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HOW TO BECOME A NETWORK ENGINEER
BY: WILLIAM MICHAEL FORBIE
SEPTEMBER 3, 2024
ENTERFACE ENGINEERING SL LIMITED
91B OLD PENINSULAR ROAD, MAMBO, FREETOWN SIERRA LEONE
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TYPES OF ENGINEERS
NO TYPES OF ENGINEERS MAJOR ROLES
1 ELECTRICAL ENGINEERS DESIGN, DEVELOP, AND TEST ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
AND COMPONENTS. CREATE TECHNICAL
DRAWINGS, SPECIFICATIONS, AND SCHEMATICS
USING CAD SOFTWARE. EVALUATE ELECTRICAL
SYSTEMS, COMPONENTS, AND APPLICATIONS FOR
PERFORMANCE AND EFFICIENCY. COLLABORATE
WITH MULTIDISCIPLINARY TEAMS TO INTEGRATE
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS INTO LARGER PROJECTS.
2 MECHENICAL ENGINEERS DESIGN AND DEVELOP MECHANICAL SYSTEMS AND
COMPONENTS IN ACCORDANCE WITH PROJECT
REQUIREMENTS. CONDUCT FEASIBILITY STUDIES
AND ANALYZE TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS TO
DETERMINE PROJECT FEASIBILITY. CREATE DETAILED
DRAWINGS AND SCHEMATICS USING CAD
SOFTWARE. PERFORM CALCULATIONS AND
SIMULATIONS TO VALIDATE DESIGN CONCEPTS.
3 ENECTRRONICS ENGINEERS PLANNING ELECTRONICS PROJECTS
ELECTRONICS ENGINEERS PARTICIPATE IN THE
PRELIMINARY STAGES OF ANY ELECTRONIC
PRODUCT. MANUFACTURING ELECTRONIC
PRODUCTS ELECTRONICS ENGINEERS NOT ONLY
DEVELOP PLANS BUT ALSO FOLLOW THEM TO
MANUFACTURE ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS AND
SYSTEMS. TESTING AND EVALUATING ELECTRICAL
PRODUCTS COORDINATING WITH STAKEHOLDERS
WRITING USAGE RECOMMENDATIONS
PERFORMING MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS
4 NETWORK ENGINEERS MAINTAIN AND CONTROL COMPUTER
NETWORKS AND ASSOCIATED COMPUTING
ENVIRONMENTS LIKE SOFTWARE FOR SYSTEMS,
SOFTWARE APPLICATIONS, EQUIPMENT, AND
CONFIGURATIONS. RUNNING OPERATIONS FOR
DISASTER RECOVERY AND BACKUPS OF DATA
WHERE POSSIBLE. DATA, APPLICATIONS, AND
HARDWARE ARE PROTECTED BY ORGANIZING,
PREPARING, AND ENFORCING NETWORK SECURITY
MEASURES.
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Error: Reference source not foundError: Reference source not foundError: Reference source
not foundQUALITIES OF AN ENGINEER
PROBLEM SOLVING
SKILLS
ANALITICAL THINKING
INQUISITIVE
DEVELOP TECHNICAL NETWORKING SKILLS
Phases of Computer Generations
A NETWORK ENGINEER MUST HAVE A ROBUST SET OF TECHNICAL SKILLS. FOCUS ON
MASTERING NETWORKING CONCEPTS, SUCH AS TCP/IP, ROUTING AND SWITCHING, AND
NETWORK SECURITY. GAIN PROFICIENCY IN USING NETWORK DIAGNOSTIC AND MONITORING
TOOLS. WORK ON UNDERSTANDING DIFFERENT NETWORK TOPOLOGIES AND THE
CONFIGURATION OF NETWORK DEVICES. PRACTICE SETTING UP AND MANAGING VIRTUAL
NETWORKS AND FIREWALLS. THESE SKILLS ARE ESSENTIAL FOR TROUBLESHOOTING AND
ENSURING THE SMOOTH OPERATION OF NETWORKS.
