Exciting Networking & Hardware Career Paths for Tech-Savvy Professionals

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in networking and hardware occupations is expected to rise 11% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.

The global network hardware market size was valued at $126.6 billion in 2019 and is projected to reach $213.4 billion by 2027, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.8% from 2020 to 2027, according to a report by Allied Market Research.

To enter the hardware and networking industry, some basic qualifications are required. These include the following:

• Education: A degree or diploma in Computer Science, Information Technology, or Electronics Engineering is preferred.
   
• Certifications: Certificates like Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), and CompTIA A+ can be beneficial.
   
• Skills: A strong foundation in computer hardware, networking protocols, and network operating systems is necessary. Other important skills include troubleshooting, problem-solving, and communication.
   
• Experience: Hands-on experience working with networking and hardware technologies can be gained through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level positions.
   
• Continuous Learning: The technology landscape is constantly evolving, so it is important to stay updated with the latest advancements by attending workshops, training programs, and seminars.
   

A combination of education, certifications, skills, experience, and continuous learning is needed to enter the networking and hardware industry.

Professionals in networking and hardware are now in high demand. The demand for hardware and networking jobs has considerably expanded as technology develops and becomes more pervasive in our daily lives. Also, there is a demand for specialists who can remotely monitor and protect networks and hardware due to the expansion of Internet of Things (IoT) devices and the rise of remote work. Overall, there are many chances accessible in a variety of industries, making the employment market for networking and hardware specialists appealing. Following are some of the top networking and hardware careers:

• Network Architect
  A Network Architect is responsible for designing and planning the entire network infrastructure of an organization. They identify the network requirements of an organization, develop strategies to meet these needs, and implement the solutions. They also oversee the maintenance and upgrades of the network, ensuring that it operates efficiently and securely.
   
• Network Engineer
  Specializing in networks, a Network Engineer creates, deploys, and maintains computer networks. They provide solutions that enhance network functionality, resolve problems, and guarantee network security. The network's integration with other systems and technologies is another area where they collaborate with other IT experts.
   
• Hardware Designer
  Processors, memory devices, and circuit boards are just a few examples of the hardware components a Hardware Designer is responsible for designing and creating. They further examine and verify hardware parts to ensure they meet the requirements. Collaborating with other experts ensures the hardware parts are appropriate for various technologies and systems.
   
• Network Administrator 
  A Network Administrator manages and maintains an organization's computer network. They troubleshoot network issues and install and configure network hardware and software. To maintain the network's effectiveness and security, they also supervise its upkeep and updates.
   
• System Administrator
  The management and upkeep of an organization's computer systems are the System Administrator's responsibility. They set up the software and operating systems, debug problems with the systems, and make sure they are safe. Moreover, they oversee user accounts and backups and carry out regular maintenance to guarantee the systems are running effectively.
   
• Cybersecurity Analyst
  An organization's computer systems, networks, and confidential data must be safeguarded against unauthorized access, theft, and damage. This is the job of a Cybersecurity Analyst. Along with developing and putting security measures like firewalls, antivirus software, and encryption protocols, their responsibility also includes monitoring and analyzing network traffic and system records to find and eliminate any threats. To guarantee adherence to industry rules and best practices, they train personnel on safe computing techniques and conduct routine security audits.
   
• IT Project Manager
  An IT Project Manager's primary duty is supervising the full planning, implementation, and closure phases of IT projects. Coordinating with all team members and stakeholders, detecting risks, and ensuring projects are finished on schedule, within budget, and to the client's satisfaction are all part of the function. The IT project manager must stay current on the newest technological developments, tools, and approaches to ensure the team is properly qualified and equipped. 
   
• Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Engineer
  The major duties and responsibilities of a VoIP engineer are to design, build, manage, and troubleshoot VoIP communication systems for businesses and organizations. They are in charge of setting and improving the network and software applications to ensure effective communication and dependable performance. They also need to create and implement security procedures to safeguard the network from online dangers as part of their employment and keep an eye on the network for any problems or defects that need to be fixed.
   
