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The differences between principal network engineers and computer engineers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 1-2 years to become both a principal network engineer and a computer engineer. Additionally, a principal network engineer has an average salary of $112,094, which is higher than the $96,805 average annual salary of a computer engineer.
The top three skills for a principal network engineer include linux, lan wan and network infrastructure. The most important skills for a computer engineer are python, software development, and java.
| Principal Network Engineer | Computer Engineer | |
| Yearly salary | $112,094 | $96,805 |
| Hourly rate | $53.89 | $46.54 |
| Growth rate | 5% | 10% |
| Number of jobs | 107,276 | 126,709 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 70% | Bachelor's Degree, 66% |
| Average age | 43 | 42 |
| Years of experience | 2 | 2 |
In the information technology industry, a principal network engineer specializes in designing and developing networks and systems in adherence to client or company needs. Their responsibilities include gathering and analyzing data, developing standard procedures and test structures, performing installations and upgrades, identifying the strengths and weaknesses of existing networks, and implementing solutions against its vulnerable areas. They may also conduct regular maintenance checks and repairs, provide technical support to staff, and train junior engineers. Moreover, they must lead and encourage information technology teams to reach goals while enforcing the company's security policies and regulations.
A computer engineer is someone who examines, designs, and manages computer hardware and software systems. He/She or she helps in solving issues or any concerns that may occur with the computer's hardware and software as well as assists in the innovation of computer technology. Computer engineers are responsible for computer hardware design, development, research, and test computer systems. They examine components like circuit boards, processors, memory devices, routers, and networks. While, those working with the computer software are in charge of the development, design, and administration of software programs.
Principal network engineers and computer engineers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Principal Network Engineer | Computer Engineer | |
| Average salary | $112,094 | $96,805 |
| Salary range | Between $86,000 And $145,000 | Between $70,000 And $132,000 |
| Highest paying City | Sunnyvale, CA | San Francisco, CA |
| Highest paying state | California | California |
| Best paying company | Walmart | Waymo |
| Best paying industry | Technology | Finance |
There are a few differences between a principal network engineer and a computer engineer in terms of educational background:
| Principal Network Engineer | Computer Engineer | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 70% | Bachelor's Degree, 66% |
| Most common major | Electrical Engineering | Computer Engineering |
| Most common college | Northeastern University | Harvard University |
Here are the differences between principal network engineers' and computer engineers' demographics:
| Principal Network Engineer | Computer Engineer | |
| Average age | 43 | 42 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 93.5% Female, 6.5% | Male, 86.3% Female, 13.7% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 8.7% Unknown, 5.1% Hispanic or Latino, 12.4% Asian, 11.1% White, 62.4% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.3% | Black or African American, 10.7% Unknown, 5.3% Hispanic or Latino, 15.0% Asian, 15.0% White, 53.5% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.4% |
| LGBT Percentage | 9% | 11% |