Network engineering is the group of system, network and operations professionals responsible for designing, securing and overseeing the Tufts data network.
Computer networks (including the internet, the biggest network of them all) are now firmly established as the information backbone of many organisations. Networks can vary greatly in size and scope, from a few computers on a local network to a vast international set-up. Network engineering has evolved to address the aspects of designing, developing, installing and maintaining these networks.
As a network engineer, responsible for a small network, you might undertake most of the required engineering
functions.
If you were involved with a large network, you would be more likely to specialise in a particular area such as hardware installation, software writing, or trouble shooting.
Typical network engineering duties can include any aspects of networking. These might include computer terminals, networked servers and printers, and data and voice communications. You could be responsible for researching and recommending a particular hardware configuration or selecting, writing, or customising software code to make the network function.
You might have to deal with mainframes or desktop PCs or more specialised components of communication systems, such as routers and switches.
You would probably also get involved in testing and maintaining your network on an ongoing basis. Large networks require considerable documentation, and providing that is yet another function of network engineering.
Because networks are so widespread and their use is increasing, the demand for the skills of good network engineers should be strong and you will find job opportunities in almost any kind of organization or business you can think of. Typical positions include network technician, network services administrator and network control analyst. Once you acquire experience in network engineering, you can aim for positions at supervisor and manager level.
