Network Engineer vs. Network Analyst: What Are the Differences?

If you’re interested in working in the field of computer networking, you may be wondering what the difference is between a network engineer and a network analyst. Both roles are important in designing, implementing and maintaining network systems, but there are some key differences between the two. In this article, we’ll discuss the job duties, skills and education requirements of network engineers and network analysts, and we’ll help you decide which career is right for you.

What is a Network Engineer?

Network Engineers are responsible for designing, implementing and maintaining computer networks that support voice, data and video applications. They work with network architects to design scalable, secure and high-performance network infrastructure. Network Engineers also troubleshoot network problems and work with vendors to resolve hardware and software issues. They may also be responsible for training other IT staff on using and troubleshooting network equipment. Network Engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field.

What is a Network Analyst?

Network Analysts are responsible for the design, implementation and maintenance of an organization’s computer network. They work with network hardware and software to ensure that it is up-to-date and functioning properly. Network Analysts also troubleshoot network problems and work with network administrators to implement solutions. They may also be responsible for training new users on the network and its features. Network Analysts typically have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field.

Network Engineer vs. Network Analyst

Here are the main differences between a network engineer and a network analyst.

Job Duties

Although both network analysts and network engineers perform many of the same tasks, their job duties differ. Network engineers design, build, maintain and troubleshoot computer networks for organizations. They use their expertise to determine the best networking solutions for a company based on its needs. Network engineers also monitor networks to ensure they operate properly and quickly address any issues that arise.

In contrast, network analysts primarily conduct network surveys, which help them collect information about an existing network’s effectiveness. They then provide recommendations to network engineers and other IT professionals regarding improvements to make to the network. Finally, network analysts often communicate with users within an organization to explain changes to the network and how it affects them.

Job Requirements

Network engineers and network analysts typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology or another related field. They might also pursue a master’s degree to gain more advanced knowledge in the field. Many employers prefer candidates who have experience working with the specific type of networks they will be responsible for maintaining. For example, someone hoping to become a network engineer might first work as a network administrator before moving into a network engineering role. Network analysts can often enter the field with an entry-level position and move up through the ranks as they gain more experience.

Work Environment

Network engineers typically work in an office setting, but they may also travel to customer locations. They often spend their days on construction sites or other areas where networking equipment is being installed and maintained. This job can be physically demanding because network engineers often lift heavy equipment and climb ladders to access equipment.

Network analysts usually work in an office environment, although some may occasionally visit customer locations. Their jobs are more sedentary than those of network engineers, so they don’t need to perform physical labor.

Skills

Both network engineers and network analysts use technical skills to perform their jobs. They need to have an understanding of how computer networks function and be able to apply this knowledge to solve problems that may arise. They also both benefit from having strong analytical skills so they can identify issues and develop solutions.

Network engineers typically use their skills to design, implement and maintain computer networks. This can involve planning the layout of a network, configuring networking equipment and ensuring that the network runs smoothly. Network analysts usually use their skills to monitor and troubleshoot computer networks. This can involve identifying and diagnosing problems, researching solutions and implementing changes to improve network performance.

Salary

Network engineers earn an average salary of $91,254 per year, while network analysts earn an average salary of $71,519 per year. Both of these salaries may vary depending on the size of the company at which you work, location of your job and the level of experience you have prior to pursuing either position.