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SALARY
NO
OF AN
TYPES OF ENGINEER
1 ELECTRICAL ENGINEER
2 TELECOM ENGINEER
MONTHLY SALARY YEARLY SALARY
50,000
80,000
600000
960000
MONTHL
3 NETWORK ENGINEER 120,000 1440000
4 CYBER ENGINEER 200,000 2400000
5 ELECTRONICS ENGINEER 15,000 180000
6 SOFTWARE ENGINEER 190,000 2280000
7 BIO-CHEMICAL ENGINEER 300,000 3600000
8 SPACE ENGINEER 50,000 600000
MONTHLY SALARY
1 ELECTRICAL ENGINEER 2 TELECO
4 CYBER ENGINEER 5 ELECTRO
7 BIO-CHEMICAL ENGINEER 8 SPACE E
1 ELECTRICAL ENGINEER 2 TELECOM ENGINEER
3 NETWORK ENGINEER 4 CYBER ENGINEER
5 ELECTRONICS ENGINEER 6 SOFTWARE ENGINEER
7 BIO-CHEMICAL ENGINEER 8 SPACE ENGINEER
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SignatureFriday, 3 January 2025
GAIN PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE IN NETWORKING
Computer
A computer, is an electronic device that processes information and performs
various tasks according to a set of instructions. It consists of hardware and
software components that work together to enable users to input, process, store,
and output data.
Generations of Computers
Computers have gone through many changes over time. The first generation of
computers started around 1940 and since then there have been five generations
of
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computers until 2023. Computers evolved over a long period of time, starting
from the 16th century, and continuously improved themselves in terms of speed,
accuracy, size, and price to become the modern-day computer.
Basic Terms Related to Computers
The basic terms related to generations of computers are listed below.
• Vacuum Tube: Vacuum tubes have the functionality of controlling
the flow of electronics in a vacuum. Generally, it is used in switches,
amplifiers, radios, televisions, etc.
• Transistor: A transistor helps in controlling the flow of electricity in
devices, it works as an amplifier or a switch.
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• Integrated Circuit (IC): Integrated circuits are silicon chips that
contain their circuit elements like transistors, resistors, etc.
• Microprocessors: Microprocessors are the components that contain
the CPU and its circuits and are present in the Integrated Circuit.
• Central Processing Unit (CPU): The CPU is called the brain of the
computer. CPU performs processing and operations work.
• Magnetic Drum: Magnetic Drum is like a cylinder that stores data
and cylinder.
• Magnetic Core: Magnetic cores are used to store information. These
are arrays of small rings.
• Machine Language: Machine Language is the language that a
computer accepts (in the form of binary digits). It is also called
lowlevel programming language.
• Memory: Memory is used to store data, information, and program in
a computer.
• Artificial Intelligence: Artificial Intelligence deals with creating
intelligent machines and behaviors.
Phases of Computer Generations
This long period is often conveniently divided into the subsequent phases called
computer generations.
• First Generation Computers (1940-1956)
• Second Generation Computers (1956-1963)
• Third Generation Computers (1964-1971)
• Fourth Generation Computers (1971-Present)
• Fifth Generation Computers (Present and Beyond)
Generation Time Period Evolving Hardware
First Generation 1940s – 1950s Vacuum Tube Based
Second Generation 1950s – 1960s Transistor Based
Third Generation 1960s – 1970s Integrated Circuit Based
Fourth Generation 1970s – Present Microprocessor Based
Fifth Generation Present – Future Artificial Intelligence Based
How Do Computers Work?
• Input--Thisis when information is entered into a computer. Some
common input devices include the keyboard, mouse and scanner.
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• Output--This is the information that comes out of a computer after
it has been processed. The information comes out on output devices
such as a printer or computer monitor.
• Processing--This is when the information is handled by the
computer’s brain, known as the CPU (Central Processing Unit).
