Eight Essential Features you need in a Business Router

A router is the heart of your network, so it deserves to be chosen with care. Any router will share your Internet connection between your computers and other network devices (smartphones, tablets, etc.), but better models offer features that will improve your network and your performance. Whether you are looking for a professional or consumer router, here are the eight most important features to look for.

Wi-Fi access point

Most consumer and SME routers have an integrated Wi-Fi access point (AP) to provide wireless network connections to PCs and other devices with Wi-Fi adapters. Additional access to extend the range of the router. A standalone access point can also add wireless functionality to a wired router. Different wireless standards are used, the IEEE 802.11a, 802.11b, and 802.11g standards are considered legacy standards. The IEEE 802.11n is the latest ratified standard and 802.11ac is in "draft" mode and final ratification is scheduled for the end of the year or early next year. There is a small possibility that devices based on this standard are not compatible with the final standard, but most people in the industry consider this event very unlikely.

Wireless routers work on one of two frequency bands: 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz. The 2.4 GHz band provides only three non-overlapping channels, so it can get congested very quickly. There are 23 non-overlapping channels available on the 5 GHz frequency band, so much less interference will occur when operating a network. Routers and access points capable of operating in both the 2.4 and 5 GHz frequency bands are described as "dual-band" products.

No 10. We are cold to get the discrete Intel

If you buy a router today, choose a model based on 802.11n or on the provisional version of 802.11ac.

Guest Wi-Fi access

Some consumer routers include what providers generally call wireless guest access. This feature allows you to broadcast a separate wireless network name (SSID) with security settings other than the primary wireless network. Since the two networks are practically separate, guests cannot see traffic or access computers on the main network. This allows you to easily offer visitors, contractors, and even public wireless access while keeping your private network safe.

Virtual LANs and multiple SSIDs

Many Business Router goes further by offering a simple wireless guest function. They will allow you to create multiple separate custom networks using the so-called Virtual LAN (VLAN). They will also allow multiple SSIDs to offer virtual wireless networks.

For example, you can create a management VLAN where you can share sensitive company information, a VLAN for regular employees to share files, and a VLAN for guests with limited Internet access. You can then assign the router's Ethernet ports to the desired VLAN and transmit a separate SSID for each VLAN. Or, if you are using 802.1X authentication, you can assign users to a VLAN and they will be dynamically connected to their VLAN when they connect to an Ethernet port or when they connect to a single SSID.

VPN Server and Client

Some enterprise-level routers include a virtual private network (VPN) server and/or client. Many providers market these devices as a VPN router. An integrated VPN service allows users to securely access the network and files while traveling or working from home. With an integrated VPN client, you can connect one router to another router with a VPN server to securely connect two networks together on the Internet, allowing you to share resources and network files between two or more physical locations.

USB port for printers or drives

Some consumer and professional routers include a USB port to share a USB printer or external drive with the network. This is useful if you do not already have a network-ready a printer that can be used by all network users or network-attached storage (NAS) for centralized file storage and sharing.

Malware and spam protection

Professional routers that include additional security features are commonly known as Unified Threat Management (UTM) gateways. They usually include antivirus, antispam and content filtering to block unsafe or inappropriate websites and emails. Although individual computers must always have an antivirus tool installed, a UTM the gateway can help detect malware before it reaches individual computers, offering double protection. Sometimes UTM gateways provide intrusion detection and prevention functionality to help block further threats on the local network or the Internet.

Dual or backup WAN port (or 4G support)

A Commercial Router that includes two WAN / Internet ports (or 4G support) offers another Internet connection for backup or load balancing. Connect the router to two cable or DSL lines from different service providers or connect a 4G USB adapter and you will have a backup connection in case of failure. Some routers allow you to increase Internet bandwidth by using both Internet connections simultaneously. This is commonly known as load balancing.

RADIUS Server

Some professional routers include a built-in Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service (RADIUS) server, which allows 802.1X authentication so you can use WPA or WPA2 corporate security mode for Wi-Fi. the pre-partition key (PSK) provided by traditional Router Services such as WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access). Using RADIUS, you can assign each user a unique username and password, then change or revoke access in case a user leaves or loses its Wi-Fi device.

7 Knowledge Management Tips for a Service Desk

A single point of contact for customers, the Helpdesk Services are the face of IT. As services become increasingly complex, agents now need to follow the range of technologies and procedures necessary to effectively support customers. This makes knowledge management more important than ever. Knowledge not only improves the quality of service but reduces the overall cost of assistance by increasing productivity.

