25 IT Infrastructure Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

An IT infrastructure engineer is responsible for the design, installation, and maintenance of the information technology (IT) infrastructure within an organization. This includes the network, servers, storage, and applications.

If you’re interviewing for an IT infrastructure engineer position, you can expect to be asked a range of questions about your experience, skills, and knowledge. We’ve put together a list of some of the most common IT infrastructure engineer interview questions, along with sample answers, to help you prepare.

1. Are you comfortable working with a wide range of computer systems and networks?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have experience working with different types of computer systems and networks. Use your answer to highlight any specific skills or experiences that make you a strong candidate for this role.

Example: “Absolutely. I have extensive experience working with a variety of computer systems and networks, both in the cloud and on-premise. I am comfortable troubleshooting hardware, software, and network issues, as well as configuring and managing servers, routers, switches, firewalls, and other networking equipment. I also have experience deploying virtual machines, setting up storage solutions, and optimizing system performance. In addition, I have experience developing scripts to automate tasks and maintain system integrity. Finally, I am familiar with a wide range of security protocols and best practices for ensuring the safety and reliability of IT infrastructure.”

2. What are some of the most important skills for an IT infrastructure engineer to have?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have the skills and qualifications they’re looking for in an IT infrastructure engineer. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a few of your most important skills and how they’ve helped you succeed as an IT infrastructure engineer.

Example: “As an IT Infrastructure Engineer, I believe the most important skills to have are strong problem-solving abilities, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and a solid understanding of networking protocols.

Problem solving is essential in this role as it allows me to quickly identify issues and develop solutions that will help improve system performance or reliability. My communication and interpersonal skills enable me to effectively collaborate with other engineers and stakeholders to ensure successful project completion. Finally, my knowledge of networking protocols helps me troubleshoot any network related issues and configure systems for optimal performance.”

3. How would you go about troubleshooting a network issue?

Troubleshooting is a major part of an IT infrastructure engineer’s job. Employers ask this question to see if you have the skills and experience necessary to solve problems on their network. In your answer, explain how you would troubleshoot this issue step by step. Try to be as specific as possible so that the employer can get a better idea of what you are capable of doing in this role.

Example: “When troubleshooting a network issue, I like to start by gathering as much information as possible. This includes identifying the type of problem, where it is occurring, and what devices are affected. Once I have all this information, I can begin to narrow down the cause of the issue.

Next, I would check for any recent changes that may have caused the issue. This could include software or hardware updates, new configurations, or other changes made to the system. If there were any recent changes, I would roll back those changes to see if the issue is resolved.

If the issue persists, I would then move on to more in-depth troubleshooting. This could involve running diagnostic tests, checking logs, and examining the configuration of the network components. I also use tools such as packet sniffers and protocol analyzers to help identify the source of the issue. Finally, I would work with other IT staff to brainstorm potential solutions and implement them until the issue is resolved.”

4. What is your experience with designing and implementing new IT systems?

This question can help the interviewer understand your experience with designing and implementing new IT systems. Use examples from past projects to explain how you developed a plan for creating new IT systems, implemented those plans and measured their success.

Example: “I have extensive experience designing and implementing new IT systems. I have worked on a variety of projects, ranging from small-scale to large-scale implementations. My most recent project was the implementation of an enterprise-level system for a major financial institution. This involved creating a detailed design document outlining the architecture and components of the system, as well as developing scripts to automate the installation process. During this project, I worked closely with the client to ensure that their requirements were met and the system was implemented according to their specifications.

In addition to my technical skills, I also bring strong communication and problem-solving abilities to the table. I am able to quickly identify issues and develop solutions in order to keep projects running smoothly. I am confident that my knowledge and experience will be an asset to any organization looking to implement new IT systems.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you had to provide leadership during a project.

As an IT infrastructure engineer, you may be responsible for leading a team of other engineers or technicians. Employers ask this question to learn more about your leadership skills and how they can benefit their company. In your answer, try to explain what steps you took to lead the project and why those steps were effective.