• Hardware and software are two essential components of a computer
system, and they work together to enable the computer to perform
various tasks.
Hardware
Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer system. These are
tangible, visible, and touchable parts that make up the computer. H
William Michael Forbie
Examples: Central Processing Unit (CPU), memory (RAM), storage devices (hard
drives, SSDs), input devices (keyboard, mouse), output devices (monitor,
printer), and other physical components.
Role: Hardware components perform the actual computing and processing tasks.
For example, the CPU executes instructions, memory stores data temporarily,
and storage devices store data permanently.
Central Processing Unit (CPU): Often referred to as the brain of the computer, the CPU
executes instructions and performs calculations.
Memory (RAM): Random Access Memory stores data that is currently being used or
processed by the CPU. It is volatile memory, meaning it loses its content when
the power is turned off.
Storage: This can be a hard drive (HDD) or a solid-state drive (SSD), providing
nonvolatile storage for your data and programs.
Input Devices: Devices like keyboards and mice allow users to provide input to the
computer.
Output Devices: Monitors, printers, and speakers are examples of devices that
display or output information from the computer.
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Software
Software refers to the set of instructions or programs that tell the computer's
hardware what tasks to perform. It is intangible, not physically touchable, and
consists of code and data.
Examples: Operating systems (e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux), application
software (e.g., word processors, web browsers, games), device drivers, and
system utilities.
Role: Software provides the rules and instructions that guide the hardware in
carrying out specific functions. Without software, hardware alone cannot perform
useful tasks.
Operating System (OS): The OS is the software that manages hardware resources and
provides a user interface. Examples include Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Applications: Programs or apps that perform specific tasks, such as word
processors, web browsers, and games.
Basic Operations:
Input: Users interact with the computer by providing input through devices like
keyboards, mice, and touchscreens.
Processing: The CPU processes the input and executes instructions stored in the
computer's memory.
Output: Results are displayed on the screen, printed on paper, or conveyed
through other output devices.
Storage: Data is stored on the computer's storage devices for later use.
Difference between Hardware and Software:
Physical vs. Intangible:
Hardware: Physical components that you can touch and see.
Software: Intangible instructions and programs that you cannot touch.
Functionality:
Hardware: Performs the actual computation, processing, and input/output tasks.
Software: Guides and instructs the hardware on what tasks to perform.
Examples:
Hardware: CPU, memory,
storage devices, input/output
Munjei Mary Forbie devices.
Software: Operating
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drivers.
2011
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Connectivity:
Internet: Computers can connect to the internet, enabling communication,
information retrieval, and online activities.
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91B OLD PENINSULAR ROAD, MAMBO, FREETOWN SIERRA LEO
KEYBOARD
T he flashing light on the computer screen is called the cursor. This cursor can be moved up and
down or left and right by pressing the 4 keys that have arrows on them. These arrow keys are
called cursor keys.
Alphanumeric Keys
Letters (A-Z): Used for typing text.
Numbers (0-9): Used for numeric input.
Function Keys (F1-F12)
F1-F12: These keys often have different functions depending on the software or
operating system you're using. They can be shortcuts for various commands or
operations.
Function keys, labeled F1 through F12, are a set of keys found at the top of most
computer keyboards. Their specific functions can vary depending on the
operating system, software, or context. Here's a general overview of the typical
uses for function keys:
F1: Help
Use: Opens a help menu or guide for the active application.
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F2: Rename
Use: Renames a selected file, folder, or icon on the desktop.
F3: Search
Use: Opens a search feature in various applications or the operating system.
F4: Open
Use: Opens a location bar in Windows Explorer or commonly used with Alt to
close a program.
F5: Refresh
Use: Reloads or refreshes the content of the current window or webpage.
F6: Address Bar
Use: Highlights the address bar in a web browser or file explorer.
F7: Spell Check
Use: Initiates a spell check in many word processing programs.
