Network engineers form the backbone of the internet. But who are these professionals, how much do they earn, and what does it take to become one?

In March 2025, Google was processing around 9 million search queries every minute. Each of these queries travels through hundreds of routers that determine the fastest route to Google’s data centers, where the answer is stored. Before it appears on our screens, that answer travels thousands of kilometers through fiber-optic cables — sometimes even crossing oceans and continents. Computer systems and network engineers design and maintain these complex information pathways.

These are the experts who configure the hardware that enables data transmission; manage network traffic; and ensure fast, stable data exchange.

If you’re curious about this career path, you can start with an educational series created by Diia.Education in collaboration with Cisco under the Cisco Country Digital Acceleration (CDA) program. It’s designed for beginners who want to dive into the world of computer systems and network engineering.

In this article, we’ll explore what a network engineer actually does, how much they earn, and how you can become one. You can take the first step toward your new career today — watch the free educational series “Network Engineer.”

What is a Computer Systems and Network Engineer?

A computer systems and network engineer designs the IT infrastructure that allows computers and other devices to exchange data. They also configure network hardware such as routers, switches, and access points; monitor network performance; troubleshoot issues; and protect the system from cybersecurity threats.

“This specialist plays a vital role in keeping the internet, local area networks (LAN), and wide area networks (WAN) running smoothly,” explains Oleksii Besarab, Chief Technology Officer at Cisco Ukraine. “They can build a network from the ground up when there’s no existing IT infrastructure or when the current setup doesn’t meet a company’s scalability or security needs. They also find ways to enhance existing systems — for example, when there’s a need to integrate new technologies into an established network.”

Although a computer systems and network engineer works extensively with physical hardware, most of their tasks are done on a computer using specialized software. Their responsibilities typically include:

• Designing data communication networks
• Configuring and updating network equipment such as switches, routers, VPNs, and Wi-Fi access points
• Protecting networks from cyber threats using firewalls, antivirus software, and intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS)
• Monitoring network performance and troubleshooting issues
• Creating technical documentation and user guides for team members

In the IT sector, computer systems and network engineers set up corporate networks to ensure data security and reliable access to digital resources. In telecommunications, they design network infrastructure for mobile operators and internet service providers. Banks rely on these specialists to safeguard sensitive information and maintain secure online payment systems. In military institutions, network engineers develop protected communication systems.

How Much Does a Computer Systems and Network Engineer Earn?

Job openings for this role are typically listed under the title network engineer. For example, as of now, there are around 350 such vacancies posted on Robota.ua.

Depending on the job requirements, computer systems and network engineers may also be referred to as network analysts, network infrastructure designers, or sometimes even system administrators.

However, it’s important to note that these roles are not identical. System administrators typically focus on server-level tasks — managing database access, operating systems, and server software. In contrast, network engineers work on the network layer, dealing heavily with configuring and maintaining physical and virtual networking equipment.

Depending on their duties and experience, computer systems and network engineers in Ukraine are offered salaries ranging from 21,000 to 90,000 UAH per month.

For comparison, a network engineer in the United States earns an average of $100,800 per year (approximately $9,000 per month).

How to Become a Computer Systems and Network Engineer

A career as a computer systems and network engineer can start with a role in technical support or as a junior system administrator, where you can gain hands-on experience and work on real-world tasks and challenges.

You can gain foundational knowledge in computer systems and network design, as well as a basic understanding of the profession, through the educational series “Network Engineer“, created by Diia.Education in collaboration with Cisco. The lecturers include Oleksii Besarab, Chief Technology Officer at Cisco Ukraine, Oleksandr Mamenko, a system engineer at Cisco Ukraine, and Olha Shlemko, a key account manager at Cisco Ukraine.

Course participants will gain basic knowledge about network hardware and its functions, learn how to work with different types of networks, and explore tools for network administration and management. They will also become familiar with data exchange principles and understand how network protocols interact during information transmission. The series consists of 8 video modules and concludes with a test to reinforce the knowledge gained.

You can also start your career with the free course track The Network Technician Career Path by Cisco, available in five languages, including Ukrainian. This track prepares participants for entry-level positions such as network support technician, junior support specialist, and IT support specialist, as well as for obtaining the Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) certification.

Automation, cloud computing, and AI are transforming network management, making it more complex. To maintain their qualifications, specialists must continually update their knowledge. The Cisco Learning Network can assist with this ongoing learning. Additionally, professionals can turn to forums like the Networking Forum on Reddit or Network Engineering Stack Exchange for information and support.

What Skills Are Needed for a Computer Systems and Network Engineer?

Becoming a computer systems and network engineer requires strong technical skills in network design, configuration, maintenance, and optimization. Key knowledge areas include:

• How to configure network hardware and operating systems (e.g., IOS-XR, NX-OS, JUNOS)
• Concepts and protocols of routing and switching
• Monitoring tools such as Zabbix, Nagios, SolarWinds, Splunk, and network analysis tools like Wireshark and NetFlow
• How to design network infrastructure for cloud services
• Cybersecurity tools for threat detection and response to attacks
• Proficiency in programming languages, such as Python, C/C++, and automation tools like Bash

In addition, employers expect a computer systems and network engineer to be able to work in a team, write clear instructions for system use, and train staff on how to use them.

How to Grow in the Profession

There are plenty of opportunities for professional growth as a computer systems and network engineer. The path you choose depends on your interests and goals. Career growth can be broadly divided into three categories:

1. Technical Path: Focused on mastering technologies, equipment, and protocols, leading to roles such as Network Architect, Security Architect, and Technical Consulting Specialist.
2. Cloud Path: Requires skills in integrating on-premises and cloud infrastructures, managing cloud resources, and building hybrid networks. This leads to positions like Cloud Network Engineer.
3. Management Path: Suited for those who want to manage teams and projects. Roles include IT Director or CTO.

Certification plays a key role in career advancement as well. Cisco Systems offers certifications at various levels, ranging from entry-level to expert, helping professionals demonstrate their expertise and advance their careers.

Cisco Certifications:

• Cisco CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) – An entry-level certification that validates skills in installing, configuring, managing, and maintaining networks. It requires at least one year of experience.
• Cisco CCNP Enterprise (Cisco Certified Network Professional Enterprise) – A higher-level certification that demonstrates advanced knowledge of networking technologies. Engineers with this certification can administer enterprise networks with hundreds of devices.
• Cisco CCIE EI (Certified Internetwork Expert Enterprise Infrastructure) – A certification for experienced network professionals who design, implement, maintain, and troubleshoot complex enterprise network infrastructures. This certification requires at least five years of experience.

While certifications validate your expertise, hands-on practical experience remains the foundation for success in this field.

Watch the educational series “Network Engineer”