Network designers work alongside information technology administrators to design network constructions for organizations. These network constructions include the likes of communication systems or databases. During the design process, their objective is to create a network that fits with established architectural standards for the business, making certain that there is communication between the departments and systems. We will reveal everything you need to know about becoming a network designer below.
The Importance of a Network Designer and the Role They Play
The role of a network designer cannot be underestimated. After all, computer networks are vital parts of virtually every business or organization. Computer and network system administrators are responsible for these networks and their daily operation. They organize computer systems, as well as installing and supporting them. These systems could be intranets, network segments, wide area networks (WANs), and local area networks (LANs), as well as other data communication systems.
Telecommunications networks are critical in any type of telecommunications system. For performance to be up to scratch, the network will need to meet a number of different criteria. This is why there are a lot of different components that must be considered when ensuring the network is optimally designed, and there are typically a number of hurdles to overcome along the way. This is even more so the case when you consider the fact that networks have become increasingly complicated and new technologies are being developed all of the time. Telecoms businesses cannot afford to deliver poor performance or fall behind, which is why network designers are so vital.
What are the Daily Duties of a Network Designer?
Let’s begin by taking a look at some of the daily responsibilities that network designers have. This includes the following:
- Installing or connecting computer network components
- Supervising a team of network engineers
- Carrying out evaluations of wide and local area networks
- Conceptualizing network designs
- Installing firewall systems
- Performing security audits
- Establishing relationships with customers and determining their computer network requirements
What Education is Required to Become a Network Designer?
As a network designer, you are generally going to need to have a bachelor’s degree in an area such as information science or computer science. A lot of the bachelor’s programs need you to have completed general education courses in statistics, English, and mathematics. Additional courses can also include:
- Operating systems
- Programming languages
- Computer algorithms
- Electronic digital security
- Electrical engineering
- Software engineering
There may be some cases whereby employers look for someone who has an Information Systems Master of Business Administration (MBA). An MBA program could include classes in information services management, database management, finance, accounting, and marketing. You are also going to study knowledge management, wireless networks, and systems development. MBAs tend to take two years to complete.
Becoming Certified as a Network Designer
You may want to acquire professional certification. This may be something that a number of different employers search for when seeking the best person for their business. This can lead to increased salary potential and employment options, so it is definitely worth considering. You can get certification via product vendors and computer manufacturers. For instance, the Cisco Certified Design Associate (CCDA) credential and Cisco Certified Design Professional (CCDP) certification are both offered by Cisco. To be successful in your quest for certification, you need to pass a number of exams, which will test your knowledge of network design infrastructures and your network design skills.
Can you go into Any Alternative Careers?
A lot of people decide they want to switch career paths later in life, so you may be wondering whether there are any other options out there for network designers. The good news is that there is. There are a number of other career options that require the same sort of bachelor’s degrees. This includes becoming a computer hardware engineer. This is a professional that is responsible for designing and testing computer systems and a number of computer components. Becoming a computer programmer is another option that will be available to you. Computer programmers will usually create and test code, helping software and computer applications to work together. Computer systems analysts will work with a business to make sure equipment and software are functioning correctly. This is another option for you to consider.
Find the Perfect Network Designer for your Organization
Field engineers.com is capable of providing network designers in the telecom world. After all, the importance of a network designer’s job in any telecom-related business cannot be underestimated. If you would like further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us today.
