+, Juniper, Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE), and Wireshark Certified Network Analyst (WCNA).
Required Work Skills
In addition to being a team player, WAN Engineers must possess analytical, leadership, and organizational skills (i.e., meeting deadlines).
WAN Engineer Future
WAN’s future is Software-Defined. The SD-WAN is a specific application of SDN technology applied to WAN applications. An SDN offers cloud-enabled WAN connections.
Salary Expectations for WAN Engineers
According to Payscale, the average LAN WAN Engineer salary is $70,441/yr on a full-time basis. This salary may be different for a part-time worker. Also, salaries vary by company.
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