Example: “I recently had the opportunity to provide leadership during a project that involved migrating an organization’s IT infrastructure from on-premise to cloud. My role was to ensure that all aspects of the migration were completed successfully and in a timely manner. To accomplish this, I worked closely with the team to develop a detailed plan outlining each step of the process. I then provided guidance throughout the entire project, ensuring that everyone was aware of their responsibilities and timelines.

Additionally, I identified potential risks and developed strategies to mitigate them. This included setting up regular meetings with stakeholders to review progress and address any issues that arose. Finally, I created documentation for the new system so that other members of the team could easily understand how it works.”

6. If hired, what would be your priorities during your first few weeks on the job?

This question helps the interviewer determine how you plan to get started in your new role. Your answer should include a list of tasks that show your commitment to getting up to speed and contributing to the team’s success as soon as possible.

Example: “If hired, my priorities during the first few weeks on the job would be to gain a thorough understanding of the existing IT infrastructure. This includes familiarizing myself with the hardware and software that is currently in place, as well as any processes or procedures that are already in place. I would also take the time to get to know the team members and understand how they work together.

In addition, I would look for areas where improvements can be made. This could include identifying potential security risks or outdated systems that need to be upgraded. Finally, I would ensure that all documentation is up-to-date so that it is easy to refer back to when needed.”

7. What would you do if you noticed suspicious activity on a company server?

This question can help interviewers assess your ability to detect and respond to security threats. In your answer, describe a time when you noticed suspicious activity on a server and how you handled it.

Example: “If I noticed suspicious activity on a company server, my first step would be to investigate the issue further. This would involve checking the system logs and other security measures to determine what type of activity is occurring. Once I have identified the source of the activity, I can then take appropriate action to address it. Depending on the severity of the issue, this could include disabling access to the server, blocking certain IP addresses, or even shutting down the server entirely. It’s also important to document any changes made in order to maintain an audit trail for future reference. Finally, I would contact the relevant stakeholders to inform them of the situation and provide recommendations on how to best handle it moving forward.”

8. How well do you communicate with other members of your IT team?

IT infrastructure engineers often work in teams, so employers ask this question to make sure you can communicate with your colleagues. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific time when you worked well with others on an IT team.

Example: “I have excellent communication skills and understand the importance of working together as a team. I am able to effectively communicate technical concepts in an understandable way, both verbally and in writing. I’m also comfortable leading meetings and presentations when necessary.

In my current role, I work closely with other members of the IT team on projects and tasks. I make sure that everyone is on the same page by keeping them informed of progress and any changes that need to be made. I also take time to listen to their ideas and feedback so that we can come up with the best solutions for our clients.”

9. Do you have any questions for me about the role or company?

This is your opportunity to show the interviewer that you are interested in their company and role. It also gives you a chance to learn more about what it would be like to work there. When asking questions, try to focus on ones that will help you decide if this job is right for you or not.

Example: “Yes, I do have a few questions. First, can you tell me more about the team structure and how this role fits into it? Secondly, what challenges are you currently facing with your IT infrastructure that I could help address? Finally, what is the company’s vision for the future of its IT infrastructure?

These questions will help me understand the scope of the position and how my skills and experience can be best utilized to help the organization achieve its goals. As an experienced IT Infrastructure Engineer, I am confident that I can bring value to the team and contribute to the success of the company.”

10. When was the last time you took on a new challenge and grew as a professional?

This question can help the interviewer get a better sense of your career goals and how you’ve grown in your current role. Use examples from your past experience to highlight your ability to learn new skills, take on challenges and grow as a professional.

Example: “I recently took on a new challenge that allowed me to grow as a professional. I was tasked with designing and implementing an IT infrastructure for a large enterprise organization. This project required me to use my knowledge of networking, servers, storage, virtualization, and cloud technologies in order to create a secure and reliable system.

I worked closely with the client’s team to ensure that their requirements were met while also staying within budget. During this process, I gained valuable experience in developing and managing complex IT systems. I also learned how to effectively communicate with stakeholders and manage expectations.”

11. We want our engineers to be forward-thinking. How would you approach a project that requires you to be creative and think outside the box?

This question is an opportunity to show your interviewer that you’re a creative problem solver. Use examples from previous projects where you had to think outside the box and how it helped you solve problems or come up with innovative solutions.