1: Find out where your knowledge is and centralizes it

As technology evolves, knowledge will exist in increasingly different places. The information is stuck in emails, social media interactions, forum discussions, comments, tickets, and even in the brains of Helpdesk Support Services agents. If you don't already have one, consolidate your knowledge into a single repository or system as a simple solution. Centralizing all this content speeds up learning and helps your team make better decisions. If anyone has knowledge of a particular order, ask them to document it. If customers comment on service, update your documents with these comments. If your team receives several joint tickets, create an article on the subject.

Simply put, having a knowledge base to work with allows agents to respond and solve problems faster.

2: Make your knowledge accessible and usable

Resolving incidents faster means being able to find the information you need. Regardless of whether your knowledge base is agent only or available to customers, make sure your system is easy to update. In this way, agents can flexibly update content and offer the team better solutions. This not only improves the resolution of your first contact but can also reduce the cost per contact.

3: integrate knowledge management into the workflow

We all know it is challenging to spend time on objects when fighting fires. In an ideal world, creating and updating knowledge should be part of every agent's job. This is one of the essential aspects of knowledge-based support. Craig Samuel, HP's director of expertise, says sharing knowledge is not a technological problem. According to him, work processes and cultural problems represent 90% of the issues *. An effective knowledge management practice is to cultivate a culture of collaboration, moving from a focus on the individual to a focus on the team.

One way to integrate knowledge into the team process is to make sure articles are written before changes are implemented. When a new service is put into production, documentation is available to facilitate adoption and prevent accidents.

4: keep the information up to date to speed up agent integration

The time required to train new agents can become expensive. One way to get people to deliver value faster is to keep the knowledge available to your team up to date. Your team can do this by asking agents to refine items as they use them. This means that your knowledge base reflects the team's collective experience to date.

5: authorize customers and agents to express their opinion

Is your knowledge really useful? Customer feedback is the best way to refine your content to provide the best answers. Without comments, films in the dark. It can be as simple as a "push" or as rich as a comment section. In both cases, a feedback circuit improves the quality and performance of your knowledge.

6: Deflect self-service tickets

Not only is knowledge management essential for agents, but it is also important for customers. 60% of consumers use the self-service web to find answers to their questions. If knowledge is not optimally collected and shared, customers will simply seek answers elsewhere. Why not allow them to search for answers from a customer portal or intranet? Enabling self-service satisfies customers and frees up time for your team. Indeed, the results of applying knowledge-based support can result in up to 50% accident diversion.

7: measure to improve company performance

How does your knowledge add value to your organization? What are the most used articles? Measuring knowledge is the first step to improving your team's performance. Measures to consider include the number of articles assigned to resolve the first contact, the number of articles created and updated by the team, the number of articles used by the team, and the number of "incidents with links to articles.

Knowledge management is the key to an efficient service desk. It also stimulates a culture of innovation. As John Maxwell points out, "Change is inevitable, growth is optional."

Get Started With a Small-Business Server

How to Setup a Small Business Server & Network, Your small office probably depends on more than one computer to do its job. To manage the activities on all the PCs in your company, consider using a server for small businesses. Initially, shared storage would be the main advantage of this central hub and you would have multiple backup options. And as your business needs grow, you can use your server to design and test a website, host intranet services and possibly host your Internet presence.

Choosing a Server

The cheaper server only requires the kind of hardware you might already have in a closet - something slow like a PC with a Pentium Pro can handle an Ubuntu Linux based server. Windows Small Business Server 2008 is one step ahead of that; you can get it by running it on a new unused PC or you can buy a new pre-installed server.

Small Business Server 2008 is ideal for a few employees up to about a dozen or two. With 25 or more employees, you'll probably want to upgrade to Windows Essential Business Server 2008. PC companies that sell hardware and software systems usually help set it up, but you'll likely need on-site assistance or professional IT advice. to make it work.

Windows Home Server is suitable for sharing media files and performing simple network backups. It may be advantageous to run it and Small Business Server on the same network, but its limited scope leaves no room for growth. Mac OS X Server works well for performing cross-platform business and administration tasks, especially if the operation is primarily Mac-based; its brilliant Apple-style guides you through most of its services. If your organization primarily uses PCs, a Windows server will provide more automation and configuration for Windows clients.

