How to become A Network Designer

Networking has extended its meaning and influence beyond connecting just people. Network design is now a process that facilitates communication between computers, people, and companies. The rising importance of the internet bears testimony to the importance of a Network Designer's contributions to organising and updating computer systems such as wide area networks (WAN), intranets, and other data communication systems, intrinsic to nearly all facets of contemporary organisations.

• Network Architect
• Computer Network Architect
• Computer Network Designer
• Network Design Engineer

What do Network Designers do?

A Network Designer would typically need to:

• Design a network that suits the established architectural standards for an enterprise and facilitates communication between the system and organisational departments
• Liaise with customers to assess their computer network requirements; conceptualise designs, create plans and layouts for data communication networks
• Present plans to management and the reasons to implement them
• Foresee potential network problems and threats; draw up contingency plans and possible technical solutions to combat such risks and ensure optimal fulfilment of client needs
• Supervise, mentor and train a team of Network Designers in deriving design solutions and working with existing communication systems
• Install networks by setting up and connecting network components; upgrade hardware components, such as routers or adaptors, and software, such as network drivers, to support networks and improve user experience and efficiency 
• Account for information security and install firewall systems
• Ensure that all network systems meet the legally established engineering, planning and operational standards
• Stay updated on emerging networking technologies and communication systems that further support the organisation’s objectives
• Conduct security audits; evaluate and document performance of wide and local area networks to proactively correct issues

Network Designers typically work in an office with occasional work in server rooms to access the hardware components that form the computer and information network. Work may involve overseas travel if you work with an international company. 

Network Designers typically work full time from 9 a.m to 5 p.m. On certain occasions, work beyond 40 hours a week may be necessary to meet deadlines.

Finding a new job might seem challenging. Network Designers can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting companies directly, using job search platforms, going to job fairs, and inquiring at staffing agencies.

Network Designers are generally employed by: 

• Computer Systems Design & Related Services
• Telecommunication Firms 
• Educational Institutions
• Business Enterprises
• Insurance Firms

Professional associations and organisations, such as The Service Design Network (SDN), are crucial for a Network Designer interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation.

Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

• Designing strong networks that prevent cyberattacks; implementing cloud computing in ways that minimise data losses and optimise security
• Working with poorly trained or dissatisfied individuals who make the network susceptible to cybersecurity threats, for instance, by sharing login details with unauthorised users
• Working long hours in offices or server rooms may cause frustration or burnouts; insufficient time for one’s family and self-care

Network Designers typically require at least five to ten years of professional experience in Information Technology (IT) systems or other computer-related roles, such as database administrator and computer systems analyst. 

Experience in IT support, service and repair is an added benefit.

Relevant work experience via summer placements, vacation work, internships or shadowing is highly recommended as these experiences act as evidence of your skills and ability to thrive in the professional working environment. 

Read up on the profession while trying to gain work experience and use your insights to boost your professional output and efficiency. Also, apply your learnings as users of information technology and computers to understand problems that arise.

Network Designers need a bachelor’s degree or higher in information or computer science, computer engineering, information systems or technology, engineering or a related field. Such degree programs give you practical experience and theoretical expertise in avenues such as network security or database design and prepare you to work with a breadth of technologies used in networks. 

Typically, you would need to have completed high school courses in statistics, mathematics, and English to enter relevant bachelor’s degree programs. You may go on to cover college courses in operations systems, programming languages, computer algorithms, digital security, electrical engineering and software engineering.

Some employers may prefer candidates with an MBA (Master’s of Business Administration) degree focusing on information technology.

Certification demonstrates a Network Designer’s competence in a skill set, typically through work experience, training, and passing an examination. With the proper certification, Network Designers may gain a career boost and increase the likelihood of employment. 

Product vendors and software firms offer vendor-specific certifications to verify a set of skills that will allow Network Designers to adapt to the needs of particular networking environments.

Companies prefer their Network Designers to be certified users of certain products. Prominent certifications include the Cisco Certified Design Professional (CCDP), which equips you with advanced knowledge of network design concepts and principles, network components and multi-layer enterprise architectures.

Performance, experience, and the acquisition of professional qualifications drive career progression. Employees with consistently high levels of performance may be eligible for promotion every two to three years. 

Organisational size and the scope of its IT systems often determine a Network Designer’s career path.

With more experience, Network Designers may advance to Senior Network Manager and other network management roles. You may also diversify into other IT, customer-related or management positions. 

Some related IT roles you may aim for are Computer Hardware Engineer, Computer Programmer, and Computer Systems Analyst. Some Network Designers also advance to become Computer and Information Systems Managers, Technical or Infrastructure Project Managers, or Network Architects. 

With more contacts and experience, IT contracting and freelancing are also possible

Candidates with an MBA and certification in information systems and those who work with a positive attitude have the best job prospects.

Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active Network Designer build personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity, formal education, or self-directed learning. 

You need to upskill continually, regardless of your age, job, or level of knowledge, to keep up with the rapidly-changing industry.

Large companies may send employees on training courses to prepare for introducing new systems or expanding their IT facilities. However, you may have to seek out courses and training for yourself if you are self-employed or wish to advance your career. 

Some relevant qualifications include CompTIA, Juniper Networks Certification Program, Microsoft Certifications and the Cisco Certification Program.

Employers also prefer candidates with a master’s of business administration (MBA) in information systems. MBA programs generally require two years of study beyond the undergraduate level and include business and computer-related courses.

Types of Networks

Network Designers work with various networks, with each occupying a finite location. For example, local area networks (LAN) link a limited area such as a home, office or a small group of buildings with wires or wirelessly using wireless local area networks (WLAN). 

In contrast, a metropolitan area network (MAN) links a large area, such as a campus. Wide area networks (WAN) are much larger and connect networks nationally or internationally. Global area networks (GAN), however, combine all of the above with satellite mobile communication technologies. 

Smaller networks include storage area network (SAN), campus area network (CAN), personal area network (PAN), desk area network (DAN) and voice over internet protocol network (VoIP). 

Potential Pros & Cons of Freelancing vs Full-Time Employment

Freelancing Network Designers have more flexible work schedules and locations. They have full ownership of the business and can select their projects and clients. However, they experience inconsistent work and cash flow, which means more responsibility, effort and risk.

A full-time Network Designers, on the other hand, has company-sponsored health benefits, insurance, and retirement plans. They have job security with a fixed, reliable source of income and guidance from their bosses. Yet, they may experience boredom due to a lack of flexibility, ownership, and variety.

When deciding between freelancing or being a full-time employee, consider the pros and cons to see what works best for you.

The internet is made up of 550,000 miles of underwater cable and is controlled by 75 million servers.

The design of network constructions such as communication systems and databases determines their monitoring capabilities and overall output, thus making Network Designers crucial for the success of any enterprise today. 

Ensure high-quality networks and maximum performance for your users and educate employees and users to accept automatic network update prompts. Encourage people to follow security policies and rules and use BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) passwords. Physically securing your equipment and ports is critical. Never gamble with your integrity and ethics if you wish to succeed as a Network Designer.