Network engineer vs. Network administrator: What's the difference?

Introduction

Network engineers and network administrators look like similar positions in the field of Information Technology (IT). However, there are distinct differences between the job roles, even though their descriptions and responsibilities may sound similar.  Both of the job roles are high in demand in the US market and are expected to grow due to the need for network security.   

Enterprises are required to provide effective training to their workforce so that they acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to fulfill their jobs and duties. A network engineer is generally responsible for designing and developing a computer network, whereas a network administrator is responsible for guaranteeing and maintaining the network. Both network engineers and network administrators of your team could refer to our newly published CCNP Security exam guide blog to understand the requirements and the process of attaining the CCNP Security Certification.  

Even while network administrators and engineers sometimes work together, network engineers typically have more authority and are responsible for a broader range of responsibilities than network administrators. The differences between network administrators and network engineers will be discussed in this blog to help you choose the right training program for your networking employees. 

Who is a network engineer?

A network engineer is responsible for determining the network requirements of an organization, designing, creating, implementing, and supporting communication networks, and testing the functionality of computer systems. They have broader responsibilities than a network administrator, the fundamental duty of a network engineer is to comprehend the organization's network structure and requirements. Enterprises must train their network engineer so that they can design and maintain a network that supports the organization's lifecycle and growth opportunities. They may also be required to analyze what's working and what's not to uncover improvement opportunities while adhering to a budget.   

They help in strengthening the organization's security to mitigate any cyber threats and risks. Enterprise can train their workforce for CCNP Security Certification to attain the necessary skills and knowledge to strengthen the organization's security. To achieve the CCNP Security Certification, candidates have to clear two different exams, and also understand a whole lot of requirements and processes. Your team can refer to our Comprehensive Guide Blog for CCNP Security Certification to understand the nitty-gritty of the CCNP security exam. 

Following are the responsibilities of a network engineer:  

• Designing and deploying physical and wireless networks, particularly those for computer communications and telecommunications  
• Maintaining network functionality 
• Managing the electronic apparatus that activates all network components  
• Troubleshooting network malfunctions  
• Integrating new technologies into the network lifecycle after extensive research  
• Interacting with network administrators to solve or assist with issues 

Who is a network administrator?

A network administrator is accountable for the day-to-day operations of various computer networks. They do this by monitoring network systems, arranging network repairs, and putting security measures into place. Network administrators are also required to maintain network security. They, as opposed to network engineers, typically concentrate their attention on the network's day-to-day operations. Your team can also improve skills and productivity through the Implementing Cisco Enterprise Wireless Networks course for creating secure wireless network infrastructure and for troubleshooting any related issue. 

Following are the core responsibilities of a network administrator:  

• Computer system infrastructure maintenance  
• Monitoring and maintenance of computer network infrastructure  
• Testing networks for vulnerabilities or potential entry points  
• Interpreting and resolving issues relevant to networks  
• System performance evaluation and enhancement  
• Using hardware and software to implement security programs  
• Ensuring that software is compatible  
• Auditing and upgrading network  
• Setting up and customizing firewalls 

What are the differences between the job roles of network administrators and network engineers?

There are substantial distinctions between the responsibilities of network administrators and network engineers, even though both job roles are required to implement upgrades and solve problems. A network administrator oversees the upkeep and monitoring of a network, while a network engineer is accountable for the design and construction of a network.  

In most cases, network engineers are responsible for overseeing the activities of network administrators; moreover, network administrators commonly advance their careers to become network engineers.   

Both network engineers and network administrators must strengthen the organization's security and mitigate any cyber-attacks and threats. A strong network security system reduces a company's vulnerability to data theft and sabotage. Network security safeguards your workstations from spyware. It also maintains the security of shared data. Your networking team can acquire new skills and knowledge through effective training delivered by official training partners of Cisco. NetCom Learning offers Cisco CCNP Security Training to help candidates develop the necessary skills to build a security infrastructure.  

What are the network certification courses for network engineers and network administrators?

Certification programs offered by vendors are an effective method to enhance employees’ knowledge and also close the skill gap. These programs evaluate a candidate's knowledge and grasp on to areas such as; network configuration, network protocols' functionality, and troubleshooting techniques.  

Depending on their requirements, these certifications may be vendor-specific, technology-specific, or both. The CCNP Enterprise Certification, for instance, emphasizes routing and switching, whereas the CCNP Security Certification  places emphasis on information technology security. Network engineers and network administrators can take advantage of Cisco Digital Learning Library to learn and advance skills at their own pace.  

NetCom Learning is the official training partner of Cisco and offers comprehensive training courses. The training is provided by Cisco-certified professionals who will assist your team in acquiring the necessary skills and expertise.   

Discover the Cisco Certification courses for network engineers and network administrators:  

CCNP Security Certification  

Cisco Certified Cyber ops Associate Certification  

Cisco Unified Contact Center Enterprise Specialist Certification  

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Certification  

Cisco Certified Devnet Associate Certification  

Cisco Certified Devnet Professional Certification  

CCNP Enterprise Certification  

CCNP Collaboration Certification  

Learners can take advantage of Cisco Ultimate Learning Subscription for learners to gain expertise on the latest Cisco technologies. The Cisco Ultimate Learning Subscriptions encompass the most recent Cisco certifications and technologies. With the All-Access Subscription, you can choose from Networking, Security, Data Center, Collaboration, and DevNet, or have access to the whole Cisco technology package. Learners can get 24/7 access to unlimited Virtual Instructor-led (vILT) and e-Learning Cisco training for 12 months.  

To support Cisco's training requirements for optimizing your operations with new software, hardware, and support services you can also take advantage of Cisco Learning Credits (CLCs), a Cisco-operated a credit system, which empowers enables learners to attain official training on Cisco products and certifications.  

Why Choose NetCom Learning for Cisco Training?

NetCom Learning is an official Authorized Cisco training partner and offers the most comprehensive training courses for Cisco examinations and certifications. NetCom Learning has highly certified instructors who will assist your team with any issues while preparing for certifications.  

Here are some of NetCom Learning’s training capabilities:  

• We deliver official Cisco courses and certifications training to IT teams, organizations, and the government.  
• Your team gets trained by the best Cisco Certified Instructors  
• We help organizations redeem Cisco Learning Credits (CLCs) with Cisco and upskill teams on the latest Cisco courses and certifications.  
• Offers Customized Learning Solutions that focus on your business outcomes  
• Train on a complete portfolio of Cisco Products and Certifications  

Conclusion

As the technology industry continues to evolve, the demand for individuals who can develop, design, and maintain computer networks increases. Since many network-based job roles share a number of similarities, there are many fundamental skills that are crucial and can be acquired by your team through authorized and practical Cisco training courses by NetCom Learning.