Using an Ubuntu Linux-Based Server

If you are already familiar with managing a network, you may be ready for a simple server using Ubuntu Linux. The free operating system is available in server and desktop versions, each of which can run the same applications. The server version is preconfigured with networking tools, including Samba and OpenSSH file sharing, and its kernel is optimized to be more responsive to server activities. Beginners might find its intimidating command-line interface; Fortunately, however, activating the Ubuntu desktop GUI is simple.

The free download of Ubuntu can start quickly: just burn it to CD and run the installer. Note, however, that you need to understand many network basics before getting started. Are you familiar with the concepts behind manual IP addresses, router hardware, and file-sharing permissions? Are you comfortable with hard drive installations, RAM upgrades, and other hardware bases? Great! You should be able to understand Ubuntu and configure your PC as you go. Otherwise, a pre-installed paid server and the support that is usually provided may be better suited to your needs.

If you choose Ubuntu, in addition to the economic advantages of using a free operating system, you will have full control of the server, a capacity that you would not have with other servers. Ubuntu offers a high level of customization, including a Linux application library. Windows Setup a Business Network, on the other hand, requires special plug-ins to work beyond Microsoft's options. Although add-ons can meet your needs, this type of configuration does not open Linux.

Setting up the Network

We have created an example of a Small Business Network Setup Diagram and we will discuss it in detail in the next section.

Internet connection

For Small office Network Setup, you need to identify the type of Internet in your company. If it's a really small business, you can settle for a router or cable modem designed for home use. But if it is a medium-sized company, you may need a complete T1 line or at least a split T1 line. The T1 connection comes with a large box and many wires. Some of these connections also have an integrated firewall system.

Firewall configuration

For any company, it is important to properly configure a firewall to protect corporate data and privacy. It is also the DMZ that separates the private Ethernet network from your office from the global public Internet network (More information on the Internet vs. Ethernet). To design a network infrastructure, you need to complete an appropriate firewall configuration. Otherwise, your company's valuable resources can easily be stolen or lost. Although it is not possible to establish a firewall for your network immediately, get a router with an integrated firewall system.

Access to the wireless network

Top right in the network configuration for Small Businesses Network Design, you can see a wireless router. Some companies, like coffee shops, offer their customers and their customers free wireless access. If it is the same case with your company, you need to consider the location and configuration of the router. Without proper configuration and security, people could hack network space and start using the Internet for free while paying. To set up a wireless network for small businesses, follow these steps:

• There should be only one Ethernet cable for input on the wireless router
• Do not connect work computers to the wireless router
• The Ethernet input must pass through the firewall as shown in the configuration diagram
• Nothing on the wireless network should interfere with the work network
• You can request web authentication from clients and clients to access the wireless network to restrict unauthorized devices. Your firewall service will allow you to do this
• You can make two different connections over the wireless network: an open connection for clients and a WPA2 connection for work computers

If you configure two connections on the wireless router, you will be able to protect your computer network for small businesses because it will completely isolate the corporate network from client devices.

BAckend server

This section deals with server configuration for small businesses. The company's point-of-sale (POS) software will run on this server. There are several varieties of POS software such as futures. You need to install this software on your company's "server computer". The role of this dedicated computer is to work as a server for the company. It is recommended not to use the computer for reasons other than this. If the server computer is inserted for other purposes, the private information of the company could be violated. Another reason why you should avoid using this computer for any other purpose is that if you surf the Internet on this computer, it will slow down the entire office network. Install the best antivirus and firewall on this server. You can connect an inverter to this computer for better and smoother performance.

Monitoring

Business means transactions and this requires monitoring, particularly financial transactions. A video surveillance system can also help you in a police case if the situation arises. You can also install the monitoring system on your own, as well as configure it for your home. Monitoring can be connected to the POS server to monitor each transaction. You might ask yourself how much surveillance you need to maintain before you can overwrite the data on the surveillance images. Try to keep one month of monitoring before overwriting it, so you can report on your monthly work and your transaction. Monitoring also helps to provide many networking solutions for small businesses.

Front-End Stations

Employee workstations are the top positions. These stations are dedicated to working and nothing else. A workplace policy must be developed to prevent external devices from connecting to front-end stations, as these devices may contain malware without their owners' knowledge. This is really important because of the front-end stations directly access the server and the malware can enter the system through one of these stations and corrupt the entire configuration.