Example: “I believe that the most successful projects come from creative and innovative thinking. As an IT Infrastructure Engineer, I strive to think outside of the box when approaching a project. To do this, I like to start by understanding the problem or challenge at hand and then breaking it down into smaller tasks. This allows me to identify potential solutions and evaluate their feasibility. Once I have identified possible solutions, I will research them further and discuss with my team members to gain additional perspectives. Finally, I will make a decision on which solution is best suited for the project and implement it. By taking this approach, I am able to develop creative solutions that are both effective and efficient.”

12. Describe your experience with system administration.

This question can help the interviewer understand your experience level and how you’ve used it to solve problems in the past. Use examples from previous roles to highlight your skills, such as troubleshooting, communication and problem-solving abilities.

Example: “I have over five years of experience in system administration. I have worked with a variety of operating systems, including Windows Server, Linux, and macOS. My expertise includes setting up and managing networks, configuring firewalls, deploying applications, troubleshooting hardware and software issues, and providing technical support to end users.

I am also experienced in virtualization technologies such as VMware, Hyper-V, and Citrix. I have managed large scale deployments of these technologies for both on-premises and cloud environments. In addition, I have extensive knowledge of scripting languages like PowerShell, Bash, and Python which I use to automate tasks and improve efficiency.”

13. What makes you stand out from other candidates applying for this role?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you can contribute to their company. When answering, it’s important to highlight the skills that make you a strong candidate for the role. You may also want to mention any unique or transferable skills you have that could benefit the organization.

Example: “I believe my experience and technical knowledge make me stand out from other candidates applying for this role. I have over five years of experience in IT Infrastructure Engineering, specializing in designing, deploying, and maintaining large-scale systems. During this time, I have worked on a variety of projects ranging from server migrations to cloud deployments. My expertise includes working with virtualization technologies such as VMware and Hyper-V, Windows Server, Linux, storage solutions, networking, and security protocols.

In addition to my technical skills, I also possess strong problem solving and communication abilities. I am able to quickly identify issues and develop creative solutions that meet the customer’s needs. I am also comfortable communicating complex concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences. Finally, I am highly organized and detail-oriented, which allows me to manage multiple tasks efficiently and effectively.”

14. Which programming languages are you most comfortable using?

This question can help the interviewer determine your comfort level with various programming languages. You should highlight any that you are proficient in and explain why they’re important to you.

Example: “I am most comfortable using Java, Python, and C++. I have been working with these languages for the past five years in my current role as an IT Infrastructure Engineer. I have a strong understanding of object-oriented programming principles and have used them to develop applications that are efficient and secure. I also have experience with scripting languages such as Bash and PowerShell which I use to automate tasks and improve system performance. Finally, I have a good knowledge of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript which I use to create web interfaces for applications.”

15. What do you think is the most important aspect of maintaining a company’s IT infrastructure?

This question is your opportunity to show the interviewer that you understand what’s important in this role. Your answer should demonstrate that you know how to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively.

Example: “I believe the most important aspect of maintaining a company’s IT infrastructure is staying up to date with the latest technology. Technology is constantly evolving and companies need to keep up in order to remain competitive. As an IT Infrastructure Engineer, it is my responsibility to ensure that all systems are running smoothly and efficiently, while also keeping up with the latest advancements. This means researching new technologies, understanding their capabilities, and implementing them into existing systems when appropriate. I understand how critical this is for any business, and I am confident in my ability to stay ahead of the curve and provide the best possible solutions for my clients.”

16. How often do you update your technical knowledge?

This question can help the interviewer determine how much you value your own professional development. It can also show them what methods you use to stay up-to-date on industry trends and new developments in technology. In your answer, try to explain which resources you use to learn about new technologies and why they’re important to you as a professional.

Example: “I am constantly striving to stay up-to-date on the latest technologies and trends in IT Infrastructure. I read industry blogs, attend webinars, and take online courses regularly to ensure that my knowledge is current. I also keep a close eye on new products and services released by major vendors such as Microsoft, Cisco, and VMware. This allows me to quickly identify any changes or updates that may be relevant to my work. Finally, I make sure to attend conferences and seminars whenever possible to network with other professionals and learn about the newest developments in the field. By taking these steps, I can guarantee that my technical knowledge is always up-to-date.”