• Cloud Engineer
  A cloud engineer designs, implements, and maintains a company's cloud infrastructure, including public, private, and hybrid clouds. They are responsible for ensuring the cloud environment is safe, highly available, scalable, and affordable. To ensure the cloud infrastructure satisfies the business needs, they collaborate closely with other IT specialists, including software developers, system administrators, and network engineers. Their duties include choosing the best cloud service providers, setting up cloud resources, maintaining data storage and security, and monitoring performance and cost reduction.

Some of the top networking and hardware courses that will help you secure a career in this domain are listed below:

Introduction to the DNS (Domain Name System) by Coursera

• Level: Beginner; Price: ₹689; Duration: 1 hour
• Overview: This project will take you step-by-step through the structure and how the DNS system works. You will be able to learn some useful DNS commands and also have the opportunity to set up a simulated domain configuration.
• Skills: Threat Identification, Cyber Attacks, Code Analysis

CompTIA A+ Certification (220-1001) Training by Simpliv LLC

• Level: Beginner; Price: ₹18,757; Duration: 25 hours
• Overview: CompTIA A+ teaches users the foundational techniques in areas such as Installation, Networking, Security, and Troubleshooting.
• Skills: Docker Networking, Computer Networking, Cybersecurity Forensics Techniques, Security Management

Cisco: Ccna Introduction to Networks by Future Learn

• Level: Intermediate; Price: ₹36,411; Duration: 10 weeks
• Overview: This course is for network engineers and digital technologists who want to have a solid foundation in basic networking concepts. It prepares them for various technology careers, including the Cisco Certified Network Associate.
• Skills: Network Protocols, Network Security, Network Architecture

ONAP Fundamentals (LFS263) by The Linux Foundation

• Level: Intermediate; Price: ₹20,778; Duration: 40 hours
• Overview: This course will give you the foundation knowledge and skills necessary to transform your NFV or SDN service management into flexible, software-driven environments.
• Skills: Network Virtualization, Network Architecture, Automation

VLSI Chip Design by IISc and TalentSprint

• Level: Advanced; Price: ₹2,50,000; Duration: 9 months
• Overview: This program allows professionals to design VLSI chips that can be used for new technologies such as AI, IoT, and Cloud.
• Skills: Circuit Design, Machine Learning, VLSI Communication Circuits, VLSI Design, Technology Knowledge

Professional Certificate in Model-Based Systems Engineering - MBSE by edX

• Level: Advanced; Price: ₹18,728; Duration: 3 months
• Overview: This project will take you step by step through the structure and how the DNS system works. You will be able to learn some useful DNS commands and also have the opportunity to set up a simulated domain configuration.
• Skills: Lan Security, CCIE Routing and Switching, Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol, Network Architecture

You can explore more Networking & Hardware certifications to enroll yourself in the one best suited to your preference and level of expertise.

Telecommunications, healthcare, banking, government, education, and manufacturing are among the many sectors where networking and hardware specialists are in demand. Telecommunications businesses use networking and hardware specialists to design and operate their communication networks. Healthcare organizations require these specialists to guarantee patient data security and their systems' effectiveness. Financial institutions and governmental organizations also require networking and hardware specialists to keep their systems secure and reliable. Educational institutions and industrial firms also employ these experts to handle their hardware and networks.

Pursuing a career in networking and hardware might be a sensible decision for several reasons. First, technology greatly impacts our everyday lives, and hardware and networking expertise are in high demand. Experts are required by businesses of all kinds to set up, manage, and debug their hardware and computer networks to make sure they function effectively and safely. Second, there is always something new to learn and investigate since IT hardware and networking jobs are always growing fields. This offers a fascinating chance to remain current with recent developments and technological advances. A career in networking and hardware may also provide tremendous income potential and substantial employment stability, with the typical wage being relatively competitive.