Network Memory

You can configure the NAS (Network Attached Storage) for automatic data backup. You can set the backup interval. If your company regularly processes important data, you should, of course, keep this data. Follow these steps for the workplace network:

• Create a local copy for the data
• For backup, use an external hard drive or NAS device. This is useful when the primary hard drive fails or a system recovery is required
• Keep an option for a third copy in a secure location where you can store data in the event of a disaster such as a fire or a flood. You can use the cloud storage service like Carbonite or Dropbox
• Be sure to encrypt the data using an encryption program
• Configure your server with the hard drive using RAID 1. This will reflect all your server data
• Now you can easily restore data if your hard drive fails. Just connect a new hard drive to the server and it will update automatically

Ensure Total Security on Desktop Computers

Since you are in a company, you will need to continuously share software and files. It is, therefore, necessary to ensure that the data is always protected. Even with good design for the office network, your data is not secure unless it is encrypted and the software is out of date. If the network is vulnerable to spyware, malware, adware, phishing, botnets or spam, the entire company is constantly threatened. Here's how to protect your office network:

• Enter strong passwords for encryption using WEP (Wireless Encryption Protocol)
• You can set access for authorization and impose restrictions on a particular employee, if necessary
• Use a VPN to remotely access computers
• For wireless users in addition to employees, create a guest account
• Make sure that security, virus protection and network software are always up to date
• Make the accessibility of the router limited

We discussed the configuration diagram of the Small Business Network Setup Guide. This is a Small Business Network configuration project and does not apply to larger offices. The network plan will depend on the type of company, the amount of storage space sufficient for employees, the budget and the needs of the network. Make sure you have followed our entire plan and have not omitted any details during the installation of the network, as this would cause a malfunction. But it is unlikely to happen because it is a simple and basic project that any network provider can establish. However, we recommend that you seek the assistance of an IT professional to ensure optimal safety and performance.

What Is Help Desk Software?

Keeping customers and users happy is essential to the idea of ​​the success of most organizations. You could run a support table for a product that your company is selling or it could be an IT professional who runs a Help Desk IT for a large internal user base. The situation is generally the same (users of a service that occasionally has problems) of the objectives (solve problems quickly and make people happy). With these help desk platforms, the IT department can better manage user problems and shorten the time from termination to termination.

Help desk software is the heart of a well-managed help desk and is a vital consideration for business owners. In fact, it is one of a company's top priorities if it is a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME) or a large organization. Fortunately, there is no shortage of options to choose from, as a wide range of help desk software is available. Some solutions are more suitable for SMEs, while others are more suitable for larger organizations; others are better for internal IT operations than for organizations that handle customer requests. Furthermore, not all help desk software is created in the same way.

For example, help desk software like Cayzu, Freshdesk, HappyFox, Vivantio Pro and Zendesk Support include social links that allow you to get tickets from social networking websites like Twitter. This could be an important feature for a company that deals with a large customer base, but it is not so important (or even relevant) for someone who uses the system simply as an internal IT service platform.

Other help desks software, such as Jira Service Desk, provides additional security measures and identity management features (mainly Single Sign-On or SSO), which can be key differentiators for some companies. SSO gives users the option of a set of login credentials for multiple applications. Watch for these types of security features.

In this summary, we test the 10 best help desk software offerings, including Agiloft Service Desk, Cayzu, Freshdesk, Freshservice, HappyFox, Jira Service Desk, ManageEngine ServiceDesk Plus 9.3, Vivantio Pro, Zendesk Support and Zoho Desk. All these help desk solutions are available as SaaS (software as a service) solutions. This means that it is not necessary to install any help desk software on a local computer. As SaaS solutions, all the tested help desk software can be run on someone else's servers, a fact that could attract many SME owners.

ITIL Adherence

During the tests, we found that some help desk software stood out from the others in an important way: joining the Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL). ITIL is a consolidated service framework used primarily by IT management companies. It is a set of best practices that includes many checklists, procedures, processes and activities. Making ITIL able to effectively govern the way your business does things can be restrictive and beneficial, depending on your specific industry. ITIL should be followed whenever possible, even if it seems to be a bit overwhelming for smaller companies.

The tested IT Help Desk Support is divided into two fields: those that follow the ITIL guidelines and those that do not follow them. The most advanced services tested follow ITIL, including Freshservice, Jira Service Desk and ManageEngine ServiceDesk Plus 9.3. It would make more sense for large companies working in the service management sector, perhaps overseeing data centers or large corporations where service level agreements (SLAs) and sanctions are more than just passwords. If your company follows ITIL, then you should opt for an offer of help desk software that adheres to the ITIL framework.