17. There is a new technology that could improve the way your team works. How would you introduce it to your colleagues?

This question is a great way to assess your interpersonal skills and ability to communicate with others. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention the benefits of the new technology and how you would explain its value to your colleagues.

Example: “I understand the importance of introducing new technologies to a team in order to improve efficiency and productivity. When introducing a new technology, I believe it is important to first assess the current environment and identify any potential challenges that may arise with implementation. Once this assessment has been completed, I would then create an action plan for introducing the new technology to my colleagues. This plan would include outlining the benefits of the technology, providing resources to help them become familiar with its use, and setting expectations for how it should be used. Finally, I would ensure that there is adequate support available to answer any questions or address any issues that may arise during the transition period. By taking these steps, I am confident that I can successfully introduce a new technology to my colleagues and help our team reach greater heights of success.”

18. Describe a successful project that you have worked on in the past.

This question is a great way to show the interviewer your skills and abilities as an IT infrastructure engineer. When answering this question, it can be helpful to focus on one or two specific projects that you have worked on in the past. You can describe what made them successful and how they helped your company or organization.

Example: “I recently worked on a project that involved designing and implementing an IT infrastructure for a large company. The goal of the project was to create a secure, reliable, and efficient network system that could support the company’s operations.

To achieve this, I had to plan out the entire architecture of the network, including server configuration, storage solutions, and security protocols. Once the design was finalized, I then implemented the new system with minimal disruption to the existing environment. This included setting up routers, switches, firewalls, and other networking hardware. Finally, I tested the system to ensure it met all performance requirements before going live.

The end result was a successful implementation of a modernized IT infrastructure that allowed the company to increase its productivity and efficiency. Not only did they save money by reducing their operational costs, but they also improved customer satisfaction due to faster response times. It was a great experience and I’m proud of what we achieved.”

19. Do you have experience with virtualization technologies?

This question can help the interviewer determine your level of experience with a specific type of technology. If you have relevant experience, share what you’ve done and how it helped your organization. If you don’t have direct experience, consider discussing other types of infrastructure that are similar to virtualization.

Example: “Yes, I have extensive experience with virtualization technologies. In my current role as an IT Infrastructure Engineer, I manage a large number of virtualized servers and networks. I am highly knowledgeable in the use of VMware vSphere, Microsoft Hyper-V, Citrix XenServer, and other virtualization platforms. I also have experience with cloud computing solutions such as Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure.

I understand the importance of having a secure and reliable virtual environment and strive to ensure that all systems are properly configured and maintained. I have implemented various security measures to protect against cyber threats and regularly monitor system performance to identify any potential issues. I also have experience troubleshooting and resolving complex technical problems related to virtualization technologies.”

20. What kind of backup system do you prefer to use?

This question can help the interviewer determine your experience with different backup systems and how you implement them. You can answer this question by describing a time when you used a specific backup system to solve an issue or improve a company’s IT infrastructure.

Example: “I prefer to use a comprehensive backup system that can be tailored to the specific needs of each individual organization. My experience has taught me that no two organizations are alike, so it is important to have a system that can accommodate different requirements and preferences. I typically look for systems that offer both local and cloud-based backups, as well as automated scheduling and reporting capabilities. This ensures that all data is backed up regularly and securely, while also providing an easy way to monitor progress and ensure everything is running smoothly. Furthermore, I always recommend using multiple layers of redundancy in order to protect against any potential disasters or outages.”

21. How would you go about ensuring the security and reliability of an IT infrastructure?

This question can help the interviewer assess your ability to keep a company’s IT infrastructure safe and secure. Use examples from past experiences where you implemented security measures or used your technical expertise to ensure reliability in an IT infrastructure.

Example: “Ensuring the security and reliability of an IT infrastructure is a critical responsibility for any IT Infrastructure Engineer. To ensure that an IT infrastructure is secure and reliable, I would start by performing a comprehensive risk assessment to identify potential vulnerabilities in the system. This would involve researching current threats and analyzing the existing infrastructure to determine what risks may exist.

