You will improve a company’s IT network operations as a network analyst. Not only do you identify business-related problems that arise, but you also rectify them through technical solutions.
If you are interested in working with computers and solving problems, knowing what this profession entails and how to pursue it will help you determine if it is the right career for you.
In this post, we will define the role of network analysts, explain what you need to pursue this career, list some network careers analysts, and clear common queries about this profession.
Job Description
What is a network analyst?
Network analysts are IT professionals who optimize the network operations.
They may be responsible for configuring computer hardware and software to allow for greater system functionality and ensure all computers within a network effectively communicate.
Besides supporting a company’s issues with technical problems, these experts may also deliver technological solutions to business related problems.
Responsibilities and Duties
- Providing network support and troubleshooting to resolve any WAN/LAN connectivity problems.
- Assisting many departments in maintaining network security, configuring remote routers & firewalls, and providing engineering support.
- Analyzing and recommending upgrades, services & solutions to streamline processes and recommend improvements.
- Maintaining software and hardware for the network, troubleshooting, and assisting in installing and upgrading workstations and Servers.
- Installing and maintaining data and voice circuits through switches, routers, Wide Area Network devices, and more.
- Performing System Administration tasks on Windows 2003 & 2008 Server, Windows XP, Windows Vista, and more.
- Analyzing and troubleshooting on Wide Area Network wired and Local Area Network cabling for all VSAT (Very Small Aperture Satellite Terminals).
- Installing and maintaining VTC and Voice Over IP devices and ensuring customer availability for many networks.
- Administering and preparing programs for IP addresses, developing network resources, and training support personnel to deliver Tier I support to users.
- Monitoring all Information Assurance policies and enforcing compliance with network security policies.
- Participating in network on-call support on a rotational basis.
- Monitoring and performing software and hardware upgrades to network servers, including applications and operating systems.
- Analyzing and recommending VP of IT and preparing forecasts for all hardware and software requirements.
- Coordinating with many teams for disaster planning, performing network backup, and monitoring recovery processes.
- Managing and documenting network systems and operational procedures and monitoring hardware inventory for the network.
- Administer software licensing and purchasing to install the network effectively.
Where do network analysts work?
Network analysts may find jobs, including financial firms, computer consulting companies, retail companies, and government organizations.
Many analysts do their jobs in an office environment, but some may work remotely or at home. They work traditional business hours, but they may work odd hours, on nights or weekends, to ensure network functionality.
Network analyst careers
Although you can pursue a career as a network analyst, the term also covers many jobs that work with computer networks. Here are similar or alternative careers to a network analyst career:
- Telecommunication specialists
They facilitate interaction between computer devices, systems, and many communication methods. They make products that help with data, video, and voice transmission. They help install and check out computer systems.
- Web developers
They are responsible for developing web-based applications. After determining what a website needs, they write algorithms utilizing programming languages.
They design web layouts, delivering a user-friendly and appealing experience. They also ensure a fully operating and functioning web for all users.
- Web administrators
They make sure of a website’s functionality. These experts also optimize webs to ensure they work great for all users and observe web traffic patterns to improve the website. They design, develop, troubleshoot, and maintain various websites.
They are also responsible for making and uploading content and implementing security measures.
- Network architects
They are generally responsible for designing, maintaining, implementing, and improving various communication networks like intranets or local area networks. They use their knowledge and skills to inspect and test network systems. They also manage network security or assist with countermeasures if vulnerabilities arise.
- Network engineers (or network administrators)
They will design, build and maintain computer networks. Like other network analysts, they are usually responsible for maintaining a network’s performance and handling problems. They also design system configurations.
- Penetration testers
They often help identify and fix vulnerabilities in their businesses’ network systems. They also do security tests on web applications, computer networks, and systems to determine vulnerabilities.
Then, they conduct security assessments to look for areas within a server, system, or network device that require physical protection.
Work environment
Network analysts are high in demand as companies need these professionals to help them manage their networks. They find work in the consulting industry, at financial firms, retail companies, or in the government.
These professionals can find work at various other types of companies, but several of the common industries need network analysts. As a network analyst might work remotely, this position often requires work in an office setting.
Education Requirements
To work as a network analyst, it is essential to have the proper education, credentials, and skills.