F8: Boot Options
Use: Accesses the boot menu during system startup, allowing you to choose the
boot device.
F9: Special Functions
Use: The specific function varies depending on the software or application in use.
F10: Menu Access
Use: Activates the menu bar in many programs.
F11: Full Screen
Use: Toggles full-screen mode in web browsers and some applications.
F12: Save As
Use: Opens the "Save As" dialog box in many applications.
Number Pad:
On the right side of the keyboard there is a set of keys grouped together in a
square.
These keys have two functions. When the number lock key is pressed, these keys
offer a quick and easy way of entering numbers into the computer. When the
number lock key isn’t pressed, these keys control the movement of the cursor.
Special Function Keys:
Shift: Used in combination with other keys to type uppercase letters or access
additional characters.
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When this key is pressed at the same time you press a letter key, a capital letter
appears on your screen. When it is held down when you press a key with a
symbol and number, the top symbol appears on the computer screen. There are
two shift keys on your keyboard.
The Backspace Key: When this key is pressed, the cursor moves back one space to
the left on your computer screen. This key is very helpful when you press the
wrong letter or number. You can erase your mistakes!
Space Bar:This is the long bar located at the bottom of the keyboard. Every time you press this bar,
the cursor moves one space to the right on the computer screen.
Ctrl (Control): Used in combination with other keys for keyboard shortcuts in
software applications.
Alt (Alternate): Similar to Ctrl, used in combination with other keys for alternate
keyboard shortcuts.
Win (Windows): Opens the Start menu on Windows computers.
Arrow Keys:
Up, Down, Left, Right: Used for navigation within documents or interfaces.
Enter/Return Key:
Enter: Used to execute a command, start a new line, or submit data.
Return (Mac): Similar to the Enter key on Windows.
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Delete: Deletes the character to the right of the cursor.
Tab Key:
Tab: Moves the cursor to the next tab stop or indents text.
Caps Lock:
Caps Lock: Toggles between uppercase and lowercase letters. When activated, all
letters will be in uppercase until Caps Lock is turned off.
When you press this key, a small light on the keyboard comes on. Whenever this
light is on, any letter key you press will result in a capital of that letter appearing
on the screen. Pressing the CAPS LOCK key a second time turns it off.
Esc (Escape):
Escape: Used to cancel or
close dialog boxes and
escape from certain modes
in software.
HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE IS
CRUCIAL IN THE NETWORKING
FIELD. SEEK INTERNSHIPS OR
ENTRY-LEVEL POSITIONS THAT
OFFER EXPOSURE TO NETWORK
SETUP, MONITORING, AND
TROUBLESHOOTING.
PARTICIPATE IN LAB WORK OR
USE SIMULATION SOFTWARE TO
PRACTICE YOUR SKILLS.
VOLUNTEERING TO MANAGE
NETWORKS FOR SMALL
BUSINESSES OR NONPROFIT
ORGANIZATIONS CAN ALSO
PROVIDE VALUABLE REAL-
GREAT NEWS IT IS REALLY NICE TO
WORLD EXPERIENCE. THIS
UNDERSTAND HOW TO USE PRACTICAL KNOWLEDGE WILL
COMPUTER KEYBOARD AS AGREAD DEEPEN YOUR UNDERSTANDING
UPON OF NETWORK OPERATIONS AND
PREPARE YOU FOR MORE ADVANCED ROLES.
Generations of Computers
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BUILD YOUR PROFESSIONAL NETWORK
NETWORKING IS JUST AS IMPORTANT IN BUILDING A CAREER AS IT IS IN DESIGNING DATA
NETWORKS. CONNECT WITH EXPERIENCED NETWORK ENGINEERS, JOIN PROFESSIONAL
ASSOCIATIONS LIKE THE IEEE COMPUTER SOCIETY, AND PARTICIPATE IN ONLINE FORUMS AND
SOCIAL MEDIA GROUPS FOCUSED ON NETWORKING. ATTEND INDUSTRY CONFERENCES AND
WORKSHOPS TO STAY CURRENT WITH THE LATEST TECHNOLOGIES AND MAKE CONNECTIONS
THAT COULD LEAD TO JOB OPPORTUNITIES OR MENTORSHIP.
