How To Become A Cisco Network Engineer: What It Is and Career Path

What is a cisco network engineer and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025

4 min read

Quoted expert

Dr. Bobby Roohparvar Ph.D.

The primary role of Cisco network rngineers is to maintain Cisco networks. They install, maintain, and configure Cisco networks. They troubleshoot and test the networks for system failures, network-related problems, and routing changes. They are also the ones that resolve these issues upon identifying them. Also, the engineers ensure the security of the network. Cisco network engineers work mostly full-time in an office setting. They work in schools, hospitals, banks, and large government departments that use complex IT systems.

The primary educational requirement for this position is a bachelor's degree in a related discipline. Employers also require candidates to have at least three years of relevant work experience. They also ask for in-depth knowledge of Cisco software and hardware. Skills like troubleshooting, customer service, analytical, and problem-solving are preferred by employers. The average salary of a Cisco network engineer is $73,098. This ranges between $65,047 and $84,537.

What general advice would you give to a cisco network engineer?

Dr. Bobby Roohparvar Ph.D.

Professor of Computer Science and Computer Engineering, California State University - East Bay

*The anxiety of AI is likely to change the landscape of computer networking, is a real threat but in my opinion, it won't eliminate the need for human network engineers. The focus will likely shift towards more strategic tasks, complex problem-solving, and leveraging AI tools to improve network efficiency and security.*

*Here again, I will explain in more detail about the expectation and future of Comp. Network Eng.*

* 1. AI Augments, Not Replaces: While AI can automate some network tasks, like data analysis and basic troubleshooting, it won't replace the need for human network engineers. It will increase the productivity for sure; Complex problem-solving, strategic decision-making, and human judgment are still crucial in network management. AI will likely become a valuable tool that assists network engineers in their tasks, making them more efficient.*

*2. Growing Demand: Our reliance on technology and data is constantly increasing. Businesses and organizations need secure, reliable networks to function. This necessitates a skilled workforce to design, implement, maintain, and secure these networks. The demand for qualified network engineers is expected to grow in the coming years.*

*In our technology horizon, I can see the quantum internet coming and I can see the demand for network engineering accelerate.*

*3. Diverse Skillset: A strong foundation in computer networking equips you with a versatile skillset. You'll understand network protocols, security concepts, and troubleshooting methodologies. These skills are valuable across the IT field and can be applied to areas like cloud computing, data center operations, or even cybersecurity. Data Centers for AI are becoming a huge opportunity for Comp Network Eng.*

ScoreCisco Network EngineerUS Average

Salary

7.6

Avg. Salary $98,143

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability level

5.7

Growth rate 5%

Growth rate 0.3%

Diversity

3.6

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.31%

Asian 13.65%

Black or African American 7.84%

Hispanic or Latino 11.57%

Unknown 5.00%

White 61.63%

Gender

female 8.06%

male 91.94%

Age - 42

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 42

Stress level

5.7

Stress level is manageable

7.1 - high

Complexity level

6.7

Complexity level is challenging

7 - challenging

Work life balance

7.1

Work life balance is good

6.4 - fair

Key steps to become a cisco network engineer

Explore cisco network engineer education requirements

Most common cisco network engineer degrees

Bachelor's

62.6 %

Associate

19.7 %

Master's

10.3 %

Start to develop specific cisco network engineer skills

Skills	Percentages
Switches	7.76%
Firewall	5.98%
CCNA	4.77%
Troubleshoot	4.11%
VoIP	3.68%

Complete relevant cisco network engineer training and internships

Accountants spend an average of 3-6 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New cisco network engineers learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a cisco network engineer based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real cisco network engineer resumes.

Gain additional cisco network engineer certifications

Cisco network engineer certifications can show employers you have a baseline of knowledge expected for the position. Certifications can also make you a more competitive candidate. Even if employers don't require a specific cisco network engineer certification, having one may help you stand out relative to other applicants.

The most common certifications for cisco network engineers include CCNA and Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA).

More About Certifications

Research cisco network engineer duties and responsibilities

Install, configure, design, troubleshoot, manage & maintain hardware & software that comprise the LAN/WAN infrastructure.
Manage, operate and analyze results from Sourcefire detection systems.
Support service provider DHCP & DNS products.
Used Cisco IOS for troubleshooting sites for up and down time.

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