Get a relevant degree
Consider pursuing a bachelor’s degree in telecommunications, computer science, and other similar fields. One of those degrees will provide you with the basic knowledge needed to begin your career as a network analyst.
While not often required, several employers favor candidates with a master’s degree like a Master of Business Administration. This degree will deliver you additional knowledge and even more excellent job opportunities.
Get professional work experience
Many employers favor relevant experience over formal education for this profession. So you should look for an entry-level position to build your resume.
Many analysts begin their careers as trainee programmers’ assistants. Generally, ensure you have knowledge of computer systems and networks and have up-to-date knowledge in the field.
Consider a certification
While many employers do not require certification, pursuing it can deliver many benefits. Certification will demonstrate your commitment to this field and show you have up-to-date knowledge. Also, it may present you with greater job opportunities and a higher salary.
Essential Skills
As with many other careers, it is crucial for a network analyst to have both soft and hard skills. Here are some common skills that can benefit you:
Soft Skills
- Communication.
- Teamwork.
- Problem-solving skills.
Hard Skills
- Scripting languages.
- Cabling infrastructure.
- Telecommunication systems.
- Network protocols and systems.
- Hardware and software components.
- Wireless, wired, and remote-access infrastructure.
Essential Tools
Here are a few tools that will enable you to work as a network analyst effectively:
- Wifi Analyzer.
- Network Performance Monitor.
- PRTG Networking Monitor.
- Network Traffic Analyzer.
- NetSpot.
- LanGuard.
- Nagios.
- OpenNMS.
Job Outlook
While the BLS does not refer to job outlook data for network analysts, it reports an employment growth of seven percent for computer systems analysts, which is essentially the same role.
The BLS reports a growth of four percent for computer systems and network administrators, which is a kind of network analyst.
Employment opportunities may see growth from an increase in information technology reliance and investment in faster technology and networks.
Salary
The average annual salary for a network analyst in the US is $74,428 per year. It is equivalent to $35.78 per hour, $1,431 per week, or $6,202 per month.
Most network analysts get from $55,000 to $90,000, with top earners making $113,000 annually across the US.
The average pay range for a Network Analyst varies significantly (by as much as $35,000), suggesting there are opportunities for increased pay and advancement based on location, skill level, years of experience, and many other factors.
Advantages and Disadvantages
- Good Salary.
- Feeling Valued.
- It’s a Stimulating Career.
- You Can Work in Many Industries.
- Stress.
FAQs
How to Become a Network Analyst?
Step 1. Get a Bachelor’s Degree.
Your first step should be to acquire a bachelor’s degree. It is recommended to go to college and gain a bachelor’s degree in telecommunications, computer science, or something that has to do with information technology.
Step 2. Apply for Work in This Field.
Applying for a job in the field will be the next step. Most network analysts start as trainees or assistants and will work their way up the company ladder over time. Then they may continue to advance in their roles at a company before becoming network analysts.
Step 3. Continue to Develop Your Skills
You will want to continue developing your skills and knowledge as a pro so you can get a chance to work as a network analyst.
If the company you work for delivers courses or training related to the job, you may take advantage of this. Moreover, work on developing strong problem-solving skills while enhancing your technical skills.
Do Network Analysts Work a Lot?
Network analysts are essential to organizations, making them often have to work a lot. They might likely be working overtime and be on-call during their days off.
That means they never feel like they are really off of their work in many ways. Many analysts feel like they are married to their jobs, so to speak.
Is Network Analyst Stressful?
Stress is one of the factors that might turn you away from becoming a network analyst. Network analysts tend to be busy, and they are tasked with handling many different things.
It may be challenging to juggle job responsibilities, and not everyone can handle the stress. If you don’t work well under pressure, it mightn’t be your career path.
Is A Networking Career Hard?
Networking is complex, but it is an excellent field to make a career in. If you’re a hard worker and passionate about networking, this position is ideal for you.
Is Python Important for Networking?
Python is the most widely used language for software-defined networking and is a crucial skill for new network engineers.
Career Advice
To become a successful network analyst, you must be willing to work hard and put in long hours on the job. You will also need to be comfortable with any stressful situation, so sometimes your work can be very challenging.
It is not always easy to work as a network analyst, but it will be very satisfying for those with the right personality. You need to have good problem-solving skills and be able to analyze situations to fix things in a timely fashion.