CREATE A PORTFOLIO OF YOUR NETWORK PROJECTS
DOCUMENT YOUR INVOLVEMENT IN NETWORK PROJECTS, INCLUDING ANY NETWORK
DESIGNS, IMPLEMENTATIONS, OR OPTIMIZATIONS YOU HAVE WORKED ON. INCLUDE
DIAGRAMS, CONFIGURATIONS, AND DESCRIPTIONS OF THE CHALLENGES YOU FACED AND
HOW YOU OVERCAME THEM. A WELL-ORGANIZED PORTFOLIO CAN SHOWCASE YOUR
TECHNICAL ABILITIES AND PROBLEM-SOLVING SKILLS TO POTENTIAL EMPLOYERS, SETTING
YOU APART FROM OTHER CANDIDATES.
STAY INFORMED AND CONTINUE LEARNING
THE FIELD OF NETWORK ENGINEERING IS DYNAMIC, WITH NEW TECHNOLOGIES LIKE
SOFTWARE-DEFINED NETWORKING (SDN) AND CLOUD SERVICES CONTINUALLY EMERGING.
STAY INFORMED BY SUBSCRIBING TO INDUSTRY PUBLICATIONS, FOLLOWING THOUGHT
LEADERS ON SOCIAL MEDIA, AND PARTICIPATING IN WEBINARS AND ONLINE COURSES.
PURSUE ADVANCED CERTIFICATIONS, SUCH AS CISCO'S CCNP OR CCIE, TO KEEP YOUR SKILLS
CURRENT AND DEMONSTRATE YOUR COMMITMENT TO PROFESSIONAL GROWTH.
EACH STEP ON THE PATH TO BECOMING A NETWORK ENGINEER IS DESIGNED TO BUILD UPON
THE LAST, CREATING A COMPREHENSIVE SKILL SET THAT IS BOTH BROAD AND DEEP. WITH
DEDICATION AND A PASSION FOR TECHNOLOGY, YOU CAN FORGE A REWARDING CAREER THAT
IS AT THE HEART OF MODERN COMMUNICATION AND DATA EXCHANGE.
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how-to-become-an-engineer
EMBARKING ON A CAREER AS A NETWORK ENGINEER MEANS DIVING INTO A WORLD WHERE
TECHNOLOGY MEETS PROBLEM-SOLVING. THIS ROLE IS CRUCIAL IN DESIGNING,
IMPLEMENTING, AND MANAGING THE INFRASTRUCTURE THAT KEEPS DATA FLOWING AND
COMMUNICATION LINES OPEN IN ORGANIZATIONS. TO BECOME A NETWORK ENGINEER, YOU
MUST BE PREPARED TO DEVELOP A BLEND OF TECHNICAL EXPERTISE, ANALYTICAL SKILLS, AND
A DEEP UNDERSTANDING OF NETWORKING PROTOCOLS AND HARDWARE. YOUR JOURNEY
WILL INVOLVE FORMAL EDUCATION, CERTIFICATION, HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE, AND A
COMMITMENT TO CONTINUOUS LEARNING IN A FIELD THAT IS CONSTANTLY EVOLVING WITH
ENGINEERING IS MY
BEST PROFESSION
NEW TECHNOLOGIES. IF YOU'RE READY TO TACKLE THE CHALLENGES OF NETWORK DESIGN,
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SECURITY, AND ADMINISTRATION, FOLLOW THESE STEPS TO BUILD A SOLID FOUNDATION FOR
A SUCCESSFUL CAREER IN NETWORK ENGINEERING.
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA-NC
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