But not all companies that need help desk software follow ITIL or even need it. For example, if you are a software developer looking for something to handle incoming customer support requests, solid change management (something that governs ITIL) is probably not something you need. And it is likely that Freshdesk, one of the proven Service Desk Support offerings, is not useful for a company responsible for managing a large data center. Some companies that do not participate in ITIL could focus more on customer service where tickets generated by social networks are offered. These companies would benefit from help desk solutions like Cayzu, HappyFox and Zendesk Support. Therefore, first determine if ITIL is something that your company must follow and then buy accordingly

Eight Tips for Help Desk and Tech Support Success

IDENTIFY AND EVALUATE THE LEVEL OF PROBLEM

Customer problems of a more technical nature can cover the entire range in terms of complexity and ease of resolution, so it is important to immediately identify the problem and quickly assess if it is something that can be solved with a simple solution. At one end of the spectrum, a customer may simply need instructions on how to recover a lost password or instructions to return a defective product for replacement. At the top, it may be necessary to resolve an unexpected device failure or report a technical failure that stops the software they found and has never been seen before.

Addressing customers to useful resources, such as video tutorials, detailed instructions, and user forums, which provide immediate answers to common technical problems can be an excellent way to speed things up. However, it is also useful to identify the most complex problems from the beginning so that they can be sent to the team members with the appropriate experience to solve them.

Measure the customer's technical level.

Using intuition and clues from the conversation or correspondence, it is useful to try to identify the level of technical knowledge of the client to determine the best way to help him. For some customers, something that might seem like a simple solution could be much more complicated if they are not technically inclined. On the contrary, a customer with a higher level of technical knowledge can interact more smoothly and get the solution he needs when talking to an agent who has more specialized experience in the field.

The problems of cable and Wi-Fi connectivity are a common example. A tech-savvy customer could quickly find a solution with access to your company's knowledge base, while other casual users might be nervous about looking for the restore button.

Determining the level of the technical competence of a client makes it easier to direct the response of your team in the right direction.

CHECK THE PREVIOUS SUPPORT TICKETS

It is not unusual for many customers with technical problems to find some of the same problems, or even related problems, more than once. Searching for previous support tickets registered for a particular customer can provide useful clues that can help speed up the process, which is a good thing for everyone involved. The aforementioned tickets may contain notes that allow you to direct customers towards a better solution or to accelerate them to the appropriate department to better solve their problems.

Take detailed and useful notes on each interaction

Agents do not have to write a book about each client, but keeping detailed notes that illuminate the problem, its unique situation, the proposed solution, and the final result can be valuable, both to keep track of common problems and to help customers arrive repeatedly With similar problems. Customer support software solutions such as Zendesk, Salesforce, and Desk can facilitate the ticket tracking process and keep customer data organized.

Get ready to scale down the most difficult support requests

Agents acting as the first point of contact for technology-centric customer service questions should become experts to assess the difficulty level of an application, so that they can be ready to resize the support ticket to the appropriate Team members with the right experience and expertise to solve the problems of the most involved customers.

The success of the Help Desk Company and technical support consists of facing the challenges that arise and finding ways to make life easier for customers, quickly solving their high technology problems. Along with various support options and the right approach for your team, these tips will help alleviate some of the tensions that could arise from juggling technological problems and other challenges that may arise.

Target customers towards self-service solutions such as questions and answers, forums and videos

Cultivating a variety of self-service options that provide solutions to common problems can be an effective way to reduce the time spent on individual support tickets. Because many customers prefer to find an answer independently, directing them to the right resources can save them time and energy.

The value here is to create the best possible resources for the most common problems posed by customers and therefore offer different formats to solve self-service problems on request. Some clients may respond better to a guided video tutorial. Others may respond better to the question and respond to the text or customer search forum. Provide them with options to explore and leave the door open for further direct assistance if needed.

Get ready to scale down the most difficult support requests

 Agents acting as the first point of contact for technology-centric customer service questions should become experts to assess the difficulty level of an application, so that they can be ready to resize the support ticket to the appropriate Team members with the right experience and expertise to solve the problems of the most involved customers.

The success of the Managed Help Desk and technical support consists of facing the challenges that arise and finding ways to make life easier for customers, quickly solving their high technology problems. Along with various support options and the right approach for your team, these tips will help alleviate some of the tensions that could arise from juggling technological problems and other challenges that may arise.

