What Are Network Engineer Certifications?

Network engineers are responsible for designing, implementing, managing, and troubleshooting computer networks to ensure active and secure data transfer systems. Network engineers usually need a bachelor’s degree in majors such as electrical engineering, computer science, or computer information systems. 

Overview of network engineer certifications

Network engineer certifications can validate your professional proficiency in sought–after network engineering skills or boost your visibility with hiring managers looking for job candidates with specific proficiencies.

Popular network engineer certifications

You have different options for network engineer certifications depending on the specific topics or platforms you want to pursue. Learn about some popular certifications that can help you build your network engineering knowledge or earn extra recognition from potential or current employers.

Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Enterprise

The Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Enterprise certification covers enterprise infrastructure, assurance, security, automation, and more topics. The certification process includes taking one core exam plus one of seven concentration exams you can choose from in different areas of the Cisco network.

Requirements: No formal requirements, but you should have previous experience

Cost (US): The core exam costs $400, with each specialization exam costing an additional $300.

CompTIA Network+

The CompTIA Network+ certification covers the foundational skills needed to establish, maintain, and troubleshoot networks. You will learn skills such as networking concepts, implementations, operations, troubleshooting, and network security. 

Requirements: No requirements, but a CompTIA A+ certificate and 9-12 months of experience in a junior network administrator or network support technician role are recommended

Cost (US): $369

JNCIA-Junos

Juniper Networks offers various certifications, including the JNCIA-Junos, which certifies your understanding of the core functions of the Juniper Networks Junos operating system. The exam covers networking, configuration, routing, operational monitoring, user interfaces, and the Junos OS fundamentals. Juniper Networks also offers certification tracks for cloud computing, data centers, design, security issues, and more.

Requirements: No prerequisites

Cost (US): $200

Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert

The Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert certification specifically tests your knowledge of Microsoft’s Azure platform to demonstrate your proficiency with networking, storage, monitoring, and securing information with Azure.

Requirements: Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate certification

Cost (US): $165

Who should get a network engineer certification?

A certification can be a good option if you’re looking to pursue computer-related positions. Network engineer certifications are suitable for many types of IT professionals, including network administrators and systems engineers, seeking to advance their skills and careers in networking. These certifications validate advanced technical knowledge and are highly regarded in the industry.

How to get network engineer certifications

If you decide pursuing a certification in network engineering is right for you, these steps can help you make the most of your learning experience. 

1. Choose the right certification.

It’s a good idea to review the different certifications available to network engineers before deciding which ones to pursue. You’ll want to consider factors such as which specializations can help you in your career and the platforms you commonly use in network engineering.

2. Review certification requirements.

Take note of the requirements for each certification before you register to ensure you qualify. As noted above, some certifications require you to meet specific criteria before earning them. It’s also important to contact the certificate provider if you have questions about specific requirements.

3. Enroll in training programs.

You can prepare for your certification exam by enrolling in training classes, online courses, or boot camps to help you get ready. You can find training courses and boot camps online through platforms like Coursera, and certification providers may offer training programs as part of a package that includes the certification exam.

4. Create a study plan.

Since earning a certificate can be challenging and time-consuming, you’ll want to set aside plenty of time to attend classes, training courses, or boot camps and additional time to study before the certification exam so you’re adequately prepared.

5. Register for the exam.

Check the websites for certification programs for instructions on registering for the exam. You’ll want to ensure you get all the information necessary for the exam, including how much it costs and when and where you’ll be taking the exam. You can take some exams online, while other certification programs may require you to take the exam in person.

6. Know what to expect.

Network engineering certification exams can vary depending on the knowledge you’re being tested on and the certification provider. It’s essential to review how you’ll be tested on your skills so you know how to study. Some common formats include tests with only multiple-choice questions or tests with a combination of multiple-choice and performance-based questions.

Training resources for network engineer certifications

You should prepare for certification exams by studying the topics covered on the exam. Utilize various resources to prepare for your exam, including:

• Official study guides, courses, and materials from certification providers

• Online learning platforms such as Coursera

• Practice exams

• Community forums for networking and support

Career opportunities with network engineer certification

Earning a network engineer certification can boost your skills for various computer-related roles and may even help you land a job or raise your salary. According to Glassdoor, you can work as a network engineer, which pays an average annual salary of $122,000 [1]. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, a network architect can make $133,930 in average annual wages [2].

Other roles that may benefit from network engineering certifications and their average annual salaries include: 

• Computer network support specialist: $78,640 [3]

• System administrator: $100,580 [4]

• Computer systems analyst: $110,850 [5] 

Get started in network engineering with Coursera.

Network engineer certifications can give you the credibility and knowledge you need to find a new job as a network engineer or to advance in your current career.

Master the most up-to-date practical skills and knowledge network operation engineers use daily with the Akamai Network Engineering Professional Certificate on Coursera.