Once the risks have been identified, I would then create a plan to address them. This plan would include implementing best practices such as patching systems regularly, using strong passwords, and enabling two-factor authentication. It would also involve setting up firewalls and other security measures to protect against malicious attacks. Finally, I would monitor the system on an ongoing basis to detect any changes or suspicious activity.

In addition to ensuring the security of the system, I would also focus on making sure it is reliable. This would involve testing all components of the system to make sure they are functioning properly and addressing any issues that arise quickly. I would also set up regular maintenance schedules to keep the system running smoothly and prevent any unexpected downtime.”

22. Are you comfortable working with both Windows and Linux systems?

This question is a great way to determine how comfortable you are with working in an environment that uses both Windows and Linux systems. It’s important for employers to know if you’re willing to learn new operating systems or if you already have experience using them. In your answer, explain what led you to this comfort level and highlight any previous experience you’ve had with these types of systems.

Example: “Absolutely! I have extensive experience working with both Windows and Linux systems. In my current role, I am responsible for maintaining the IT infrastructure of a large enterprise organization that uses both operating systems. I’m well-versed in configuring, managing, and troubleshooting Windows and Linux servers, as well as related hardware and software components.

I also have experience designing and implementing secure networks using best practices for both platforms. This includes setting up firewalls, VPNs, and other security measures to protect against malicious attacks. My knowledge of scripting languages such as PowerShell and Bash allows me to automate routine tasks and improve system performance. Finally, I have experience training users on how to use both Windows and Linux systems, so they can get the most out of their technology investments.”

23. What challenges have you faced while managing an IT infrastructure?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you approach challenges and solve problems. Use examples from your past experience to highlight your problem-solving skills, ability to collaborate with others and commitment to continuous learning.

Example: “I have had the opportunity to manage IT infrastructure for a variety of organizations, each with their own unique challenges. One of the most common challenges I have faced is ensuring that all systems are up-to-date and secure from potential threats. To do this, I have implemented a comprehensive patch management system to ensure that all servers and workstations are regularly updated with the latest security patches.

Another challenge I have encountered is managing multiple vendors in order to provide the best possible service to my clients. This requires me to stay on top of new technologies and solutions, as well as develop relationships with various vendors in order to get the best deals. Finally, I have also had to troubleshoot complex network issues, such as latency problems or slow connection speeds. In these cases, I have used a combination of diagnostic tools and hands-on experience to identify and resolve the issue quickly.”

24. What measures do you take to ensure data safety and privacy?

IT infrastructure engineers must understand the importance of data safety and privacy. This question allows you to show your interviewer that you know how to keep information safe from hackers, viruses and other threats. Use examples from your past experience to explain what measures you take to ensure data is secure.

Example: “Data safety and privacy are of the utmost importance in any IT Infrastructure Engineer role. I take a number of measures to ensure that data is kept safe and secure.

Firstly, I make sure that all systems have up-to-date security patches installed and that firewalls are correctly configured to protect against malicious attacks. I also regularly review system logs for suspicious activity and investigate any potential threats.

I also use encryption technologies such as SSL/TLS to protect sensitive data while it is being transmitted over networks. This ensures that only authorised users can access the data. Finally, I always follow best practices when it comes to user authentication and password management. This includes using strong passwords and two-factor authentication where possible.”

25. How do you handle customer service inquiries related to IT issues?

IT infrastructure engineers often work with clients and other IT professionals to solve problems. Interviewers want to know how you handle customer service issues, as they are a common part of the job. Use your answer to highlight your communication skills and problem-solving abilities.

Example: “I have extensive experience in providing customer service related to IT issues. I understand the importance of responding quickly and efficiently to inquiries, as well as resolving any technical problems that may arise.

When dealing with customer service inquiries, my first step is to listen carefully to the customer’s issue and ask clarifying questions if needed. Then, I use my knowledge of IT infrastructure and troubleshooting techniques to identify and resolve the problem. If necessary, I will research the issue further or contact other members of the team for assistance. Finally, I provide clear instructions on how to prevent similar issues from occurring in the future.”