Outsourcing

Small businesses increasingly rely on information technology (IT) to catapult productivity, improve efficiency and offer them a competitive advantage. But in the event of computer problems, small businesses suffer. In fact, most small businesses cannot afford to have a computer scientist on their payroll, and hiring a computer can take hours or even days. This is bad news.

The good news is that it is becoming increasingly convenient for small businesses to outsource their IT help and level the playing field with big business owners. We will explain the essential differences between the Outsourced Help Desk and the maintenance of an IT guru in the staff and we will let you know the advantages of each option.

Advantages of Outsourcing Your IT Help Desk 

One of the main advantages of IT help desk outsourcing is the potential for saving money. IT helpdesk outsourcing saves money on payroll because you won't have to pay the salary or benefits of a computer scientist. Also, if everyone's technology is working properly, you won't pay your IT specialist to stay idle.

Another reason why small businesses choose to outsource their IT help desk service is 24/7 availability. An internal IT professional typically works Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm But what happens if your employees or customers need help after hours? This is when outsourcing to a trusted IT company can really pay off. Furthermore, outsourced IT help typically offers a faster response time than the internal service, since with an internal agreement there is often only one person managing the needs of the entire company. Employees are waiting for help, which not only reduces productivity but could have a negative impact on customer service.

An additional benefit of Outsourced Help Desk is that you could find a company specialized in your niche or industry. This can be a great advantage when it comes to troubleshooting, solving common industry problems and proactive problem resolution.

Network Engineer

A Network Engineer is a technology professional who has the skills to plan, implement and monitor computer networks supporting internal voice, data, video and wireless networks.

Although the names of network professions and the network administrator are sometimes used synonymously, a network engineer generally has more executive responsibilities than a network administrator. The engineering part tends to deal more with planning, design and technical specifications, while the administrative part mainly concerns daily maintenance, management and problem-solving efforts.

Job titles can also be differentiated by education and / or income. Usually, a network engineer has more education and earns more than a network administrator.

Responsibility of a network engineer

Network engineers focus on offering high-availability network infrastructures to maintain information technology activities online and on user sites. Network engineers often overlap with other functions, such as computer network architects or security systems engineers, and work internally within an organization or as external consultants.

Network engineers design and implement network configurations, solve performance problems, monitor the network and configure security systems such as firewalls. They often inform a CIO, the director of information security and other business line leaders to discuss and decide on general company goals, policies and updates on network status. In many situations, network engineers work closely with project managers and other engineers, manage capacity and perform remote or on-site support.

Qualifications for a Network Engineer

Several universities and other institutions offer training programs in network engineering. A Network Engineer may only need an associates degree to get an entry level job, but most positions will require a degree in computer science or additional experience. Many network engineers also come from areas such as electrical, physical or mathematical engineering. For many engineers, additional qualifications and training are closely related to the Cisco engineering certification program, which offers five levels of professional training. Other certifications are available from suppliers and organizations such as Juniper Networks, Microsoft, Aruba, Alcatel-Lucent, Riverbed Technology Inc., SolarWinds, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Extreme Networks Inc. and IPv6 Forums.

In addition to technical skills, network engineers need analytical skills, leadership and organizational skills. Attention to detail and the ability to solve problems are also important. Engineers must be able to understand complex networks and detect problems or suggest ways to solve them. They must also be able to work collaboratively, as well as instruct other engineers and support staff to manage the network. And they must be flexible enough to work with engineers and business line colleagues who may not understand the networks.

Increasingly, network engineers must also learn about application and software development, reflecting the growing role of automation and software-defined networks. Therefore, engineers must understand traffic flows, application priority and data transport. In addition, engineers should also familiarize themselves with hyper-convergence, virtualization, security, containers, geographic networks and storage engineering.

Network Engineer Career Path

Network engineers' salaries range from $ 46,500 to over $ 115,000 a year, depending on skills and experience. Engineers can also earn bonuses and some employers also offer profit sharing. Network engineers work 40 hours a week, but can be called on weekends, evenings and after work hours to solve technical problems.

Network Engineer can also follow different paths in the field of networks. Network analysts specialize in the installation and maintenance of networks and often cross over into the technical and commercial aspects of an organization. Network administrators perform a similar function, but must train and direct network technicians. The most specialized roles include cloud network architects, who help organizations with cloud infrastructure deployment and network security specialists, which detect and prevent network security threats. Other specialists focus on engineering for VoIP, telecommunications and data centers.